Trying to save a few bucks every year? Tired of wasting water to heat it up? Or just looking to install a new heating system at home in an efficient way?
If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then you need the best hot water recirculating pump.
A regular pump may waste thousands of gallons of water every year. That’s a lot of water you’ll be wasting, along with tons of money.
So, what’s the solution? Get a recirculation system for your hot water to prevent any wastage. It will keep the water on the pipes, deliver water fast, and make sure it’s always warm. Want to learn how a recirculation pump is capable of doing this? Then keep reading to learn that and much more!
Editor’s Recommendation: Top 5 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Top 10 Best Hot Water Recirculating Pump Reviews
We know there are thousands of different models out there. But wasting your time and effort, trying to find the right one can be exhausting. To keep you from doing that, here are 10 models and their reviews to consider. Read them up, and you’ll probably find the right one for you.
1. Watts Premier Instant Hot Water Recirculating System
What makes it so fantastic at first is the easy installation. It works directly on existing plumbing systems so you won’t have to waste any time or effort. In just an hour or less, you can get this pump working.
You will get everything to make this happen, from the adapter and rubber washers to the mounting screws, the sensor valve, and even two 12-inch supply lines. It is also super practical, as it boasts a 24-hour programmable timer that you can use at all times. This will help you save even more water and electricity over time.
The system stands out for its quietness, as well. You won’t hear the pump working at any time of the day – especially if it’s installed in the right place. Apart from that, you get a cast aluminum construction, ideal for durability & water resistance.
Whether you’re expecting quality performance or build, this pump won’t disappoint you. You need to install it on any tank heater, connect it to a 120v outlet, and it will perform like no other. It will provide the perfect hot-water system at home.
Pros
- Practical 24-hour programmable timer
- Comes with all installation equipment
- High-quality cast-aluminum construction
Cons
- Water won’t come out instantly hot
- Takes a lot of time to deliver cold water
2. Grundfos UP15-10SU7PTLC Comfort Series Recirculating Valve
This is a 1/25 HP pump from the Comfort Series that delivers outstanding performance in your hot-water system. The Comfort Valve ensures that you get fast & reliable water delivery at all times.
It boasts a stainless steel body as well, making it decently durable and resistant. This pairs up with a handy timer so you can set it up however you prefer.
The installation is a piece of cake, nonetheless. You get a 10-foot power cord so you can install it at a distance from outlets without problems. Even the timer comes with its own power cord for extra convenience. This pump is maintenance-free in its entirety and ensures low-energy consumption with little to no working noise.
You will probably never hear it when it’s working as efficiently as possible. The installation is a piece of cake. It is powerful enough to get water across large houses effortlessly and still manages to come with a practical timer for easy setup. Whatever you’re looking for – this recirculation pump from Grundfos makes it possible.
Pros
- Powerful 1/25 pump capacity
- Easy & convenient installation system
- High-quality stainless steel build
Cons
- Difficult to configure the timer
- Noisier than expected
3. Laing AutoCirc E10 Series Circulator with Timer
This delivers a super practical design that needs no effort to install. In retrofit systems and places where there’s no need for recirculation – this pump works wonders. Even tankless heating systems are compatible with this pump.
The machine is still powerful enough with its magnet motor using ECM/PM technology. This ensures a decent performance without harming durability or its handiness. And with the built-in temperature settings, you can get it working according to your specific needs.
To install, you just need to fit the pump on any under-sink pipes, attach the 6-foot power cord, and enjoy. It can work with plumbing systems of up to 4 GPM so you won’t be short of proper water delivery.
Overall, this is one of the most convenient systems you can get. When it comes to recirculating pumps, the AutoCirc E10 would be a portable alternative for contractors and people who want simple solutions.
Pros
- Efficient & reliable ECM/PM motor
- Works well with any kind of plumbing system
- Practical built-in temperature settings
Cons
- Hugely expensive
- Not ideal for large plumbing systems
4. Grundfos UPS15-58FC Circulator Pump Red
Its recirculating system delivers 1/25 HP of power so you can enjoy decent performance throughout your entire house. That’s enough to power up several sinks, showers, and toilets without problems.
