Are you considering getting heat pump water heaters for your residence? If your water heater needs repair or even a replacement, then you may have seen heat pump water heaters as one of the many options available for you and your home. In this comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of heat pump water heaters, we will delve deeper into the world of heat pump water heaters, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about your home’s water heating needs.
Heat pumps have been in use since they were invented in the 1940s. While they rose to popularity in the 1970s, many homes still rely on traditional electric or gas heaters to get hot water. That’s why we put together this complete guide on heat pump water heaters and all you need to know about them when making this decision.
How it Works
Many homeowners may overlook the importance of a good water heater and the surprisingly high price tag of having hot water. The average family spends $400 to $600 a year on the luxury of having hot showers and warm water. This price is partly because conventional water heaters are famously inefficient; they can account for up to 20 percent of your entire utility bill. That’s why many homeowners are switching to heat pump water heaters and other energy-efficient options.
But let’s take a closer look at how these innovative systems work. While most water heaters rely on gas or electricity to generate heat, heat pump water heaters are different – in fact, these pumps don’t generate any heat directly. Instead, they pull heat in from the air, which is then delivered to the unit’s storage tank. This process is how refrigerators work, but heat pump water heaters do the reverse while a fridge expels hot air. Because they’re pulling in hot air, this makes them ideal for primarily warm climates like Louisiana!
The Pros and Cons
Pro: Heat Pump Water Heaters Are More Efficient
Since they can draw from the heat in the air, these water heaters do not have to work to generate new heat. Instead, this heat comes from anywhere in the air, even the waste heat from a nearby furnace. Because of this, they are incredibly energy efficient compared to traditional models, which means they can save you several hundred dollars on energy bills each year, and they’re long-lasting – a good, well-maintained heater can last between ten to fifteen years.
Con: Greater Up Front Expenses
These water heaters can cost up to twice as much as other models, which can be a setback for those working on a tight budget. The cost can range from around $2,100 to $3,300 upfront, not including installation. While these heaters can still save you money over time with annual energy costs, the initial price is enough to push it out of some buyer’s budgets.
Pro: Environmentally and Family Friendly
Since they don’t generate heat, gas leaks, and toxic emissions are non-existent from heat pump water heaters. They produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gas water heaters, contributing to a reduction in your carbon footprint. By opting for a heat pump water heater, you can play a role in reducing environmental impact and promoting cleaner energy consumption. Plus, the unit itself doesn’t get too hot outside, making it a safer option for families with pets or kids.
Research has shown that if all residential electric water heaters were replaced with heat pump water heaters, the energy cost savings would jump to $12 billion annually, and 140 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented annually. That’s the equivalent of emissions from 13 million vehicles, which is more than the entire population of Los Angeles.
Con: Can Be Difficult in Cold Climates
Heat pump water heaters draw from the air, so when there’s plenty of warm air (say, in the summer months), there’s no problem. However, this can take more time during colder winter months. Homeowners in colder areas should carefully assess whether a heat pump water heater is suitable for their specific climate conditions. Unless it’s a hybrid model that includes electric options, you have to give it time for your pump model to recover. However, this isn’t as much of a problem in subtropical climates like the American South, where plenty of warm air is nearly year-round.
Pro: Heat Pumps Can Last Longer than Traditional Units
Traditional water heaters typically last around 8-12 years. Heat pump water heaters, however, can last 10-15 years if they are well maintained. The extended lifespan of heat pump water heaters not only saves you money on replacement costs but also reduces the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposing of appliances more frequently. This longevity makes them a sustainable choice for homeowners looking to invest in a durable and reliable water heating solution. Additionally, the longer lifespan can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your water heater will serve your household efficiently for an extended period, requiring fewer replacements over time.
Con: Heat Pump Water Heaters Take Longer to Heat Water
The water with heat pump water heaters does take longer to heat compared to conventional water heaters. The reason it takes longer is because of the lower operating temperature of the heat pump systems compared to gas furnaces and electric resistance systems. It’s also important to note that because of this, heat pumps do have difficulty providing hot water during hours that are high in demand, such as the morning when everyone wants to shower.
