Heat Pump Water Heaters
Updated February 20, 2026
Highly efficient systems that use electricity to move heat from air or ground to heat water. Can reduce energy costs by 60%.
Overview
Heat pump water heaters (hybrid water heaters) extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water -- like a refrigerator in reverse. 2-3 times more energy efficient than conventional electric resistance heaters. They use electricity to move heat rather than generate it, which dramatically reduces operating cost. Most models include backup electric elements for high-demand periods (hybrid mode). The tradeoff: higher upfront cost, need ambient air temperature above 40 degrees F, and they cool and dehumidify the space they are in.
Key Features
- 2-3x more efficient than standard electric water heaters (UEF 2.0-3.5)
- Heat pump extracts warmth from ambient air -- works like an air conditioner in reverse
- Hybrid mode: heat pump for normal use, electric elements for peak demand
- Cools and dehumidifies the surrounding space (benefit in summer, drawback in winter)
- Qualifies for federal tax credits and utility rebates -- often -1000+ in incentives
Sizing & Selection
Available in 50, 65, and 80 gallon tanks. Because the heat pump recovery is slower than electric elements, size up from what you would buy in a standard electric heater. A 50-gallon heat pump replaces a 40-gallon standard. A 65-80 gallon is recommended for families of 4+. Needs 700-1000 cubic feet of ambient air space around it (roughly a 10x10 room minimum).
Installation
Same water connections as a standard tank water heater. Requires a 240V dedicated circuit (30 amp). Needs adequate air space -- do not install in a small closet. The unit is taller than standard tanks (60-70 inches) to accommodate the heat pump on top. A condensate drain is needed (the heat pump produces condensation like an air conditioner). Professional installation recommended due to electrical and condensate requirements.
Maintenance
- Clean the air filter every 3-6 months -- it is on the top or side of the unit. A clogged filter reduces efficiency dramatically.
- Check the condensate drain line annually for clogs. A blocked drain can cause water damage.
- Flush the tank annually just like a standard tank water heater -- sediment still accumulates.
- The anode rod still needs replacement every 3-5 years.
- Heat pump components (compressor, fan) add maintenance complexity vs standard electric.
Buying Tips
- Rheem ProTerra, A.O. Smith Voltex, and Bradford White AeroTherm are the top residential models.
- Federal tax credit (30%% of cost, up to ) plus state/utility rebates can reduce the effective cost to near-standard electric prices.
- Do not install in a space that is already heated -- the heat pump will cool that space and your HVAC will work harder to compensate.
- Garage, basement, or utility room installation is ideal -- free cooling/dehumidification as a bonus.
- Operating cost savings of -400/year vs standard electric. Payback period is typically 3-5 years after incentives.