Why are Homeowners Choosing Heat Pump Water Heaters?

The way Americans heat their water is steadily shifting. As homeowners increasingly seek a more energy-efficient lifestyle, heat pump water heaters are emerging as a compelling part of the equation. 

The numbers tell the story: more than 190,000 heat pump water heaters were shipped in the United States last year, marking a significant 35% increase from 2022, according to ENERGY STAR data, and an even bigger increase of nearly 83% from 2020. This surge in adoption isn’t just a trend—it represents a fundamental shift in how homeowners think about energy efficiency and cost savings with their home appliances.

What’s driving this growing transition to heat pump water heaters, and why are more homeowners making the switch? Let’s learn more in an excerpt from the Best Practices for Heat Pump Water Heater Installation course taught by D+R Learn.
You can read the transcript below the video.

Efficiency Gains of a Heat Pump Water Heater

Heat pump water heaters are renowned for their superior efficiency compared to traditional water heaters.

This efficiency is measured using the coefficient of performance, which indicates the ratio of heat output to electrical energy input. Heat pump water heaters typically have a coefficient of performance of 2 to 4, meaning they can produce two to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. This efficiency is achieved through several mechanisms. 

Energy transfer rather than generation  

Unlike conventional water heaters that rely on electrical resistance or combustion to generate heat, heat pump water heaters transfer existing heat from the air to the water. This process requires significantly less energy, as moving heat is inherently more efficient than creating it.

The heat pump cycle enables heat pump water heaters to use a fraction of the energy that traditional methods would require, leading to substantial energy savings.  

Reduced Operating Costs 

The high efficiency of heat pump water heaters translates directly to reduced operating costs. Homeowners can expect to save between 50-70% on their water heating bills compared to conventional electric or gas water heaters.

Over the lifespan of the unit, these savings can amount to several thousand dollars. Making heat pump water heaters an economically attractive option.