Heat Pump Water Heaters

A heat pump water heater is significantly more energy efficient than an electric, oil, or gas water heater.  They can be up to twice as efficient as electric resistance water heaters.  According to ENERGY STAR, heat pump water heaters can be up to three times more efficient than standard gas/oil or electric water heaters.  Heat pump hot water heaters drop the temperature a couple of degrees in the room in which they are installed while they are running.  While doing so, they help dehumidify, which can be a benefit in a basement. The resulting condensate must be properly drained from the area.

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They work most efficiently in areas with temperatures between 40° and 90° F year-round.  They need at least 1,000 cubic feet of air space, which is roughly the size of a room that's 12 ft by 12 ft by 7 ft.  They are typically taller than normal water heaters and noisier when the compressor runs.  The most common type of HPWH available is a 240-volt unit which may require an electrical upgrade to supply 240 volts to the heater.  New, 120-volt units are available on the market.  Heat pump water heaters are typically installed in garages, basements, and laundry rooms.  If installed in a laundry room the heat pump water heater uses the waste heat from a dryer.