But heres something you might not realize: your water heater could be thebiggest energy drain of all.

Enter the heat pump water heater.

And theres another reason to consider the switch: new energy regulations.

The Department of Energy is rolling outtougher efficiency standards by 2029, meaning the market is shifting.

Here’s what you oughta know before considering aheat pump water heater.

How does a heat pump water heater work?

Once the water is hot, it can be circulated throughout the home.

Richardson compares the process to that of a refrigerator, just in reverse.

A heat pump water heater flips that process around.

Cooling effect during the summer:Heat pump water heaters carry some unexpected impacts too.

Because these systems work by taking heat from the air, they have a natural cooling effect.

A heat pump water heater reduces your reliance on gas, potentially improving the air quality within your home.

Most indoor spaces can work, it is potentially limiting.

He said you could expect the lead time for installation to be one to three weeks on average.

How much do heat pump water heaters cost?

Richardson said there are financial programs that can bring the cost down significantly.

That cost may drop further asInflation Reduction Act rebatesare made available.

This makes them a worthwhile investment for most homes.

Should you buy a heat pump water heater?

but you’ll start seeing savings on your energy bill almost immediately.

There are situations in which a heat pump water heater might not be ideal.