Why Heat Pump Water Heaters Are Unsung Heroes of Efficient Homes
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Water heaters are emerging as a key upgrade for energy savings, decarbonization, and long-term cost efficiency. Rheem’s ProTerra heat pump water heater is setting a new standard.
When people think about building or upgrading a high-performance home, their attention often goes to the sleek kitchen appliances or high-efficiency HVAC systems. But a critical piece of the energy-efficiency puzzle is often hidden away in a garage or utility closet: the water heater.
"Water heating is the second-biggest energy consumer in most homes, right behind HVAC," says Scott Cohen, director of marketing for Rheem’s water heater division. “Switching to a heat pump water heater can dramatically reduce energy use—and carbon emissions.”
That’s one reason Rheem’s ProTerra Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater was chosen for installation in all three homes at VISION House Las Vegas, a showcase project by Green Builder Media in partnership with Beazer Homes. These high-performance homes—designed to meet DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home criteria—demonstrate how smart systems and thoughtful design work in tandem to achieve low-carbon living.
More Than Just Efficient
The ProTerra hybrid water heater uses heat pump technology to cut water heating energy consumption by up to 75% compared to conventional electric water heaters. “It’s the most energy-efficient water heater you can install in a home today,” says Cohen. “And thanks to federal tax credits, state rebates, and utility incentives, the cost of installation can be comparable to a traditional unit.”
In the VISION House models, the unit costs just $170 annually to operate. Add in longevity—the product has a 10-year warranty—and the economics become even more compelling.
Now in its fifth generation, the ProTerra is optimized for both new builds and retrofits. “We made it even easier to install by offering top and side piping options,” Cohen says. “For retrofits, there may be minor modifications like condensate drains or optional ducting, but it’s a straightforward process.”
In hot, dry climates like Las Vegas, placing the unit in the garage has the added benefit of expelling cool, dry air, helping offset summer heat.
Smarter Operation, Greater Control
The ProTerra offers multiple operational modes—from ultra-efficient heat pump-only to high-demand settings for busy households. Through connected technology, users can control temperature, monitor usage, and optimize efficiency with ease.
And it's not just for single-family homes. Rheem also offers commercial-grade versions for multifamily and large-volume applications.
"At Rheem, we see every product as an opportunity to move the needle toward decarbonization,” says Cohen. “The ProTerra is proof that everyday systems can—and should—do more.”
Cati O’Keefe is the editorial director of Green Builder Media. She has 25 years of experience reporting and writing on all aspects of residential housing, building and energy codes, green building, and sustainability.
Why Heat Pump Water Heaters Are Unsung Heroes of Efficient Homes
Water heaters are emerging as a key upgrade for energy savings, decarbonization, and long-term cost efficiency. Rheem’s ProTerra heat pump water heater is setting a new standard.
When people think about building or upgrading a high-performance home, their attention often goes to the sleek kitchen appliances or high-efficiency HVAC systems. But a critical piece of the energy-efficiency puzzle is often hidden away in a garage or utility closet: the water heater.
"Water heating is the second-biggest energy consumer in most homes, right behind HVAC," says Scott Cohen, director of marketing for Rheem’s water heater division. “Switching to a heat pump water heater can dramatically reduce energy use—and carbon emissions.”
That’s one reason Rheem’s ProTerra Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater was chosen for installation in all three homes at VISION House Las Vegas, a showcase project by Green Builder Media in partnership with Beazer Homes. These high-performance homes—designed to meet DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home criteria—demonstrate how smart systems and thoughtful design work in tandem to achieve low-carbon living.
More Than Just Efficient
The ProTerra hybrid water heater uses heat pump technology to cut water heating energy consumption by up to 75% compared to conventional electric water heaters. “It’s the most energy-efficient water heater you can install in a home today,” says Cohen. “And thanks to federal tax credits, state rebates, and utility incentives, the cost of installation can be comparable to a traditional unit.”
In the VISION House models, the unit costs just $170 annually to operate. Add in longevity—the product has a 10-year warranty—and the economics become even more compelling.
Now in its fifth generation, the ProTerra is optimized for both new builds and retrofits. “We made it even easier to install by offering top and side piping options,” Cohen says. “For retrofits, there may be minor modifications like condensate drains or optional ducting, but it’s a straightforward process.”
In hot, dry climates like Las Vegas, placing the unit in the garage has the added benefit of expelling cool, dry air, helping offset summer heat.
Smarter Operation, Greater Control
The ProTerra offers multiple operational modes—from ultra-efficient heat pump-only to high-demand settings for busy households. Through connected technology, users can control temperature, monitor usage, and optimize efficiency with ease.
And it's not just for single-family homes. Rheem also offers commercial-grade versions for multifamily and large-volume applications.
"At Rheem, we see every product as an opportunity to move the needle toward decarbonization,” says Cohen. “The ProTerra is proof that everyday systems can—and should—do more.”
Check out this video for more on this game-changing product.
By Cati O'Keefe
Cati O’Keefe is the editorial director of Green Builder Media. She has 25 years of experience reporting and writing on all aspects of residential housing, building and energy codes, green building, and sustainability.Also Read