The 2024 Emerging Water Technology Symposium was held in Scottsdale, AZ on May 14-15 and provided a unique opportunity to meet well-known experts from across the globe, including our own CTO, Larry K. Acker, pictured here with Mary Ann Dickinson, President and CEO of the Alliance for Water Efficiency.

Participants and attendees were able to discover ideas and approaches about emerging technologies that benefit drinking water and wastewater systems.  Also discussed was how energy and the Carbon Footprint can improve efficiency and preserve public health. Of particular interest is how these modern technologies help cope with drought, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to overall water and energy sustainability.

Presentations and discussions held over the two-day period brought experts and officials from Australia, Europe and the United States together to brainstorm current and future options.

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Stop waiting for hot water!

When a household has to wait for hot water, it can waste thousands of gallons of water each year. That adds up! If you’re waiting a few minutes every time you turn on the hot water tap, that can easily waste tons of water and money down the drain.

The D’MAND Kontrols® System fits on a return line, or under a sink at the furthest fixture. It is compatible with a tank, tankless, heat pump, or boiler heating system.

Once installed, the pump is compatible with either via hardwired or wireless Bluetooth options. That means you get hot water only when you need it. In order to save even more energy and money, the pump then detects when hot water is in the line and shuts itself off.

As we know, water is a limited resource (check out this article on how water gets from source to tap). Fortunately, there are a number of small actions that cut down on water waste. D’MAND Kontrols® replace wasted resources with convenience and savings.

We’ve been recommended by The Build Show! Check out what Matt Risinger has to say about on D’MAND® hot water, and why he’s been enjoying his System for 15 years.

Stop the waste, stop the wait for hot water!

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In his review, Risinger explained that Kontrols™ activate the System without needing to set a timer. Risinger shows how our System saves water and energy with various activation methods, as opposed to timer hot water recirculation systems. With the click of a Button, a walk by a Motion Sensor, or with a Smart device, anyone that uses a D’MAND® System controls when to activate their System. As a result, users get hot water in seconds without wasting water and energy.

While working on new home construction, Risinger’s review explains why he chooses to build with D’MAND Kontrols®. Not only does he use our Systems for new construction, but Risinger has a D’MAND Kontrols® System in his own home. With a hardwired rocker switch activation method, Risinger’s System provide all his fixtures with hot water in seconds. Risinger has used our System for 15 years now and attests to the reliability of our product. That’s no surprise, as our Systems frequently last upwards of 20 years.

Watch Risinger’s review today about why he uses D’MAND Kontrols® Systems. Start saving water and energy by using our D’MAND Kontrols® Systems and activating your System with the click of a Button. We thank Matt Risinger for reviewing our product and the Build Show for sharing D’MAND Kontrols®!

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Check out this under-the-sink installation courtesy of our customer!

The ACT1-RETROFIT-BTKIT comes with the ACT1 pump, control box, activation wires, two stainless steel unions, one integrated check valve and one integrated temperature sensor. Installing under-the-sink is a breeze with the included retrofit kit (a small mounting bracket, two Blue POM Tees ½” x ½” x ¾”, two 18”x ¾” Flex Lines, two ½” x 3⁄8” x 12” Flex Lines, and two ½” FPT x 3⁄8” Male Comp Adapters). When installed under-the-sink, the ACT1-RETROFIT-BT-KIT recirculates hot water in seconds.

This install includes both Bluetooth (one receiver and two wireless transmitters) and hardwired means of activation (one hardwired LED button). With these Kontrols™, the user controls when to activate their recirculating System. Bluetooth Kontrols™ save water and energy, by eliminating Timer and Aquastat systems that do not allow for flexible recirculating schedules.

The ACT1-RETROFIT-BT-Kit is suitable for every home and every heater type. This under-the-sink installation and all D’MAND Kontrols® are proudly CA Title 24 Compliant.

THE ONLY WAY TO RECIRCULATE HOT WATER ON D’MAND®️! For more information about under-the-sink installations and our products, explore our website.

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If you are interested in hot water recirculation systems, check for any available rebates! Many times, local water districts will offer rebates for home appliances, upgrades, and yes, hot water recirculation systems. Below are some areas in California, as well as a few in other states, that currently offer rebates for the purchase of an approved recirculation pump.

Due to regional codes and laws, please always be sure to review the exact requirements of your local rebate program!

