Quick Update:
Got the ACT D'mand Pump STS-02T which is the exact same pump the builder installs. However, the builder wanted to charge $2200+ for the pump and installation. Online found it for $540 (w/ pre-fab kit).
You need an outlet under the sink unless you just want to run wires out of your cabinets. I elected to install under the kitchen sink since there is already a plug there plus it's one of our last fixtures in the house even though they suggest installing in the master.
Just followed the instructions plus some youtube videos. It's a relative manageable DIY project taking an afternoon. How easy? This was my first plumbing project
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I also got the wireless kit for $45 with a remote, extra remotes are $19. Idea is to use the remotes in all the bathrooms and where you want instant hot water (laundry).
Works really well and very happy. Before we wound fill 5 gallon buckets waiting for hot water, now we just hit a button and the pump moves the cold water from the hot line into the cold line (not wasting any water) and then shuts off once there is hot water. Before we had to wait like 3-4 minutes, now it's less than 10 seconds with no wasted water. Yeah! Plus the wife is so happy now
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I highly recommend this for people doing tankless in large houses (3000+ sqft). It's summer so the hot water lines don't cool as fast but during winter you will be waiting for hot water for A WHILE (pouring water <money> down the drain). It's not only showers but also washing dishes and doing laundry. With the price of water, the cost will pay for itself in a couple years.
I ordered online at tanklesskings (which was the cheapest) but there's other online vendors just do a search.
Also there are other recirculation pump which are much cheaper (1/3 the cost) like the chilipepper but they are really loud, like a 747 taking off under you sink. The ACT D'mand is fairly quiet and sounds like a dishwasher pump going off, really not that bad. Plus it was used by the builder so rather install something I know that works.
One tip if you're going with the ACT D'mand pump, the 70 is for <2500 sqft and the 02 is for >2500 sqft. They sell the pump by itself or the pump plus the pre-fab kit. BUY the one with the pre-fab kit it includes all the parts you need. I only ordered the pump thinking I could get the parts cheaper. However, it's all custom parts. I even talked to Ferguson Plumbing supplies and they suggested I get the custom parts direct from manufacturer. Luckily ACT is local in Costa Mesa so was able to pick-up the hook-up kit for $81 directly at their office.
Save yourself the trouble and order the pumps WITH the pre-fab kits (custom brass Ts and flex tubes).
All in all, it's a relatively inexpensive upgrade that you can DIY and will make living in your new big brand new house more enjoyable!
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Enjoy and hope this helps other new homeowners that hate wasting water waiting for the hot water.