It is also ideal for systems that work with up to 17 GPM. You won’t have any problem making it work with pressure-demanding plumbing structures. To make it even better, you will get the chance to choose between 3 speeds: low, medium, and high – so you can get it working according to your exact demands.
Moreover, it is a quiet pump as well, and it comes with built-in motor protection that ensures excellent performance for years. As for installation, you get the rubber gaskets and other gear to make it easy. You won’t have to spend as much time or effort doing so.
Lastly, it comes with cast-iron construction. This makes it outstandingly durable and well-made, so you won’t have to worry about anything. It will last a lifetime without problems – and it still comes at a premium cost.
Pros
- Potent 1/25 HP motor for decent results
- A handy 3-speed system with up to 17 GPM
- Long-lasting and reliable cast-iron build
Cons
- Cast-iron construction may rust over time
- Heavy build demands strong anchor points
5. Taco 006 Bronze Circulator Pump
Taco 006 is an excellent example of what this brand can offer. You can use it for any type of system including hot water recirculation, heat-recovery units, water source heat pumps, hydro-air heating and cooling, hydronic heating, drain-down open-loop solar systems, and even portable water applications.
There’s no limit to what this pump can do, offering 10 GPM of total flow, and super quiet and efficient performance. This all comes from its compact design. You won’t have to worry about power, either. It delivers 1/40 HP so you can enjoy ideal pumping and water recirculation whenever needed.
And it is totally energy-efficient as well. When it comes to setting it up, you won’t have to do much. The design is small enough for most systems, and it works close or far from heaters accordingly.
The construction also stands out with its cast-iron material. You may also find bronze parts and threaded connections. This allows for extra durability & resistance.
Finally, it is totally maintenance-free. It comes with a self-lubricating system, no mechanical seal, and exceptional replaceable cartridge. This product will easily surpass your expectations.
Pros
- Super-versatile performance for all systems
- A decently potent motor at 1/40 HP and 10 GPM
- Excellent cast-iron construction with bronze parts
Cons
- The cartridge may spill water when worn off
- Heats up more than expected
6. Laing ACT E1 AutoCirc Recirculation Pump
You can install this AutoCirc model in almost any type of sink or faucet. It is a piece of cake to do so as well, with its practical and well-made design.
It comes with a unique pumping system. You can pump water without the need for a return line, which makes it extra convenient. And it all happens because it has a temperature sensor that knows when the water is below the desired temp, so it circulates water back to the heating system.
Also, you will never have to wash your hands or bath with cold water when using this pump. And that’s something you don’t get with many systems. This pairs up well with the 24-hour timer. It allows easy settings, so you can make it work at the desired temperature.
The pump is still super quiet, so you won’t have any problem installing it anywhere close to you. And with its 6-feet power cord, it becomes even easier to set it up. If you want quality above anything else, then you won’t think twice about buying this pump. It is simply fantastic.
Pros
- Straightforward & convenient installation
- Unique motor performance for ease of use
- Practical timer & built-in thermostat
Cons
- Heats up water slower than expected
- Pricy for its design & performance
7. Grundfos UP1542F SuperBrute Recirculator Pump
The first thing you’ll notice is a superb construction in its entirety, boasting stainless steel and bronze.
This ensures several years of use without problems. The motor is not bad, either. You can get 155 GPM without issues. That’s enough to power up an entire mansion or building system. And it doesn’t fall short.
Moreover, the whole construction takes performance to another level as well. You get a graphite rotor and impeller, a ceramic shaft and radial bearings, plus a stainless steel rotor cover with bearing plate. This allows extra durability from the interior out – so you get exceptional results for a lifetime. The best of all is that the pump still consumes little to no power and makes installation easy despite its colossal design.
You can also get the most out of its programmable system, so it works when you want. And with its temp-sensing feature, you won’t have to wait for the water to heat up by itself. It even comes with an Aquastat system for extra convenience. If you want exceptional results, you will go for this pump without thinking about it twice.
