Submitted by DonHester on Sat, 02/16/2019 - 10:54.
Heat Pump Water Heaters are Here to Stay
Wenatchee Home Inspections
I am seeing lots of heat pump water heaters in new construction due to the need to meet the required energy credits in Washington State based on size of the home. Since most homes in Washington State fall in the “Medium Dwelling Unit” size category (1500 sq ft to 5000 sq ft) the energy credit requirement is 3.5 credits for the home. http://www.co.stevens.wa.us/landservices/documents/2015WSECWorksheet.pdf
Electric heat pump water heater with a minimum EF of 2.0 and meeting the standards of NEEA's Northern Climate Specifications for Heat Pump Water Heaters will get you 1.5 credits which is a quick way to get credits.
To qualify to claim this credit on the building permit drawings you need to specify the option
being selected and specify the water heater equipment type and the minimum equipment efficiency.
(The Heat Pump Water Heater Evaporator, Lines, Duct and Condenser)
One thing to think about is if you are in a cold climate since the water heater is a “Heat Pump” it is extracting heat from the air and then dispensing cooler air to the environment just as an Air Conditioner would in your home.
Most in the NW will be seeing Heat Pump Water Heaters as they become the norm in new construction.
“Keep a cool head and a warm heart.”
Mike Love
If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.
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