How to Install a Hybrid Water Heater (Heat Pump) in 15 Easy Steps: DIY Instructions

In this comprehensive step-by-step guide, we will explore how to install a hybrid water heater.

If you’re considering upgrading to a more efficient and advanced water heating solution, a hybrid water heater is a great option.

We will provide you with essential tips, expert guidance, and detailed instructions to ensure a successful installation. From understanding space requirements to plumbing and electrical connections, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to unlock the benefits of a hybrid water heater and enjoy improved energy efficiency and comfort in your home.

Let’s explore the process of installing a hybrid water heater together.

Overview of Hybrid Water Heaters

Hybrid water heaters, also known as heat pump water heaters, are an excellent choice for households situated in warmer regions where electricity is the primary energy option. These innovative systems operate by extracting heat from the surrounding air and transferring it to the water within the tank. As a result, they not only provide hot water but also cool and dehumidify the room simultaneously.

Ideal for installation in warm areas, hybrid water heaters take advantage of the warm ambient air to enhance their performance. By doing so, they offer homeowners a cost-effective solution that can significantly reduce their electricity consumption for hot water by half or even more. This impressive energy efficiency stems from the fact that hybrid water heaters are designed to heat water with more than three times the efficiency of traditional gas or electric models.

With a heat pump positioned on top of the unit, the majority of the workload is handled by this component. In cases of high demand, the unit will activate heating elements to provide additional power and deliver hot water at the desired temperature. This dynamic functionality ensures a reliable and consistent supply of hot water while maximizing energy efficiency.

Benefits of Installing a Hybrid Water Heater

Installing a hybrid water heater offers a range of benefits for homeowners, making it a smart choice for both immediate and long-term gains.

Energy Efficiency

Hybrid water heaters use heat pump technology to extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water. This process is far more energy-efficient than traditional gas or electric water heaters, leading to lower monthly utility bills and long-term cost savings.

Environmental Impact

By reducing energy consumption, hybrid water heaters help lower greenhouse gas emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice. This contributes to a greener, more sustainable home.

Versatile Installation Options

These systems offer flexibility in installation. You can place them in locations like basements, garages, or utility rooms, where they can take advantage of warm ambient air to enhance performance. This versatility allows you to optimize space and choose the most suitable location for your home.

Reliable Hot Water Supply

Hybrid water heaters provide a consistent and reliable supply of hot water. They activate heating elements when demand is high, ensuring a steady flow of hot water even during peak usage periods.

Cost Savings & Sustainability

In addition to the immediate savings on energy bills, hybrid water heaters contribute to a sustainable future by reducing environmental impact. They offer both cost savings and environmental benefits, making them an excellent investment.

Things to Consider When Installing a Hybrid Water Heater

Reminder: Safety first. Never work on an electrical device with the power on. Keep in mind that improper installation can result in risks such as electrocution, fire, or water damage.

While hybrid water heaters are similar to electric water heaters, in terms of installation simplicity, it’s important to be aware of their larger dimensions. They are typically taller and wider, and the plumbing and electrical connections may be located differently. Take these factors into consideration to ensure a successful installation.

Location

Hybrid water heaters are designed for indoor installation in dry rooms that are not subject to freezing, with an optimal ambient air temperature above 45°F (or as specified by the manufacturer). Ensure the floor beneath the unit is structurally strong enough to support its weight for stability, and install a metal pan underneath to prevent water and condensate leaks from damaging the surrounding area.

The ideal location is near the center of your water heating system or close to the most demanding application. Hybrids draw heat from surrounding air, whether indoor or outdoor, so avoid cold, unprotected areas or rooms with limited space and airflow.

Hybrids can be installed in garages, basements, laundry rooms, or attics, but the space must meet the following conditions:

• Temperatures should remain between 40°F and 90°F for efficient operation.
• The space must be protected from low temperatures, leaks, and potential property damage.
• Ensure the required clearances around the unit (typically 6-7 inches, but refer to your model’s installation manual for specifics).