Pros
- Strong & reliable motor
- Superb construction for durability
- Practical pre-program & timer features
Cons
- Huge & heavy design can be tricky to set up
- The noisiest pump in the whole list
8. Bayite BYT-7A006 Solar Hot Water Heater Circulation Pump
This is the smallest pump in the whole list, ideal for small recirculation system close to sinks and faucets. It works wonders when you want to improve the flow of your bathroom or kitchen, so you can receive more water with a minimum waiting time.
Being small doesn’t mean it is not potent. It will make your water flow faster than expected, which ensures a more pleasant experience. The machine is so small that you’ll barely hear it working. But it will still perform well enough so you won’t have to spend much money on your heating system.
It is the ideal option for those who don’t need more than just a few feet of discharge capacity. This will also work wonders for those who want an under-sink pump or an effective option for their appliances. If you aren’t looking for something large and can manage with a small yet reliable model, then the bayite BYT-7A006 will come like a gem for you.
Pros
- Super practical small design
- Powerful enough for small systems
- The easiest to install in the whole list
Cons
- Not ideal for systems larger than a small faucet
- Lack of power adapter makes installation time-consuming
9. KOLERFLO RS15-6 SS Hot Water Circulation Pump
This pump can deliver up to 9.5 GPM on three different levels. That will be enough to achieve proper pressure inside the plumbing system, so you get fast, hot water at any time. You can use it to prevent pipes from freezing, to improve the speed of the hot water delivery, or even just to save water and energy.
Whatever the reason, it will still handle tons of use thanks to its aluminum housing. And with the corrosion-resistant and sturdy components, you’ll receive an even more durable product. The pump is still quiet and doesn’t use too much power. It stands out for its efficiency and decent water delivery.
If you want to power up small houses, industrial equipment, or solar-powered circulating machines, then this is your way to go. You won’t find any pump as affordable and straightforward as this one.
Pros
- Decent motor performance for speedy water delivery
- Durable aluminum exterior with high-quality components
- Easy installation with a compact design
Cons
- Makes a lot of noise
- Gets really hot
10. BOKYWOX RS15-6 Circulator Pump
The device won’t leak easily, will provide a decent amount of noise, and will still make it easy to install. It all comes down to its small design and excellent construction. You will get a cast-iron housing that pairs up with a corrosion-resistant composite impeller, along with a ceramic shaft. All this makes sure that you can get several years out of the pump without having to replace or fix anything. It still handles tons of temperatures, provides decent pressure & flow, and achieves proper hot water capacity at any time.
Even the installation is a piece of cake with its small design and user-friendly instructions. You won’t have to spend more than an hour making it work with any type of water system.
Moreover, the real advantage comes from its fantastic cost. It comes at almost half the price of any similar model. This is something you won’t find that easily. If you want to take your hot-water delivery to another level without spending a fortune – this pump is your best bet.
Pros
- Decently powerful for its cost
- Durable & reliable construction despite its low price
- Small & easy-to-install design
Cons
- It is way noisier than expected
- The cast-iron case may rust over time
What’s the Difference between Hot Water Recirculating Pump and Regular Pump?
A standard pump and a recirculating pump look and work similarly. But they’re not the same thing. So, how do you tell a regular pump for a recirculation model? Simple, you do so by analyzing how it works.
For example, a typical pump has the only purpose of lifting or pumping water through plumbing systems. This lifting or pumping overcomes any pressure or gravity thanks to the motor’s power.
You can find regular pumps in wells, large buildings, residential homes, and more. They have the only purpose of pumping water from one end to the other. And they usually do this when the plumbing system alone is incapable of doing so.
But when we talk about recirculation pumps, we’re talking about a system that not only pumps but makes sure the water keeps circulating through the system.
The best way to put it simply is to compare it to a Ferris wheel. A recirculating pump pushes the water through the plumbing system, but the water returns to the same point if it’s not used. For that, the motor of a recirculating pump acts a little differently.
It doesn’t only pump water, but it also makes it run across the plumbing back and forth until it is used. In short, a standard pump pushes water through plumbing. In contrast, a recirculating pump makes water run through the pipes until it’s used.
