7 Best Hot Water Recirculating Pumps in 2023: [Tested & Compared]

You’ve probably seen the best hot water recirculating pumps in hotel bathrooms. They offer several benefits, including increased efficiency, cost savings, and convenience. 

The hot water recirculation pumps are installed in your home’s plumbing lines. It will push the cold water to the heater when the faucet isn’t open. By doing so, you will have instant hot water on opening your water faucet.

This article will cover everything you need about the seven best hot water recirculation pumps for your home.

Comparison Of Best Hot Water Recirculating Pumps



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MODEL


FEATURES


COST


RATING

Taco 006-B4

0 – 10 GPM flow range, 0 – 9 ft head range, 115v

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4.5 / 5 
 

Grundfos GRU-595916

0 – 9 GPM flow range, 0 – 6 ft head range, 115v

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4.6 / 5 
 

Watts 500800

0 To 15.5 GPM flow range, 0 – 6 ft head range, 120v

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4.5 / 5 
 

Laing LHB08100081

0 – 8 GPM flow range, 0 – 6 ft head range, 120v

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4.4 / 5 
 

Grundfos 52722355

0 – 34 GPM flow range, 0 – 36 ft head range, 115v

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4.8 / 5 
 

Grundfos 59896155 SuperBrute

0 – 20 GPM flow range, 1 – 15 ft head range, 115v

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4.6 / 5 
 

Laing AutoCirc E10 Series

0 – 4 GPM flow range, 0 ft head range, 115v

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3.8 / 5 
 

Find The Best Hot Water Recirculating Pump For You:

The best hot water recirculating pumps circulate hot water in your plumbing system. Large commercial buildings and hotels often install the best hot water recirculating pumps.

The circulating water maintains a constant temperature, so you don’t have to keep reheating water for showers, sinks, and other fixtures. The pump is installed on a water heater and pumps water to a dedicated return line; the water then pumps back to the fixtures in your building. The best hot water recirculating pumps are typically installed when the water heater is on the upper floor of the building.

However, residential buildings do not commonly contain the best hot water recirculating pumps. Some homeowners install the best hot water recirculating pump to save water and energy. You can also use them to prevent the scalding of children and the elderly in your home.

The ideal options for your best hot water recirculating pumps and circulation system are listed below.

1

Taco 006-B4

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 10 GPM
Head Range0 – 9ft
Voltage115v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)40 – 220 F
Connection Size(S)¾ Inch Sweat (Threaded And Union Available)
Max Pipe Distance300 Feet

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Look no further if you want high-quality construction. The Taco circulator pump is one of the best hot water recirculating pumps and has the most robust designs available. You can select your material and connections from bronze, cast iron, or flanged steel. For example, the Taco bronze circulator pump is available with sweat, threaded, or union 34-inch connections.

With a 9-foot head, you won’t have to worry about gravity interfering with your pump line. The 1/40 horsepower motor has a flow range of 0 to 10 gallons per minute (GPM). It is ideal for solar open-loop systems, hot water circulation, and potable water applications.

You will never have to remove the pump again once it is installed. Remove the cartridge with a single screw containing all the moving parts and seals. If the pump fails, you can easily replace the cartridge while keeping your lines intact.

However, this pump generates a lot of heat. If you check it while it’s running, you’ll notice it’s significantly hotter than the other pumps. This is normal, and you should only be concerned if it becomes noisy.

Pros
  • Simple maintenance with a replaceable cartridge
  • The operation is nearly silent.
  • Maintenance-free operation due to self-lubrication.
Cons
  • In comparison to most, it has a limited head range
  • During operation, it becomes very hot

Reviews from customers:

Harry H Duval is happy with the purchase of Taco 006-B4. He said, “The pump seems to be working properly, allowing hot water to be accessed quickly from the farthest outlet from the water heater. The operating temperature seemed higher than I expected, but the plumber said it was normal. Thanks for supplying this taco pump. Hopefully, it will continue to perform as expected.”

Steven S. said, “Taco 006-B4 works perfectly and keeps up with a long hot shower without any problems whatsoever. It has been almost 4 months since I installed it, and it is as quiet as the day I installed it.”

2

Grundfos GRU-595916

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 9 GPM
Head Range0 – 6ft
Voltage115v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)45 To 150 F
Connection Size(S)¾ Inch Threaded
Max Pipe Distance250 Feet

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The Grundfos pumps are compact and powerful. Installing them doesn’t take up much room, and the threaded connectors make it simple. The comfort valves needed to connect the supply lines at the farthest faucets are included in the set.

