Water Heaters
Hot water recirculation pumps
A recirculation pump keeps hot water close to the fixtures so it arrives in seconds instead of minutes. Homes without a return line can use a pump at the water heater with a crossover valve under the farthest sink, and timers or on-demand buttons keep energy use down.
- Same-day service when a plumber is available
- Licensed local plumbers
- Quote before work
Sprawling single-story floor plans and big two-story homes put the primary bath a long way from the water heater. Waiting a minute or more for hot water wastes water and patience.
Many newer homes have a dedicated return line already plumbed. Older homes can use a crossover-style system with no new piping.
Recirculation at a glance
- Result
- Hot water in seconds at far fixtures
- No return line?
- A crossover valve under the far sink
Signs you need recirculation
- Waiting a long time for hot water
- A return line capped at the water heater
- Running water down the drain every morning
How the plumber handles it
- 1
Check the layout
The plumber looks for a return line and finds the farthest fixture from the heater.
- 2
Install
The pump goes at the heater, plus a crossover valve at the far sink if there's no return line.
- 3
Set controls
They set a timer, temperature sensor or on-demand button to match your routine.
What affects the cost
Prices depend on what the plumber finds, so the plumber quotes on site. These are the main factors:
- Return line vs. crossover system
- Control type
- Electrical outlet at the heater
- Tankless compatibility
Frequently asked questions
Does recirculation raise energy bills?
A pump that runs constantly can. A timer or on-demand control keeps the extra cost small.
Does it work with a tankless heater?
Some tankless models have built-in recirculation. Others need a compatible pump and settings.
Where to get recirculation
By state: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Need recirculation?
Same-day service when a plumber is available. One call connects you with a licensed plumber who serves your ZIP.