Things to Consider before Buying Water Recirculating Pump
After reading our hot water recirculating pump reviews and learning the difference between them and standard pumps – it is now time to learn how to pick the right model. Here are a few factors to consider:
• Connections
While most pumps come with the standard 3/4 connection system, you should still take a good look at the model you’re choosing before buying. This will make sure that you’re indeed picking something that will work for you.
In case you need a different type of connection like 1-inch or 0.5-inch, look for it. It may take you more time, or more work when installing with adapters – but it’s worth it.
• Timer
If you want the pump to work at certain times of the day, or for specific periods only, you can set up a timer for that.
Not all models come with a timer, though. And others may come with inconvenient ones. So make sure you pick according to your needs to prevent any issue.
• Flow Rate
The flow rate is indicated in GPM. This is how fast the water can run through the plumbing system using the pump. We don’t have specific recommendations as to what speed you should go for, but we know that the more GPM the pump has the more flow it will have, and the more water it will push.
So, if you can go for pumps that offer between 0 and 10 GPM, it will be enough to work with both low and high-pressure systems. If you want tons of pressure, then go for something of about 15 GPM or more.
• Motor Power
As you know, every pump comes with a motor, so it is essential to understand how powerful that motor is. To do that, make sure you check the amount of horsepower it delivers. We recommend between 1/10 and 1/40 horsepower. Anything less than that will be too little to power normal plumbing systems.
If you want stronger performance, you can go as far as 2 HP of power or even more. But that’s for something like a building that needs tons of potential.
• Temperature Settings
Another practical feature is the temperature capacity of the pump. So, if you want to keep the temperature consistent, the pump may help you do so. It is not an essential thing to have, but it can change your experience with the pump – especially if you want to receive consistent heating at all times.
• Maintenance
The less maintenance you need to do to the pump, the better it will be. That’s why we recommend maintenance-free models if you can buy them. They are often more durable and reliable, as well.
• Noise
If you want a great experience with your pump, make sure it doesn’t make much noise. Some pumps are annoyingly loud, while others can be pretty quiet and relaxing.
If you’re going for a loud pump with tons of power, then we recommend installing it on deep basements. Otherwise, go for a quiet model that you can fit anywhere without the annoyance.
• Ease of Installation
Finally, you should always go for models that are easy to install. Some models even come with all the necessary equipment for the setup. This will ensure that you can get them working almost instantly.
Be careful, though. Some models may be easy to install, but you may still need specific components or tools that you may not have. If that’s the case, then contact an expert to do so for you.
How to Install a Hot Water Recirculating Pump?
After learning almost everything you need to pick the right model, we’ll help you even further by explaining how to install one of these.
You won’t have to be a plumber expert to make this happen. Just follow our instructions, and you can set up a hot water circulation pump at home in a few minutes or hours. Here’s what to do:
1. Start by turning the water heater and the entire plumbing system off. Turn the gas, electric, and water supply if needed.
2. Open up a faucet or sink to drain all the water still in the pipes. Then drain everything on the heater tank. Makes sure there’s nothing left.
3. Now follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the pump. Remember to use all the equipment like the pipe wrench, plumbing tape, gaskets, supply lines, and anything else necessary.
4. Once you have the pump hooked up with your plumbing system, check that everything is well-connected. Make a thorough inspection.
5. Finish up by opening the water supply, turning the water heater on, and opening sinks and faucets. The water should come out normally. Then close them up and try again – it should go out faster.
If everything goes as explained in this small guide, then you’ve successfully installed the hot water recirculating pump at home.
How to Use a Hot Water Recirculating Pump?
A recirculation pump is an electric machine that makes it easy to push water through large plumbing systems. It maintains the water on the tubes so you can eventually open any faucet or sink and get the hot water without problems. To use them correctly, you will have to learn what they offer.
First, you will get a check valve. This valve makes sure you can either close or open the pump when needed. Without this, you will have a consistent flow of water through the pump that only stops when you close the water supply.
