This past fall Rheem, a leading provider of water heaters since the 1920′s, introduced their NEW hybrid heat pump water heater. Due to demand, Rheem has come out with a 40 gallon model as well.
Now you might be wondering “What is a heat pump water heater?” and “Will Myrtle Beach, SC plumbers install them?”
To answer the first question . . . a heat pump water heater has a heat pump mounted on top of the water heater. The heat pump pulls heat out of the surrounding air and utilizes a compressor to intensify the heat, this heat is then transferred to the water, and the cooler air is exhausted. To visualize the process, think of a refrigerator operating in the reverse.
In Myrtle Beach, this is a very efficient way to heat water since the average temperature in our region is over 40 degrees. Installing in an attic or garage carries the added benefit of cooling the area where the water heater is installed along with dehumidification. Rheem recommends air space around the heat pump of 1,000 cubic feet (10′ x 10′ x 10′ room). In other words, laundry rooms and closets would not be suitable for the Rheem Heat Pump Water Heater.
The Rheem HP50RH Heat Pump Water Heater is Energy Star approved with a 2.0 Energy Factor. It offers twice the efficiency of a standard tank type electric water heater which can save you every month on your electric bill! Using Santee Cooper’s published rates of $.0.0888/kWh for Non-Summer season and $0.0988/kWh for Summer Season, annual expected savings for a homeowner are in the range of $228.00 – $254.00 depending on individual usage.
Need more convincing? The Rheem Hybrid Electric Water Heater qualifies for Federal tax credits up to $1,500. The Federal tax credit is limited to 30% of energy efficient building property and cost of installation through 2010, with a total limit of $1,500.
Need more? 10 Year Limited Tank and Parts Warranty from the Manufacturer.
Need more? See Rheem’s attached Estimated Homeowner Payback Chart!
To answer the second question . . . a resounding yes! Fogarty & Fogarty Plumbing will be offering it’s customers both Rheem Heat Pump Water Heaters. However, due to demand and availability, please allow at least one week to get your water heater in.
