Do you have questions about electric hybrid water heaters? Explore our FAQs.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters, also known as heat pump water heaters, use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. This process makes them two to three times more energy efficient than standard electric resistance water heaters and can cut water heating costs by up to 60%. Electric hybrid water heaters have a tank gallon capacity similar to standard models, with the same range of temperature adjustments.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters use a proven energy-efficient technology to heat water for residential use. Switching to an electric hybrid water heater can reduce your electric water heating costs by up to 60%. Use our interactive tool to find out if an electric hybrid water heater is right for your home.

A. If you are familiar with the elements of installing a standard electric water heater, the Do It Yourself guide goes over the basics of installing your own electric hybrid water heater.

A. While electric hybrid water heaters fall into several types or categories, only those referred to as “integrated,” “standalone” or “drop-in” are ENERGY STAR® qualified according to the current ENERGY STAR standard. These units are designed to replace standard electric water heaters. Find an electric hybrid water heater retailer here.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters work in all types of places and are a great option for Northwest homes. When selecting an electric hybrid water heater, it is important to take your climate into consideration. The Advanced Water Heater Specification Qualified Products List will help you find the right electric hybrid water heater for your location.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters are a bit larger than standard electric water heaters. The size varies depending on manufacturer and capacity (such as 50-gallon or 80-gallon tanks). While features vary, most units have a control panel on the front of the tank that allows homeowners to adjust the temperature and operation mode. In addition to standard water heaters connections, electric hybrid water heaters also have a drain to remove condensation generated by the unit.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters come in different sizes. The most common size currently on the market is 50 gallons. Consumers replacing a standard electric water heater with an electric hybrid water heater of the same size should not notice a significant change in the amount of hot water available.

Manufacturers do not recommend adding an insulating blanket to an electric hybrid water heater. Unlike older water heaters, electric hybrid water heaters have thick insulation around the tank, so the water inside only loses 8% (or 10 degrees Fahrenheit) of its heat in a 24-hour period. The addition of an insulating blanket also introduces the risk of blocking the heat pump’s air intake and outlet, which can cause damage and keep your water heater from working properly.

A. The purchase price of an electric hybrid water heater is generally higher than the cost of a standard electric water heater, but utility rebates, tax credits and promotions can significantly reduce the purchase price. Plus, the unit typically pays for itself in about 3 years by significantly reducing household energy use, saving you money almost instantly. Numerous factors can affect the unit price, including geographic location, installation complexity, model selected, and contractor rates. Contact a professional installer for an estimate.

A. Replacing a standard electric water heater with an electric hybrid water heater can cut water heating energy consumption and costs by up to 60%. This saves the average homeowner up to 10% on their home's electricity bill. *

*Based on energy usage and savings statistics from the Regional Technical Forum and the U.S. Department of Energy.

A. Check our list of available utility rebates before installing a new electric hybrid water heater.

Please confirm rebate level, availability and requirements with your utility prior to purchase and installation.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters are more interactive than standard electric water heaters. Most electric hybrid water heater models feature a control panel that allow homeowners to select water temperature and operation mode. Reference your manufacturer-provided manual for instructions specific to your electric hybrid water heater.

A. Unlike standard electric water heaters, electric hybrid water heaters use an air filter that needs to be cleaned periodically to ensure efficient operation. Other maintenance needs are similar to those of standard electric water heaters.

A. Electric hybrid water heaters can be installed in a variety of locations, from an unheated garage to a heated utility room. Things to consider include space, sound, air temperature and the unit's size/height. Visit our installation locations page for additional information.

A. Energy efficiency levels and features of electric hybrid water heaters vary by product tier. Higher tier products have greater efficiency and more advanced product features, and may qualify for different rebates.

A. Major manufacturers of electric hybrid water heaters typically offer 10-year warranties on their products; while the average standard electric water heaters has a 6-year warranty. Please contact your electric hybrid water heater’s manufacturer for more details.

A. It is normal for water to drain out of your electric hybrid water heater's condensate line. All electric hybrid water heaters have a condensate drain line to remove water that has condensed from the warm air that was drawn into the unit to heat the water in the tank.

A. Start by checking for a manufacturer label on the side of your water heater. If it has a label, it should include the installation date. If the label is missing, or the installation date is not listed, you can use the serial number to determine the age of your unit. Visit the serial number decoder.