Available Rebates

At the start of our list, Coachella Valley Water District currently offers a number of residential rebates, such as a $125 rebate or the cost of a recirculation pump (whichever is less). In order to apply, CVWD customers must provide a color photo of the installed recirculating pump and a sales receipt with their application. Funds are limited and consequently, rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Click here for the application. 

If you have any questions about this program, visit the CVWD website. You can also email WaterConservation@cvwd.org, or call (760) 398-2651.

The City of Corona offers a $50 rebate to your account on newly installed recirculating hot water systems. Additionally, customers can reapply for the rebate every five years, provided the program is still active. In order to apply, simply attach your receipt, water bill, and photo of the installed system to the application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official City of Corona website, email StopTheDrop@CoronaCA.gov, or call (951) 736-2234.

The City of Fresno has a rebate of up to $100 available to purchase and install a qualifying hot water recirculating pump. In order to apply, first buy and install a new qualifying recirculating pump. Then, submit your application within 90 days of the purchase date, along with photos of the installation and a copy of your receipt with your application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the City of Fresno Water Division, Water Conservation Program official website. You can also email waterconservation@fresno.gov, or call (559) 621-5480.

Up to $150 is available to City of Greenfield residential water customers who install a new hot water recirculating pump. While you need a building permit for this plumbing work, the cost of that permit will be waived. Both single and multi-family residential customers can apply. However, there is a set amount of funding and consequently, rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You must purchase the system new. Submit both receipts of purchase and of installation with your application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the City of Greenfield website. You can also call (831) 674-2635.

Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District offers a rebate of up to $175 for the purchase of a new hot water recirculating system. Once installation is complete, attach a copy of your receipt, a photo of the installation, and a copy of your current water bill to your application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District website, or call (951) 674-3146.

Marin Water residential and commercial customers are eligible for up to $50 for the purchase and installation of hot water recirculating systems. In order to apply, buy and install a new system. Then, attach a copy of a sales receipt from within 90 days of the purchase of the system to your application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official Marin Water website. Additionally, you can email Conservation@MarinWater.org, or call (415) 945-1520.

A $100 rebate is available to NMWD customers for self-activated or on-demand hot water recirculation systems. Timer-controlled and thermostat-controlled systems are not eligible. However, you need to act quickly – this rebate is only available through December 31, 2022. Also, submit your application and a copy of a receipt within 90 days of purchase.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official North Marin Water District website, email waterconserve@nmwd.com, or call (415) 761-8944.

A rebate of up to $100 is available through the Rancho Murieta Community Services District upon the purchase and installation of an approved Hot Water Circulation System.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official RMCSD website, or call (916) 354-3700.

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission is offering a $100 rebate for the purchase and installation of a hot water recirculation pump. Both single-family and small multi-family properties (up to four dwelling units) are eligible. In order to apply, first purchase and install your pump. Then, take pictures, and attach the pictures and your receipt to the application. 

Click here to view the sample application, and here to view the program terms.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official SFPUC website, email waterconservation@sfwater.org, or call (415) 551-4730.

Santa Cruz Water Department is offering up to $100 towards the pre-tax cost of a hot water recirculation system. However, this program expires on December 31st, 2022, so contact SCWD as soon as possible! To apply, take pictures of your installation, and attach the pictures and your receipt to the application. 

Click here for the application, or here to read some rebate FAQs.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official City of Santa Cruz website, email conservation@cityofsantacruz.com, or call (831) 420-5230.

The City of Santa Rosa Water District offers up to $250 towards the purchase of a hot water recirculation pump. Moreover, this is available to single or multi-family residential Santa Rosa Water customers.

Unlike a few of the previous programs, you must be prequalified before you install the pump. Otherwise, you will not be eligible. To begin the prequalification process, call Water-Use Efficiency at 707-543-3985. Provided that you are qualified, you will receive your eligibility form. You then have 120 days to install your new system.

Once Water-Use Efficiency completes a postinspection and approves the system, the process is complete.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official SRWD website, email watersmart@srcity.org, or call (707) 543-3985.

Both single-family and duplex residential customers of Solano County Water Agency can get a rebate of up to $50.00 (or up to $250.00 for five) for eligible water-conserving products, including a new hot water recirculation pump. However, there is a finite level of funding and consequently, rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please refer to the website for a list of eligible products, or click here for program guidelines. To apply, attach your receipt to the application. 

