Ever wake up to find your shower isn’t getting hot and then learn that your water heater isn’t functioning properly? Getting ready for your day without hot water is neither easy nor enjoyable, but what can you do to avoid this hassle? If you are experiencing warm water woes with your current system, it might be time to start exploring replacement options. In addition to reliable temperatures, the benefits of a new water heater include improved energy efficiency, utility savings, and peace of mind.

Depending on the age of your current model, you may not be aware of how heat pump technology heats water. Heat pumps use electricity to move heat from one place to another, greatly reducing the amount of directly generated heat. When the demand for hot water is high, heat pump water heaters will rely on backup conventional water heater technology to ensure availability. According to Energy.gov, heat pump water heaters can be up to three times more energy-efficient than electric-resistance water heaters.

While the price tags on heat pump water heaters are higher than those on standard electric or natural gas models, the energy savings over the course of the heater’s lifespan will more than offset the upfront cost. To make the upgrade to heat pump water heaters easier on your wallet, California Energy-Smart Homes offers incentives for installing all-electric heat pump appliances, equipment, and technology to replace existing gas end uses and equipment. These incentives are available to property owners making alterations to residential buildings, with an emphasis on increasing energy efficiency. Single-family home owners located in SDG&E®, PG&E®, or SCE® electric service territory are eligible for up to $5,500 in incentives for electrifying their home, and multifamily low-rise (up to three stories) property owners are eligible for up to $3,050 per unit when making the switch to all-electric.