Hey everyone! I'm a homeowner in East Tennessee, and I'm thinking about replacing my old electric tank water heater from the 90s. The utility company is offering a nice rebate for heat pump water heaters, but I'm concerned about the upfront cost since they seem to be pricier than regular ones. I've also noticed a lot of negative reviews for many brands. Given all this, should I take the plunge on a heat pump model, or would it be safer to just replace it with a standard tank heater? Also, since the water heater would be located in a basement garage directly beneath a bedroom, how noisy are these heat pumps? Appreciate any advice!
3 Answers
I installed a Rheem Proterra hybrid electric heater about a year ago and I'm really happy with it! I've noticed a drop in my electricity bill compared to the electric tank heater it replaced, and I've had zero issues with it so far. Just to keep in mind though, you should check the noise levels since it’ll be under a bedroom. Mine's been quiet, but some models can be noisier!
I recommend looking into the Rheem Proterra. It's super efficient, but I’d say don’t go smaller because recovery time can be an issue. I did notice that prices can go up where there are rebates, which is a bummer. Just make sure it works in the space you have and check if any modifications are needed for the installation!
What modifications might be required for installing a heat pump? I currently have a standard electric setup.
Installing a heat pump shouldn’t be far off from a standard electric one unless you have to modify ductwork. It’s mostly about the unit cost.
Heat pump water heaters are definitely more energy-efficient than standard electric tanks. They can save you up to 70% on your electricity use! However, they do take up a bit more space and can be noisier than standard tanks, especially in colder months when their efficiency drops. If you can find a well-reviewed model and don't mind the extra space and upfront cost, a heat pump could be a better investment in the long run!
What kind of noise does yours make? That location has me a bit worried about sound!