Why your hot water takes so long to arrive at the tap
In short: Ever wait minutes for hot water to reach the shower? This Old House expert explains how a recirculation pump solves the delay, ensuring instant hot water while optimizing your home's energy efficiency.
A recirculation system uses a dedicated pipe running from the farthest fixture back to the water heater. A pump moves hot water through this line, while a check valve ensures it only flows in one direction. To prevent waste, an aqua-stat senses when hot water is returning to shut the pump off, and a timer can deactivate the system during work hours or at night.
For those seeking a simpler installation, all-in-one pumps combine the aqua-stat and timer into a single unit. The system is designed to save time and money by maintaining a constant flow of heat, with some configurations even pushing cold water into the cold-water line until the heater's supply arrives.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Get Hot Water with a Recirculating Pump | Ask This Old House
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