Pro: Tax Incentives and Rebates
Some heat pump water heaters may qualify for tax incentives and rebates starting in 2023. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit will now be worth 30% of the total cost of eligible products and up to $1,200 per year. Alternatively, it can also be used for up to $2,000 per year for heat pump water heaters and heat pump space heaters. Taking advantage of these financial incentives not only reduces the initial investment required for a heat pump water heater but also promotes the adoption of energy-efficient technologies. By choosing a qualifying heat pump water heater, you can benefit from these credits and rebates while contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for your home. This can make the decision to switch to a heat pump water heater even more appealing and environmentally responsible.
Con: Not Suitable for Smaller Homes
Smaller homes may not have enough space for a heat pump water heater due to a lack of space for a condensation drain or pump. The heat pumps absorb heat from the air, so space is needed for the appliance to function well. The minimum required amount of space for it to perform its best is around 750-1,000 cubic feet or 21.24-28.32 cubic meters, which is about the size or a bit bigger than a small bedroom. To have a heat pump water heater, you would also need a ceiling height of at least 7 feet. Unless you have a dedicated room, a basement, or additional space for this appliance, it’s best to opt for something else.
Pro: Low Operating Costs
One significant advantage of heat pump water heaters is their low operating costs. While they might have higher upfront costs, they can save you a substantial amount of money on your monthly energy bills. With their high energy efficiency and the ability to extract heat from the surrounding air, these systems are often more cost-effective in the long run compared to traditional heaters.
Con: Installation Space Requirements
One potential drawback of heat pump water heaters is their need for ample installation space. These systems require enough space to operate efficiently and may not fit well in small utility rooms or closets. The space requirements can be a limitation for homeowners with limited available space, making it essential to plan for the installation carefully.
Pro: Quiet Operation
Heat pump water heaters operate quietly, which can be especially beneficial if your water heater is located near living spaces or bedrooms. Unlike some traditional water heaters that can produce noise when heating water, heat pump systems generally run smoothly and silently. This can contribute to a more peaceful and comfortable home environment.
Con: Initial Installation Complexity
Installing a heat pump water heater can be more complex than replacing a traditional water heater, which may require additional expertise during installation. Ensuring the system is correctly set up, including electrical connections and proper ventilation, is crucial for efficient operation. This complexity can lead to higher installation costs and require professional installation services.
Tankless water heater: This is an increasingly popular choice for those who want energy efficiency without the high upfront cost. The tankless water heater doesn’t store heated water in a large tank like most options – instead, it heats water just as needed, so it’s available only on demand. The benefits of a tankless water heater are that the smaller units require less storage and improved energy efficiency, so you save money on your energy bills. This option is ideal for a smaller home or space or smaller families who don’t need hot water as often.
Solar water heaters harness the Sun’s energy, utilizing roof-mounted solar panels that transfer energy directly to the water heater to heat the water. These have many advantages, including saving money on your electricity bill, offering tax credits in certain areas, and being environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, solar power is unreliable as it requires regular access to sunlight. You can still collect solar energy on cloudy days, but repeated days with low sunlight can negatively affect your heater’s effectiveness. Solar power is an excellent option for some households but is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Among the most popular water heater options, the traditional water heater is a design that has yet to go out of style. Usually, these heaters have a large insulated water tank heated by a heat source, typically a gas flame. These heaters are generally very cheap compared to alternatives, effective in all climates, and are easy to service because of their simple design. There are two downsides to this design that has allowed space for heater innovation; however: they take up a lot of space, and they waste a lot of energy. Additionally, this design typically requires access to natural gas, which may not be available for some areas or be expensive for others.
How to Extend Your Heater’s Life Span
When you’re spending large sums of money on a water heater, it’s in your best interest to take the steps necessary to extend that heater’s life cycle for as long as possible to avoid purchasing a new one.
