Heat pump water heater installation in Salem

A standard electric water heater makes heat with resistance elements, which draw a lot of power. A heat pump unit moves heat instead of making it, so it uses much less electricity for the same hot water. Most models also carry backup resistance elements that kick in during heavy demand or when the surrounding air gets too cold.

The catch is the setting. A heat pump water heater needs air to pull heat from, a place for condensate to drain, and room for the fan and coil on top. Many Salem garages work well. A tight closet usually does not. We check the space before recommending one, so you are not surprised after it is installed.

How a heat pump water heater moves heat

A fan draws room air across a cold evaporator coil filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant absorbs heat from that air and boils into a gas, which a compressor squeezes until it gets hot. That hot gas runs through a coil wrapped around the tank, passing its heat into the water. The cooled air blows out the other side, and the cycle repeats until the tank reaches temperature.

Space, airflow and the cold air it leaves behind

The unit needs a fair amount of surrounding air to work efficiently, plus clearance above for the fan and filter. Manufacturers list minimum room volumes, and we measure against them. A garage, basement or large laundry room usually qualifies. A small closet may need louvered doors or ducting.

Because it pulls heat from the air, the unit blows out cooler, drier air. In a Salem garage that is usually fine and even helps in summer. Inside living space, that cool air can make a nearby room feel chilly in winter.

• Measure room volume against the manufacturer's minimum
• Leave clearance above for the fan and air filter
• Keep the unit where cool exhaust air is welcome
• Plan for some fan noise similar to a dehumidifier

Condensate drains and electrical needs

As warm air crosses the cold coil, moisture condenses out, just like on a cold drink on a summer day. That water drips into a pan and needs a drain line to a floor drain, a laundry standpipe, or a small condensate pump if gravity will not carry it away. Most heat pump models run on a 240-volt circuit, and many can reuse the old electric tank circuit if it is sized correctly.

Energy Trust incentives and choosing operating modes

Energy Trust of Oregon has offered incentives on qualifying heat pump water heaters for many Oregon utility customers. Offers change, so check current Energy Trust details before you buy, and we can help you confirm the unit you choose is on their qualifying list.

Once installed, the unit can run in efficiency mode using only the heat pump, a hybrid mode that mixes in the elements during heavy use, or electric-only. We set the mode that matches your household and show you how to change it.