Hot Water Recirculating Pumps (Our Top 13 Picks) 2024 Reviews

If you’re having issues getting hot water across your household, look for a hot water recirculation system. Hot water recirculating pumps saves you on energy and water cost, cuts down the workload on your water heater, and overall delivers hot water fast to every faucet in the house.

These systems are plentiful on the market, so the following hot water recirculating system reviews should provide enough information for you to decide which device fits for your needs.

Purpose of a Recirculating Pump

While hot water dispensers providing a convenient and quick source of hot water at the push of a button, the main purpose is to provide you with hot water all the time. It may not seem like a big deal, but not having to wait for hot water is a big advantage. Especially if you have a huge house or a building. In that case, you may even need to wait minutes for the hot water. But with a recirculating pump, you can have hot water in no time!

How They Work

A full recirculating hot water pump system creates a loop between the water heater, your faucets, and the water heater again. When you turn on your hot water faucets, you will get instant hot water, as the system draws back the unused hot water through the loop back to the faucet. Once the hot water made a complete loop, the sensors shut off the system.

Things to Know Before Buying a Pump

The best hot water recirculating pump should meet some minimal criteria to improve your life. Here is the list of things to consider before buying a hot water recirculating system.

1. Timers

With a timer built-in, you can schedule your water recirculation pump to turn off whenever you want to. Therefore, having a timer can often really come in handy. But, even if your water circulation pump doesn’t feature a timer, you can easily fit one into it.

2. Durability and Construction

All the systems that work with water eventually break down. However, good construction and high-quality materials can extend the lifespan of a pump. That is why you should aim for high-quality stainless steel. Such systems are very durable and can last very long.

Normally, an average pump would last from 3 to 5 years. However, recirculation pumps made of stainless steel last from 10 to 15 years.

If you want to prolong the life of your hot water recirculating pump, you should also upgrade your home with a whole house water filter that removes the impurities, dirt, and sediment that might affect the functionality of your pump.

3. Housing Material

Aside from the durability of the materials, you must also take the use of the water pump into consideration. If your water recirculating pump is made of iron, for instance, it is not viable for portable use. And the main reason for that is that iron often causes rust inside the system. Therefore, if you need a pump for potable water use, you should go for an aluminum pump.

4. Priming

Most hot water recirculating pumps nowadays don’t have to be primed at all. They can easily work with some air in the lines. On the other hand, there are some certain pumps that have to be primed. For instance submersible pumps, well pumps can’t work with air present in the lines.

5. Interference With Flow Rate

Flow Rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), while pump size is in inches. The flow rate represents the amount of water that flows through the pump. The most common pump size for most houses is 0.75 inches. Furthermore, most hot water pumps can deliver up to 10 GPM.

If some pumps keep an average flow rate below 7 GPM, it doesn’t mean they don’t work well, it means they are best for smaller families and homes.

The flow rate of 10 GPM will probably be enough for most houses. But still, if you have a huge building, you may want to consider systems with a bigger flow rate.

6. Maximum Hot Temperature Feature

This is one of the most important features of every hot water pump. The temperature sensors will help the system know when to open and close the valves. The temperature sensor range is also adjustable. Most hot water pumps will already have a wireless remote. This way you won’t have to walk to the pump every time you want to change settings.

7. Extended Warranty

Warranty is a very important factor in buying any product. That is why, before buying a hot water pump, you should research the warranty for it. It is also desirable if the water pump has a warranty that covers the pump motor and the system separately. Secondly, you should note what the warranty requires of you.

For instance, some of them may require that you install the system professionally. Any product should also have at least a 1-year long warranty.

8. Noise Level

We can all agree that loud noise can be a huge downside. Therefore, you should aim for the hot water recirculating systems that are not too loud. Another factor that should be taken into account is the vibrations. The vibrations can often cause a lot of noise and can be very annoying after some time.

Lastly, it needs to add up to your water and energy conservation efforts.

