Tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their energy efficiency and ability to provide hot water on demand. One common issue that homeowners face with tankless water heaters is the delay in getting hot water to the desired faucet or shower. To combat this problem and increase convenience, many homeowners consider adding a recirculation pump to their tankless water heater system. In this article, we will explore whether it is possible to add a recirculation pump to a tankless water heater and the factors to consider before doing so.
Understanding Tankless Water Heaters
Before discussing the possibility of adding a recirculation pump to a tankless water heater, it is important to understand how tankless water heaters work. Unlike traditional water heaters that store and continuously heat a large quantity of water, tankless water heaters heat water directly as it is needed. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a heat exchanger, instantly heating the water before it reaches the faucet. This on-demand heating reduces energy consumption and ensures a continuous supply of hot water.
The Challenge of Delayed Hot Water
While tankless water heaters are efficient, many homeowners experience a slight delay in receiving hot water when a faucet or shower is turned on. This is due to the time required for the heater to detect the flow of water and heat it up. This delay can be inconvenient, especially in larger homes or situations where hot water is needed frequently.
Recirculation Pump for Instant Hot Water
To overcome the delay in receiving hot water with a tankless system, some homeowners opt to install a recirculation pump. A recirculation pump is designed to keep hot water flowing through the pipes, ensuring instant hot water at every faucet. By constantly circulating hot water, the recirculation pump eliminates the need to wait for hot water to travel from the water heater to the faucet, reducing water and energy waste.
Factors to Consider
Before adding a recirculation pump to a tankless water heater, several factors need to be considered:
- Compatibility: Not all tankless water heaters are equipped to work with recirculation pumps. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if your particular model is compatible. Some tankless water heaters come with built-in recirculation pumps or have options to add one easily.
- Location: The location of the tankless water heater plays a crucial role in determining the feasibility of adding a recirculation pump. Pumps can be installed under sinks, near showers, or at the water heater itself. Evaluate the plumbing layout and choose the most suitable location for the recirculation pump installation.
- Plumbing Configuration: The plumbing layout of your home may need modifications for a recirculation pump. A dedicated return line or a bypass valve may need to be installed to create a closed loop system that allows water to circulate from the water heater to the furthest fixture and back.
- Energy Consumption: Adding a recirculation pump to a tankless water heater will increase energy consumption. The pump continuously operates to circulate hot water throughout the system. Consider the potential increase in energy usage before deciding to install a recirculation pump.
Installation and Maintenance
If your tankless water heater is compatible and all necessary considerations have been made, professional installation is recommended for adding a recirculation pump. The installation involves plumbing alterations and electrical connections, and it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a safe and reliable setup.
Maintenance of the recirculation pump includes periodically checking for leaks, cleaning or replacing filters, and ensuring the pump is functioning correctly. Regular maintenance will help prolong the lifespan of the pump and maintain the efficiency of your water heating system.
In summary, adding a recirculation pump to a tankless water heater is possible, but it requires careful consideration and professional installation. Before making the decision to install a recirculation pump, ensure your tankless water heater is compatible and evaluate factors such as location, plumbing configuration, and potential increase in energy consumption. When done correctly, a recirculation pump can provide instant hot water and improve convenience in your home.