7 Best Heat Pump Water Heater: The Ultimate Guide
Finding a heat pump water heater may require a lot of research. Furthermore, there is no straightforward way to contrast all the various models and retailers. This article takes a close look at the best heat pump water heaters that are both high-quality and reasonably priced.
There are numerous hybrid water heater producers and sellers. Research and an understanding of the systems are necessary to find the best water heaters at a reasonable cost. Rheem and A.O. are a couple of the leading brands. Steibel Eltron and Smith. Home Depot or Lowe’s are good places to look if you’re looking for a retailer to buy your hybrid water heater from and possibly even have it installed.
A huge advantage can come from knowing where to start your search.
You’ll find all the information you need in this article to choose the best hybrid water heater for your house. We sincerely hope you find it useful!
Table of Contents
Best Heat Pump Water Heater
Rheem Proterra Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater
The Rheem heat pump water heater is the best hybrid water heater in our opinion. One of the most dependable and popular items in this category is the ProTerra Hybrid heater.
To improve the unit’s aesthetic appeal, the outer body is painted a traditional gray color. Additionally, the device runs without a hitch and boasts a 400% increase in efficiency over conventional electric water heaters. Please allow us to go over the advantages and disadvantages of this heat pump water heater.
One of the smartest and most effective water heaters available is this Rheem ProTerra Electric Hybrid. Customers looking for a model that truly conserves energy can rely on this one. The heater also lessens carbon footprint by utilizing energy up to a staggering 75% less.
The water heater falls under the energy rebate model classification and is fully qualified for regional, national, or other utility rebates. The manufacturer advises that buyers are eligible for up to $300 in federal tax credits and $1000 in general utility rebates.
The entire water heating system is clever and includes WiFi and the EcoNet app that are built-in. Users can track power usage, hot water availability, energy usage, and control various modes very easily.
You will undoubtedly save $460 annually on energy costs thanks to its energy efficiency mechanism.
To remove any bothersome buildups at the tank’s bottom, the body has a self-cleaning mechanism. Easy draining is made possible by the premium brass drain valve, and unwelcome mineral buildup is avoided by the stainless steel components.
For households with 2-4 occupants, this heat pump hot water system is a great option. In homes with two or more bathrooms, the hybrid system performs effectively. Even though the system distributes the water to numerous faucets, the flow of your hot water won’t ever be compromised.
The whole thing comes with an easily accessible electrical junction box for a quicker hookup and is simple to install.
The Rheem ProTerra Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater can heat the water to a maximum temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
An entirely glass-lined tank for corrosion prevention, an overheat protection system, and a temperature-pressure relief valve for smooth operation are additional impressive features. Additionally, the device has a vacation mode that keeps everything running smoothly while you’re away.
A ten-year warranty and a one-year labor warranty for in-home service are included with this Rheem hybrid heat pump. For more information on the guarantee, customers can contact customer service.
A. O. Smith Signature Premier Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater
For almost a century, the A.O. Smith Signature Premier Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater has dominated the hybrid water heater industry. Numerous homeowners cite this model’s slender and sleek design as one of the best space-saving options.
Compared to other hybrid models, this heat pump water heater from Lowe’s is also very affordable. The model is easily accessible on the Lowe’s website and in store locations.
Your water heating costs can be cut by up to 73% thanks to this Energy Star-certified water heater model. The ultra-saving model offers a full payback within two to three years of purchase.
Money and its effectiveness go hand in hand. Comparing this to conventional electric water heaters, you can save over 3,000 dollars over the course of ten years, or about $306 per year.
A user-friendly electric interface is used by O. Smith heat pump technology to monitor temperature, operational mode selection, and other temperature readings. Depending on your preference, the temperature is displayed on the device’s simple temperature display in either degrees Fahrenheit or degrees Celsius.
For households with three to four people, this hybrid pump heater is the best option. The massive demand for hot water in numerous rooms can be easily handled by the system.
Two backup 4,500-watt copper heating elements on the heater can easily and quickly deliver 66 gallons in the first hour.
Slim and tall construction makes installation of the hybrid heater simple. It occupies a smaller amount of space than other hybrids.
