After heating your interior spaces, water heating is the second largest source of energy use in the average Minnesota home. Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are an energy-efficient way to electrify your home’s hot water. In addition to being more efficient, HPWHs have a lower carbon footprint than traditional water heaters. They’re also safer for indoor air quality, because they don’t use combustion to heat your water. If you’re in the market for a HPWH, keep reading to learn more about these systems and their benefits.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
HPWHs use heat pump technology to heat your water. Instead of creating new heat, they use the heat in the air around the water heater to keep the water hot, making them more efficient and affordable than traditional tank water heaters. Compared to traditional gas water heaters, HPWHs are also more affordable, with lower operational costs.
Other Considerations
HPWHs are good replacements for both traditional gas water heaters and electric tank water heaters, but there are some differences that are worth noting if you’re considering a switch.
HPWHs take warm air from the surrounding area to heat the water, expelling cooler air in the process. The cool air is also dehumidified, which is helpful if the water heater is placed in a humid area, like a basement. This also means the temperature in the space where the water heater is housed may be slightly cooler while the water heater is running, but most people don’t notice the difference.
HPWHs can be taller than traditional tank water heaters, which can make installation more challenging if you have low ceilings, but most homes do not have issues. A contractor can help you determine if you have enough clearance.
While HPWHs reheat water quickly once it’s been used, they aren’t as fast as gas water heaters. If you have a large or growing household, you may want to choose a HPWH tank that is a size up from your gas water heater.
Financial Incentives
Financial incentives for electric water heaters and smart electric water heaters vary based on your location, but may include utility, local, State, and federal opportunities. For full financial incentives details, please visit our incentives page.
Find a Contractor
Electrify Everything Minnesota maintains a Heat Pump Water Heater Installer Network to help homeowners find contractors who are experienced in installing and maintaining HPWHs. All the members of the Installer Network have completed a HPWH training and provided proof of insurance and licensure to Electrify Everything Minnesota. We do not guarantee their work. To find an Installer Network contactor, visit our contractor page.
Heat Your Water with Electricity
Water heating can be a significant part of your home’s total energy use. By transitioning to a heat pump water heater, you can save energy while reducing your home’s climate impact and improving your indoor air quality. If you’re ready to make the switch and you live in Hennepin County or Rochester, contact an Electrify Everything Advisor for more information on your options, the available financial incentives for upgrading, and Installer Network contractors. If you live outside that region and are interested in upgrading, talk to a local contractor for more details.