Are you tired of waiting for hot water to flow from your faucets? Installing a dedicated hot water return line is a smart solution that can eliminate the waiting time.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to set up a dedicated hot water return line, ensuring you have instant hot water whenever you need it.
Let’s get started on the path to quicker and more convenient hot water access in your home.
Streamlining Hot Water: A Personalized Approach to Installing a Dedicated Return Line
If you’re tired of the wait for hot water, consider a tailored solution for your home.
One forum user shared their experience with a ranch-style house and bathrooms at both ends, detailing a customized approach to installing a dedicated hot water return line. Here’s a breakdown of their process:
1. Assess Your Home’s Layout:
Begin by evaluating the layout of your house. If, like in this case, you have bathrooms at both ends, a customized solution might be beneficial.
2. Cut and Modify Copper Tubing
Cut the copper tubing close to the end of each run. Add a tee, a ball valve, and a check valve to each cut end. Run a 1/2″ copper return line back toward the water heater from each bathroom.
3. Connect Lines Near the Water Heater
Install a 3/4″X1/2″X1/2″ tee near the hot water heater to connect the two 1/2″ lines. Continue the 3/4″ line back to the water heater.
4. Modify Water Heater Connections
Remove the drain valve from the bottom of the water heater. Add brass nipples and a brass tee to create a connection point for the return line. Reinstall the drain valve.
5. Select and Install a Circulating Pump
Choose a small circulating pump suitable for domestic water use (e.g., B&G model NBF-8S/LW 103257LF, 0.38 amps, 39 watts).
Install the pump in the 3/4″ return line. Wire the pump with a short electric cord featuring a molded plug.
6. Incorporate a Timer for Efficiency
Plug the pump cord into a small “plug-in” timer. Set the timer to run as needed.
Options include turning the pump on/off during the day to keep hot water near the faucets or leaving the pump on all day and turning it off at night.
7. Consider Corrosion Resistance
Ensure the pump is made of stainless steel or bronze to resist corrosion from domestic water.
8. Long-Term Reliability
The forum user reports that their pump, operating for 20 years and counting, has significantly reduced wait times for hot water.
They also mention a minimal wait time of 4-5 seconds for hot water, showcasing the effectiveness of this personalized solution.
Note: Before attempting any modifications to your plumbing system, consult local codes, and consider seeking professional assistance if needed.
Another Guide to Installing a Dedicated Hot Water Return Line
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing this system, ensuring you have instant hot water whenever you need it.
Materials You’ll Need:
- 1/2″ PEX or copper tubing
- 3/4″ PEX or copper tubing
- Circulating pump with a built-in check valve
- Timer or motion detector (optional)
- Pipe insulation (optional)
- Pipe straps
- Pipe cutter
- Pipe wrench
- PEX or copper fittings
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
Step 1: Plan Your Hot Water Return Line
Identify the hot water branches in your plumbing system and plan the route for the dedicated hot water return line, ensuring it reaches back to the middle or the cold water input of the water heater.
Step 2: Cut and Install 1/2″ Lines
Using a pipe cutter, cut 1/2″ PEX or copper tubing for each hot water branch. Run a single 1/2″ line back from the end of each hot water branch to the predetermined location.
Step 3: Connect to 3/4″ Line
Join the two 1/2″ lines using PEX or copper fittings to create a single 3/4″ line. Connect the 3/4″ line back to the cold water input of the water heater.
Step 4: Install Circulating Pump
Mount the circulating pump on the 3/4″ line, ensuring it has a built-in check valve to prevent reverse flow.
Step 5: Optional – Add Timer or Motion Detector
If desired, connect the circulating pump to a timer or motion detector. Set the timer or motion detector according to your family’s needs to activate the pump when hot water is needed.
Step 6: Secure the Pipes
Use pipe straps to secure the 1/2″ and 3/4″ lines in place. Ensure that the pipes are adequately supported to prevent sagging.
Step 7: Insulate the Pipes (Optional)
To improve energy efficiency, consider insulating the hot water lines. Wrap pipe insulation around the 1/2″ and 3/4″ lines to minimize heat loss.
Step 8: Test the System
Turn on the water heater and test the dedicated hot water return line. Check for any leaks and ensure that hot water reaches the faucets quickly.
Step 9: Adjust Pump Settings (If Applicable)
If you installed a timer or motion detector, adjust the settings to optimize energy efficiency and meet your family’s hot water usage patterns.
Step 10: Enjoy Instant Hot Water
With the dedicated hot water return line and circulating pump in place, you’ll never have to wait for hot water again. Say goodbye to frustration and hello to convenience!
Lastly
Consult local plumbing codes and regulations before starting the installation to ensure compliance with safety standards. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation, consider seeking professional assistance.
