120v HPWH Research (Phase II)

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120V HPWH Research (Phase II)

About the Research Study

Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) use heat pump technology to heat your water more efficiently than standard water heaters, including electric resistance and gas- or propane-fired water heaters. Typical HPWHs need a 240-volt connection to work, which may require costly electric upgrades in your home. A 120-volt heat pump water heater, however, plugs into a typical electric outlet. Focus on Energy recruited Wisconsin homeowners who will have a 120-volt heat pump water heater installed in their home. Over the next year, performance and energy data will be gathered on these units to determine how well a 120-volt HPWH works in real homes.

Why heat pump water heaters?

You will save energy. Heat pump water heaters are two to four times more efficient than standard water heaters, so your home will use less energy to make hot water.
You may save money, especially compared to electric resistance or propane-fired water heaters. Your bills are likely to be similar if you replace a natural gas water heater.
HPWHs can also dehumidify damp spaces such as basements or unconditioned space.

For more information about this study, email hpwh-study@focusonenergy.com. A final report on the field study findings will be available at the end of 2024.

This research project is a field study in Wisconsin and other Midwestern states to assess cold climate performance for 120-volt heat pump water heaters in the Midwest. The field assessment of 120V HPWHs will validate the performance of this new class of water heaters in cold climates to address decarbonization and energy saving opportunities in Wisconsin. Field validation will provide evidence of performance for the supply chain and help design program strategies to effectively target the best applications.

Implementer: Slipstream
Timeline: March 2023- December 2024
Sector: Residential

Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) use heat pump technology to heat your water more efficiently than standard water heaters, including electric resistance and gas- or propane-fired water heaters.

Many existing HPWHs need a 240-volt connection to work, which may require a costly panel upgrade in your home. A 120-volt heat pump water heater, however, works with any electrical outlet.

Focus on Energy is conducting a field study to test how well 120-volt HWPHs work in real homes.

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