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official SCWA website. You can also email solanocash4grass@scwa2.com, or call (707) 451-6090.

Soquel Creek Water District offers a $150 rebate for self-activated or on-demand hot-water recirculation systems. However, timer-controlled and thermostat-controlled systems are not eligible. Submit your application within 90 days of installation. An SqCWD representative then will inspect the installation.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official SCWD website. Additionally, you can email custserv@soquelcreekwater.org, or call (831) 475-8500.

The City of St. Helena is offering rebates of up to $100 for any Recirculating Hot Water Pump System. Like previous programs, there is a set amount of funding and as a result, the program is on a first-come, first-served basis.

In order to apply, submit a W-9, receipt of purchase of a system, before and after photos of installation, and expected water savings with the application.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official City of St. Helena website, email water@cityofsthelena.org, or call 707-967-2794.

Customers living within Yucaipa Valley Water District are eligible for a $100 account credit rebate toward the purchase of a hot water recirculation pump. In order to apply, submit your application within 90 days of purchase.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official YVWD website, email mblua@yvwd.us, or call (909) 790-3311.

Residents of Lutsen, MN are eligible for $50 towards a circulating pump with an electronically commutated motor. Along with your application, submit both a copy of your purchase receipt and proof of your water heater’s energy rating.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official Arrowhead Electric website, email newsletter@arrowhead.coop, or call (218) 663-7239/(800) 864-3744.

Garden Ridge, TX offers a rebate of 10% of the cost of a Recirculating Hot Water System (excluding installation labor), up to $200, credited to your account. Once you install your system, schedule an inspection to complete the process.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official City of Garden Ridge website, or call (210) 651-6632.

A $100 rebate to your account is available to Odessa residents towards the purchase of a hot water recirculation pump. To apply, complete the application request form online or call 432-335-3204. Next, complete the official application when it arrives through the mail. Then, install your pump, and submit the application and receipt. As long as a licensed contractor installs the pump, no inspection is necessary.

Click here for the application.

If you have any questions about this program, visit the official City of Odessa website. Additionally, you can email rebates@odessa-tx.gov, or call (432) 335-3204.

Undoubtedly, local websites are great resources for rebates to help make your home more energy and water efficient. Contact your local water district or city government about available programs for hot water recirculation pumps in your area. Again, always check with your local water district/city government about the exact program requirements.

D’MAND Kontrols® install either under a sink or by your water heater and are California Title 24 Compliant. Call us at 800-200-1956 or email info@gothotwater.com for information on how our Systems can be part of a money-saving rebate.

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2022 marks 30 YEARS of innovation and technological advancement from ACT, Inc. (Formerly Metlund®)! While we originally started out as Metlund® and changed names about 20 years ago, our dedication to energy and water conservation hasn’t. Since then, our Systems have helped save thousands of gallons of water every year. From the STS- or S- Series to the new ACT1, D’MAND Kontrols® Systems frequently last upwards of 20 years!

Some of our older models include:

If you’ve got a hot water system in your home with the brand Metlund® or Metlund Systems® on it, that’s our pump!

While those models are discontinued from production, if you ever need assistance with your pump, extra accessories, or if it’s finally time to upgrade to a new system, call us at 800-200-1956 or email us.



Even if you’ve still got your Metlund® Pump, our friendly technicians can help you with your System, or determine if the ACT1 is right for you.

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If you live in California, you may have heard of Title 24 in relation to building codes. California has a series of energy efficiency standards that most existing or planned structures must comply with, including but not limited to hot water pumps.

According to Wikipedia,

“The California Energy Code (also titled The Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Non-residential Buildings) is the sixth section of the California Building Standards Code. The code was created by the California Building Standards Commission in 1978 in response to a legislative mandate to reduce California’s energy consumption. These standards are updated periodically by the California Energy Commission. The code includes energy conservation standards applicable to most buildings throughout California.”

Wikimedia Foundation. (2022, July 5). California Energy Code. Wikipedia. Retrieved October 26, 2022, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Energy_Code

How are D’MAND Kontrols® Title 24 Compliant?

D’MAND Kontrols® meet the requirements of Title 24’s Residential Appendix (RA) Sections:

RA3.6.6 – HERS Verified Demand Recirculation; Manual Control

RA3.6.7 – HERS Verified Demand Recirculation; Sensor Control

RA4.4.9 – Demand Recirculation; Manual Control

RA4.4.10 – Demand Recirculation; Sensor Control

HERS stands for Heat Energy Rating System in California. These four particular sections in the Residential Appendix require that demand-controlled recirculation systems are truly on-demand.