To protect the tank while further reducing corrosion, the tank is outfitted with a protective anode rod and a ceramic fused tank shield.
For a more effective water heating system, its four modes—a hybrid, electronic, vacation, and efficiency—can be dialed back and adjusted.
In order to keep dirt and dust from getting inside this hybrid heating system, the filter is simple to clean.
According to the area codes and laws in your area, this specific model might be eligible for some tax credits and rebates for energy efficiency.
Rheem Rtex-24 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Fully tankless water heating is what this Rheem RTEX-24 water heater offers. The device operates with a maximum voltage of 240 volts.
It is best for basements and tiny houses thanks to its ultra-thin diameter and gray alloy steel color. To find out why this model was chosen as an alternative, let’s look at the specifications.
In a short amount of time, the Rheem RTEX-24 Electric Tankless Water Heater provides an unbroken stream of hot water. For single point-of-use applications, this on-demand water heater is indisputable best.
You can benefit from the luxury of on-demand continuous hot water throughout the day because the system doesn’t use any enormous storage tanks to store or heat water.
The entire system is reasonably small and has a digital temperature control that ranges from 80°F to 140°F in increments of 1°F. The temperature can be customized to the preferences of the user.
In comparison to other models in this category, the manufacturer claims that this device is 99.8% energy efficient.
To increase the longevity of the water heating system, this tankless water heater is fitted with strong copper immersion heating elements. Brass is used for the heater’s brass top, which has threaded parts for simple, hassle-free replacements.
The installation instructions for the device are fairly straightforward. It only takes a few minutes for users to install this system.
Depending on the application, the device can output a variety of GPM. A dishwasher can have a flow rate of 1 to 2 GPM, whereas a typical water-saving shower head can have 1.5 GPM.
Camplux 3.18 GPM Gas Tankless Water Heater
Camplux 3.18 GPM Gas Tankless Water Heater is the second option we have. The product was designed for those who want to switch from using electric water heaters.
This water heating system’s primary power source is either propane or natural gas. Let’s examine the details to learn more about this tankless water heater’s advantages and disadvantages.
A sleek black tempered glass panel can be found on this water heater that runs on propane. The water heater is entirely automatic, aside from its design. The front features an automatic temperature control system, a fully functional touch screen, and an LED display that shows information like the current temperature and GPM flow.
Apartments, houses, and tiny homes that only require one or two hot water faucet connections at once are the best places for this gas tankless water heater.
The device’s child locking technology is a great addition that raises the bar for security.
An additional flame failure device, dry combustion protection, anti-freeze protection, and a safe electronic ignition system are additional crucial features. The water heating system is kept far from any dangerous mishap thanks to these various systems.
The temperature range for the heating system’s 3.18 GPM water flow output is 95 to 149 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of the system can be changed to suit the environment, the application, and personal preferences.
For safer and more energy-efficient operation, the device also includes a horizontal stainless steel vent pipe.
Stiebel Eltron Tankless Heater
The Navien Tankless Water Heater by Stiebel Eltron is our final but certainly not least product. For homeowners who favor electric water heating systems, this stylish water heater is a great option. If you don’t want to spend tens of thousands of dollars on heat pump water heaters, the model is perfect.
With German Advanced Flow Control technology, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus Tankless Water Heater maintains a constant water temperature throughout your shower or other application processes.
The appliance can quickly heat cold water. Customers do not have to wait for hot water to flow continuously for 15-20 minutes.
Even a tiny basement or house corner can be used to install the device. For small spaces and homes, its sleek and compact design is best. Additionally, the system does not require venting, so you will undoubtedly save money during the installation process.
An electronic switch that was activated allowed this tankless heating system to run almost completely silently.
This single-phase system can be powered by a 208 V electric power supply.
This device uses a very strong heating element with a copper sheath enclosed inside an equally strong copper cylinder, in addition to having an excellent flow rate.
For a better and more dependable end product, the entire water heating system is designed and manufactured in Germany.
Accurate temperature delivery is made possible by the additional digital displays. The system is incredibly silent when in operation, aside from the intelligent digital display.
