Tankless Water Heaters with Recirculation: A Smart Choice?

By Brian on February 13, 2025

Hot water recirculation for tankless system is a game-changer for those tired of the cold water that comes out before your shower heats up. This innovation ensures you get instant hot water at any fixture, changing your home’s water efficiency and convenience:

Instant hot water: No more waiting for the shower to warm up.
Tankless benefits: Continuous supply without the bulky tank.
Water savings: Cuts down on wasted water, saving up to 15,000 gallons a year.

Imagine stepping into your shower and feeling that perfect, warm water immediately. That’s the promise of hot water recirculation for tankless systems. In the plumbing world, recirculation systems shine as a sophisticated yet simple solution to improve your home’s hot water delivery. By eliminating the wait time, they ensure comfort and efficiency, making them ideal for homeowners passionate about saving water and energy.

Tankless water heaters, celebrated for their efficient use of space and energy, can also be upgraded with recirculation technology. This means more than just quick hot water—it translates into real savings and eco-friendly home living. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking to lift their home’s plumbing performance in Northern California.

For those who want the facts, here they are:

Tankless system with recirculation means hot water on-demand.
Saves water by reducing waste down the drain.
Compact design fits into smaller spaces than traditional tanks.

If this sounds like a solution that could benefit you, read on to dig into the details of how to bring better hot water efficiency to your home.

Find more about hot water recirculation for tankless system:
– hot water recirculation system cost
– hot water recirculation system design

Understanding Hot Water Recirculation for Tankless Systems

How Does It Work?

Hot water recirculation for tankless systems is a clever way to ensure that hot water is always ready when you need it. It involves a recirculation pump that moves unused hot water back to the heater, keeping the water in your pipes warm. This setup usually requires some careful plumbing configuration, including a dedicated return line or a crossover valve, to efficiently manage the flow of water.

A key part of this system is the thermistor technology. This technology senses water temperature and helps control the operation of the pump. When the water in the line cools to a certain point, the pump kicks in, sending it back to the heater to be reheated. This cycle keeps your water lines primed with hot water, ensuring faster delivery whenever you turn on the tap.

Benefits of Recirculation

The benefits of adding a recirculation system to your tankless water heater are numerous:

Time Savings: No more waiting for hot water to reach your faucet or shower. This is especially valuable during busy mornings or when you’re in a hurry.
Water Conservation: By minimizing the time it takes for hot water to arrive, these systems can save up to 15,000 gallons of water per year that would otherwise go down the drain as you wait.
Utility Savings: With reduced water waste, your utility bills can decrease. Plus, by using energy-efficient systems, you can also save on the energy needed to heat the water.

In summary, hot water recirculation for tankless systems is not just about comfort—it’s about smart, efficient living. By integrating these systems, homeowners can enjoy the perks of instant hot water while also contributing to water and energy conservation.

Options for Implementing Recirculation

When it comes to implementing hot water recirculation for tankless systems, homeowners have two main options: return line systems and crossover valve systems. Each has its own set of advantages, installation considerations, and suitability for different home sizes.

Return Line Systems

Return line systems use a dedicated pipe to circulate unused hot water back to the water heater. This setup ensures that hot water is always available at the tap, making it a great choice for larger homes with long pipe runs.

Installation Considerations: Installing a return line system can be more complex and costly because it involves adding a new pipe network. This might require opening walls or floors, making it a more invasive option.
Best for Larger Homes: For homes with six or more bathrooms or extensive plumbing systems, a return line system is ideal. It can handle high demand and ensure consistent hot water delivery throughout the house.
Cost: While the initial installation cost can be higher, the benefits of instant hot water and reduced water waste often outweigh the expense over time.

Crossover Valve Systems

For those looking for a less invasive and more cost-effective solution, crossover valve systems offer a practical alternative.

Single Device Installation: A crossover valve is installed at the fixture farthest from the water heater. It connects the hot and cold water lines, turning the cold water line into a temporary return line.
Less Invasive: Unlike return line systems, crossover valves don’t require additional piping back to the heater. This makes installation simpler and less disruptive to your home.
Temporary Hot Water in Cold Line: One thing to note is that crossover valves may cause a brief period where hot water flows from the cold tap. This is temporary and lasts only a few seconds, but it’s something to consider if instant cold water is a priority for you.

Choosing between a return line system and a crossover valve system depends on your home’s size, your budget, and how much you’re willing to invest in installation. Both options can significantly improve your home’s hot water efficiency, but understanding their differences will help you make the best choice for your needs.

