The average American home wastes over 11,000 gallons of water a year, waiting on hot water.  Chances are, you're wasting that much and more during the course of doing business.

But, what can you do if it isn't time for a new water heater or you can't afford one of those nifty tankless water heaters, just yet? 

Until then, you might want to consider a "hot water recirculation system". 

Hot water recirculation systems usually include a pump, an electronic controller, and a "zone valve". When the system is activated, the pump starts recirculating cooled water that's been sitting in the hot water line and sends it back to the water heater through the cold water line. When the water reaches the set temperature a control closes the zone valve and turns off the pump. Essentially, the system works just like when you turn on the hot water faucet and let the water run until it gets hot, but instead of the water going down the drain, it is returned back to the water heater, so that when the hot water faucet is turned on, hot water (not cold!) actually comes out.

Hot water recirculation systems are commercially available at hardware and home improvement stores.  The system is easy to install (though we'd suggest hiring a plumber)and costs about $400, not including installation.