In mild climates, hybrids perform best where temperatures stay above 34°F and below 145°F. In cooler climates, place the unit in a basement near a furnace to take advantage of warm air and reduce humidity. Heated garages can also work but may increase energy costs. In warmer climates, garages offer a more consistent temperature, making them ideal.

If the unit struggles to supply enough heat, consider adding a backup heating source. Avoid placing the unit near bedrooms or living spaces due to the noise it produces during operation.

How Much Space Does a Hybrid Water Heater Need?

An average hybrid water heater, such as the Rheem ProTerra with a 50-gallon capacity, measures 62” x 22” and weighs approximately 180 lbs. These units are similar to electric water heaters but include a heat pump on top, making them taller than a typical electric unit.

Most manufacturers recommend a space of approximately 100 square feet, or a 10×10 room, with a ceiling height that can accommodate a tall unit. This means crawl spaces, attics, and rooms with low ceilings are not suitable for installation.

Air Intake

To operate effectively and without ducts, hybrid units require at least 700-750 cubic feet of surrounding air space and with no additional ventilation required. If the unit is installed in a smaller room, a proper connection to the adjacent room must be provided. Installing louvered doors, for example, would allow your heater to pull the air from the nearby room.

Ductwork and Ventilation

Your hybrid water heater may be ducted to the outdoors or some other suitable place (recommendations can be found in the manual). When installing a ductwork, make sure it is installed as straight as possible, and the maximum length is not exceeded.

Hybrid water heaters produce cool air as a byproduct of the heat pump operation. Proper ventilation is essential to ensure the unit operates efficiently and to prevent the accumulation of cool air in the surrounding area. Verify the manufacturer’s recommendations for ventilation requirements and ensure that they can be met in the installation location.

Piping

Install piping that is suitable for potable water only.

Assess the existing plumbing connections in your home. Hybrid water heaters usually require both cold water and hot water connections, as well as a drain line for condensation. Ensure that the necessary connections are available and accessible in the desired installation location.

Condensate Drain

As an addition, the condensate line with the required slope must end in the appropriate drain and away from the water heater or other suitable spot using the condensate pump.

Electrical Requirements

Hybrid water heaters often require electrical connections for powering the heat pump component. Verify the electrical specifications of the unit and ensure the appropriate wiring and outlets are in place.

Most hybrids, such as AO Smith Voltex, require a 240 VAC single phase and 25-amp power supply.

It is recommended to have a professional technician perform the installation.

Note: You might also need a permit for installation.

15 Easy Steps to Install a Hybrid Water Heater

Gathering Materials and Tools

Gathering the necessary materials and tools for the installation of a hybrid water heater is a crucial step to ensure a smooth and successful process.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Required materials for installation:

• Hybrid water heater unit
• Water heater pan
• Plumbing fittings (such as connectors, valves, and pipes)
• Electrical wiring and connectors
• Insulation materials (if needed)
• Teflon tape or pipe sealant
• Mounting brackets or straps (if required)
• Pipe insulation (for hot water pipes)

Necessary tools for the job:

• Adjustable wrench
• Pipe wrench
• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Pipe cutter or hacksaw
• Tape measure
• Level
• Pliers
• Wire strippers
• Voltage tester
• Drill and appropriate drill bits
• Pipe threader (if necessary)
• Safety gloves and goggles
• Sealant gun (if using pipe sealant)