Popular Recirculation Systems for Tankless Water Heaters

When considering hot water recirculation for tankless systems, know the options available. Here, we explore three popular systems: ACT D’MAND KONTROLS, AquaMotion Systems, and WaterQuick Tankless. Each offers unique benefits, from energy savings to advanced technology.

ACT D’MAND KONTROLS

ACT D’MAND KONTROLS is ideal for larger homes, especially those over 4,000 sq. ft. These systems provide instant hot water by using a specialized pump that circulates hot water through the plumbing system, ensuring no tap is left cold.

Energy Savings: By reducing the time water spends in the pipes, ACT D’MAND systems help conserve energy and reduce utility bills. The pump only runs when needed, making it efficient and cost-effective.
Home Suitability: Perfect for extensive homes with long pipe runs, these systems ensure that every corner of your house gets hot water quickly, minimizing waste and maximizing comfort.

AquaMotion Systems

AquaMotion offers versatile solutions with their split pump and bypass valve setups. These systems are designed for single-pipe plumbing and are compatible with on-demand models that activate when hot water is needed.

Split Pump Design: The pump is installed at the water heater, while a bypass valve is placed under the sink, making it a flexible option for various home layouts.
On-Demand Benefits: AquaMotion systems conserve water and energy by activating only when hot water is needed, providing efficiency without sacrificing convenience.
Installation Ease: With models that cater to different pipe lengths and home sizes, AquaMotion offers a range of options to suit your specific needs.

WaterQuick Tankless

For those seeking true on-demand systems, WaterQuick Tankless stands out with its advanced bridge valve and high-speed pump. This system is specifically custom for tankless water heaters.

Advanced Bridge Valve: This feature allows for up to 30% more water flow, ensuring faster delivery of hot water and maintaining the heater’s efficiency.
True On-Demand System: The WaterQuick Tankless model ensures that hot water is available instantly, without the need for a dedicated return line. This not only saves space but also simplifies installation.
High-Speed Pump: Designed for efficiency, the pump quickly moves cool water back to the heater, reducing wait times and water waste.

Each of these systems offers distinct advantages depending on your home’s size and plumbing configuration. Whether you’re looking for energy savings, installation flexibility, or cutting-edge technology, there’s a solution to meet your needs. As you consider upgrading your home’s water system, understanding these options will guide you to the most suitable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hot Water Recirculation for Tankless Systems

Can you put a recirculating system on a tankless water heater?

Yes, you can install a recirculating system on a tankless water heater. However, it’s crucial to ensure the system is compatible with your specific heater model. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so they need a well-designed plumbing configuration to work effectively with a recirculating system.

A recirculating pump can help provide instant hot water by keeping hot water in the pipes, reducing the wait time at your faucet. This setup often requires either a return line or a crossover valve to manage the flow of unused hot water back to the heater.

How much does it cost to add a recirculating pump to a tankless water heater?

The cost of adding a recirculating pump to a tankless water heater can vary widely. Factors like pump horsepower, the complexity of your plumbing system, and installation fees all play a role. Generally, prices range from $500 to $1,500, including professional installation.

Pump Horsepower: More powerful pumps might cost more but can handle larger systems or longer pipe runs more efficiently.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to get a precise estimate custom to your home’s requirements.

Is a hot water recirculation worth it?

Installing a hot water recirculation system can be a wise investment, especially for larger homes. Here are some benefits:

Time Savings: No more waiting for hot water. Enjoy instant hot showers and reduce frustration.
Water Savings: By minimizing the time water spends in the pipes, you can save up to 15,000 gallons of water per year, which is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

For homes with long pipe runs or multiple bathrooms, the convenience and savings in both water and time often justify the initial investment.

As you consider whether to add a recirculation system, weigh these benefits against the upfront costs. The long-term savings and improved comfort might make it a smart choice for your home.

Conclusion

At Go Pro Plumbing, we understand that having instant hot water is more than just a convenience—it’s a necessity for many households. That’s why we’re committed to providing top-notch service when it comes to hot water recirculation for tankless systems.

Our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service. Whether you’re in Rancho Cordova, Sacramento, or elsewhere in Northern California, we pride ourselves on our ability to offer same-day service. Need advice on the best recirculation system for your home? Our expert plumbers are ready to help you steer your options, ensuring you get the most efficient and effective solution.

Choosing Go Pro Plumbing means choosing a partner who values your time and comfort. We’re here to make sure you enjoy the benefits of instant hot water without the wait. If you’re ready to improve your home’s plumbing system, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a seamless, energy-efficient hot water experience.