Is it Worth Getting a Heat Pump Water Heater? – The Pros and Cons of a HPWH
A Heat Pump Water heater (or HPWH) can offer numerous benefits that make it a promising option for homeowners if they want to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It can be a viable option and last a long time. But what are Heat Pump Water Heaters? How do they work, and how much energy can they save? Read on and learn if an HPWH might be something you are interested in!
What is a Heat Pump Water Heater & How Does it Work?
A Heat Pump Water Heater is a hybrid heat pump. An HPWH is an energy-efficient appliance designed to heat water. It will transfer heat from the surrounding air rather than generate heat directly. This prevents it from using as much electricity as traditional electric water heaters. It will draw air into its unit and pass it over a refrigerant-filled evaporator coil. What does the refrigerant do? It will absorb heat from the air and cause it to evaporate and change from liquid to gas. Then, the gaseous refrigerant will be compressed by a compressor, increasing its pressure and temperature incrementally. The hot, pressurized gas will then flow through a condenser coil wrapped around the water tank. The refrigerant will pass through the coil and release heat to the water tank, raising the water temperature. The refrigerant will then cool and turn back into a liquid. It will go through an expansion valve and cool down before returning to the evaporator and repeating this cycle. All in all, this process will heat water up by taking from the air around it.

Heat Pump Water Heater Pros and Cons
Heat Pump Water Heater Pros
Through this detailed process, an HPWH has many advantages, like being energy efficient. They can be two to three times more efficient than traditional water heaters. This is because they use less electricity. This effect translates into lower utility bills for homeowners, who can save an incredible 50f on annual hot water costs. It is also more environmentally friendly than other water heaters because it consumes less energy. Besides its reduced carbon footprint, Heat Pump Water Heaters also have lower operating costs and can last 10-15 years, much longer than traditional water heaters.
Heat Pump Water Heater Cons
HWPHs do have some drawbacks to them. For one, they have a higher upfront cost than traditional water heaters. But once installed, it will last a long time and the operating cost will be much lower than traditional water heaters. They also require more space for installation due to their bigger size. Their operational method can also result in longer heating times, and a backup heating source may be needed, especially during extremely cold climates, which can reduce their efficiency. The installation process is also more complex, so you might need to consult a professional who is knowledgeable about installing it. Overall, it is up to you to decide if you want to invest in an HPWH and are willing to accept the cons that come with it.

Is a Heat Pump Water Heater Right for You?
How can you tell if an HWPH is right for you? While they can leave water stains like traditional water heaters (as shown in the image above), they are more energy efficient, can dehumidify the air, last longer, possess more customized control settings, and reap financial benefits. For example, many governments in the U.S. offer rebates and incentives for installing HPWHs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, a Heat Pump Water Heater might be more beneficial if you don’t live in a climate that gets extremely cold and you don’t have to be concerned with the water heating up fast enough. With high initial costs, it can be balanced by low operational costs and the HPWHs longer lifespan. As a homeowner you can decide if you want to invest in a Heat Pump Water heater. If so, Seattle Heating and Cooling is experienced when installing any water heater. As certified HVAC technicians, we have specialized knowledge in installing HPWHs and ensuring the process is as quick and efficient as possible. You can call us at 253-300-9629 or contact us today to request a quote.

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