Considering a change to your home’s hot water supply? Hybrid water heaters, also known as heat pump water heaters, are becoming much more common.
What is a Hybrid Water Heater?
Hybrid water heaters combine the energy efficiency of a heat pump with the simplicity of a standard water heater. Hybrid water heaters use electricity to create heat instead of creating their own heat like a standard water heater. However, during periods of high hot water use, they automatically switch to standard electric resistance heating, which is what makes them hybrid.
How Does a Hybrid Water Heater Work?
Using a heat pump, hybrid water heaters pull heat from the surrounding air into evaporator coils. Inside the evaporator coil is refrigerant, which allows it to absorb heat from the air and heat the water. A heat exchanger heats the water in the tank to the desired temperature before it heads to your faucets, showers and appliances.
Hybrid water heaters do not run all the time, which makes them incredibly efficient. During periods of high hot water demand, the water tank fills to meet the demand, which means hot water will always be available.
Hybrid Water Heater Pros
Lower Electric Bills
With their increased energy efficiency, hybrid water heaters will save you hundreds of dollars on energy bills each year.
Better for the Environment
Heat pumps are more energy efficient than standard hot water heaters, which means they use less electricity (and no natural gas), thus reducing emissions.
Tax Incentives and Rebates
For extra savings, make sure to look into current federal and state tax incentives and rebate programs, and rebates offered by Energy Star.
Hybrid Water Heater Considerations
Upfront Cost
Hybrid water heaters usually cost more than standard water heaters. Keep in mind that your lower electric bills ultimately mean earning this back.
Space
Hybrid water heaters need quite a bit of space – at least 1,000 cubic feet. Space is needed in order for there to be enough warm air for a hybrid water heater to function properly.
More Maintenance
Hybrid water heaters require draining and regular filter cleaning, and the heat pump will also require servicing.
Contact A.F. Smith Electric if you’re considering a hybrid water heater. We are happy to give an estimate and discuss if it’s the right choice for your home!