Hot Water Pump for Faster Hot Water?

[ahenck]

We have considerable delay in getting hot water to the upstairs bathrooms. So, we are wasting a lot of water, waiting for the hot water to arrive!

We have looked into having a hot water pump added to our hot water heater. The cost is about $1,000.

It seems that there must be a better/less expensive solution. Has anyone had any luck with something you'd like to recommend?

[Lester]

I'm not an expert but there are two options that I know of.

1. A recirculation pump. It is attached above the water heater and has a timer on it. The pump pushes the hot water through the pipes during the period of time that you want it on. I have mine on in the mornings. It means that you will only have warm water during this period. But you also don't have to waste water.

2. The other option that I'm aware of is a seperate water heater system, similar to the type used in Europe. This can save a lot of energy and water as well. This warms the water as you use it instead of needing to have a constant tank of warm water. I think that this is what you are talking about.