We have to start by saying that saving water is one of the most important considerations for most households. According to most studies, one person tends to use approximately eighty gallons of water daily.
These gallons include complete wastage while we wash our teeth, wait for the water to get hot, and many more unnecessary reasons. It would not be a problem if the wasted water were free. However, that is not the case, and we have to pay a single wasted gallon.
If you install a hot water recirculating pump, you can reduce the waiting time for hot water to reduce the monthly bills.
We decided to present you with a comprehensive review and buying guide on the best hot water recirculating pump that you can find on the market.
| Model Name | Saves Up To | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Watts 500800 (Editor’s Choice) | 15,000 gallons per year | $$ |  |
| KOLERFLO RS15-6 | $ | | |
| Laing LHB08100092 | 17,000 gallons per year | $$$ | |
| Grundfos UP15-42F | $$ | | |
| Grundfos UP15-10SU7P | 12,000 gallons per year | $$$ | |
| Happybuy RS15-6 | $$ | | |
| KOLERFLO RS15-9 | $ | |
1. Watts 500800 – Best Pre-Installed Hot Water Recirculating Pump
The first pump we are reviewing is the Watts 500800 that comes with handy features you can enjoy along the way. Remember that you will get proper hardware so that you can install it in a matter of minutes, which makes it a highly convenient solution when compared with others.
The entire installation is highly convenient because you should install it on the water heater, and place the sensor valve on the faucets. It is an efficient solution for areas with hard water conditions, which makes it proper, pumps for all situations.
When compared with others, it runs quietly, and you will get a built-in timer within the box. That way, you do not have to purchase it separately. In case of power failure, you should reset the timer before starting the water.
If you plug it into a smart outlet, you will be able to access it by using a Wi-Fi connection. Generally, it is compatible with most water heaters, especially tankless ones.
Pros
Simple to install
It comes with a built-in timer
Perfect for areas with hard water issues
Durable
You will get hot water in a matter of five seconds
Cons
It is not compatible with water heaters that have heat traps
2. KOLERFLO RS15-6 – Affordable Hot Water Recirculating Pump
If you wish to find the affordable pump, you should consider KOLERFLO RS15-6 recirculating pump. It is perfect for areas that feature a recirculating water system as well as floor heating.
It will give you the hot water each time you need it. Due to the adjustable power setting, you will be able to choose 93, 67, or 46 watts of power. The system can run on max pressure up to ten bars while the liquid temperature range can reach up to 212 degrees F.
Remember that the flow rate depends on the settings you decide to select. The lowest one is twenty liters per minute, while the highest can reach up to 36 liters per minute. The best thing about it is durability due to various materials that will affect it.
It comes from cast iron, while the impeller features corrosion-resistant composite. The bearing is carbon axial, while the shaft is ceramic. That way, you will be able to protect yourself and avoid water wastage along the way.
Pros
Noiseless
Simple to install
Various power settings
Reliable choice
Durable
Cons
Lousy instruction manual
3. Laing LHB08100092 – Hot Water Recirculating Pump with Programmable Timer
Laing LHB08100092 hot water recirculating pump is a perfect solution that will provide you both a sensor and the pump within a single package.
You will also get a timer that you can program based on your preferences so that you can turn it on automatically before you get home after work. That way, you will always be able to enjoy the hot showering without wasting both energy and water.
Apart from that, you will need approximately one hour to install everything. The entire project is something that each DIY enthusiast can handle. You should install it below the faucet; however, it is crucial to find ways to plug it right under it.
It comes with appealing aesthetics, while the main disadvantage is slight vibrations while operating. That could be annoying in the long run, which is something you should remember before taking it.
Pros
Appealing design
Programmable timer
Simple to install
The sensor comes within the package
Cons
It produces slight vibration while working
4. Grundfos UP15-42F – Reliable Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Grundfos UP15-42F hot water recirculating pump will provide you peace of mind when it comes to different circulation applications.
It is compatible with large-scale commercial water movement to hydronic circulation, which means that you will get a versatile pump for any situation.
According to most users, it is durable, and you can use it for years after purchase. It comes with single speed circulator as well as a wet-rotor fluid movement design that will stand the test of time.
The combination of solid cast iron construction is another proof that you will use it for years without too much maintenance. Hardwire electrical connection design means that you can tap it directly to the power supply.
Finally, you can rest assured because it is one of the quietest pumps on the market. Therefore, it will not distract you while sleeping.
Pros
Durable
Perfect for all circulating applications
Sleek design
Cast iron construction
You can tap it directly to power supply
Cons
Expensive price tag
5. Grundfos UP15-10SU7P – Premium Automatic Hot Water Recirculating Pump
The Grundfos UP15-10SU7P hot water recirculating pump is the perfect pump that comes with a combination of stainless steel and bronze. Finally, you will be able to enjoy automatic features that will reduce the hassle of you working.
It is incredibly long-lasting, and it uses only 25 watts of power, which is less than a standard light bulb. Therefore, it will not just save water but energy bills too. Its predecessor was noisy; however, this particular one is quiet as a whisper, so you will not even notice it.
You can easily install it in less than an hour by checking out the user manual that comes with it. Remember that it is only compatible with ¾-inch tank connection, and it comes with six feet electric cord.
The idea is that you will get the pump fixed above the water heater, and you will need a sensor valve installed below at the farthest point of the heater.