Our Comparison Table

KOLERFLO Water Recirculating Pump 3/4 Inch...
BACOENG 115V Flanged 3-Speed Recirculating Pump,...
Patiolife RS15-9 Hot Water Recirculating Pump 110V...
Laing 6050E4050 Act-4 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
BOKYWOX Centrifugal Pump 120W 110V Food Grade...
KOLERFLO 3/4" NPT Hot Water Circulation Pump
BACOENG 115V Flanged 3-Speed Recirculating Pump
Patiolife RS15-9 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Laing 6050E4050 Act-4 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
BOKYWOX 120W 110V Food Grade Automatic Booster Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range: 0-100℃; Maximum working pressure 10bar
Liquid temperature range: 0 - 110 Celsius, Maximum working pressure: 10bar
Liquid temperature range: 0-100℃; Max pressure: 10 bar
Liquid temperature range: 0-97℃;
Liquid temperature range 0-100℃; Max pressure: 10 bar
Best Feature/Benefit
It takes only 15 seconds to get hot water
High temperature resistance
Super silent, environmental protection
It saves up to 12,000 gallons per year
High temperature resistance
Star rating
Prime?
-
-
KOLERFLO Water Recirculating Pump 3/4 Inch...
KOLERFLO 3/4" NPT Hot Water Circulation Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range: 0-100℃; Maximum working pressure 10bar
Best Feature/Benefit
It takes only 15 seconds to get hot water
Star rating
Prime?
BACOENG 115V Flanged 3-Speed Recirculating Pump,...
BACOENG 115V Flanged 3-Speed Recirculating Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range: 0 - 110 Celsius, Maximum working pressure: 10bar
Best Feature/Benefit
High temperature resistance
Star rating
Prime?
Patiolife RS15-9 Hot Water Recirculating Pump 110V...
Patiolife RS15-9 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range: 0-100℃; Max pressure: 10 bar
Best Feature/Benefit
Super silent, environmental protection
Star rating
Prime?
-
Laing 6050E4050 Act-4 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Laing 6050E4050 Act-4 Hot Water Recirculating Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range: 0-97℃;
Best Feature/Benefit
It saves up to 12,000 gallons per year
Star rating
Prime?
-
BOKYWOX Centrifugal Pump 120W 110V Food Grade...
BOKYWOX 120W 110V Food Grade Automatic Booster Pump
Performance
Liquid temperature range 0-100℃; Max pressure: 10 bar
Best Feature/Benefit
High temperature resistance
Star rating
Prime?

13 Hot Water Recirculating Pumps – Fully Reviewed

13. Chilipepper Model CP9000 On-Demand Hot Water Recirculating Pump

Special Features

on-demand hot water recirculating pump guide
Type: Corded Electric | Under Sink
Material: Stainless steel hoses | brass fittings | plastic container
Design: Requires 110V electric outlet | connects with standard flexible stainless steel hoses
Life Expectancy: A few years
Performance: On-demand design to only work when needed
Warranty: N/A
hot water recirculating pumps

The Chilipepper Model CP9000 is the best on-demand hot water recirculating pump for many users thanks to its wireless remote that offers a 100ft range.

It auto shuts off once the water has reached the set temperature, and as it’s an on-demand unit, it saves on water consumption over time.

Pros
Minimal noise
Remote control
Easy to install
Cons
Doesn’t include all necessary parts
Could last longer
Takes time for water to recycle

12. BACOENG Hot Water Circulation Pump

Special Features

BACOENG hot water firculation pump
Type: Shaft horizontal mounting
Material: Cast iron | PP | ceramic | stainless steel
Design: Built-in electronic sensors | single-phase pipeline pump
Life Expectancy: Est. a couple of years
Performance: High-flow with low consumption | anti-fraying
Warranty: N/A
long lasting hot water recirculating pumps

This hot water recirculating pump is made corrosion-resistant so that it can last longer. It has a heavy-duty motor that won’t overheat even if you have it running continuously.

The unit is resistant to high temperatures, which grants it further durability over a few years. It sets up in just about anything from city buildings to boilers.

Pros
Quiet operation
3-speed control
Runs smoothly
Cons
May not come with mounting equipment
Trouble getting a tight seal
Some pieces of the filter may be missing

11. Laing AutoCirc Recirculation Pump w/ Timer

Special Features

Laing recirculation pump with a timer
Type: Under Sink
Material: Lead-free brass pump housing
Design: ½” NPT connection | spherical motor pump | no return line required
Life Expectancy: Little over a year
Performance: Built-in temperature sensor turns the pump on | off when temp reaches 95ºF
Warranty: 2-year from manufacture date or 1-year from purchase date (whichever is sooner)
installed hot water recirculating pumps

Another unit seen as the best hot water recirculating pump is the Laing AutoCirc Recirculation Pump. It’s lead-free, and it features a permanent magnet motor for portable water filtration systems.

The pump is controlled by a thermostat and a 24-hour adjustable timer. It’s estimated that the pump can save an average family around 4,000 gallons of water annually.

