Heat Pump Water Heater

Definition: A water heating system that uses electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly, typically moving heat from the air to the water.

Relevance to energy: Heat pump water heaters can be 2-3 times more energy efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters, significantly reducing energy consumption for water heating.

Benefits:

  • Highly energy efficient
  • Can provide dehumidification as a side benefit
  • Lower operating costs than traditional electric water heaters

Drawbacks:

  • Higher upfront cost than traditional water heaters
  • May not work well in very cold spaces
  • Can produce some noise during operation

Statistics: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pump water heaters can save a household of four approximately $350 per year on electric bill