Standard Electric or Heat Pump? How to Choose the Right Bradford White Water Heater for Your Home

How They Work: Creating Heat vs. Moving Heat

You’re probably familiar with the standard electric water heater. It’s been a staple in American homes for decades.

However, as energy costs rise and technology advances, the Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH)—often called a “hybrid electric” heat pump water heater—has emerged as a game-changing alternative.

The fundamental difference between these two systems lies in how they generate heat.

Standard Electric Water Heaters

A standard electric water heater works much like an electric stovetop. Inside the tank, large electric “resistance” elements heat up when electricity passes through them. These elements are submerged in the water, transferring heat directly to the tank. While effective, this process requires a significant amount of electricity because the unit has to “create” the heat from scratch.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

A hybrid electric heat pump water heater, like the Bradford White AeroTherm^® Series G2, works like a refrigerator in reverse. It draws heat from the surrounding air and transfers it to the tank.

Because it is moving heat rather than just creating it, a heat pump water heater is incredibly efficient—using up to 70% less electricity than a standard electric water heater*. Heat pump water heaters can also use traditional electric elements to boost performance when needed. The AeroTherm^® Series has five (5) different operating modes so you can choose the level of performance and efficiency that works best for your family’s needs.

Key Differences for the Homeowner

1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

   Efficiency is a significant factor when comparing a heat pump water heater with a standard electric water heater. Because of their heat transfer technology, heat pump water heaters are the most energy-efficient electric water heaters on the market today.

   • Standard Electric: Reliable and effective. Typically the second largest user of electricity in your home behind your HVAC system.
   • Heat Pump: Heat pump water heaters can be up to 3-4 times more energy efficient than a conventional electric water heater. This can dramatically reduce your energy bills and save you money for years to come. (Can save a household of four (4) about $550 per year, and more than $5,600 over the lifetime of the unit.*)

2. Installation Requirements

   Where you plan to put your water heater is an important consideration when choosing between a standard electric and heat pump water heater.

   • Standard Electric: These units are compact and do not require airflow. This makes them very convenient because they can be installed in tight spaces like closets, crawlspaces, or tight basements.
   • Heat Pump: Heat pump water heaters need “breathable” space. Because they pull heat from the air, they require a certain amount of cubic feet (usually around 700 cu. ft.) or a louvered door to ensure they have enough ambient air to operate efficiently. The unit must also be installed near a drain to discharge condensate from the heat pump. Your plumbing professional can help you determine the best location for your heat pump water heater. Need a plumbing professional? Find a plumbing professional near you here.

3. Upfront Investment vs. Long-Term Value

   • Standard Electric: With a lower initial purchase price, reliability and outstanding performance, these models are still a great replacement option.
   • Heat Pump: The upfront cost is higher due to the advanced compressor technology, but these units essentially pay for themselves (and more) in energy savings over their lifetimes. Many homeowners qualify for local utility rebates, which can significantly lower your initial price tag. Visit our Rebate Center to find rebates for your area.

Which One Should You Choose?

A Standard Electric Water Heater is best for you if:

• You need a replacement for a very tight space with no airflow.
• You have a lower upfront budget.
• You want a good, reliable solution with outstanding performance and good efficiency.
• You aren’t looking for the added efficiency available with a heat pump water heater at this time.

Learn more now. Check out Bradford White’s line of reliable, trustworthy residential electric water heaters.

A Heat Pump Water Heater is best for you if:

• You want to significantly lower your monthly utility bills.
• You have the budget for a higher up-front cost.
• You have an installation space that meets the airflow requirements.
• You want to take advantage of rebates.

Ready to learn more? Check out the AeroTherm^® Series G2 Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heaters from Bradford White.