What is a common feature of a non-recirculating hot water system?

A non-recirculating hot water system is characterized by the fact that hot water is not continuously circulated through the plumbing system, which can lead to hot water stagnation. In these systems, once the hot water is used, it is not replenished in the pipes unless there is a demand for it. This can result in hot water sitting in the pipes for extended periods without movement, potentially leading to stagnation.

Stagnation occurs when water remains in a pipe without any flow, which can cause issues such as a decrease in water quality, as standing water can become a breeding ground for bacteria, including Legionella. In non-recirculating systems, hot water will need to be drawn from the source, requiring time for the new water to heat up, but it is the stagnation aspect that is a defining feature of these systems, as it highlights the inefficiencies that can arise from not consistently circulating the water.

In contrast, options like quicker hot water availability tend to relate more to recirculating systems, which circulate water continuously to provide immediate access to hot water. Similarly, less waste of water and reduced risk of backflow typically pertain to different plumbing configurations and setups rather than a characteristic of non-recirculating hot