Nothing is more frustrating than waiting for hot water to reach your faucet or shower, especially in the morning. A recirculating pump can solve this problem by keeping hot water readily available, eliminating long waits, and reducing water waste. Whether you’re considering installing one in your home or want to understand how it works, here’s everything you need to know about recirculating pumps and their benefits.
What is a Recirculating Pump?
A recirculating pump is a device that continuously moves hot water through your plumbing system, ensuring it’s available instantly when you turn on the tap. Instead of waiting for cold water to run out before the hot water reaches you, the pump keeps hot water circulating so that it’s immediately accessible.
These pumps are particularly useful in larger homes, where water has to travel longer distances from the water heater to the fixture, causing long wait times and unnecessary water waste.
Benefits of a Recirculating Pump
- Instant Hot Water – No more waiting for water to heat up; just turn on the tap and enjoy.
- Reduces Water Waste – No need to run the faucet for minutes, saving thousands of gallons of water annually.
- Convenient & Energy-Efficient – With proper controls, recirculating pumps can minimize energy usage while maximizing comfort.
While these pumps provide many benefits, proper installation and control settings are essential to prevent unnecessary energy use. That’s why hiring professionals like L&M Plumbing for installation is a smart move.
Types of Recirculating Pumps
1. Dedicated Recirculating Loop System
- Requires a dedicated return pipe to constantly circulate hot water back to the heater.
- Ideal for new home construction or major remodels.
- Highly efficient but requires additional plumbing work.
2. Comfort System (Under-Sink Bypass System)
- Uses the existing cold-water line as a return path, eliminating the need for extra piping.
- Best for retrofitting older homes without additional plumbing modifications.
- May result in slight warming of the cold-water line at times.
Both systems have their advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your home’s plumbing setup and hot water needs.
Installation Considerations
Installing a recirculating pump involves:
- Selecting the Right Pump – Choosing between single-point and whole-house systems.
- Placing the Pump Correctly – Typically installed near the water heater or under a distant sink.
- Adding Timers & Sensors – Ensuring the system runs efficiently only when needed.
Professional installation is key to avoiding energy waste and ensuring the system functions properly. If you’re considering adding a recirculating pump to your home, call L&M Plumbing at (610) 756-3069 to ensure a seamless installation.
Should You Install a Recirculating Pump?
If you frequently wait for hot water or want to reduce water waste, a recirculating pump could be a great investment. However, installing the system correctly with timers and controls is crucial to maximizing efficiency.
Let L&M Plumbing help you choose and install the perfect recirculating pump for your home. Call us at (610) 756-3069 today to get started!