For a new build, I'll be running pipe from the hot-water tank to the two bathrooms, which are about 40' away on the other side of the house. One aim is to avoid the situation where it's necessary to run the bathroom hot-water taps for several minutes just to get the first few drops of hot water.
I see two options:
- run a 3/4" trunk-line from the hot-water tank across the house, and then t-off to each bathroom with 1/2" pipe.
- run two 3/8" pipes from the hot-water tank directly to each of the two bathrooms.
The first option seems to maximize overall flow, but means having to empty out a long length of 3/4" pipe before hot water reaches the taps. The second option would help minimize the lag, but I'm concerned about anemic hot-water flow, particularly to the showers.
I wish to avoid a recirculating pump.
What's the better option?