Without specialized tools, this system may be configured and operational in less than 30 minutes.

Before turning on the pump after installation, ensure all the air has been removed from the pipes. To ensure the pump is full of water and that no air will get into it, open as many hot water lines as possible until they stop sputtering.

This pump also has a 24-hour timer, which you may choose to turn off and leave the pump running continuously. However, if that’s the case, the water bill will go up. Nevertheless, it might be a minor price to pay for the quick hot water.

Pros
  • Built-in timer for 24 hours
  • An extensive 2-year warranty
Cons
  • Construction is not the strongest
  • Cold water line can stay warmer than usual

Reviews from customers:

Alan Weinstein is impressed with Grundfos GRU-595916. He said, “I love this pump. It has accomplished my goal of reducing my wait for hot water to 5 seconds at any faucet!! The pre-installation time for hot was 26 seconds downstairs and 56 seconds upstairs. When the crossover valve is installed, the wait time is 0 seconds.”

Kristine Haywood said, “Easy to install (if you’re handy) and works like a charm. It’s been in for about a week. I’ve set it up to run continuously in the mornings during shower times and in the evening during clean up and bath times. I would recommend this to anyone with long waits for hot water.”

3

Watts 500800

Product specifications

Flow Range0 To 15.5 GPM
Head Range0 – 6 Ft
Voltage120v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)40 To 150 F
Connection Size(S)¾ Inch Threaded
Max Pipe Distance250 Feet

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The Watts system is a small pump that attaches to the tank using a connector with a 34-inch thread. Also, the comfort valve will allow you to install it under the sink closest to the water tank.

Before powering the pump after connection, you must purge the air from the system. A three-setting timer will function in 15-minute intervals. Further, you can choose whether the pump should always be on or off.

The 1-year warranty offered by the industry is not very extended, but it covers the entire pump and assembly if a qualified specialist installs it. The pump motor and gaskets are insured if installed improperly, but labor, burn-out damage, and comfort valves are not.

The little pump offers a sizable flow rate with a maximum flow rate of 15.5 GPM and a head range of 6 feet. Given that it has a 10-foot power cord, you can install it farther away from the outlet than is customary. The main issue with this equipment is that not all water heater tanks can use it. Sadly, Watts only works with a few models even though it claims to be compatible with all brands.

No list of compatible water tanks is available either. However, determining whether your water heater tank includes a heat trap is the most effective to determine compatibility. You can get further information by calling the manufacturer if you are unsure. It will be much simpler than calling Watts for a compatibility check.

Pros
  • Each faucet provides immediate hot water.
  • Installation was simple, and the water heated up quickly
  • Runs on an average of fewer than five cents every day.
Cons
  • For up to 10 seconds, a cold tap is heated.
  • Possibly incompatible with your water heater tank.

Reviews from customers:

KeokiMel said, “Everything they said is true. The product provides instant water when on. Huge difference in the winter when it takes longer for water to flow. Easy to install. You can get hot water in about 4 seconds, whereas before, I would have to wait about 30 to 40 seconds. I can see in the long run saving on water.”

Chris said, “The Watts 500800 pump makes no noise, the timer setting was easy, and so far, it works great. I get instant hot water at my kitchen sink, which used to take 3-4 minutes to get hot. I recommend this pump if you have a sink that takes time to get hot. This works.”

4

Laing LHB08100081

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 8 GPM
Head Range0 – 6 Ft
Voltage120v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)40 To 230 F
Connection Size(S)½ Inch Sweat In-Line
Max Pipe DistanceUp To 200 Feet

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Laing has a low-flow pump explicitly designed for recirculation systems. It is timer-compatible, but you need to buy it separately—in-line brass installation with a sweat fitting for 12 piping (threaded female output).

This pump is not intended to provide on-demand services. This low-flow pump will be most helpful in instant hot and always-on systems. Other models are available from Laing if you require an under-sink installation.

Since the water is constantly flowing through, there isn’t much pressure. When operating at up to 8 GPM, you can install a check valve and timer on the in-line side for a more on-demand-style pump system.

The warranty is complicated, and you must pay attention to the dates. The pump warranty is for two years from the date of manufacture or one year from the date of purchase, whichever comes first. 

You essentially have a one-year warranty. However, if the pump manufactures 18 months before you purchased it, your warranty will be valid for only six months.

Pros
  • Low-flow configuration for always-on systems
  • It can withstand temperatures of up to 230 degrees (F).
Cons
  • The warranty period is tricky.
  • On a 12-inch line, sweat and threaded installation are required.