What does that mean?

In short, the pump must begin pulling hot water shortly before it is used instead of running continuously or on a timer. Any controls for the pump must be able to detect an increase in pipe temperature and shut the pump off.

Each circulation loop must have its own pump and controls. The pump can be on a dedicated return line or retrofitted under a sink, but in all cases, the thermistor (thermo-sensor) must be easily accessible and installed at the endpoint of hot water distribution. This is where D’MAND Kontrols® fit in.

How are D’MAND Kontrols® Systems Title 24 Compliant?

Title 24 compliance requires that recirculation loops must have check valves, which can be included with the pump. D’MAND Kontrols® Systems come with a check valve on the outlet side.

Controls must shut the pump off once the thermo-sensor detects a 10ºF ( 5.6 ºC ) increase in water temperature; if the thermo-sensor detects a water temperature over 102ºF (38.9 ºC) the controls will not allow the pump to run. Also, controls must shut the pump off 5 minutes after activation, regardless of water temperature. D’MAND Kontrols® detect Delta T and shuts off the pump.

Additionally, compliance with Title 24 requires that activation (rocker switches, hardwired buttons, wireless transmitters, or motion sensors) must be located in the kitchen, bathrooms, and any hot water fixture that’s more than 20 lineal feet from the water heater. Multiple forms of activation are available for D’MAND Kontrols®, including hardwired buttons, motion sensors, and wireless Bluetooth transmitters.

In summary, our Kontrols™ truly operate on D’MAND®. The System brings you hot water just a few moments after you activate the System, either manually or via Bluetooth. D’MAND Kontrols® are not only to code, but also save water, energy, and money. Make your hot water convenient and compliant!

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EEBA is a great opportunity to see the new ideas, challenges, trends, and technology in Building. We always enjoy the opportunity to educate more about ACT D’MAND Kontrols ®, and look forward to newer designs of our own.

“EEBA is the answer to new designs and new concepts in building. They are ahead of the curve. All of the manufacturers and the builders that are here are looking at the new technology for making home automation reasonable and less expensive for the builder in the future.“

Larry Acker

Thank you to the 2022 EEBA High-Performance Home Summit for hosting a productive, amazing event. We had a great time meeting everyone and seeing all of the great displays! And special thanks to Robby Schwarz for taking the time to speak to Larry about our Systems. Go check out his podcast to learn more about sustainable practices in the construction industry.

Click here for a more in-depth, step-by-step explanation of how our on D’MAND® Systems work.

This article has more information on the role that electricity plays in collecting, treating, and distributing potable hot water.

Or, watch this news clip featuring D’MAND Kontrols® in Southern California Edison and Green Home Builder Magazine’s eco-friendly model home.

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When it comes to hot water pumps, there are a few different options. One common option is a timer-based system. This System has a timer on a pump and is programmed to run for a certain amount of time every day, based on predicted use. The other is a System that operates only on demand; hot water is still available when needed, but the Pump only operates when activated by the user. Here’s some reasons why a System that runs on demand, like the D’MAND Kontrols ® System, is the better option.

Timer-based systems run to a set schedule by design. Often times they run close to 18 hours a day! That wastes a lot of power if there is no need for hot water for a majority of those 18 hours. Operating the pump that often can also cause a significant amount of wear and tear on pipes and the pump itself. Also, timer-based systems are susceptible to power outages, which can disrupt the schedule and lead to difficulty getting hot water.

D’MAND Kontrols ® Systems only run when needed. The end user activates the System when they need hot water and starts the pump. This means there is not only less noise, but less operating time (just minutes a day). Once hot water reaches the line, the integrated temperature sensor shuts the pump off. Our Systems limit wear and tear on plumbing when installed correctly, and frequently last upwards of 20 years. A five-year warranty provides further peace of mind and eliminates the wait at the tap.

Our on D’MAND® System can help you save thousands of gallons of water while saving money on your energy bill. All while getting you hot water FAST. With a number of activation accessories available, you can fully customize how and when you get hot water. D’MAND Kontrols ® Systems are made in the USA.

Click here for to watch a live demonstration of how the system works.

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