Heat Pump Water Heaters

Course Description

This course introduces how heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) work. Topics include operational modes, design considerations, measuring energy efficiency, fuel types, and cost savings. This course was developed with information provided by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Building Science Education Solution Center https://bsesc.energy.gov/.

Recorded January 2025.

Learning Objectives:

• State the definition and basic function of a heat pump water heater (HPWH).
• Define the various operational modes available in a heat pump water heater.
• Recall the advantages and benefits of using a heat pump water heater from the perspective of consumers.
• Remember the key economic factors and arguments that support the adoption of heat pump water heaters over traditional water heating systems.
• Describe the process and mechanisms involved in how a HPWH works.
• Evaluate the factors to consider when choosing a HPWH.
• Analyze energy efficiency ratings of HPWH.
• Assess the business case for HPWHs.

Course Outline

• What is a Water Heater?

• What is a Heat Pump?

• Heat Pump Modes

• Modes of Operation

• Consumer Benefits of a Heat Pump Water Heater

• Operating Costs

• Cooling Loads and Combustion Safety

• Deciding to Replace an Existing Water Heater

• Payback and Cost Savings

• Consumer Benefits

• How Does a Heat Pump Water Heater Work?

• Considerations When Choosing a Heat Pump Water Heater

• Determining Ideal Size

• Initial Cost of a Heat Pump Water Heater

• Limitations of the HPWH Location

• Other Considerations

• How Do Hot Water Heaters Measure Energy Efficiency?

• Fuel Sources

• Exam