Hot Water On Demand

Hot Water On-Demand is an innovative technology that changes the way traditional water heaters heat our water. Not only does it bring you hot water on demand, but it can also save you money, time, water and energy. Hot Water on Demand is a hot water recirculation system that delivers hot water to fixtures quickly without waiting for the water to get hot. Instead of relying on low water pressure that is common in most water lines, re-circulating systems use a pump to rapidly transmit water from a water heater to the fixtures in your home demanding hot water.

This system works by utilizing a thermostatically activated computer chip that controls a re-circulating pump that rapidly pulls hot water from a water heater while simultaneously transferring cooled-off water from the hot water lines back to the water heater to be reheated. Unlike the traditional method, water is not run down the drain; it is kept in the system. Also, hot water is only pumped into the line when it is needed at the fixture, as opposed to the old system where water is pumped out of the water heater and into the system every time it cools down in the pipes. The new system provides you with the convenience of hot water on demand and also helps to conserve water and can save energy.

Hot Water On-Demand systems are activated by the push of a button, or by a thermostat, timer or motion sensor. Systems that utilize a thermostat or timer automatically activate the pump whenever the water temperature drops below a set-point, or when the timer reaches a setting. These systems make certain that hot water is always accessible at the faucet without any waiting. Typically these systems also use more energy than on/off button or switch operated systems, due to more frequent recirculation cycles and hot water constantly being left in the pipes to cool off.

The system usually consists of a pump, an integrated electronic controller, and a zone valve. When the activation button is pushed, or when another type of control turns the system on, the pump starts re-circulating cooled water from the hot water lines back to the water heater to be reheated. When the water reaches a desired temperature a control closes the zone valve and shuts off the pump. Keep in mind, if the house is plumbed for recirculation with a hot water return line, that loop is utilized, but in a conventionally plumbed house there needs to be a connecting loop added between the hot and cold water lines at the furthest fixture from the water heater.

The system is uniquely designed to provide instant hot water at the most distant fixture and every fixture in series or close to the main line. You will still receive cold water at all the cold water fixtures, and hot water will not enter your cold water lines. Also, only one pump is necessary to supply hot water to any fixture. Keep in mind; this is not a cheap home improvement addition. A do-it-yourself installation with all parts included should cost about $550. If you hire a professional to install it expect to pay $1,000 or so.

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