Quote:
Originally Posted by Azure
A circulation pump that monitors the temp on the water coming back to the hot water tank, and if it is too low, circulates more water throughout the house until the returning water is hot enough would do that.
There are videos you can watch on YouTube over how it works. Chances are it would require some new or additional water lines. It works really well though and saves thousands of gallons of water.
If you are running out of hot water all the time, it could mean the tank elements aren't heating like they should. Might be worth checking that out.
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Not sure the circulation pump would be the issue (I'd suggest one if his problem was slow delivery of hot water, but if his hot water tank is already struggling, might make matters worse). As mentioned above, a Thermostatic (keeps one temp by varying) mixing valve, or a pressure balancing mixing valve (keeps hot/cold mix % the same) would both solve the issue of quick dips from other fixtures being used. Basically all shower/tub valves are pressure balancing at least these days. Thermostatic being the "fancier" option.
The other solution that OP was referencing around "adding more lines" is where you would run separate lines to each fixture off of a manifold. So instead of running one 1/2" line to the bathroom to serve a toilet/sink/shower, it would be served by 2 3. That means that you'd have less pressure drop at each fixture because each of the 3 fixtures has own 1/2" line (presumably fed by 3/4" fed manifold that could keep up). This is a super expensive option since you're running new lines everywhere.
But that whole issue is probably separate from the hot water tank issue, and sadly, not really sure 1 fixes the other. Personally, I'd service the water tank (at least drain and fill it to clear out some sediment) or replace it (no one wants scalded kids) with a bigger unit, and then install a new shower mixer valve that is thermostatic or pressure balancing.