Hybrid water heaters (also called heat pump water heaters) are fast becoming a popular choice for people that want to switch from a standard electric water heater to something more efficient. There are 2 different ways that you can think of in terms of how a Hybrid water heater works:

– First is hybrid water heaters operate the opposite of a refrigerator- by generating the air around it to heat the water inside. Instead of expelling hot air to cool a refrigerator or freezer, a hybrid water heater pulls hot air in to warm the water.

– Another way of thinking about hybrid water heaters is that they operate like a hair dryer- by suctioning in the air around it to then generate hot water inside the tank. A little added bonus with the hybrid water heaters is that because it is pulling the hot air into it, it can help keep your home cooler.

What are the drawbacks of a hybrid water heater?

• Hybrid water heaters are more costly than regular electric water heaters. The technology is newer and the installation is more complex which makes the cost more than a traditional electric water heater.
• Hybrid water heaters occupy more space than a regular tank type water heater. Hybrid water heaters are bigger than most electric water heaters and you will need at least 1000 cubic feet of open-air space around the hybrid water heater.
• Hybrid water heaters require a condensate drain.

If you are interested in changing out your traditional electric water heater, please give us a call at 636-391-1233. We can schedule an appointment for our estimator out to give you a bid to make sure your home is a good fit.