The best way to ensure you get your money’s worth out of your water heater is to invest in a quality one. If you seek out the cheapest water heater on the market, the chances are that you will get what you pay for and end up needing to purchase a new one before you would normally.
As with any home appliance, you should aim to get your heater serviced regularly. These heaters should be serviced by a plumbing professional at least once a year. This is to ensure the longevity of your heater and the quality of your hot water.
Goodbee Plumbing
offers many different services for all of your plumbing needs.
It may seem obvious, but a great way to extend the life of your water heater is simply to use it less frequently. You never have to go without hot showers, hot sink water, or otherwise- instead, wash your clothes with cold water when you can, and consider using your stove to heat water for cooking-related purposes.
Water heaters typically stay on for the entire day, which may be a waste of electricity. Instead, consider hiring a
professional plumber
to install a timer on your water heater, allowing it to heat water only during the hours it will be used. Timers when used effectively, can add years to any heater’s lifespan.
Water expands when it’s heated, and if there is nowhere for the water to go, the internal pressure will rise. The expansion tank will attract the high-volume water and reduce the pressure, which in turn, eliminates the chance of the heater bursting or failing.
If your water heater is connected to a gas line, inspect it regularly to ensure there aren’t any cracks, rust, or leaks. If there are any signs of damage, contact your plumber as soon as possible.
If your water supply has high levels of calcium and magnesium, you could have hard water, and the water in your home impacts the heater. Hard water can cause sediment deposits and reduce the lifespan of your appliance. You can install a water softener to folder our minerals and prolong the life of your heater. If you have bad tasting tap water and aren’t sure what to do,
check out our blog
on the topic.
When you are out of town, use the vacation mode feature to lower your water temperature to not consume energy to heat the water you aren’t using. Your heater and your wallet will thank you! If your heater doesn’t have a vacation mode, you can still set it to a lower temperature. If you are unsure how to do this, contact Goodbee Plumbing, and we are more than happy to help!
Water heaters are an essential part of your home’s comfort system. If your heater is acting up, you should work quickly. Goodbee Plumbing will always give honest advice on whether you need a new water heater or can repair yours. There are many signs that you may need a new heater, including if:
Your heater is more than ten years old and is not properly maintained
You are missing hot water
Hot water runs out quickly
Water has a metallic smell or taste
The temperatures are drastically different – too hot or too cold
The water is rust-colored
Strange noises, including popping, cracks, or banging sounds
Water is leaking from the tank
Make sure to pay attention to your water heater because if there is an issue, you have to act fast to prevent a crisis.
If you’re experiencing issues with your water heater and think you may need a repair or replacement, you can trust the highly-trained team at Goodbee Plumbing. We offer many water heater services and are happy to consult with you about the right option for you and your family.
Goodbee Plumbing is a family-owned and locally-operated company with more than 25 years of experience – an experience that we wouldn’t be able to have if we didn’t offer complete customer satisfaction.
For more information, reach out to Goodbee Plumbing today!
Today is a really hot topic: water heaters. No, it’s not sexy, but water heater technology is kind of ingenious with its simplicity. A typical electric water heater has two heating elements; one near the bottom and one near the top, all housed in a very well insulated cylinder. As cold water is fed in near the bottom of the tank, the hot water is pushed out near the top. It’s also pretty simple efficiency-wise. For each unit of electricity that’s used, you get one unit of heat energy added to the water.
However, my water heater is wearing one additional piece of technology on top … like a hat. It’s a heat pump. That means for every unit of electricity I’m spending I’m getting 3 to 4 units of heat added to the water. It’s way more efficient than any electric or natural gas water heater you can get, but hybrid heat pump water heaters have some quirks and challenges. Also, my setup is a little unique … like … what’s that strange mini-me version of a water heater sitting next to it?
