Product Overview
For applications demanding maximum corrosion resistance in a compact, efficient package, the Taco 111-8S Series 100 Stainless Steel Pump stands as a reliable solution. This versatile 1/8 HP circulator is engineered with all 304 stainless steel wetted parts, making it ideal for domestic water recirculation, coastal installations, and systems with aggressive water chemistry where standard cast iron pumps would quickly deteriorate.
The pump features a high-efficiency, wet-rotor design that provides quiet, maintenance-free operation while eliminating the need for routine lubrication. Its compact, inline configuration allows for easy installation in tight spaces, from residential utility closets to commercial mechanical rooms. The all-stainless fluid path ensures long-term durability and material purity, preventing rust contamination and extending service life in challenging environments. For help selecting the right pump material, read our guide Choosing Between Cast Iron, Bronze, and Stainless Steel Circulators.
As part of Taco’s proven Series 100 line, this circulator offers a direct replacement for many OEM applications while providing superior corrosion protection. Whether you’re maintaining a domestic hot water loop in a coastal home or ensuring reliable circulation in a laboratory setting, the 111-8S delivers consistent performance you can count on season after season. Learn about its advantages in our article [The Benefits of Stainless Steel in Plumbing and HVAC Applications].
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Taco 111-8S (Series 100) |
| Motor Power | 1/8 HP (0.09 kW) |
| Connection Size | 3/4″ FIPT x 3/4″ FIPT |
| Wetted Parts | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Impeller Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Housing Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Max Head | 8 ft (2.4 m) |
| Max Flow | 20 US gpm (76 L/min) |
| Speed Settings | Single Speed |
| Max Operating Pressure | 125 psi (8.6 bar) |
| Max Fluid Temperature | 230°F (110°C) |
| Voltage | 115V, 1-Phase |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) |
Comparison Table: Taco 111-8S vs. Alternative Circulators
| Feature | Taco 111-8S (Stainless) | Standard Cast Iron | Bronze Circulator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (304 SS) | Poor | Good |
| Material Purity | High – No Iron Contamination | Low – Rust Potential | Medium |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy | Medium |
| Cost | Premium | Economy | Moderate |
| Ideal Application | Domestic Water, Coastal, Chemical | Closed-Loop Heating | Domestic Water, Coastal |
| Maintenance | Maintenance-Free | Maintenance-Free | Maintenance-Free |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What applications is this stainless steel circulator best suited for?
The 111-8S is perfect for domestic hot water recurculation systems, coastal homes with salt-air exposure, laboratory water circuits, and any application where iron contamination cannot be tolerated or where water chemistry would corrode standard materials.
Q2: Is this pump suitable for potable water systems?
Yes, the 304 stainless steel construction is safe for potable water applications and meets relevant standards for drinking water system components, making it an excellent choice for domestic hot water recirculation.
Q3: How does the wet-rotor design benefit homeowners?
The wet-rotor design means the pump operates quietly and requires no maintenance – no lubrication, no mechanical seals to replace. The system fluid lubricates and cools the motor bearings, ensuring long, trouble-free service life.
Q4: Can this pump be used in both heating and plumbing applications?
While its stainless construction makes it ideal for plumbing applications, it can also be used in hydronic heating systems. However, for standard closed-loop heating applications without corrosion concerns, a cast iron model like the [Taco 00-R Series Cast Iron Circulator] may be more cost-effective.
Q5: What makes stainless steel superior to bronze for corrosive applications?
While both materials offer good corrosion resistance, 304 stainless steel provides broader chemical compatibility and superior resistance to certain types of corrosion, particularly in applications with chlorides or low-pH water. It also completely eliminates any risk of dezincification that can occur with some bronze alloys.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent Corrosion Resistance with 304 stainless steel | Higher Initial Cost than cast iron circulators |
| Potable Water Safe for domestic water applications | Lower Flow/Head Capacity than larger circulators |
| Maintenance-Free Operation with wet-rotor design | Single-Speed Operation limits performance adjustment |
| Lightweight & Compact for easy installation | Premium Price Point for specialized applications |
| Quiet Operation ideal for residential applications | May Be Overkill for standard heating applications |
| No Iron Contamination of system water | Limited to Clean Water applications |
Conclusion & Ideal Use Cases
The Taco 111-8S Series 100 Stainless Steel Pump represents the optimal choice for small to medium applications where material compatibility and corrosion resistance are critical. While commanding a premium over standard circulators, its all-stainless construction ensures reliable performance in environments that would quickly degrade conventional pumps.
This circulator is essential for:
-
Domestic Water Recirculation: Hot water return lines in homes and small commercial buildings
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Coastal Installations: Buildings in marine environments with salt-air exposure
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Laboratory & Medical Facilities: Where water purity and material compatibility are critical
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Chemical-Sensitive Applications: Water with aggressive chemistry or chlorination
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Replacement Applications: Updating older systems where iron contamination is a concern
For larger domestic water applications, consider the [Taco 160-8S Stainless Steel Circulator], while for standard hydronic heating in non-corrosive environments, the [Taco 00-R Series Cast Iron Circulators] offer better value. The 111-8S fills a critical niche for small-scale applications requiring the superior corrosion resistance of stainless steel construction. For material compatibility standards, consult the NSF International website for drinking water system components.
Contact our plumbing and HVAC specialists today to determine if your application requires stainless steel construction and for assistance in selecting the right circulator for your specific system requirements.
