According to EnergyStar, water heating is the second largest energy use in the home. Choosing an efficient water heating system can reduce energy consumption as well as impact your indoor water use by cutting down on the time you wait for hot water to reach your faucets and showers. Whether building a new home or business; or retrofitting your property, you may want to consider upgrading from a standard electric storage tank water heating system to save water, energy, and money.
What is a heat pump water heater (HPWH)?
HPWHs work by extracting heat from the air surrounding the unit, increasing heat further with compression, delivering the heat to the water and exhausting the remaining cool air back out to the area surrounding the unit. HPWHs can use less than half the energy that standard electric heaters do.
What is a tankless water heater?
A tankless water heater provides on demand hot water without the use of a storage tank. Cold water is sent to the heating unit and is released as hot water through your faucet. Tankless water heaters can be heated with natural gas or with an electric coil. Since there is no need to heat an entire water tank, they can deliver a continuous supply of hot water when needed.
What is a Point of Use (POU) Water Heater?
POU water heaters work to reduce heat loss that generally occurs in a centralized water heating system. POU devices are installed at a distance from the central water heater, near a fixture or appliance where additional heat is needed. They are usually small enough to fit in a cabinet or closet and provide a source of hot water close to the distant fixtures, creating a decentralized heating system. POUs can be beneficial for additions with remote bathrooms, or hot tubs.
What is a hot water recirculating system?
A hot water recirculating system delivers hot water on demand to reduce wait time and waste while the water running from your faucet or shower is being heated. A recirculating pump sends cold water that is in the hot water line back to the water heater, instead of allowing it to run through the faucet and down the drain. At the same time, the system fills the hot water line with hot water from the heater. When hot water reaches the system, the zone valve closes, and the pump shuts off automatically. Demand hot water recirculation systems can be activated by a thermostat, timer, switch, or run continuously. In switch systems, the user manually recirculates the water before use to ensure the lowest amount of energy and water waste. In a continuous system, the recirculating device is constantly pumping, always ensuring hot water, but also using significant energy. Pumps are typically installed at the water fixture located farthest from the water heater to allow for full recirculation in the system.
How do I determine which hot water system is best for my property?
Learn more at Energy Star and the Department of Energy. The Energy Saver 101: Water Heating infographic shows a visual comparison of costs and benefits to assist you in choosing your efficient water heating system.
Does Valley Water offer a rebate for water heating systems?
No. However hot water recirculating systems can be installed for a relatively low cost of $200-300. Read Valley Water’s Hot Water Recirculation Pilot Study to learn about the potential water savings associated with these systems.
The initial cost of installing a tankless water heater or heat pump water heater is higher than a traditional water heater. However, in the long run, generating hot water on demand can save water, energy, and money. You may be able to receive a federal tax credit for installing an Energy Star certified water heating system. Visit Energy Star Rebate Finder to see if you qualify.