Should you install a hot water recirculating pump

Hot water recirculating pumps are designed to deliver hot water to taps faster by keeping a loop of hot water circulating through the plumbing. When a tap is opened, water near the faucet is already hot, reducing waste and the wait time for hot water.

There are two common setups: a dedicated recirculation loop that runs continuously and a 'need-based' or timer-based system that activates the pump only at set times or when you demand hot water. In modern homes, demand-based systems are popular because they use less energy while still delivering quick hot water.

What you gain