What are Recirculating Hot Water Systems?

Recirculating hot water systems are hot water systems that give hot water as per the consumer's needs as soon as the tap is opened. It is designed to avoid the draining of cold water until you receive hot water. This system is considered one of the important options for water-saving plumbing fixtures.

Read More on: Water Saving Plumbing Fixtures

Hot water recirculating system comes in different options. Understanding the basic features of each system will give you a quick idea of what system to choose for your home.

Types of Hot Water Recirculating Systems

The main classification of Hot water recirculating systems are:

1. Traditional Hot Water Recirculating System
2. Instant Hot Water Recirculating System
3. On-Demand Hot Water Recirculating Systems

1. Traditional Hot Water Recirculating System

• The system consists of a return line for hot water pipes.
• The loop arrangement keeps the hot water reserve such that when needed, the hot water is right there.

2. Instant Hot Water Recirculating System

• It does not require a hot water return line
• It can be over-the-water-heater or under the sink.

3. On-Demand Hot Water Recirculating System

• This system will require the user to activate the pump when he needs hot water but provides the water instantly.
• The system can be arranged with a pump at the water heater with a return line or there can be an under-the-skin pump which is installed in the farthest sink such that it provides hot water throughout the house.
• This consists of a loop, in which cooled water is pumped into hot water pipes, then back to cold water pipes and pushed to the water heater. This creates a temporary loop that does not allow the cooled water to drain. Instead, it is saved in a loop and sent back to the water heater for heating.
• When the hot water arriving through the pipe has reached the desired temperature, the pump shuts off and it stops pushing the water from the hot line into the cold side. 

Also Read: Types of Plumbing Systems in Building Construction