Reviews from customers:

Bubba is happy with the purchase of Laing LHB08100081. He said, “I was so happy to find this pump was a direct, spin-on replacement for an older unit in my house, so I wouldn’t have to do any plumbing. This unit is quieter than the old one (that had a bearing near trash), has adjustable pump speed, and is supposed to be a lot more energy efficient.”

Glenn said, “Easy to install. Used as a replacement pump for a 15-year-old original pump that failed. Unscrewed the old one and screwed in the new unit…. no plumbing changes required.”

5

Grundfos 52722355

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 34 GPM
Head Range0 – 36 Ft
Voltage115v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)35 – 230 F
Connection Size(S)½ Inch Flange
Max Pipe DistanceUp To 600 Feet

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This Grundfos model outperforms the previous model. You can move up to 34 GPM hot water with a 1/6 horsepower motor. It extends the head range by allowing up to 36 feet of vertical flow. If you don’t want to mount it directly to the water tank, you can place it closer to the floor or the side.

The only drawback is that it intends for flange mounting. There are no sweat or threaded options. The 12-inch flange mount is easy to install and includes rubber gaskets for a secure, waterproof fit.

The cast iron pump has usage times pre programmed as well. You can change the operational timer, but it will require some electrical knowledge to change the wiring. The warranty covers the pump assembly for two years, beginning with the installation date rather than the purchase date. Before installing it, read the warranty agreement to ensure you follow all the guidelines for filing a claim.

Grundfos makes the best hot water recirculating pumps, but their customer service is a bit of a pain. If you need to file a claim, make sure everything is in order before making the call.

Pros
  • A cast iron pump with an integrated timer works well in various situations.
  • After the installation date, a two-year manufacturer warranty.
  • Huge 34 maximum GPM flow rate.
Cons
  • Slow and challenging customer service.
  • Only for flange mount

Reviews from customers:

Tom said, “Used a pair of these to pump water from a hot water storage tank to an 80-gallon walk-in bathtub. Fill time takes about 4 minutes with approx. 11 feet of head. Grundfos 52722355 works great.”

Woody said, “The exact replacement pump I needed, fast service, received in great packaging to prevent damaged goods.”

6

Grundfos 59896155 SuperBrute

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 20 GPM
Head Range1 – 15 Ft
Voltage115v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)36 – 230 F
Connection Size(S)¾ Inch Flange
Max Pipe Distance300 Feet

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Your research isn’t complete without Grundfos since you’re looking at lists of the best hot water recirculating pumps; With its third entry, Grundfos joins the fray once more. The manufacturer understands how to construct a high-quality, long-lasting pump assembly. 

The SuperBrute is not the most potent model or has the most powerful engine. However, with a bronze and stainless steel body, it may be the most powerful.

A brass pump housing, graphite impeller, tungsten, and stainless steel rotor round out the features. The full 2-year warranty will meet your expectations, while the pump will continue to exceed them for up to another 20 years.

The pump is intended for heating systems but works well for hot water recirculation. With a maximum flow rate of 20 GPM and the ability to handle water temperatures up to 230 degrees, you won’t have trouble getting hot water to your faucets in seconds.

Installation should occur above the water heater tank, with a comfort valve installed on the sink farthest from the tank. The return line will close the loop and provide instant hot water. Be aware that there will be some warm water from the cold tap for up to 10 seconds when you first turn it on.

Pros
  • 2-year full warranty from the date of installation
  • Simple do-it-yourself installation
  • Long-lasting building materials and expert craftsmanship
Cons
  • Can warm a cold tap for longer than a few seconds
  • Flange connections will not work in under-sink installations

Reviews from customers:

Gordon S. Groff loved Grundfos 59896155 pump. He said, “Only 25 watts and virtually silent! I recommend this pump, which is much less expensive than the one with the built-in timer. I simply got a $10 plug-in timer for it. Easier to set up, and if the timer fails, the pump is still good.”

Modern Talleyrand said, “I installed this a year ago to re-circulate hot water when the cabin temperature drops below freezing. I also installed an electric valve to keep hot from flowing into cold under normal use. So far, this has worked perfectly. The flanged water connections make it easy to install or remove.”

7

Laing AutoCirc E10 Series

 

Product specifications

Flow Range0 – 4 GPM
Head Range0 Ft
Voltage115v
Fluid Temperature (Min-Max)40 – 230 F
Connection Size(S)¾ Inch Threaded
Max Pipe DistanceN/A

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The Laing AutoCirc E10 is also one of the best hot water recirculating pumps with all tankless water heaters. This system is installed beneath the sink and requires no additional hardware. The motor rotates by an electromagnet, which prevents corrosion.

