Heat Pumps vs. Traditional Gas and Electric Water Heaters

Over the past few decades, heat pump water heaters (HPWH) have become increasingly popular in the United States. And for good reason, too. Heat pump water heaters - also known as hybrid water heaters - are the second most energy efficient and environmentally friendly option (after solar).

As a result, they are inexpensive to operate and have a much lower carbon footprint. Many homeowners can save $200 to $600 per year by switching to a heat pump. They cost more to install than traditional water heaters. But because the savings are so high, these systems often pay for themselves quickly. Next the heat pump water heater supplier will cover the principles of heat pump water heaters, how heat pumps compare to traditional gas and electric water heaters.

How does a heat pump water heater work?

Instead of relying on electricity or natural gas, vortex water heaters draw heat from the surrounding air to heat water. In other words, they move energy rather than produce it. As researchers at the Department of Energy say, "Heat pumps work just like refrigerators. Whereas a refrigerator draws heat from the inside of the box and vents it into the surrounding room, a stand-alone air-source heat pump water heater draws heat from the surrounding air and vents it at a higher temperature into the tank to heat the water. " You can learn more by checking out a recent article we wrote ：Why Choose a Heat Pump Water Heater？

Vortex Water Heater

Heat Pumps vs. Traditional Gas and Electric Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters cost about $800 more than the cheapest standard gas and electric models. This begs the question: Is the extra money worth it?

Cheaper Operating Costs

In addition to looking at the upfront cost of the water heater, it's also important to look at the annual operating costs. This is because vortex water heaters typically use about 20% of your home's total energy. Consider that the typical homeowner spends between $1,500 and $2,500 per year on energy A heat pump water heater is typically four times more efficient than standard gas and electric models. This means the average home will save about $300-$400 per year. In other words, a hybrid heat pump will pay for itself in 2 or 3 years. Over 10 years, it will save you $3,000 to $4,000.

Longer Warranty

In addition to the annual savings, you'll usually get a longer warranty on your heat pump water heater. For example, basic gas and electric water heaters come with a 6-year warranty. The cost to get a 9-year warranty is about $100. Heat pumps, on the other hand, come with a 10-year warranty.

Better incentives

When you purchase a hybrid water heater, there are also many opportunities for discounts. If you'd like to see if your city, state or utility offers incentives, visit the State Renewable Energy and Efficiency Incentives Database.

Lower carbon footprint

By far the best feature of heat pumps is their low carbon footprint. With the exception of solar water heaters - which are still very expensive in much of the U.S. - heat pumps are the most environmentally friendly water heaters available. Because of their high energy efficiency, heat pump water heaters emit on average four times less than conventional gas and electric models.