A tankless hot water system circulating provides instant hot water on demand, improving efficiency and reducing energy waste compared to traditional tank systems.
A tankless hot water system with circulating technology delivers instant hot water while saving energy. These advanced systems eliminate the frustrating wait for hot water at your faucets and showers. Learn how recirculation pumps work with tankless heaters and discover the best options for your home.
How Tankless Water Heater Recirculation Works
Recirculating systems keep hot water moving through your pipes so it’s always ready when you need it. There are two main approaches:
Dedicated Return Line Systems
These systems use a separate pipe to return cooled water back to the heater. While effective, they require significant plumbing modifications during installation.
Integrated Bypass Valve Systems
Modern solutions like Rinnai’s Smart-Circ™ use your existing cold water line as a temporary return path. A thermal bypass valve installed at the farthest fixture enables this efficient circulation method.
Top Recirculation Pump Options for Tankless Heaters
| Product | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rinnai Smart-Circ™ | Homes without return lines | Learns usage patterns, WiFi control available |
| Goulds Laing Thermotech E10 | Under-sink installation | Compact design, works with most tankless units |
| ACT D’MAND Kontrols SS1-200 | Large homes (4,000+ sq ft) | Handles long pipe runs, multiple control options |
Smart Recirculation Technology
Advanced systems like Rinnai’s can learn your household patterns and only circulate water when needed. This smart approach saves energy compared to continuous circulation. The best HVAC thermostats offer similar learning capabilities for whole-home efficiency.
Benefits of Tankless Recirculation Systems
- Instant hot water at every fixture
- Reduces water waste by up to 15,000 gallons annually
- Lowers energy costs compared to traditional tank heaters
- Compact design saves space
- Longer lifespan than conventional water heaters
Installation Considerations
Home Size and Layout
Larger homes may need more powerful pumps like the ACT D’MAND SS3-200 series. The best HVAC systems for open floor plans face similar sizing challenges.
Existing Plumbing
Homes without dedicated return lines can use integrated systems with bypass valves. This approach requires minimal plumbing modifications.
Energy Efficiency
Look for ENERGY STAR certified units and consider adding timers or smart controls to optimize operation. Proper insulation of hot water pipes further improves efficiency.
Maintenance Tips
- Flush the system annually to prevent mineral buildup
- Check valves and connections for leaks
- Clean inlet water filters regularly
- Monitor performance for changes in delivery time
- Follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedule
For optimal performance, pair your system with the right accessories and consider professional installation. Many manufacturers offer WiFi controls that let you adjust settings remotely through smartphone apps.
According to Rinnai’s research, recirculation systems can reduce water waste by up to 12,000 gallons per year in an average household. The initial investment often pays for itself through water and energy savings within a few years.
