Heat Pump Water Heaters for WA, OR, Northern & Southern CA
HEAT PUMP WATER HEATERS SHRINK EMISSIONS AND YOUR ENERGY BILLS!
Most homeowners are familiar with heat pump technology as it applies to heating and cooling a home. Heat pump water heaters use the same technology to heat water, which can result in an efficiency that’s two to three times greater than that of a standard electric water heater.
Simultaneously saving money and reducing your carbon footprint is a magical feeling, but the science behind these water heaters is anything but sleight of hand. Heat pump hot water heaters use evaporation and compression technology to remove heat from the ambient air and transfer it to heat the water. This is a sharp contrast to other technologies that use gas burners or electric heating coils, which are brute force by comparison and not nearly as efficient.
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If you’re looking for an energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly replacement for your old water heater, our experts can help you find the best solution. Our certified installers specialize in all makes and models, including electric heat pump water heaters.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about our top-tier selection of heat pump water heaters! We’ve been serving our local communities since 1986, including the following areas:
- Bothell, WA
- Auburn, WA
- Gardena, CA
- Richmond, CA
- Troutdale, OR
- Seattle, WA
- Portland, OR
- Los Angeles, CA
What Is a Heat Pump Water Heater?
Heat pump water heaters work much like a refrigerator in reverse. As you may know, refrigerators have a compressor that pulls heat from inside the refrigerator and transfers it outside, sending it into the kitchen. In contrast, hybrid heat pump water heaters use a compressor to collect heat from the surrounding air. From here, the heat is moved to the storage tank so that it can be used to warm up the water.
There are many benefits to installing these green water heaters. For example, many utility companies offer incentives that can dramatically bring down the cost of installing a heat pump water heater.
Are Heat Pump Water Heaters Safe?
As a homeowner, you want to ensure that the water heater you’re installing is not only effective — but also safe. The excellent news is that heat pump hot water heaters are just as safe as other types of hot water heaters on the market, if not more so. Since these water heaters don’t generate heat, you don’t have to worry about harmful exhaust gases potentially entering your home.
Heat pump water heaters can be excellent options for homeowners who are looking to replace an old, inefficient, or leaking electric unit. These high-efficiency water heaters are easy to use and can help you reduce your electric bills over time.
Call (425) 636-7038
for fast service
We Specialize in High-Efficiency Water Heaters!
If you’re ready to get started with your heat pump hybrid water heater, don’t wait any longer for an installation. Instead, turn to the professional team at Fast Water Heater today! We offer same-day installations if you call us by noon, and we stand by our price-match guarantee.
Our experts care about your satisfaction and safety, which is why we’ll go above and beyond to ensure your electric heat pump water heater is installed correctly and according to building codes. You can count on us for all of your needs, including the following:
- Hot Water Heater Installation Services
- Water Heater Maintenance and Repair
- Rheem Water Heaters
- Bradford Water Heaters
Contact us today for more information about our green water heaters! We proudly serve homeowners throughout Washington, California, and Oregon, including those residing in Bothell, Auburn, Gardena, Richmond, Troutdale, Seattle, Portland, and Los Angeles.
Water Heat Pump FAQ
What Is a Water Heat Pump?
A water heat pump works like an air conditioner in reverse—instead of cooling air, a heat pump extracts heat from the surrounding air and transfers it to your water storage tank. Unlike traditional water heaters that generate heat, heat pumps move heat, making them much more energy-efficient.
Why Choose a Heat Pump Over a Traditional System?
The big one is lower electricity bills. Water heat pumps use up to 65% less energy than electric storage systems. Water heat pumps provide reliable hot water supply; no running out of hot water. Then, water heat pumps are eco-friendly, reducing carbon emissions. Finally, water heat pumps provide long lifespans; typically 15-20 years. If you’ve ever run out of hot water mid-shower, you’ll love how heat pumps provide continuous heating while cutting energy costs.
How Do Hot Water Heat Pumps Work?
Here’s the simple breakdown: 1, Air is drawn into the unit, where it absorbs heat from the surroundings using heat pump technology. The concept is similar to a split system air conditioner, where separate units work together to achieve the desired result. 2, The refrigerant inside the system captures the heat and increases in temperature. 3, the compressor boosts the heat to an even higher temperature. 4, this heat is transferred to water inside a storage tank. 5, the process repeats efficiently, keeping hot water ready when you need it.
Think of water heat pumps like your refrigerator in reverse. Instead of removing heat to cool food, the heat pump pulls in heat to warm your water. This efficient method of heating water significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional systems.
Types of Hot Water Heat Pumps: Which One Is Best for You?
Air-Source Heat Pumps (Most Common & Cost-Effective): Uses warm air to heat water; Works well in mild to warm climate; Most affordable heat pump option; Available in brands like Rheem, Stiebel Eltron, and Rinnai Best for: Homeowners looking for an energy-efficient, cost-effective upgrade from electric or gas storage water heaters. Upgrading from a gas hot water system typically requires a new electrical circuit and involves higher installation costs due to the need for both a licensed plumber and an electrician.
Ground-Source (Geothermal) Heat Pumps (Ultra-Efficient, Higher Cost). Uses stable underground temperatures to heat water; More energy-efficient than air-source systems; Higher upfront cost but biggest long-term savings; Requires underground installation. Best for: Homes with large outdoor space and long-term energy savings in mind.
Hybrid Heat Pumps (Smart Efficiency Boost): Combines heat pump + gas or electric backup; Automatically switches modes for optimal energy savings; Ideal for cold climates where air-source pumps struggle; More expensive but best efficiency control. Best for: Homes in colder regions that still want heat pump efficiency without worrying about performance in winter.
