Unlike traditional electric resistance water heaters, heat pump water heaters use advanced technology to pull warmth from the air, intensify it through a compressor, and transfer that heat into the water in your tank. Think of it as moving heat rather than creating it from scratch. Conventional water heaters are more like running a space heater and a heat pump water heater is more like a heat shuttle, using minimal electricity to save you money on your energy bill.

• Energy efficiency – Heat pump water heaters are remarkably efficient, using up to 70% less electricity than traditional electric water heaters. It only takes a small amount of electricity to power the heat transfer process. In optimal conditions, they can deliver up to 3x more energy in hot water than they consume in electricity.
  
  
• Better for the environment – By using less electricity, heat pump water heaters can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint. The average household can reduce their water heating carbon emission by up to 50%. This equals taking a car off the road for several months each year.
  
  
• Longer lifespan – Heat pump water heaters typically last 13-15 years, compared to 8-10 for traditional designs. This is due to their advanced technology and overall higher-quality components.

• Professional vs. do-it-yourself – While some homeowners will have the skills and background to self-install, for many, a professional installation will be the right choice. Proper installation requires basic knowledge of plumbing, electrical systems, and local building codes. Proper sizing, placement, and warranty coverage are also things to consider before self-install.
  
  
• Installation location considerations – Ideally, the install location will maintain temperatures been 40-90°F year-round. Attached garages, basements, or utility rooms often work well. The install location should allow for proper ventilation and have enough height clearance for maintenance access.
  
  
• Ventilation requirements – Proper ventilation is crucial for efficient operation. The unit needs good airflow to extract heat efficiently. Installation spaces should be at least 1,000 cubic feet and some installations may require additional venting or ducting to ensure proper airflow.
  
  
• Drainage needs – Heat pump water heaters produce water condensation (like you see on the outside of a drinking glass on a hot day), and must be properly drained. Installation requires access to either a floor drain or a condensate pump. The drainage system should be properly sized to handle the expected water volume (typically several gallons per day).
  
  
• Existing plumbing compatibility – Your existing plumbing must accommodate the new unit’s connections and meet current building codes. Consider factors like pipe size, water pressuring, and shutoff valve locations. Some installations may require updates to existing plumbing to ensure proper and safe operation.
  
  
• Noise and vibrations – To minimize noise due to vibrations; install the unit on a level, solid surface. Installation best practices generally include the addition of earthquake straps and rubber grommets where the unit is attached to the ground or wall to reduce vibrations.
  
  

• Space requirements – Heat pump water heaters need adequate room to operate – typically a space with at least 1,000 cubic feet of air volume. The unit should have several feet of clearance around it for proper air circulation. These are important considerations, especially for smaller homes.
  
  
• Normal hot water usage – Assess your households hot water usage patterns and peak demand times. While 50-65 gallon water tanks are common, consider sizing up when more than two people live in the household. Consider factors like simultaneous shower use, appliance operation, and daily routines when sizing your systems. Most models include backup heating elements to help with periods of high demand. It is also worth considering that heat pump water heaters have a longer recovery time than traditional water heaters, so considering a larger unit will help ensure hot water is always available.
  
  
• Noise considerations – Heat pump water heaters produce sound similar to a window air conditioner (around 45-55 dB). While not loud, this noise should be considered when choosing an install location. Avoid installing units near bedrooms or frequently used living spaces if noise sensitivity is a concern.