Richmond Hybrid Electric Water Heater
Another fantastic device that provides high-quality, low-maintenance hot water at a reasonable price is the Richmond hybrid electric water heater. Menards is where you can purchase this item. In 16 states throughout the Midwest, Menards is a chain of home improvement stores similar to Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Depending on your needs, this water heater comes in sizes of 50, 65, and 80 gallons. All models support Wi-Fi, allowing you to manage your water heater using a smartphone or other mobile device. They include a 2-year in-home labor warranty in addition to a 10-year tank warranty. These units have a return on investment of two to three years, and over the course of ten years, they can save you up to $4,800.
Up to four times more efficient than conventional electric water heaters, all of the sizes are EnergyStar certified.
Electrolux Electric Hybrid Heat Pump Dual Vent Water Heater
Some people claim that Amazon has everything. And the same is true for heat pump water heaters. They do carry this brand, which has extremely high-quality products and includes free delivery, despite the fact that it might not be the most user-friendly choice for a water heater.
This particular unit has a capacity of 66 gallons, making it suitable for a household of three to five people. Amazon offers a single size for this item. At $2,500, this appliance can reduce energy costs by up to 70%.
With a 1-year labor warranty, a 10-year parts warranty for the unit, and a 15-year tank warranty, Electrolux’s warranty is among the best available. It is certified under EnergyStar and Northern Climate Tier 2. As an additional feature, the water heater has three distinct operating modes: auto, economy, and heater.
How They Work
Instead of producing heat directly, heat pump water heaters use electricity to transfer heat from one location to another. They can therefore be two to three times more energy-efficient than traditional electric resistance water heaters. Heat pumps function like a refrigerator in reverse to move the heat.
While a refrigerator pulls heat from inside a box and sends it into the surrounding room, a stand-alone air-source heat pump water heater pulls heat from the surrounding air and transfers it — at a higher temperature — to heat water in a storage tank. A standalone heat pump water heating system is available as an integrated unit with a built-in water storage tank and backup resistance heating elements. Another option is to retrofit a heat pump to function with an existing traditional storage water heater.
Installation of heat pump water heaters calls for spaces with year-round temperatures between 40 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 to 32.2 degrees Celsius) and at least 1,000 cubic feet (28.3 cubic meters) of air space around the water heater. There are two options for exhausting air that passes over the evaporator: the room or the outside.
Since they have a tendency to cool the environment they are in, heat pump water heaters cannot function effectively in cold environments. Their effectiveness will increase if you install them in a room with a lot of heat, like a furnace room.
An air-source heat pump system that combines heating, cooling, and water heating can also be installed. When it’s cold outside and when it’s warm inside, these combination systems draw heat from both sources to heat the interior. Any type of air-source heat pump system performs better in a warm climate because they remove heat from the air.
Geothermal heat pumps are commonly used by homeowners to heat and cool their homes. These devices draw heat from the earth in the winter and from the indoor air in the summer. For water heating, you can add a desuperheater to a geothermal heat pump system. The compressor of a heat pump produces superheated gases that are used to heat water in a small, auxiliary heat exchanger known as a desuperheater. Once at the storage water heater tank in the home, this hot water circulates through a pipe.
Tankless or demand-type water heaters can also use desuperheaters. The desuperheater uses extra heat in the summer that would otherwise be released to the ground. The geothermal heat pump may meet the majority of your hot water needs if it is used frequently in the summer.
You’ll need to rely more on your storage or demand water heater in the fall, winter, and spring when the desuperheater isn’t producing as much excess heat. Triple-function geothermal heat pump systems from some manufacturers are also available; these provide hot water, cooling, and heating. To supply all of a household’s hot water requirements, they use a different heat exchanger.
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Choose A Heat Pump Water Heater
Systems for heating water with heat pumps typically cost more up front than those for heating water with traditional storage heaters. They do, however, have lower operating costs, which can offset higher purchase and installation costs.
Before buying a heat pump water heating system, you also need to consider the following:
- Size and first hour rating
- Fuel type and availability
- Energy efficiency (energy factor)
- Overall costs
See our information about air-source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps if you’re thinking about installing an integrated water heating, space heating, and cooling heat pump system in your home.