Instructions

1. Shut the power off. Shut the power off to your existing water heater and leave it off until the new water heater is installed. Turn off the power on the main electrical panel by switching the breaker to the off position.
2. Turn off the water supply. Use the main shut-off cold water valve to turn it off.
3. Drain the old water heater. Empty the tank. Use one end of the garden hose and connect it to the drain valve located at the bottom of the water heater. The other end should run outside or terminate in the nearby drain. Be aware that it takes some time (a few hours) before all the water is drained.
4. Disconnect the pipes. Disconnect the water pipes connected to the water heater. Depending on the pipe type used (copper, steel, or flexible metal braid pipe), you might have to cut it down or simply unscrew the fittings.
5. Disconnect electrical connections. Disconnect the wires and label them to reconnect them back in the correct order easily.
6. Put the new hybrid water heater into desired space. Place the new unit on a hard Styrofoam insulator or wooden blocks. Also, use a drain pan to collect potential dripping. Make sure a water heater is level before you proceed.
7. Connect the fittings. The best way to connect your new hybrid to the home plumbing is by using copper pipes fittings and soldering them together. It is recommended to use unions on both the hot and cold sides so you can easily disconnect them when needed. The other option, which is much easier, is to use metal braided flexible hoses. If not sure, use the type of pipes to match the existing water line. Also, you might want to install a mixing valve to have better control of the hot water temperature and a new shut-off valve.
8. Install a condensation drain line. Make sure that the drain line has a downward slope to allow proper drainage and away from the heater.
9. Install a vacuum valve. If needed, install a vacuum valve near the top of the water heater to prevent potential damages to the heater.
10. Check a TPR valve. Make sure that the temperature and pressure relief valve is installed correctly, including the discharge pipe, and both are functioning correctly with no obstruction.
11. Expansion tank. In the case of the closed system, install an expansion tank to prevent extreme temperature and pressure increase.
12. Fill the tank. Ensure that the drain valve is closed and open the main shut-off valve to fill the tank. Open a nearby hot water faucet for several minutes to allow the air to escape the tank.
13. Reconnect the power. Follow the manufacturer’s manual for the proper electrical connection.
14. Turn the power on. Ensure that the water heater is full of water before turning the power on. This helps avoid dry firing and damage to the unit.
15. Run the unit and check for leaks. After your hybrid water heater is installed correctly, air filter set, tank filled with water and connected to electrical power, press the power button to turn the unit on. Let it run a system diagnostics. Once complete, select the heating mode and temperature. The recommended temperature range is between 120 and 125 F.

Watch this video to understand better how to install a hybrid water heater yourself.

Other Considerations

• Thermal Expansion Tank. For new installations with a closed water system, a thermal expansion tank is necessary to prevent excessive pressure buildup.
• Temperature and Pressure Relief Valves (T&P). As required by code, a T&P valve with a discharge pipe is essential to prevent excessive pressure inside the tank.
• Mixing Valve. To prevent scalding burns, install a mixing valve that regulates water temperature and ensures safe water temperatures at all times.
• Drain Pan. Install a drain pan underneath the water heater to collect any drips and protect your property from potential damage caused by condensation or leaks. The drain valve should be two inches wider than the heater and connected to a drain.
• Seismic Strapping. If required by code, secure the unit with seismic strapping to ensure stability during an earthquake or other seismic events.
• Pipe Insulation. If water heating pipes are exposed to low temperatures, insulate them with foam sleeves or another approved material to prevent freezing.
• Important Reminder. Never operate the water heater if the tank is not full. Running the unit without water can cause the heating elements to overheat and become damaged (dry fire). After filling the tank with water, check for leaks and open a nearby hot water faucet to allow any trapped air to escape.

What’s Next?

Setting the temperature and operation modes of your hybrid water heater is essential to customize its performance and meet your specific hot water needs.

The User Interface Module provides a convenient way to adjust the operating modes, offering you the flexibility to choose between hybrid, electric, efficiency, and vacation modes.

The hybrid mode optimizes energy efficiency by utilizing the heat pump as the primary heat source, with the option to activate the heating elements when additional heating support is necessary. In contrast, the electric mode relies solely on the heating elements and is considered the least efficient mode. The efficiency mode exclusively utilizes the heat pump, making it the most energy-efficient option.

To maintain the optimal performance and efficiency of your hybrid water heater, regular inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and servicing are essential. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance will help ensure reliable operation and extend the lifespan of your unit.

While this article includes basic instructions on how to install a hybrid water heater as a DIY project, it is important to note that if you lack the appropriate tools, knowledge, or have any uncertainties, it is best to seek professional assistance.