What Is a Hot Water Circulator?
A hot water circulator, whose primary component is a water pump, is a system that allows for the constant circulation of hot water in the plumbing of a house or other structure. Does this Spark an idea?
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Benefits
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The key benefit of hot water circulation is the immediate availability of hot water. Many hot water circulators are advertised as water-savers, as they are thought to help minimize the water waste associated with letting a faucet run until it reaches the desired temperature.
Drawbacks
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Though circulation systems such as RedyTemp claim to be energy efficient, hot water circulators may nevertheless be associated with increased energy consumption and increased electricity costs.
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Types
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Hot water circulation systems generally fall into two categories: open-loop systems and closed-loop systems. Open-loop systems return water to the water heater via the cold-water line; closed-loop systems use a dedicated hot-water line to cycle water back to the water heater.
Brands
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Armstrong, Taco, Bell and Gossett, and Grundfos are the leading hot-water circulation pump brands. Other companies, such as RedyTemp, offer comprehensive thermostatic circulation systems.
Prices and Installation
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Domestic-use, do-it-yourself hot-water circulation systems range in price from $150 to $400. Most of these require the installation of a pump and at least one valve.
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