Pros
Simple installation
Quiet pump
Compact fit
Cons
Can wear out too soon
Takes time to clear hot water from a cold water line
Hot water to tap is not always instant

10. Watts 500800 Instant Hot Water Recirculating System w/ Built-in Timer

Special Features

Watts 500800 instant hot water recirculating system
Type: Installs on a hot water heater
Material: Cast
Design: Pump with built-in timer | 10ft electric cord | (2) 12in supply lines
Life Expectancy: A few years
Performance: Sends hot water to every faucet or shower as needed | no vibrations
Warranty: 1-year limited
recirculating pump

The Watts 500800 Instant Hot Water Recirculating System comes with a timer built-in that operates on 24-hour time. You can program it to your liking so that you only receive hot water when needed, which can save up to 15,000 gallons of water a year. It installs easily on your standard water heater, but be aware that it won’t work with tankless heaters.

Pros
Maintenance free
Clear installation instructions
Near-silent operation
Cons
Might not work with tankless water heater
Hot water valve may be defective
Potential energy waste

9. Grundfos SuperBrute Recirculator Pump

Special Features

Grundfos SuperBrute recirculator single phase pump
Type: 1-speed pump for a range of applications
Material: Bronze | stainless steel | cast iron
Design: 2 pole motor, single-phase | 115V | composite impeller
Life Expectancy: A few years
Performance: Intended for closed-loop heating applications
Warranty: 2 years from installation date
Grundfos SuperBrute recirculator pump

The Grundfos SuperBrute Recirculator Pump is the best hot water recirculating pump due to how fast it sends hot water to your faucets. You can run it continuously and still not waste energy.

It has built-in motor protection to prolong its life. It features whisper-quiet operation like a quiet sump pump for even the most sensitive of customers.

Pros
Uses little energy
Hot water in seconds
Good reliability
Cons
Can rust
Some water discoloration after initial install
Doesn’t come with lines

8. Taco 006-B4 Bronze Circulator Pump

Special Features

energy efficient circulator pump
Type: Open or closed-loop applications
Material: Bronze
Design: ¾” sweat | high-capacity output compact design
Life Expectancy: A few years
Performance: Low power consumption | self-lubricating
Warranty: N/A
circulator pump guide

This Taco hot water recirculating pump is designed for either chilled or hot fresh water in both closed and open applications.

It is compact and easy to install, and it features a unique and replaceable cartridge so it can be serviced whenever it begins to wear out. This way, there’s no need to replace the entire circulator.

Pros
Uses little electricity
Straightforward installation
Easy to replace the cartridge
Cons
Can run hot
May not come with labeled joints
Might need to redirect plumbing

7. Grundfos Comfort Series Recirculator Pump

Special Features

undersink recirculator pump
Type: Under-sink and install on the hot water heater
Material: Bronze | stainless steel | aluminum
Design: Stainless steel circulator | 10ft power cord | comfort valve
Life Expectancy: A few years
Performance: Wet rotor design for quiet operation | low-watt 2 pole motor | low-flow
Warranty: 2 years from installation date
recirculating pumps buyer guide

The Grundfos Comfort Series Recirculator Pump includes a line cord and a timer. It’s the best hot water recirculating pump that reduces cold water runoff at the faucet.

This can help improve the functionality of appliances such as dishwashers. With its stainless steel rotor canister and cladding, it resists corrosion for longer use.

Pros
Next to no maintenance required
Saves water usage
Secure valve connection
Cons
Might hear a slight hum
Takes time to get cold water
Not the best energy saver

Best Hot Water Recirculation Systems: Detailed Reviews

6. KOLERFLO 3/4 NPT RS15-6 SS Green

KOLERFLO 3/4 NPT RS15-6 SS install

Due to its various features, RS15-6 is one of the best KOLERFLO’s products so far. With this water recirculating pump, you can have instant hot water at any time. Furthermore, installing this product is also a piece of cake!

The only thing you are going to need is a wrench to connect the pump to the pipeline. RS15-6 SS prevents pipes from freezing during the winters. That is why It is really good for cold winter areas.

RS15-6 SS Green is a great suit for people living in suburban villas and city buildings. With this product, you won’t experience any leakage or loud noise. It also has a high flow rate and is highly efficient. As it is made out of stainless steel, this recirculating pump is highly durable!

Advantages:
No noise
No leakage
Ease of installation
Highly-sensitive electric sensors
Disadvantages:
A little bit pricey

5. BACOENG 115V Flanged

quiet hot water recirculating pump

The feature that makes this product stick out is high-temperature resistance. The liquid temperature, this pump can work with, ranges from 0 to 110 Celsius. However, the ambient temperature shouldn’t be more than 40 celsius.

The maximum working pressure of this water recirculating pump is 10 bar. The BACOENG 115V Flanged is super silent.

This hot water recirculating pump is very durable and won’t overheat even if running all the time. You may also check out another high-quality model: BACOENG 3/4″ 110V.

