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Top 14 Best Recirculating Pump For Tankless Water Heater In 2024

Brandon Forder
  May 17, 2024 11:28 AM

Inquiring minds want to know why your tankless water heater is still taking a while to heat up your tap.

The distance from the tankless hot water heater is the primary cause of this.

While waiting to be used, water cools in the hot water lines that run from the on-demand water heater to the faucet.

It is necessary to flush the faucet before using hot water from the tankless heater the following time. For more information on how hot water recirculating pumps function, please see this article.

The following is a list of the best tankless water heater recirculation pumps, but keep reading to find out how to pick the right one for your home.


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Last update on 2024-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Buying Guide

Types

Continuous Run

There is only one selectable speed/flow rate for continuous-run pumps, which are meant to simply plug in and keep water flowing. Even whether you are asleep or away from home, these constantly running pumps will keep working.

Pumps for continuous use come in two varieties: those with a single speed and those with several speeds, which provide the user greater control.

The guarantee of most tankless water heaters requires the use of sensors, timers, and/or smart devices in conjunction with both choices.

In general,'smart' hot water recirculation pumps consume less energy than standard continuous-run pumps.

Automated Start & Stop

Pumps with thermostats, timers, or other intelligent logic are another option. When the water temperature drops below a certain level, the thermostat activates the pump.

Timer devices heat water when it is most needed, such as in the morning and evening when consumption is at its maximum.

When the water is shut off for a lengthy period of time, such as during holidays, long weekends, etc., pumps equipped with smart logic drop the water temperature to save energy.

Installation Location

The primary distinction between continuous-run pumps and pumps outfitted with sensors or smart logic is their position.

It is necessary to have a bridge valve put between the cold and hot water lines beneath the farthest faucet in order for some pumps to be installed close to a water heater and on a comfort system.

The water heater's farthest faucet has additional pumps built beneath it. Bridge valves between the hot and cold lines are provided by these pumps.

Flow rate

The rate at which water flows through a system is expressed in gallons per minute (GPM). The water pressure is also influenced by the flow rate. The difference between a fast-flowing faucet and a forceful, energizing shower is all in the flow rate. There is nothing better than the former. Some versions, like the Kolerflo RS15-6 SS, allow you to regulate the flow rate, so you can receive the pressure you need, whether it's slow or high.

Connection type

The pump's connection system is critical to consider because it dictates how the pump will be connected. The most common flange size for pumps is 3/4 inch. You just have to make sure you select the correct model for the connection you need.

Motor strength

Pump horsepower is an important consideration because it directly correlates to the amount of power a pump can deliver. The flow rate is also influenced by horsepower.

Durability

While some models require routine maintenance, others can go for years without any. When purchasing a pump, you should go for one that requires minimal maintenance, as this will ensure that there are no unexpected repairs.

Internal vs External Sensor Valve

In order for hot water to circulate back and forth from the boiler, a valve is required.

External sensors can be found on some pumps, either on a connector that produces the channel between the hot and cold lines, or on the pump itself.

In general, an internal one is more durable and will serve you better for a longer period of time. In the event of a malfunction, there is no other option but to replace the pump as a whole.

Although they're made of hard plastic, the external ones don't have the same level of rigidity as those that are located inside the pump. However, if they do break, a quick and inexpensive remedy is available.

Timer

You don't need to run the pump 24 hours a day with the newer ones because they have timers built in. Your recirculating pump can be turned off if necessary.

To configure two different times of day, look for timers with two separate dials on them. In the morning and at night, most people use their hot water for a few hours each day. If you have a dual timer, you can program it to wake you up at two distinct times throughout the day.

Smart Hot Water Recirculating Pump

The smart hot water recirculation pump I'm aware of doesn't have the ability to be activated via a smart house or wifi network.

Even if you don't want an actual wifi hot water pump, there is an alternative. You can purchase an Alexa-compatible smart plug and use it to manage your pump simply by speaking commands into the device.

Until you're ready to turn it back on, just keep it in "On" mode and turn the real plug off.


FAQS

Can such a pump be installed in an existing water supply?

A hot water recirculating system can be installed using an existing water supply that has been adjusted. Even drinking water systems can benefit from its utilization.

Can hot water recirculating pump be used with a tankless water heater?

Not at all. A tankless water heater only heats water as it is needed, eliminating the need for a backup source. As a result, a hot water recirculating pump will be unable to heat and supply water to another location.


Conclusion

While it may seem like a luxury to have instantaneous hot water at your disposal, it really saves water. In addition, if you reside in a colder region, they prevent your pipes from freezing.

It doesn't matter which of the best hot water recirculation pumps I've examined in this post you choose; they're all excellent. Without a hitch, they can last for many, many years.

Many other options exist, but why waste time researching all of them when you can choose from these three and rest assured that you are getting the greatest possible product?


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