Most searched for brands of measuring and regulation technology
You may know it too. You want to have a shower or wash the dishes, but you wait in vain for hot water. If you have to let cold water run off for 10 seconds, that means an incredible 3,000 litres wasted every year, not to mention reduced comfort. The solution is simple – just get a suitable circulation pump.
A circulation pump is an accessory for the domestic hot water (DHW) circuit. It ensures that hot water is kept moving between the water heater and the tap, and is therefore available immediately. In circuits without a circulation pump, hot water stands still when the taps are closed and simply cools down. When hot water is needed, you then have to let the cold water run off first. The further the hot water source is from the draw-off point, the longer you need to run off the cooled water.
The advantage of a circulation pump is therefore greater comfort and water savings. The downside is the initial investment and energy consumption. However, this is usually only in the range of 2–5 W.
Thanks to a circulation pump, you’ll have hot water immediately without running off cold water
Both circulation pumps and heating circulators ensure water flow in pipework, but they must not be confused. The difference is that heating circulators are designed for wet central heating systems, while circulation pumps are for DHW distribution. Circulation pumps must therefore, among other things, be certified for potable water. The most common manufacturing materials are stainless steel, bronze and brass.
Heating circulators do not meet hygiene standards for contact with potable water; on the other hand, they must be resistant to various chemical additives in heating water. That is why they are usually made of steel and cast iron. They also have higher output and resistance to higher temperatures.
No, in this case hot water circulation is not required. An instantaneous water heater heats water on demand at the moment of draw-off directly at the tap. Hot water is therefore not stored in a cylinder nor does it travel through longer pipe runs.
Circulation pumps can be divided into 3 categories according to the control method:
They are connected via a time switch directly to a socket. You can easily switch them on and off according to set time programmes, but advanced control is not available. This is a low-cost solution suitable for undemanding users.
An example is the Grundfos COMFORT 15-14B circulation pump with integrated dry-running detection. You simply set the times when it should circulate water on the pump. Operation is then controlled only by this basic time setting.
More advanced pumps offer functions for automated operation, higher efficiency and improved energy performance. These are mainly Grundfos circulation pumps with the AUTOADAPT function.
These pumps have an integrated temperature sensor and monitor consumption throughout the day. Based on the collected data, they operate only when hot water use is likely, not for example at night or when you are at work. The AUTOADAPT function also ensures system disinfection once a week (destroying Legionella bacteria).
Circulation pumps with smart functions are an ideal choice for buildings with regular operation and for larger family homes.
Grundfos circulation pump with AUTOADAPT function
Some circulation pumps offer a timer in addition to smart functions. For example, the Wilo STAR-Z NOVA T circulation pump not only monitors your typical consumption and adapts its operation accordingly, but also offers the option to set on/off time periods.
This energy-saving circulation pump also provides automatic disinfection by driving hot water through the distribution system, providing prevention against Legionella growth. It therefore ensures the highest hygienic safety and intuitive operation thanks to the LCD display.
Flow rate is the pump’s ability to pump a certain volume of DHW within a given time. It is usually stated in m³/h. The correct flow rate must be determined based on water consumption, pipe length and the number of draw-off points, which cause pressure losses.
It must take the system resistance into account, i.e. cover friction losses in the pipework and fittings. For a typical family home, lower values are usually sufficient (0.5–2 m).
Circulation pump operation is provided by an electric motor. Its consumption in modern electronically controlled pumps is 2–5 times lower, typically only 2–5 W. In the event of a power cut, we recommend purchasing a backup power supply for the pump.
These parameters are important for correct installation of the circulation pump and compatibility with the system.
When choosing a circulation pump, focus on dry-running protection, motor blockage resistance and the useful automatic disinfection function. Particularly high quality and long service life are characteristic of circulation pumps from Grundfos and Wilo.
At BOLA we offer Grundfos and Wilo circulation pumps for family homes as well as larger buildings.
Energy-saving Wilo PICO circulation pump for family homes
Installation of a circulation pump should be carried out by professionals, who will ensure correct connection and that the warranty remains valid. The pump is always installed on the return pipework upstream of the DHW cylinder. A non-return valve must be fitted downstream of the pump to prevent mixing of cold and hot water. It is also necessary to follow the orientation according to the arrow (pointing towards the cylinder) and keep the motor shaft horizontal to prevent air locking.
In the first few weeks, we recommend monitoring the circulation pump’s operation and, if necessary, adjusting the set mode so that it best matches your needs. Check the pump roughly once a year. Focus on seals, electronics functionality and deposits. If necessary, vent and clean the pump.
Comfort, water savings, low energy consumption, long service life – these are just some of the benefits of Grundfos and Wilo circulation pumps. If you are unsure which one to choose, contact us. Our specialists will be happy to design a tailored solution.
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