Remodeling a Home

If you need to wait for what seems like forever for hot water to reach your faucet, you may have assumed that your hot water tank is failing. The truth is the amount of time it takes for hot water to reach your faucets doesn't typically reflect the condition or efficiency of your hot water heater. It is more likely due to the distance your hot water needs to travel to reach your faucet. If this is the issue, replacing the hot water heater won't solve the problem, but installing a hot water recirculating system will.

What Is a Hot Water Recirculating System?

A hot water recirculating system is a pump that works to recirculate cold water in your pipes back to the water heater where it is reheated. This means that when you turn on the faucet, hot water is available almost instantly and you don't need to let the faucet run until the water gets warm. It is separate from your water heater. It can be installed at the same time as a new water heater or can be added to an existing water heater.

Are Hot Water Recirculating Systems the Same as On-Demand Water Heaters?

No, hot water recirculating systems are not the same thing as on-demand heaters. On-demand or tankless water heaters do not have a storage tank and heat the water in the pipe when you need it. A gas or propane heating element heats only the water you are going to use. Hot water recirculating systems simply recirculate the cold water in the pipes back to your regular hot water tank where it is reheated.

What Are the Advantages of a Hot Water Recirculating System?

The primary advantage of these systems is that you always have hot water on demand. Without a hot water recirculating system, you may need to let the faucet run for 20 seconds or more before you get hot water from the tap if you hot water heater is located 20 feet from the faucet, explains Fast Water Heating Company.  If your pipes run through unheated areas of your home, you may need to wait even longer. Other advantages include:

• Conserving Water: Because the cold water is recirculated and it is not flushed down the drain you conserve water every time you use hot water. While this doesn't sound like a lot of water, at standard rate of 2 gallons per minute, running the faucet for 30 seconds while you wait for hot water can account for a gallon of water for each use. If you use your hot water multiple times a day, the saving can add up quickly.
• Saves Money: If you live in a community where you pay for your water usage, this can translate to savings on your utility bill.
• Convenient and Easy to Install: Unlike on-demand hot water heaters, these devices are quick and easy to install for the average do-it-yourselfer.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Hot Water Recirculating System?

There are several disadvantages that may prohibit some people from choosing a hot water recirculating system.

• Cost: These systems can be pricey. According to Green Home Guide, it can cost up to $750 for labor and materials to have a hot water recirculating system installed. The price varies according the distance your hot water heater is from the faucets, the model chosen and whether you install it yourself of have your plumber or HVAC contractor do it for you.
• Energy Costs:  Energy Star explains that older or inefficient models that run continuously can actually increase your energy use. Newer models that only run when needed may reduce your overall energy usage. If you are purchasing a hot water recirculating system, look for one that recirculates water intermittently.

If you are tired of waiting for your hot water to reach you faucet, talk to your plumber or HVAC contractor, someone like R & B Inc Heating & Air Conditioning, about installing a hot water recirculating system in your home.