Hot-Water Recirculation System Rebate
A hot-water recirculation system is a small water pump designed to work in conjunction with new or existing plumbing (including both tank and tankless water heaters) to quickly bring hot water to plumbing fixtures within a building. The pump rapidly pulls hot water from a water heater while simultaneously sending cooled water from the hot water lines back to the water heater to be reheated. All cold water fixtures still receive cold water, and the system is designed to prohibit hot water from entering cold water lines. Hot-water recirculation systems eliminate wasting water that is not yet at the desired temperature by recirculating it back to the water heater.
The rebate is $75 for self-activated and timer-controlled hot-water recirculation systems only and is effective for systems purchased and installed after October 19, 2010. Thermostat-controlled systems are not rebated.
How do I apply for the rebate?
After you install your system, fill out the rebate application below. Please note the rebate requirements listed below and on the application form. After your rebate is approved your account will be credited the rebate amount.
What are the rebate requirements?
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Rebate applies to material only, no labor costs.
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Original sales receipts for plumbing materials must accompany the rebate credit application and must be turned in within 90 days of purchase.
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Customer must allow a post-installation inspection.
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Other requirements are shown on the rebate credit application.
Why install a hot-water recirculation system?
To save water, reduce your water bill, and in some cases, save energy. Wait and waste no more -- for those who want to conserve water and have hot water quickly available when turning on a fixture, a hot-water recirculation system is the way to go.
Three types of systems
There are three types of hot-water recirculation systems: (1) self-activated or on demand, (2) timer-controlled, and (3) thermostat-controlled. Only types (1) and (2) are rebated. The thermostat-controlled systems are not rebated because they are not as energy efficient as the other two systems.
The self-activated systems bring the hot water to the desired fixture at the “request” of the user. These systems are usually activated by manually pushing a button placed next to the fixture. Some models may also be activated by remote control or motion sensors.
The timer-controlled systems circulate the water based on preset time periods, generally set to when hot water is commonly used (e.g., morning or evening showers). In order to minimize energy use and associated cost, these systems should be set for the minimum amount of time needed to accommodate peak hot water usage within the household, typically no longer than 1-2 hours per day.
The thermostat-controlled devices keep the water in the pipes constantly heated to a preset temperature. (This type not rebated.)
Although they are sometimes confused, a hot-water recirculation system is not the same as a tankless instant hot-water heater.
Water savings and energy costs
Self-activated and timer-controlled hot-water recirculation systems are estimated to save at least 3,000 gallons of water per year in a typical four-person household. If the self-activated systems are used on a regular basis, and the timer-controlled systems are appropriately set to capture peak hot water usage, the water savings can be even greater.
However, the self-activated systems are more energy efficient and generally reduce energy costs beyond that of a home without a self-activated system. If a timer-controlled system is installed, energy costs generally increase above that of a home without a hot-water recirculation system. Therefore, if you choose a timer-controlled system, it is very important to limit the system to 1-2 hours of operation per day in order to minimize energy usage.
A typical hot-water recirculation system costs about $200 to $600 (average $300) and has a lifespan of 10-15 years. Most systems can be installed by a handy homeowner, but hiring a professional is recommended and generally costs about $300. The systems require very little additional plumbing, but an electrical outlet is needed.
The following link provides additional information: http://www.toolbase.org/Technology-Inventory/Plumbing/hot-water-recirculation
Where to purchase hot-water recirculation systems
Several local plumbing stores carry these systems and they are available over the internet.
Although the District does not endorse or recommend any specific brands or models, some websites that offer these systems for purchase are listed below:
D’MAND by ACT Inc: Advanced Conservation Technologies: D'MAND Hot Water Systems
Taco: Residential and Commercial Hydronic Systems
Call (831) 475-8500, ext. 144 or email rond@soquelcreekwater.org if you have questions about our rebate program.
