How Does a Hybrid Water Heater Work?

Nothing is more frustrating than running out of hot water when you’re trying to take a shower to get ready for work or washing dishes and having the water run cold. Having a reliable water heater can help reduce the chances of this happening and help keep your energy bills in check. Whether your current water heater isn’t working as efficiently as it once did or you're simply looking for an upgrade, a hybrid water heater is one option to consider.

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What Is a Hybrid Electric or Heat Pump Water Heater?

A hybrid water heater, or heat pump water heater, uses two different technologies to heat water: an electric element and a heat pump. Traditional water heaters heat water by generating heat using electricity or gas, while a hybrid water heater draws heat from the surrounding air and transfers it into the tank to warm the water. As a result, hybrid water heaters use far less energy, making them a cost-efficient and eco-friendly option for homeowners.

There are several additional benefits of a hybrid or heat pump water heater:

• Lasts up to two times longer than a traditional tank-style water heater

• Has an improved warranty

• Is easy to install

• Doesn’t require electrical upgrades

• Integrates with most smart homes

• Tends to work better in warmer climates

How Does a Hybrid Water Heater Work?

A hybrid water heater starts heating water by transferring the heat from the air into a water storage tank. As the warm air is pulled in, it passes over evaporated coils containing a refrigerant that absorbs the heat. The refrigerant is compressed, raising the temperature. Then, the hot refrigerant flows through the system, which raises the temperature of the stored water.

This cycle continues over and over until the temperature inside the tank reaches the maximum programmed temperature on the water tank. Hybrid water tanks also have a backup way to heat the water. If the system can’t pull in enough warm air to effectively heat the water, the tank has an electric heating element that acts as a backup.

Because hybrid water heaters transfer warm air from the environment, they tend to work best in environments where the external temperature remains warm.

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How Does a Hybrid Water Heater Differ From a Traditional Model?

If you’re still undecided between a standard water heater and a hybrid model, here are several key differences between the two to consider:

• Mechanics: A traditional hot water heater runs continuously, even when not in use, to keep the water inside the tank warm. The mechanism constantly turns on and off, which can result in wasted energy. With a hybrid water heater, heat is transferred instead of generated, so it uses less energy to maintain the water temperature.

• Energy efficiency: A hybrid water heater doesn’t generate heat; it uses the heat from the surrounding air, so it’s not running constantly. Traditional hot water tanks rely on electrical elements or gas burners, which can use much more energy, increasing your energy bill.

• Initial cost: Hybrid water heaters are more expensive to install and maintain, but the energy savings provides a quick return on investment. A hybrid water heater can also increase your property value, making it much easier to sell.

• Lifespan: Hybrid water heaters have a much longer lifespan than traditional tank systems. With regular maintenance, a hybrid water heater can last 15 years or more, while a traditional tank system has a lifespan of around eight years.

• Environmental impact: Hybrid water heaters are energy-efficient and create fewer carbon emissions, making them much better for the environment over traditional water heaters.

If you're tired of running out of hot water and worried about the environmental impact of your water heater, a hybrid instant water heater may be the perfect choice. It can help you reduce your carbon footprint, and it's an excellent investment for your home.