Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from the air and transfer it, at a higher temperature, into the tank to heat the water. Our Heat Pump Water Heater Program provides rebates and quality assurance to PUD customers who install qualified models. A woman adjust the temperature on her heat pump water heater inside of a garage.

Things to Consider

  • Space – Heat pump water heaters require 1,000 cubic feet of air-flow around them. This is the equivalent of a 10 feet by 10 feet by 10 feet space.
  • Sound – Heat pump water heaters generate sounds similar to an electric fan. Consider if this noise can be heard from your bedroom.
  • Cold air – While in operation, heat pump water heaters release cool, dry air into the surrounding space.
  • Size – Heat pump water heaters are slightly larger than standard electric water heaters.
  • Ducting – Some heat pump water heaters will be installed in a location that will require ducting to the outside.

To vent or not to vent?

Heat pump water heaters can be vented directly to the outside so that they do not cool the air around the water heater. If a tank is not vented, it may require at least 1,000 cubic feet of air space. This is roughly equivalent to a 10-foot by 10-foot by 10-foot room.

Hot Water Heater Diagram