Hot water recirculating pump installation in Ventura

A hot water recirculating pump moves cooled water in the hot line back to the water heater, so hot water reaches the tap in seconds instead of running down the drain while you wait. Ventura Water gives eligible customers a free system, and we install it.

Ventura Water's free recirculating pump

Ventura Water offers its customers a free Watts instant hot water recirculating system. According to the city's program page, you apply, Ventura Water schedules a free inspection, and if you qualify you receive the system the same day. The city's rebates page says installation isn't included and must be completed by the customer.

That's where we come in. You get the free pump from Ventura Water; we install it correctly on your water heater.

How the Watts system works

The Watts system mounts on top of the water heater and runs on a built-in timer, according to Ventura Water. During the times you set, it keeps warm water moving through the hot line. Systems of this type typically use a sensor valve under the sink farthest from the water heater, which lets cooled hot-line water return through the cold line, so no new return pipe is needed.

Ventura Water says the system can save up to 15,000 gallons of water a year.

What installation involves

1. Check the water heater and its connections. The pump connects at the heater's 3/4-inch fittings.
2. Check for power. The pump plugs into a standard electrical outlet near the water heater. If there is none, an electrician adds one.
3. Mount the pump on the hot water outlet with new connectors.
4. Install the sensor valve under the fixture farthest from the heater, if your kit includes one.
5. Set the timer for your household's morning and evening routines.
6. Test hot water arrival time at the far fixture and check every connection for leaks.

Is a recirculating pump right for your home?

• Yes, if you wait 30 seconds or more for hot water at a bathroom or kitchen far from the water heater.
• Yes, if you have a tank water heater in the garage at one end of a single-story house, which is common in Ventura.
• Check first with a tankless water heater. Many tankless units need a model-specific recirculation setup.

How pricing works

Every job is different, so the cost depends on the type of work and what the job requires. We look at the problem first, explain your options, and confirm the price with you before any work starts.

Recirculating pump questions

Sources: City of Ventura Instant Hot Water Recirculating Pump and Rebates and Incentives.