How to Hook Up an Electric Circulator Pump to Your Furnace

Preparation

• Before installing an electric circulator pump with your home's heating system, first ensure that you can do so by finding a pump compatible with your home's boiler. Do not try to use a pump with a capacity greater or less than the typical flow capacity of your home's plumbing system. Too much pressure in the pipes could create a pipe burst, while too little will just prove to be a waste of time. You will also need a ready power source near your boiler and easy access to your plumbing. Shut down your electricity and close off your water main before proceeded to install a circulator pump.

Installation

• Installation of the circulator pump will involve cutting into the existing plumbing lines and soldering the the pump's intake and outflow pipes into the home's existing plumbing supply. Although there are competing views as to exactly where you should install the circulator pump, Inspectapedia notes that these pumps can be installed on either the return or the supply side of the boiler. Choosing one over the other does not necessarily affect the performance of the pump. Once the plumbing has been integrated with the pump's circulation system, you can then connect the power and turn back on the water and the electricity.

Additional Considerations

• To avoid problems with your electric circulator, you may also wish to consider installing a water softener to work in conjunction with your system. This will help to eliminate mineral deposits in the water which can, over time, clog the circulator pump itself, as well as the plumbing throughout the home. Also, flush out your pipes with cold water after initially installing your circulator pump. This will help to remove any metal fragments or other debris in the water left over from the installation process. It is also a good idea to install a safety relief valve to eliminate pressure in your plumbing system if necessary.

Emergency Preparedness

• Emergency preparedness should be included as part of your plan for the installation process. Because the circulator works on electrical power, you will need to have a back up source of electrical power to keep your water hot and properly circulating throughout the home in the event of a power outage. Installing a backup generator for this purpose is a smart idea.