Best Tankless With Recirculation Pump for Instant Hot Water
If you’re shopping for a tankless water heater system with a built‑in recirculation pump, you’re aiming for faster hot water on demand and improved efficiency. This guide highlights five top options, detailing who each product suits best and potential limitations. It’s ideal for homeowners seeking reduced wait times, space‑saving outdoor setups, or under‑sink solutions that tone down water waste. The selections cover natural gas, electric, and mixed‑installation approaches to fit different homes and budgets.
| Product | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rinnai REP199eN Smart-Circ | Homes needing outdoor installation with quick recovery | Built‑in Smart-Circ recirculation; compact footprint |
| APCOM UT1 Hot Water Recirculation Pump | Under‑sink recirc for quick access to hot water | Automatic with thermostat and timer; energy efficient |
| Smart Instant Hot Water Recirc. Pump (HBS24‑12) | Quiet, adjustable three‑speed recirc for tanked or tankless systems | NSF/ANSI 61 & 372 compliant; built‑in thermostat |
| Hot Water Recirculating Pump Kit (Programmable Timer) | DIY installation with timer control | Brass bypass valves; compatible with multiple configurations |
| Rheem Tankless Recirculation Kit RH17920 | Budget‑friendly, complete kit for many Rheem tanks | Energy saver mode; comprehensive installation package |
Rinnai REP199eN Smart-Circ Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai REP199eN combines a built‑in recirculation pump with Smart‑Circ technology that learns your water use patterns to optimize pump schedules. Best for outdoor, space‑constrained installations, this model can deliver up to about 7.6 GPM, supporting multiple fixtures simultaneously. It is designed for energy efficiency and convenience. The control module supports WiFi when paired with the compatible module. It’s a compact option suitable for homes prioritizing continuous hot water without long waits. Caution: outdoor use may require proper weather protection and venting considerations, and the control module may require additional accessories for full WiFi control.
Best for: Homes needing reliable, on‑demand hot water with a built‑in recirc loop when space is tight. Choose this if you want a gas‑powered, outdoor unit with smart scheduling.
APCOM UT1 Hot Water Recirculation Pump
This under‑sink recirculation pump by APCOM is designed to deliver instant hot water with a built‑in thermostat and timer. It emphasizes energy and cost efficiency by circulating water only when needed, typically running three to four times per hour for short cycles. It’s ideal for retrofits under sinks or near tankless systems that lack built‑in recirculation. The device emphasizes automatic operation, reducing water waste without requiring constant manual attention. Caution: installation may require access to plumbing near the sink and proper electrical connections; compatibility with specific tankless models should be verified prior to purchase.
Best for: Homeowners seeking an automatic, energy‑savvy under‑sink recirculation solution that complements existing tankless or tank systems.
Smart Instant Hot Water Recirc. Pump System
This three‑speed, NSF/ANSI 61 & 372 compliant recirculating pump with a built‑in thermostat provides quiet, adaptable performance for tanked or tankless configurations. Best for homes that want programmable, adjustable flow to minimize water waste while maintaining rapid hot water. Caution: ensure compatibility with your water heater model and confirm electrical wiring requirements before installation.
Best for: Systems needing a configurable recirculation option that can work with existing tanks or tankless setups, offering multiple speeds and quiet operation.
Timer‑Based Recirculation Kit
This programmable timer recirculation kit is designed for DIY installation and works with many tank water heaters. It enables you to control hot water delivery by timing the pump’s operation, reducing waste and water downtime. Best for homeowners who want a flexible, timer‑driven approach to recirculation. Limitation: compatibility with particular tankless or tank systems should be confirmed before purchase.
Best for: DIYers seeking a timer‑based solution that can retrofit into existing piping without major overhauls.
Rheem Tankless Recirculation Kit RH17920
The Rheem RH17920 is a complete recirculation kit designed for tankless systems, emphasizing durability with stainless steel components and a built‑in energy saver mode. It aims to optimize hot water delivery while controlling energy use. Best for budget‑conscious installations that still prioritize reliable circulation. Caution: ensure your Rheem model is compatible with this kit, and follow all installation instructions for electrical and plumbing connections.
Best for: Those upgrading a Rheem tankless setup who want a bundled kit with energy saving features and straightforward installation.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Tankless With Recirculation Pumps
- System type: Decide between gas, electric, or hybrid. Gas models often provide higher flow, while electric systems may suit apartments or renovations with limited venting.
- Recirculation strategy: Built‑in pumps offer convenience; external, timer or thermostat‑based models can provide greater control for retrofits.
- Flow rate needs: Assess GPM requirements for your household—multi‑fixture simultaneous use requires higher GPM ratings.
- Placement: Outdoor units save indoor space but may require weather protection and proper venting; under‑sink solutions save space and reduce wait times at taps.
- Power and connections: Check electrical requirements, water line configurations, and any required control modules or WiFi capability.
- Warranty and service: Look for multi‑year heat exchanger or parts guarantees and consider local service availability.
- Noise and vibration: Some recirc pumps operate quietly; consider installation location to minimize noise disruption.
Quick Comparison Tips
- Best for outdoor, space‑saver installs: Rinnai REP199eN with built‑in Smart‑Circ.
- Best under‑sink setup: APCOM UT1 for automatic recirculation near the fixture.
- Best for quiet, multi‑speed control: HBS24‑12 recirculating pump system.
- Best for DIY timer control: Timer‑Based Recirculation Kit for flexible installation.
- Best all‑in‑one with balance of cost and features: Rheem RH17920 kit for compatibility with Rheem tanks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do built‑in recirculation pumps save water? Yes, they reduce the time you wait for hot water and can conserve water waste.
- Is a recirculation pump energy‑efficient? Pumps with smart or timer controls reduce unnecessary circulation, improving overall efficiency.
- Can I install a recirculation pump myself? Some kits are designed for DIY installation, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes.
- Will a recirculation pump work with any tankless heater? Compatibility depends on the model and configuration; verify with product documentation.
- What’s the difference between built‑in and under‑sink recirculation? Built‑in integrates with the heater; under‑sink kits retrofit near fixtures for targeted hot water delivery.
- Do I need WiFi control for recirculation? Some models offer WiFi control via an optional module; it’s not always required for effective operation.