This pump must be installed by a professional, but it is a simple DIY project that should take you less than 30 minutes to complete. As soon as the supply valve is opened, you do not need to purge the system after installation because water will fill the pump.

Potable water systems and tankless water heater lines require a low flow rate of 4 GPM. There is no head range due to the low flow rate. However, this application does not need a head range because you are installing it under the sink. Once installed, you will have instant hot water with little to no mixture on the cold side.

However, it will take a few seconds for the cold water to reach its coldest temperature.

Unlike other models, this Laing model comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty that is not dependent on when the pump is manufactured.

The E10 also has an in-built timer, allowing you to program the best times for it to be operational within 24 hours and at 15-minute intervals.

Pros
  • It is compatible with all tankless water heater systems.
  • Specifically designed for potable water systems
  • Liang offers a 1-year warranty regardless of when the pump was built.
Cons
  • For over-tank installations, a low flow rate will not suffice.
  • Professional installation is required.

Reviews from customers:

World Traveler considers Laing AutoCirc E10 Series as a simple solution to get instant hot water from a tankless water heater. He said, “The product was easy to install. The connection of the hoses was straightforward. The built-in 24-hr timer is good for random programming or built-in turn-on windows. You can set up a 30-min activation interval by adjusting the pins on the timer. I noticed the pump is quiet and does not draw too much power. Make sure the pump is installed vertically as indicated in the manual.”

Miz Pumpkin said, “I replaced a 9 y/o unit when it began making a loud noise and could not be repaired. The plumber installed it quickly and easily. It is wonderful to get hot water fast and conveniently without wasting water.”

Are hot water recirculation pumps worth it?

Water bills have become increasingly expensive across the country, and installing a hot water recirculation pump could help you save up to $50 annually. Generally speaking, these systems cost around $200 to $250, so you should be able to recoup the cost over a couple of years.

Which pump is suitable for hot water?

A hot water pump is a type of centrifugal pump designed to manage water at temperatures over 100 ºC. These pumps are suitable for boiler feeding, central heating, and circulating water within a nuclear power plant and feed water circulation.

How long do hot water recirculating pumps last?

If you purchase a recirculating pump from Burgeson’s, you can expect it to be operational in your home in between 1-4 hours. You won’t need much effort to maintain it, and it should last more than 10 years.

Do hot water recirculating pumps run continuously?

Although the recirculating pump can run constantly, it isn’t necessarily always doing this. Most pumps come with either sensors or timers to manage their operation. The sensors can measure the degree of heat of the hot water in the pipe, activating the pump only when the temperature decreases below a predetermined amount.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) On Best Hot Water Recirculating Pumps

1. Are hot water recirculation pumps worth it?

Water bills have become increasingly expensive across the country, and installing a hot water recirculation pump could help you save up to $50 annually. Generally speaking, these systems cost around $200 to $250, so you should be able to recoup the cost over a couple of years.

2. Which pump is suitable for hot water?

A hot water pump is a type of centrifugal pump designed to manage water at temperatures over 100 ºC. These pumps are suitable for boiler feeding, central heating, and circulating water within a nuclear power plant and feed water circulation.

3. How long do hot water recirculating pumps last?

If you purchase a recirculating pump from Burgeson’s, you can expect it to be operational in your home in between 1-4 hours. You won’t need much effort to maintain it, and it should last more than 10 years.

4. Do hot water recirculating pumps run continuously?

Although the recirculating pump can run constantly, it isn’t necessarily always doing this. Most pumps come with either sensors or timers to manage their operation. The sensors can measure the degree of heat of the hot water in the pipe, activating the pump only when the temperature decreases below a predetermined amount.

Conclusion: Best Hot Water Recirculating Pumps

Installing a hot water recirculation pump is necessary if you are tired of waiting several minutes for your water to heat up so you can wash the dishes or shower. Three names will consistently stand out after research: Laing, Taco, and Grundfos. 

With a moderate flow rate and a respectable head rating, you won’t have to wait long for hot water. Naturally, the trade-off is a little rise in your water bill and a possible delay of a few seconds before receiving cold water from the faucet. But it is a trade-off that is worthwhile. 

I hope this article on the best hot water recirculating pumps sounds helpful!

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Michael Bowen

Michael Bowen

Michael Bowen is an ambitious entrepreneur who has been in the business of building homes since he was 19. Michael's commitment to honesty, integrity, and high-quality workmanship has earned him a reputation as one of the best in the business.

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