THE PRODUCT:
Circulator pumps are a type of small centrifugal pump used in both residential and commercial applications. The most common uses for circulator pumps include circulating hot water in hydronic heating systems as well as hot water recirculation systems.
THE STANDARD:
There are currently no federal standards for circulator pumps.
In 2022, DOE proposed standards for circulator pumps consistent with a 2016 consensus recommendation from a working group comprised of manufacturers and efficiency advocates. The proposed standards would effectively require the use of more efficient single-speed electronically commutated motors (ECMs).
KEY FACTS:
Single-speed ECMs can reduce circulator pump energy usage by almost half relative to induction motors. Circulator pump efficiency can be further improved by using variable-speed ECMs with temperature and/or pressure controls.