Selecting the Right Heat Pump for Your Home
Choosing the right heat pump for your home can feel overwhelming, but with a few key considerations, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs perfectly. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Size of Your Home: The larger your home, the bigger the heat pump you’ll need. A spacious house with multiple bathrooms will require a more robust system to ensure a steady supply of hot water.
Hot Water Consumption Habits: If your household uses a lot of hot water—whether for showers, washing dishes, or laundry—you’ll need a heat pump that can handle high demand. Families with teenagers or multiple occupants often fall into this category.
Number of Bathrooms: More bathrooms mean more simultaneous hot water usage. Ensure your heat pump is capable of delivering hot water to all bathrooms without compromising on temperature or pressure.
Simultaneous Hot Water Usage: Consider how often multiple taps or showers are used at the same time. A heat pump with a higher capacity will be necessary to meet this demand without running out of hot water.
Age of Household Members: Older family members might prefer hotter water temperatures. Look for a heat pump that offers adjustable temperature settings to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Sizing Your Heat Pump System
Properly sizing your heat pump system is crucial to ensure it meets your household’s hot water needs efficiently. Here’s how to get it right:
Determine Total Hot Water Demand: Start by assessing your home’s total hot water demand. This includes the number of bathrooms, the number of people using hot water, and the types of appliances that require hot water. For instance, a family of four with two bathrooms and a dishwasher will have different needs than a couple in a one-bathroom apartment.
Calculate Required Heat Pump Capacity: Based on your total hot water demand, calculate the required heat pump capacity in kilowatts (kW). This ensures the system can handle peak usage times without running out of hot water.
Consider the Coefficient of Performance (COP): The COP measures the efficiency of the heat pump. A higher COP means the system is more efficient, providing more hot water for less energy. Look for heat pumps with a high COP to maximize energy savings.
Choose the Right Features: Modern heat pumps come with various features such as temperature control, timers, and remote monitoring. These features can enhance convenience and efficiency, so choose a system that offers the functionalities you need.
Benefits of Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Heat pump hot water systems offer numerous benefits, making them an attractive option for homeowners and businesses. Some of the key advantages include:
Energy Efficiency: Heat pump hot water systems use up to 70% less energy than traditional electric hot water systems, resulting in significant cost savings.
Environmental Sustainability: By using renewable energy from the surrounding air, heat pump hot water systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial investment in a heat pump hot water system may be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills and reduced maintenance costs make it a cost-effective option.
Space-Saving Design: Heat pump hot water systems are often compact and can be installed in smaller spaces, making them ideal for urban homes or businesses with limited space.
Quiet Operation: Heat pump hot water systems are designed to operate quietly, reducing noise pollution and making them suitable for residential areas.
Heat Pump Water Heaters vs Traditional Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters and traditional water heaters have distinct differences in terms of energy efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. Here’s a comparison of the two:
Energy Efficiency: Heat pump water heaters use up to 70% less energy than traditional electric water heaters. In comparison, an electric storage water heater is generally less efficient over time, making heat pump systems a more energy-efficient choice.
Cost: Heat pump water heaters are generally more expensive to purchase upfront, but they offer long-term cost savings through reduced energy bills. Traditional water heaters, including electric storage water heaters, are often cheaper to purchase, but their operating costs are higher.
Environmental Impact: Heat pump water heaters produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional gas water heaters and electric water heaters, making them a more sustainable option.
Maintenance: Heat pump water heaters require less maintenance than traditional water heaters, as they have fewer moving parts and are designed to operate quietly.
Cost & Installation: How Much Does a Heat Pump Hot Water System Cost?
Selecting a suitable size for a new hot water system is crucial, and the cost of installing a heat pump hot water system can vary significantly.
Basic Air-Source Heat Pump → $2,500 – $4,500 (installed)
Ground-Source (Geothermal) Heat Pump → $5,000 – $10,000
Hybrid Heat Pump System → $4,000 – $7,500
Installation Factors Affecting Cost: New vs. replacement system (upgrading from electric is easier), Plumbing modifications needed, Location & accessibility of the unit
Maintenance Matters: Keeping Your Heat Pump in Top Shape
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your heat pump hot water system operates efficiently and effectively. Here are some tips to keep your heat pump in top shape:
Regular Cleaning: Clean the heat pump’s air filter and condenser coils regularly to ensure optimal airflow and heat transfer.
Check for Leaks: Inspect the system for any signs of leaks or water damage, and address any issues promptly.
Monitor Temperature: Check the temperature settings and adjust them as needed to ensure optimal performance.
Schedule Annual Maintenance: Hire a professional to inspect and maintain your heat pump hot water system annually to ensure it operates at peak performance.
Innovative Features in Modern Heat Pumps
Modern heat pumps come equipped with innovative features that enhance their performance, efficiency, and convenience. Some of these features include:
Inverter Technology: Allows for more efficient operation and reduced energy consumption.
Smart Sensors: Monitor temperature, humidity, and other factors to optimize performance and energy efficiency.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enables remote monitoring and control of the heat pump system.
Advanced Defrosting Systems: Improve performance and efficiency in cold climates.
High-Efficiency Compressors: Reduce energy consumption and increase system lifespan.
Rebates & Incentives: Maximize Your Savings
Attempting to list rebates is a continual shifting target. Rebates are for a limited time. Some rebates can be stacked. Other rebates cover only a certain geography.
Since the government is pushing homes toward these high efficiency water heaters, there’s usually some type of rebate going on at any given time. Since we stay on top of the latest, the best course of action is to call us, and ask what rebates are available in your area.
Call (425) 636-7038
for fast service
Water Heater Restorations
Many thanks to Rob Jacob in our northern California office for performing these wonderful restorations.
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