Tired of waiting for hot water when you turn on the tap? If you own a tankless water heater, you know that “endless hot water” sometimes means waiting a little too long for it to arrive. That’s where a good recirculating pump comes in. The right pump delivers instant hot water to your faucet—saving water, time, and frustration. But which models are worth your money? Here’s a complete, easy-to-read guide to the best recirculating pumps for tankless water heaters—so you can make the right choice for your home.
Quick Picks: Top Recirculating Pumps for Tankless Water Heaters
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Best Overall:
Grundfos Comfort System 595916 Recirculating Pump – Reliable, quiet, and easy to install. Perfect for most tankless setups. -
Best Budget:
Laing AutoCirc E1 Series Recirculation Pump – Affordable solution with low energy use, great for smaller homes. -
Best Premium:
TacoGenie Tankless Water Heater Recirculation Pump Kit – Deluxe kit with push-button activation and top-tier build quality.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Recirculating Pump
Not all recirculating pumps are created equal. The best one for you depends on your home’s plumbing and your comfort goals. Here’s what matters most:
- Compatibility: Make sure the pump works with tankless water heaters. Some models are designed specifically for tank systems.
- Installation Type: Choose between dedicated return line systems and under-sink retrofit kits. Retrofit kits are easier if you don’t have a hot water return line.
- Activation Method: Options include timers, thermostats, motion sensors, or push-button control. Timers and thermostats offer the most convenience; push-button saves the most energy.
- Flow Rate: Most homes do well with pumps rated 2–6 gallons per minute. Too much flow can trigger tankless error codes; too little can be slow.
- Noise Level: Look for models advertised as “whisper-quiet” if the pump is near bedrooms or living spaces.
- Warranty & Durability: Longer warranties are a sign of pump quality and brand confidence.
Detailed Reviews: Best Recirculating Pumps for Tankless Water Heaters
Grundfos Comfort System 595916 Recirculating Pump
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want a proven, set-and-forget solution for nearly instant hot water at every tap.
Key Benefits:
- Works well with most tankless and tank water heaters
- Installs at the water heater with a bypass valve at the farthest fixture
- Runs quietly and reliably
- Programmable timer maximizes energy savings
- Bypass valve keeps installation simple (no return line needed)
Pros:
- Quiet and efficient
- Trusted, long-standing brand
- Significant water savings
- Simple installation for retrofits
Cons:
- Not the cheapest option
- Timer setup requires attention for best results
Final Verdict: The Grundfos Comfort System is a top choice for performance, reliability, and easy installation.
See it on Amazon
Laing AutoCirc E1 Series Recirculation Pump
Who it’s for: Budget-minded homeowners and small families needing faster hot water at sinks and showers.
Key Benefits:
- Plugs into any standard outlet
- Auto-activation: turns on only when water temp drops below set level
- Compact and efficient design
- Designed for homes without a dedicated return line
- Uses very little electricity
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to install
- Minimal maintenance required
- Good energy efficiency
Cons:
- Lower flow than some premium models
- May not suit large multi-story homes
Final Verdict: The Laing AutoCirc E1 Series is the best budget-friendly upgrade for faster hot water in smaller homes.
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TacoGenie Tankless Water Heater Recirculation Pump Kit
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants top-of-the-line convenience, quality, and push-button activation.
Key Benefits:
- Push-button activation saves energy—runs only when needed
- Highly efficient and ultra-quiet operation
- Complete kit for most plumbing systems
- Long warranty and outstanding build quality
- Works with all major tankless brands
Pros:
- Premium quality throughout
- Best control over water and energy use
- Installer-friendly with clear instructions
Cons:
- Higher price tag
- Requires minor wiring for push-button setup
Final Verdict: The TacoGenie is for those who want the best—delivering top convenience and the fastest hot water with minimal waste.
See reviews and price on Amazon
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grundfos Comfort System | Timer, easy retrofit, bypass valve | ~6 GPM, quiet, no return line needed | View |
| Laing AutoCirc E1 | Plug-in, auto-activation, compact | ~3 GPM, low power, temp sensor | View |
| TacoGenie Kit | Push-button, premium kit, quiet | ~6 GPM, high quality, full kit | View |
FAQ: Recirculating Pumps for Tankless Water Heaters
- Will any recirculating pump work with a tankless water heater?
No. Choose a pump specifically rated for tankless systems, or you risk triggering error codes or voiding your warranty. - Do recirculating pumps save money?
Yes. They cut water waste and reduce waiting time, which can lower utility bills over time. - Can I install one myself?
Many retrofit kits are designed for DIYers. However, always check compatibility and follow installation instructions closely. When in doubt, hire a pro. - How noisy are these pumps?
Modern recirculating pumps are designed to be nearly silent. Most users report little to no noise in daily use. - How do I know which system I need?
If you don’t have a dedicated hot water return line, choose a retrofit kit with a bypass valve (like the models above). If you have a return line, almost any pump will work.
Conclusion
With the right recirculating pump, your tankless water heater delivers instant hot water wherever you need it—saving water, energy, and time. Whether you want a high-performance kit like TacoGenie, a reliable standard like Grundfos, or an affordable option like Laing, you’ll upgrade your comfort and cut back on waste for years to come. Choose the pump that matches your home’s plumbing, follow the installation instructions, and enjoy hot water the moment you need it—every single time.