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Best Educational Video AwardI keep saying, “heat pump all the things” and I’m not kidding. When it comes to energy efficiency you can’t beat a technology that seems to break the laws of physics. Generating more heat energy than the amount of energy you put into it seems like a magic trick, but it’s not. I’ve got a 50 gallon Rheem Proterra hybrid water heater here. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on this specific model as we go, but this is more about just using a heat pump water heater in general. Brand doesn’t matter, but I’ll be getting to the quicks and downsides in a bit.
The biggest reason you’d want a heat pump version is for exactly the reason I mentioned already. It’s mostly about the Coefficient of Performance (COP). That’s the ratio of energy in vs. energy out … or more simply how much heat energy you get for every kW of electricity or natural gas therms you put in. Just for clarity, because I’ll be getting into comparing my old natural gas water heater to this new one, one therm is the energy content of about 100 cubic feet (2.83 cubic meters) of natural gas.
The massive boost in COP is the big selling point of heat pumps in general. You’ll be spending far less energy and money, in theory, to create hot water for your home. It’s a very appealing sales pitch. However, this is where some of the downsides start to creep in, or at least the perception issues start to creep in.
The first potential pitfall is the cost. Heat pump hybrid models are just more expensive than straight electric or natural gas models. In my old house, we had a 40 gallon natural gas model that cost about $800, not including installation. The Rheem I have now retails for around $1,500 plus installation, so there’s a sizable jump in cost. However, there are rebates and incentives available in most places to help knock that cost down. Sometimes those rebates come from the state or your local utility company, so it’s best to do your due diligence before you make a purchase. In my case, here in Massachusetts, there’s the MassSave program which will cover $750 of that cost. The best part about that one is that it’s usually available as an instant rebate when you buy the water heater. So, suddenly that $1,500 is now $750. There’s also a federal tax credit of up to 30% (which is capped at $2,000) off the full installation (after local rebates have been applied). So if the total including installation was $2,500, here in Massachusetts you’d end up paying about $1,225 (eg. original cost: $2,500 – $750 in state rebates – $525 in Federal incentives). Bottom line: in some cases it can be equal to or cheaper than a standard water heater depending on what rebates are available in your area.
The other couple of common elements that I see brought up a lot are: noise and recovery time. When it comes to the noise issue, your mileage will vary wildly by brand, model, and sometimes the luck of the draw. In my case, I haven’t noticed any significant noise issues at all. I have an insulated mechanical room that’s not too far from the main living room area and I never hear the water heater running. However, I do hear my HVAC system ramping up and down. I have heard from others that they’ve had some noise issues with this exact model of water heater, so be aware. A friend of the channel, Paul Braren, has some great articles on his website about this.
As for recovery time, which is a measure of how quickly it can heat cold water back up, it’s also been a non-issue for me. In fact, I’d argue that this is largely a myth that heat pump water heaters have a slow recovery time. It’s going to depend on how much hot water you use and what settings you have on your water heater. For this Rheem, there are a few different modes you can put it in: Energy Saver, Heat Pump, and High Demand. Energy Saver is the default and what I’ve been using. On this setting, it fully utilizes the heat pump compressor for the best COP possible, but also incorporates the electric heating elements for high demand and recovery needs. It’s a balanced approach. The other two modes are what you’d expect. “Heat Pump” is full on heat pump only, which can affect the recovery time and can even increase energy consumption, according to Rheem. “High Demand” mode puts more emphasis on the electric elements and also increases energy consumption. I’ll get into what I’m actually seeing in just a minute.
The final potential pitfall of a heat pump water heater is space … and I mean physical space. Because they have an air source heat pump strapped to the top, like a hat, they need a certain air volume in the room they occupy. The way the heat pump works is that it passes the room’s air through a heat exchanger to extract the heat into a working fluid. That fluid is then sent through a compressor and turned into vapor, which circulates through pipes snaking around the water heater, making hot water. As the heat is extracted back out of the working fluid it cools off, turning back into a liquid, and ready to repeat the cycle. The side effect is that the air that’s getting ejected from the heat exchanger is cool and dry. If the room’s volume is too small, the heat pump will lose efficiency as all the usable heat is extracted from the room’s air.