The system will pump the water by using a cold water line and get it back to the heater by following 145 psi. The flow rate is between zero and nine GPM, while the overall price should be 6.3 GPM.
Pros
Quiet motor
You will get a timer
Low power consumption
Stainless steel and bronze construction
Simple to install
Cons
It is pricey
6. Happybuy RS15-6 – Best Hot Water Recirculating Pump with Three-Speed Control Settings
If you wish to consider the hot water recirculating pump, you should get Happybuy RS15-6 recirculating pump. When it comes to efficiency, power, and size, you will get perfect operation for an affordable price tag.
It features NPT ¾-inches inlet-outlet, as well as the ability to place it into 110-120V outlet. The max pressure can reach up to 140 PSI or 10 bars. Remember that it features three-speed control between 20 and 36 LPM.
The overall construction comes from corrosion-resistant composite, while the housing is from aluminum and bearing from carbon axle. You can rest assured when it comes to installation, just place it next to pipeline and you can avoid hassling with the plumbers.
It requires up to 15 seconds reaching the hot water, while in the kitchen, the waiting time can reach up to minute due to reduced flow compared with most bathrooms.
Pros
You can install in a matter of an hour
Efficient pump with low energy consumption
It will keep the pipes from freezing during the cold winter days
Three-speed control settings
Cons
It is only compatible with ¾ connections
7. KOLERFLO RS15-9 – Best Hot Water Circulating Pump with Low Energy Consumption
If you wish to get the circulating water pump with stylish color and decent performance, you should consider the Kolerflo RS15-9. Similarly to the pump, we have mentioned above. It comes with three-speed settings 46W, 67W, and 93W.
The maximum pressure that it can handle can reach up to 145 psi. Remember that the housing comes from aluminum, which makes it lightweight and portable. At the same time, the impeller is corrosion-resistant for additional durability.
It is simple to install, and you will only need a wrench to connect it to the pipelines. Approximately, you should wait up to 15 seconds to get hot water.
At the same time, you can rest assured, because it is resistant to high temperatures when compared with other pumps that you can find on the market.
Pros
It will provide you with hot water in fifteen seconds
Low consumption and high efficiency
Resistant to high temperatures
Noiseless
Three-speed control settings
Cons
If there is air in the lines, it will not push the water because the pump cannot prime itself
Best Hot Water Recirculating Pump Buying Guide
How Does A Recirculating Pump Work?
You probably know that when you turn the hot water on, the faucet will give you the cold water at first. Of course, everything depends on the size of your household, but you may wait for a few minutes to get the perfect temperature you wanted in the first place.
Similarly, as we have mentioned above, that wastes water and will increase your monthly bills. The cold water comes because it travels a long distance to reach the faucet.
At the same time, the small amount of cold water is left in the pipes, so when you turn on the warm side, first the excessive water comes out.
The best way to prevent this from happening is to install a recirculating pump on your water heater that will return all available hot water to the heater. Therefore, you will be able to get it on demand.
You can choose two types of recirculating pumps:
Full Recirculating Pump System
This particular option is placing the additional pipe specifically for hot water so that you can install it on existing plumbing. Therefore, the system will create a loop from the water heater to the faucet and all over again. The available water will travel back to the pump, so as soon as you turn on the hot water, it will get out without any additional problem.
Recirculating Pump Comfort System
The other type uses the existing water pipes that will bring the remaining water to the heater. It is an affordable solution for household owners that wish to avoid waiting for the hot water. The idea is that this system will bring the water as fast as possible, even if your bathroom is far away.
How to Install a Hot Water Recirculation Pump
Installation is another buying point you should consider. In most cases, you will need a recirculating pump that features supply tubes and checks valves. Apart from that, you will need a bucket and towel, screwdriver, and pipe wrench or channel-type pliers.
You will also need a 120V outlet to plug it and make it close to the water heater.
- Start by shutting off the water from the shut-off valves that you can find on the top of the heater.
- Disconnect the flexible water supply line. We recommend you to use the rag to handle the water that will come out after you disconnect it.
- Place the pump on the hot side of the water heater. Remember that as you tighten it, you have to make sure that the timer is faced in the direction where you can easily adjust it.
- Reconnect the hot water line on the top of the pump and tighten it with pliers
- Go to the sink, which is farthest away from the heater to install the check valve.
- Disconnect the faucet supply under the sink and use containers and towels to catch the water and to prevent any damage.
- Screw the supply tubes. The cold water should be on the right, during the hot water on the left side.
- Mount the check valve to the wall by using the screws you got within the package.
- Turn the water on and make sure that there are no leaks.
Do Hot Water Recirculation Pumps ACTUALLY Save Money?
Generally speaking, you will be able to save money on water bills. Still, the question lies whether you will be able to save on energy bills since they tend to spend electricity instead.
Of course, if you find the one with a programmable timer, you will be able to connect them based on your preferences.
Keep in mind that you will still enjoy the convenience of getting hot water as soon as possible, which is something you couldn’t get before.
Conclusion
We have presented you with a comprehensive review and buying guide on the best hot water recirculating pumps that you can find on the market. Remember that everything depends on the type of water heater you have as well as the quality of plumbing.
That is the main reason why you should reread this particular article to reduce the chances of getting a lousy pump that will only take money out of your pockets.
If you had experience with hot water circulating pumps, you should tell us all about it by commenting in the section below.
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