Waiting for hot water sends millions of gallons of cooled water down the drain each year. In fact, an average family
of four wastes up to 14,000 gallons of water each year waiting for hot water.* Water conservation is so important that
many US states and municipalities routinely impose watering bans and offer rebate incentives to help conserve this
natural resource.
*Source: Dept. of Energy study.
A standard DHW system requires a dedicated return line from the furthest fixture back to the water heater. The return
line is connected to a tee at the tank drain valve or to the tank’s cold water supply line. A Taco Plumb n’ Plug recirculation
pump with an optional Integral Flow Check (IFC) is installed on the return line and controlled by a timer or
temperature Aquastat. The spring-loaded IFC prevents gravity circulation during off-cycles. The timer turns on the
pump at preset intervals, usually during peak use periods in the early morning and late afternoon. An optional Aquastat
operates the pump to keep hot water in the line within a set range (95°F–115°F). All supply and return lines should
be insulated for maximum energy savings.
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