This is VERY noticeable in my setup. My mechanical room is technically too small. You need about 700 cubic feet, but my mechanical room is only about 600 cubic feet … and that doesn’t account for all the equipment inside it taking up space. It’s probably closer to 450-500 cubic feet. When we first moved into the house, the mechanical room felt like a meat locker when you opened the door: in other words, very cold. There are ways you can vent the water heater to alleviate this issue, but we opted to not do that … at least not yet.
The reason? That little mini-me tank sitting next to the Rheem is why. I have my water heater tied into my geothermal HVAC system that’s heating and cooling my entire house. The excess heat from that system’s compressor is captured into water that sits in that tank waiting to be used by the Rheem water heater. That means our Rheem isn’t refilling itself with cold water straight from the outside — it’s refilling with water that is probably already over 110F. I really want to wire a sensor into the holding tank to track the water temp, but haven’t gotten around to it yet. Anyway, the end result is that my water heater doesn’t have to work as hard to get my water up to temp.
We didn’t get the geothermal desuperheater hooked up and working until we’d been living here for almost two months. After we did, I noticed that the mechanical room isn’t meat-locker cold anymore, but it’s still cool … which is cool.
That leads me right into the performance I’ve been seeing. So strap on your nerd hardhat, because I’m about to drop some numbers and charts right on your head. At this point I still don’t have a ton of data, but enough to start getting a sense of where this is going. Since we didn’t move in until August, I’m only looking at September through January and comparing this to the same months last year with our old natural gas water heater. If you’re curious, I had an Aquanta smart device installed on my water heater that tracked exactly how much gas we were using.
For this first chart it’s the amount of gas vs. amount of electricity. You’ll notice that there’s a noticeable jump in October for both gas and electric because that’s when the cold weather really kicks in. December through February tend to be the highest use case months, so there’s another uptick noticeable for gas in December. What’s interesting though is that you can see our electricity didn’t jump in December. In fact, it’s slowly been declining each month since October. My hunch right now is that it’s because of the geothermal holding tank, which started up in October. It counteracted the typical increase.
Operational costs are another story though.
If you look at this chart, you’ll notice that gas and electricity are basically a wash in September and December, but electricity is dramatically higher in October and November. The reason? Gas and electricity prices in my area. Electricity in Massachusetts is very high. In fact, we boast some of the highest in the country. We’re paying around $0.30/kWh vs. gas which was coming in around $2.18/therm (at the time we were using it). The cost benefit is kind of a mixed bag in my area. Massachusetts electricity and gas prices mean this costs me about 22% more for hybrid heat pump hot water based on the limited data I have. I have a hunch that will change over the coming months because we’re still experimenting to find the best settings for us. We may still try venting the water heater, so it has more air to draw from. However, if you look at the national average cost of electricity ($0.17/kWh) and gas ($1.66/therm) and apply it to my usage, it’s a different story.
Electricity wins hands down across the board. Nationally it would cost almost 21% less to go with an electric heat pump water heater. Again … based on only a few months of my personal data.
I also have solar on my house, which is currently trending towards my goal of net zero energy from the grid over the course of a year. If that plays out, the actual cost of electricity to generate my hot water will be zero, which isn’t possible with natural gas.
Is it worth it to go with a heat pump water heater? Yes, in the vast majority of cases, it’s absolutely the best option out there. However, as you can see in my current data, it’s not completely cut and dry depending on what your electricity and natural gas prices are. If you’re already using a standard electric water heater, it’s a no-brainer to go heat pump. Again, upfront costs really aren’t that different right now with all the rebates available from utilities, state and federal rebates. In some cases, it can be cheaper to install a heat pump water heater … and then the long term benefits after that.