Advantages:
Super silent
High-temperature resistance
Heavy-duty motor
Disadvantages:
High Cost

4. Patio Life RS15-9

environmentally friendly recirculating pump

Patio life RS15-9 is suitable for a wide range of applications. It can work with industrial equipment, boilers, air conditioning, and so on. Furthermore, this pump is environmentally friendly and extremely silent.

It is made out of aluminum and is absolutely corrosion-resistant. Plus, it has a flow of 8 gallons per minute.

The RS15-9 hot water recirculating pump offers high efficiency with low consumption. It is a perfect suit if you are living in a water-scarce area.

Advantages:
Low consumption
High efficiency
Corrosion-resistant
Disadvantages:
Not ideal for cold areas

3. Laing 6050E4050 Act-4

battery operated recirculating system

This hot water recirculating pump is designed for light commercial or residential buildings. Laing 6050E4050 also features a wireless remote. The valve is equipped with a temperature sensor and is battery-operated. It also has a microprocessor that provides precise voltage and frequency for maximum efficiency.

Act-4 uses a unique technology called ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor). Therefore, it can achieve big energy savings while operating on only 20 watts. With this pump, you won’t experience any waste of water. It saves up to 12,000 gallons per year.

Advantages:
ECM technology
Wireless remote
No wastewater
Disadvantages:
Flow rate is a little bit low

2. Bokywox NPT3/4

high flow rate recirculating pump

Bokywox NPT3/4 water pump offers many features that will make your life a lot easier. With this hot water recirculating pump you can have a high flow rate at an affordable price. It is made of high-quality materials so it doesn’t leak.

The maximum working pressure of this Bokywox pump is 145psi (10bar). Plus, it is very easy to install.

It also has high-temperature resistance and can be used in drinking water pipelines. However, this pump is not suitable for potable water.

Advantages:
High flow rate
Doesn’t leak
High-temperature resistance
Disadvantages:
Not suitable for potable water

1. Wayne RUP160

Wayne RUP160 recirculating system

Wayne is a Top brand about sump pumps and shallow well pumps. The Wayne WUP160 has been specially designed for modern use. Which means that it has a 1/6 HP motor. Even though it may not be the strongest one out there, it offers an excellent flow rate. It can get rid of almost two thousand gallons per hour.

The WUP160 is made of high-quality materials and is absolutely resistant to corrosion. What’s more, the manufacturer also offers a 1-year warranty to ensure the quality of the product.

You won’t go wrong with this model as it can be utilized for your tanks, pools, sinks, and even flooded basements.

Advantages:
Made of high-quality materials
Durable
Excellent flow rate
Disadvantages:
Not a heavy-duty motor

 

Installation Process

Step 1 – Shut Off the Water Supply

The very first thing you will need to do is to shut off the water flow to the water heater tank. After you have done that, go to the furthest faucet from your tank. Then turn on the hot water line and wait for the water to stop flowing.

Step 2 – Disconnect the Pipe

The second thing is to disconnect the hot water supply line at its entry point into the water heater. You may need a saw to do that if it’s a rigid pipe. But it could also be a flex pipe which is really easy to disconnect.

Step 3 – Set Up the Pump

The next step is setting up the pump. If you need to set up the temperature or a timer, now is the best time! If your pump has a wireless remote, this part will be a piece of cake.

Step 4 – Clean and Test

And finally, we have come to the last part of the process. In this step, you just need to open all the valves that are closed and clean up the area. After that, just test if everything works right and that’s it.

 

FAQ’s

How to Prevent Corrosion?

Hot water recirculating pumps are often affected by corrosion. That is why you should check the pump regularly. However, corrosion is often caused by excessive flow velocity. The parts that are most frequently affected are bends, tees, and elbows.

So, in order to prevent such problems we recommend that you buy a lower capacity pump. Another thing that could help in reducing the changes in pipe directions.

Do They Save Money?

If you get the best-rated hot water recirculating pump on the market, it will surely save money and energy to some extent. If you use them continuously, however, they have the potential of consuming more water and energy than normal. Nevertheless, these systems reduce water waste and some expenses associated with energy and heating.

How Long Do They Last?

A well-made hot water recirculating pump should last between 10 and 15 years. Its lifespan depends on the amount of water you use, the quality of water in your home, and the manufacturing quality.

Conclusion

Nothing can improve your hot water flow like a recirculation system. It’s no surprise that these are not the most budget-friendly units. However, having instant hot water makes them worthwhile. Check out Water Filters Advisor’s top choice for the best hot water recirculating pump on our list, but look at the other options as well! We are sure you will find something to meet your needs!

If you have thoughts about any of the products on our list, feel free to let us hear about them in the comment section.