Then, you’ll find a temperature sensor or thermostat. This part often comes with a set function so you can pick the desired temperature, and the pump will help you achieve that on every sink, faucet, shower, etc.
And finally, you get a timer. It is the part that allows you to make it work at specific times of the day. This helps to save water and time, making the machine work manually.
To use a recirculation pump, you will have to open the check valve to let water pass through the pump. Then choose the desired temperature in the thermostat, and finally set up the timer, so it functions only when you need to. Do that, and you’ll start enjoying your hot water recirculating pump in no time.
How to Clean Hot Water Recirculating Pump after Using – Step-by-Step Guide?
If you want to prevent any rust building up on the pump, or any other type of residue from growing inside – then you’ll want to clean the pump every few months. This will ensure that you always get consistent and clean water delivery at home.
Here are a few steps to follow to make this happen:
1. Disconnect the pump from its power source and water line. Then proceed by disassembling it.
2. Pumps have iron, steel, or aluminum covers. Find the screws or bolts to get the cover off so you can disassemble it correctly.
3. Take photos of everything to remember how it is put together. Then start taking out parts one by one without breaking the machine.
4. Once you take them all out, you can start washing them. Use water, dish soap, and steel wool or soft-brittle brush. Get rid of any buildup or residue on the components.
5. Let all the parts dry after cleaning them. Then use a towel to get rid of the excess of humidity if needed.
6. Keep up by putting the pump together again. Follow the photos you took before to prevent any issue.
7. Finish up by placing the cover over everything again, tightening the screws, and that’s it.
8. Try to start the machine before connecting it to any water supply. It should sound and work normally. If it does, then you’re done. Otherwise, disassemble it again to make sure it works correctly.
Do this to ensure that your hot water recirculation pump works clean and consistently for a long time.
How Does Hot Water Recirculating Pump Work?
A recirculating pump is similar to a typical pump like we’ve said before. But the thing that makes a recirculation pump so effective is the ability to be activated at all times. This means that it won’t work only when someone opens the shower or the sink.
The pump starts up and will start pumping water through the pipes. Whether it is cold or hot water, it will go back and forth consistently, so the water is always ready for you to use. Sure enough, when it comes to hot water, this becomes a little more difficult because you’ll need it to be heated.
Moreover, the recirculation system ensures that the water on the pipes is always hot. Here, the hot water recirculation pump will sense the temperature of the water to make sure that it is warm enough for your needs (you will have to set the temperature beforehand).
And if it’s not, then it will recirculate it back to the heater to make sure that it heats up. Once it does, then it will deliver it through the sink, faucet, or shower. That’s how a hot water recirculating pump works.
Frequently Asked Questions
To pick the best hot water recirculation system, you won’t only need to know its features and how it works, but also other less important factors. The following questions may help you out with that:
1. What’s an under-the-sink pump?
An under-the-sink water pump is the machine that doesn’t install close to the water heater or plumbing system, but close to the sink. Specifically, it goes underneath the faucet, so it pushes water fast and effectively. You will need power under the sink to enjoy it.
2. Do hot water recirculation pumps save money?
Yes. This happens because it will prevent your house’s water from being wasted. However, you will need to consider that if a recirculating pump is always working, then it will suck tons of energy, which translates into higher electric bills. To prevent that, only use the pump at specific times of the day.
3. Why is the hot water recirculation pump so expensive?
They are expensive because they need to withstand high temperatures, work consistently, and sometimes sense water temperature, control pressure, and more. This demands high-quality components made of high-end materials, which are highly expensive.
4. Can a sink drain into a sump pump?
Yes, but it demands tons of installation efforts and expertise. If you want your sink to drain into a sump pump, make sure to use the help of a professional.
Final Words
By now, you should be familiar with everything a recirculating pump offers and how you can pick the right model. But still, it is essential to remember that the right model is the one that best fits your demands and nothing else.
The best hot water recirculating pump will save you tons of money every year, and help you receive fast water delivery at all times. If you need to get one of these, then do it now. You won’t regret it!
Related resource