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Installation & Maintenance
Your heat pump water heating system’s energy efficiency can be maximized with proper installation and maintenance.
Numerous factors must be taken into account for proper installation. The type of fuel, the climate, the requirements of the local building code, and safety concerns are some of these variables. It is therefore best to have your heat pump installed by a licensed plumbing and heating contractor (or geothermal heat pump system installer/designer).
Do the following when selecting a qualified professional:
- Request cost estimates in writing
- Ask for references
- Check the company with your local Better Business Bureau
- Ask the business if it will adhere to local building regulations and obtain a permit if that is required.
The lifespan and efficiency loss of your water heater can be significantly reduced with routine maintenance. For specific maintenance suggestions, consult your owner’s manual.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Best Heat Pump Water Heater Frequently Asked Questions
How Valuable Are Heat Pump Hot Water Tanks?
Although it’s a common misconception that heat pump water heaters are expensive and time-consuming to install, these hot water systems are actually worthwhile in the long run.
The entire process uses a very small amount of energy because these heat pump water heaters take heat from the air and convert it into hot water. The majority of water heaters use electricity to operate (see also “Best Water Heater Stand For Any Heater Out There”), but they are still three times more effective and economical than a typical tank storage water heater.
These heat pump water heaters can save a lot of money, energy, and greenhouse gas emissions when installed and used in the right circumstances. Although these tanks may cost more up front, they are less expensive to operate over time.
Choosing a heat pump water heater is the best option if your home is large and requires a constant flow of hot water for cleaning, cooking, and other uses.
A Heat Pump Water Heater Costs How Much?
Price differences between models of heat pump water heaters can be substantial. Compared to standard tank or tankless water heaters, these water heaters are unquestionably more expensive.
The price of a basic water heater can range from $300 to $400, while the price of a 50-gallon heat pump water heater is typically around $1,100. The price of more sophisticated heat pumps can range from $150 to $2,000, but they have a larger tank capacity, additional features, and a longer warranty.
Additionally, you will need to budget for any additional installation costs associated with heat pump water heaters. It’s always a better idea to let the experts handle the installation because the device can be a little complicated to set up.
These costs might seem higher, but you will end up saving a lot of money over the course of your life on taxes and electricity.
Are Heat Pumps And Water Heaters The Same Thing?
No, heat pump water heaters are distinct from conventional water heaters. The same function is carried out by both of these water heaters, but the method used to heat the water differs.
These pump water heaters draw air in from the environment. The pipes and water are heated as the air circulates through the chambers. The process also results in colder air that is ventilated to other areas of the house. Similar to your refrigerator, but operating in the opposite direction, are these heat pumps.
Pump water heaters use less energy than conventional ones because of this procedure. On the other hand, a typical electric water heater will heat the metal tubes as the water flows through them, making the water hot while the process is taking place.
How Much More Expensive Are Heat Pump Water Heaters?
It is true that heat pump water heaters are more expensive than tank or tankless water heaters. Their base price ranges from a few thousand dollars and can be quite expensive depending on the features.
In contrast, a standard water heater costs $300. A basic breakdown of the expense can look like this:
- Unit cost: For 50 to 80-gallon tanks, hybrid water heaters range in price from $1,200 to 2,500.
- Installation cost: The cost of professional dispensing on your system can range from $600 to $1000.
- Additional supplies and tools: Soundproofing, additional materials, and tools that can run close to $300 may be required.
Because of this, installing and purchasing these heaters is expensive. The tax breaks, electricity bill savings, and reduced carbon footprint are the only things that make the investment worthwhile. Within the first three years of installation, your system will pay for itself.
Final Words
It can be difficult to find the best hybrid hot water heater for your requirements. Your options may be constrained by size, warranty, or cost. Fortunately, all of the best cheap heat pump water heaters offer high-quality products, reliable warranties, and a strong return on investment.
We hope this guide has saved you some time in your search for a high-quality inexpensive hybrid hot water heater, whether you are planning to purchase from a local chain or hardware store or are looking to shop online.
I appreciate you reading.