A circulator pump is a key component of a hot water or hydronic heating system. It circulates heated water from the boiler through the pipes and radiators or baseboards to provide heat. When an old circulator pump fails, you’ll need to replace it with a new one for the system to work properly again. But how much does a new circulator pump cost?
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The Cost of a New Circulator Pump
Circulator pumps range in price from about $100 on the low end to $500 or more for a top-of-the-line pump. The average cost for a typical residential circulator pump is $200 to $300. Here are some of the factors that affect the price:
Pump Type
There are two main types of circulator pumps:
– Standard pumps – These are the most common and affordable pumps made for residential systems. They typically cost $100 to $300.
– High efficiency/variable speed pumps – These more advanced pumps use less energy than standard ones. They adjust speed based on system demand. High efficiency pumps cost $300 to $500+.
Higher efficiency pumps cost more but can save energy and money over time.
Brand Name
Major pump brands include Grundfos, Taco, Armstrong, Bell & Gossett, and Wilo. In general, you’ll pay more for pumps from premium brands compared to generic or less known brands. Name brand pumps range from about $250 up to $500+. Generic pumps can cost as little as $100.
Capacity
Larger pumps built for bigger heating systems tend to cost more than smaller pumps for average residential systems. Pumps are sized according to flow rate capacity measured in GPM (gallons per minute). Average residential pumps provide around 20 to 50 GPM. Higher capacity pumps for larger systems can cost $400 to $600+.
Features
Circulator pumps come with a variety of convenience and performance features that add cost. These include:
– Built-in timers
– Temperature sensors
– Auto air vents
– Check valves
– Bronze/stainless housings
– Digital displays
– Communication capability
– Multi-speed settings
The more features a pump has, the more you can expect to pay. Top-end pumps with all the bells and whistles can cost up to $500 to $600.
Pump Replacement Cost Factors
In addition to the cost of a new circulator pump itself, you also need to factor in the cost of installation if you hire a plumber or HVAC technician to do the work. This typically adds $200 to $400 to the total project cost.
Here are some of the factors that influence circulator pump replacement costs:
Labor
The biggest cost will be labor if you don’t install the pump yourself. Plumbers typically charge $50 to $100 per hour. The job could take 2-4 hours for draining the system, removing old pump, installing new one, refilling system and testing. At $100 per hour, labor alone could cost $200 to $400.
Accessibility
If the circulator pump is located in a hard to reach spot, like a cramped basement corner, it will take longer to replace which adds labor time and cost. A more accessible location will be faster and cheaper.
System Draining/Filling
To replace the pump, the plumber will need to drain the hydronic heating system fluid. After the new pump is installed, fresh fluid has to be added back in. The fluid costs $15 to $50 per gallon. Draining and refilling could cost $100+ depending on system size.
Fittings & Pipe
If the plumber needs to modify or replace connecting pipes and fittings to accommodate the new pump, this could add $50 to $100 in material costs.
Repairs
If the old pump failed due to another problem in the system like a leaky pipe or jammed valve, additional repairs would need to be made and paid for.
New Circulator Pump Prices By Brand & Model
Here is a comparison of prices for some popular residential circulator pump models by major brands:
| Brand | Model | Type | GPM | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taco | 00R | Standard Bronze | 10-45 | $225 |
| Grundfos | UP15-42F | Standard Bronze | 15-42 | $255 |
| Bell & Gossett | NRF-22 | Standard Cast Iron | 10-22 | $185 |
| Armstrong | Astro 30 | High Efficiency | 20-150 | $499 |
| Wilo | Star S21 | High Efficiency | 20-55 | $460 |
As you can see, standard pumps range from about $185 up to $255 while high efficiency pumps cost $460 to $499. Prices vary based on brand, capacity, efficiency, and features.
Circulator Pump Replacement Cost Comparison
Here is a cost comparison table for a typical residential circulator pump replacement:
| Cost Factor | Low-End Price | High-End Price |
|---|---|---|
| Circulator Pump | $100 | $500 |
| Labor (3 hours) | $150 | $300 |
| Draining/Filling System | $50 | $150 |
| Fittings & Pipe | $50 | $100 |
| Total Cost | $350 | $1050 |
At the low end, with a basic pump and minimum labor, the total cost could be around $350. At the high end, a premium pump with more extensive labor and system work could cost up to $1050. The average total for a typical circulator pump replacement is usually $500 to $800.
Saving Money on Circulator Pump Replacement
If you want to save money on a circulator pump replacement, here are some tips:
– Install the pump yourself if you are able to. This will eliminate costly labor.
– Purchase an affordable but reliable pump from a brand like Taco or Grundfos. Avoid overpaying for unnecessary features.
– Have a helper drain and refill the system yourself rather than hiring a plumber to do it.
– Compare multiple repair quotes if hiring a plumber. Costs can vary greatly company to company.
– Ask the technician about less expensive fittings or piping options when possible. Copper is cheaper than steel for example.
– Consider a rebuilt or remanufactured pump rather than brand new. Can save 15% to 40%.
– Time the replacement in summer so you don’t lose heat when draining system.
– Implement regular maintenance to maximize existing pump lifespan.
Taking some or all of these money saving steps can help you get a good quality circulator pump replacement done for the lowest possible cost. Careful shopping and smart decisions make a big difference.
Conclusion
The cost of a new circulator pump for a residential hydronic heating system generally ranges from about $200 to $500 depending on brand, size, features, and efficiency. You also have to account for installation labor and system draining/refilling which can add $200 to $400+ to the overall replacement cost. With some smart shopping and cost-cutting steps, you can keep your total circulator pump replacement cost to a reasonable level without sacrificing quality or long-term performance. Compare your options and get quotes from multiple plumbers before making your purchasing decision.