Hot Water Recirculating System Installation Question

[TexOldTimer]

My builder would not install a Hot Water Recirculating System in our new retirement home. So before the sheetrock was hung, I ran a 1/2" PEX line from each of the 4 faucets I wanted instant hot water to a PEX manifold (4-1/2" x 3/4") located near the bottom of an electric 50 gallon water heater at the center of the attic. The plan was to install a single recirculating pump and "smart" controller (TACO 006e3 + SP115-1), but I was concerned that since all 4 return lines are of different lengths, most, if not all, flow will go through the shortest return line only. Initially, I thought the solution was to use the quarter-turn supply stop (Brass Craft KTCR19XC) under each sink as the flow control, but according to Brass Craft, the stop is only rated for full "on" or full "off". So, instead, will I need to install a special flow control valve (such as TACO #ACUF-050-AC-2) on each of the return lines just prior the manifold, in order to distribute the flow evenly? Note that I do not have access to a flow test kit or differential pressure gauges which may be required to calibrate the flow setting of this particular valve. The return lines are the following lengths: 20', 30', 60', 75'.

https://www.tacocomfort.com/product/006e3-ecm-high-efficiency-hot-water-circulator/
https://www.tacocomfort.com/product/smartplug-instant-hot-water-control/
https://www.tacocomfort.com/product/accu-flo-balancing-valves/

Thanks in advance for your expertise on this project.

 

[John Gayewski]

Yes you need a balancing valve on each return line. There are manifolds with balancers built in. I think I would one. There are manifolds that show you thr flow rate on each line so you can adjust.