If it seems like you spend a lot of time waiting for hot water to reach your tap, check to make sure your water heater temperature is set properly. A temperature that is too low will cause a delay in hot water reaching your faucets, but the real problem in most cases is that there is a long distance between the water heater and the faucet. Running the faucet while waiting for the water to heat up is not only annoying, but it is a big waste of water.
Installing demand water heaters at each tap is an option, but there are some serious drawbacks to this approach not the least of which is the high cost of a demand water heater system. Insulating the hot water pipes may help, but the most effective solution is to install a hot water recirculating system.
Your plumber can easily install a hot water recirculating system on your existing plumbing that will circulate heated water throughout your hot water pipes. By circulating the hot water, you will be assured of immediate hot water when you open the tap. There is a small energy cost associated with these systems because the recirculating pumps operate continuously, but some systems are equipped with timers to minimize operating costs.
In addition, operating costs are offset by the savings in water usage due to no longer needing to wait for the water to heat up. For instant hot water without the expense of an on demand (or tankless) water heater, talk to your plumber about installing a hot water recirculating system in your home.
