How to install a heat pump water heater?

A heat pump water heater (HPWH) is a type of electric water heater that can provide both hot and cold water by using the same pipes. It’s basically two different appliances in one. A heat pump is a device that uses energy from the electric grid to generate heat at a central location. At the same time, it can also move that heat to another location, like a residential home. The heat pump can be reversed to provide cold water in the summer by using the same pipes that already bring hot water into your home. When installing a heat pump water heater, you have two primary choices – installing a freestanding model or installing it inside an existing water heater. In this blog post, we will explain the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed decision if this is right for you and your home.

What is a heat pump water heater?

Freestanding vs. In-line

In-line heat pump water heaters are installed inside an existing water heater (a storage tank). The main advantage is that the installation is much simpler than installing a freestanding model. A freestanding heat pump water heater requires the installation of an extra water line. In-line models also benefit from having a larger water tank due to less space being used for the heat pump and related components. However, if you already have an existing water heater, there may be reasons why you would choose a freestanding model. If your existing water heater is on the small side and the heating load is fairly low, a freestanding heat pump water heater may not be large enough to meet your needs. If you have a large water heater, a freestanding model may not be an option. If you want to install a heat pump water heater in a large enough tank to accommodate all your hot water needs, a standalone unit is your only viable option.

Pros and Cons of installing a freestanding heat pump water heater

Pros - Easy to install - No need to run new water line - Can use the same pressure relief valve that is in the current water heater - May be a good option for renting where you can’t make alterations to the building’s plumbing - More cost effective than installing a new water heater - Can be installed on a slab, which may not be possible if you are installing inside an existing water heater - Can be installed in any room - May be able to use an existing water softener as long as it’s large enough - Can be used to provide both hot and cold water - Can be used for both domestic and commercial water heating - Can be used for rooftop solar panels - Can be used for other energy efficiency upgrades

Pros and Cons of installing a heat pump water heater inside an existing water heater

Pros - No need to run new water line - May be a good option for renting where you can’t make alterations to the building’s plumbing - Easy to retrofit into an existing water heater - Can be used to provide both hot and cold water - Can be used for both domestic and commercial water heating - May be able to use an existing water softener as long as it’s large enough - Can be used for rooftop solar panels - Can be used for other energy efficiency upgrades - Can be installed in any room - Can be installed on a slab - Easy to maintain - Can be installed in a retrofit water heater opening

Conclusion

The decision to install a heat pump water heater is a big one. It’s important to do your research and decide which option is right for you and your home. If you have a freestanding water tank, you can install a heat pump water heater in the same location. However, if you have an existing water tank, you may not have enough room for a heat pump water heater. If you have an existing water tank that is too small, you may want to consider upgrading to a larger tank. No matter which option you choose, it’s important to do your research to make sure you get the best model for your home.