When the time comes to install a water heater, it’s crucial to consider many factors. Energy efficiency and cost are top of mind for most homeowners. Let’s compare two types of water heaters: heat pump water heaters and tankless water heaters.
What Are Heat Pump Water Heaters?
Today, heat pump water heaters utilize the same technology as heat pump HVAC systems. They will transfer heat from the surrounding air into the water tank instead of burning fuel to generate heat. This differs from the process of a conventional water heater.
Overall, this heating process is more energy efficient. For that reason, this heat pump type remains quite popular among homeowners.
What Are Tankless Water Heaters?
Tankless water heaters will only heat water when it’s needed. The heat will be generated when appropriate as opposed to storing the hot water inside a tank.
Because these are tankless, they’re usually much smaller than other water heater types. This makes tankless water heaters ideal when space is limited.
Heat Pump Water Heater Vs Tankless Comparison
Homeowners need to consider the following when choosing a type of heat pump: cost, lifespan, performance, safety, and energy efficiency.
Let’s take a look at how heat pump water heaters and tankless water heaters compare in these key areas.
Overall Performance
Heat pump water heaters can come in an array of sizes. They can be sized to meet the demands of the household, so you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water.
Tankless water heaters can be a little less reliable. These heaters work best for small houses and apartments. Tankless water heaters can struggle to meet the demands of a larger household.
Energy Efficiency
Heat pump water heaters are seen as the more energy efficient option. They are more efficient than conventional electric resistance heaters because they do not generate heat.
Tankless water heaters are also more efficient compared to conventional heaters. Without the presence of a tank, they are not susceptible to stand-by heat loss.
Longevity
The average heat pump water heater will last between 12-15 years. Meanwhile, a tankless water heater can last upward of 20 years.
Safety
Heat pump water heaters are regarded as the safest option for homeowners. This is due to the fact that they do not burn fuel, meaning there’s no risk of carbon monoxide leaks.
Gas-fired tankless water heaters do have a risk of carbon monoxide leaks because they burn fuel.
Price
Heat pump water heaters are generally priced between $1,500-$3,000. However, the installation of these heaters makes homeowners eligible for incentives that can reduce the overall cost.
Tankless heaters cost between $800-$2,000, but they are not eligible for any federal tax incentives.
Conclusion
Heat pump water heaters typically come out on top in most categories near and dear to the hearts of homeowners. They are more energy efficient and safer, overall. If your home is quite small, though, tankless heaters can be quite effective, as well.
For more information, feel free to reach out to the HVAC professionals at Tru Comfort Heating & Cooling today!
Tru Comfort Heating & Cooling In The Phoenix Valley
At Tru Comfort Heating & Cooling, we deliver reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to enhance comfort and water quality. Whether you need HVAC installation, repair, maintenance, or water treatment solutions, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
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