By Ed Del Grande
Tribune News Service
Q: Hi Ed: We plan to do an extensive remodeling job in our bathroom. Also, I’m tired of waiting for what seems like a long time for the shower water to get hot before I can jump in. Is there a way we can address this problem during the renovation?
— Pat, Oregon
A: One popular solution for this common issue is called a recirculating domestic hot water system. This is basically a professionally installed residential version of many commercial hot water systems. A controlled hot water piping loop is installed from the water heater to the bathroom area as per local codes. If you’re doing an extensive remodel of the bathroom and enough access to the hot water piping becomes available, you may be able to install this pump-powered solution.
Hot water recirculating systems have feed and return lines from the water heater with controls to keep the hot water moving closer to the bathroom plumbing fixtures. This way, hot water can be close by and readily available for the tub, shower and sink. A recirculating hot water system may save some water as well.
If the traditional type system cannot be installed easily, new versions that use special controls and existing cold water lines to complete the loop may be an option. Either way, work with a licensed master plumber to get a quote first, so the new recirculating hot water system doesn’t throw you and your budget for a loop.
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