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Mark
Boyer, center manager for Gorman-Sarasota, a
division of Hajoca Corporation, explained that “heat
pump technology is already a known and proven
quantity in our warm climate so the [Rheem] HP-50
should work very well here especially if the
homeowner has the product installed in an attic, a
garage, or any other interior space whose ambient
temperature is higher than the outdoor
temperature.
The
HP-50 may cost more than a conventional electric
water heater, but when the public sees the
relatively rapid payback, they’ll be open to
investing a bit more up front.” Steve Nadel,
Executive Director of the American Council for an
Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found Rheem’s
first-to-market Heat Pump Water Heater to be
significant because it “should save consumers
money over the life of the product because it is
so much more efficient than alternatives.
Having
a major manufacturer [like Rheem] join this market
will also help increase consumer confidence in
heat pump water heaters.” The new crossover
technology of the Rheem heat pump water heater
offers an industry- leading Energy Factor (EF) of
2.0, or more than twice the energy efficiency of a
standard electric storage water heater. The
average annual operating cost will be between $225
and $280, or roughly half that of even the most
efficient standard electric water heaters on the
market today.
The
energy saving design reduces the average family’s
carbon footprint by nearly two tons annually. In
addition, the Rheem heat pump water heater
qualifies for a federal tax credit as well as many
state and utility rebates and incentives. HVAC
contractors will find the slim line, more portable
design a great solution for spaces with limited
access making this replacement and retro-fit
friendly product design ideal for attics and
garages where excess heat is commonly found. Air
source HPWHs perform best in climates with average
annual temperatures above 40 degrees, but even in
colder northern climates basement boiler and
furnace rooms can provide the warm air that a heat
pump water heater needs to be effective.
ACEEE’s
Nadel says “that heat pump water heaters can
also be a very effective dehumidifier for many
homeowners with damp basements.” Things are
changing and product category boundaries are
blurring due to innovative technology, the
intensifying consumer search for new and better
efficiency and home comfort solutions, and the
world’s overarching energy and environmental
concerns. What a great time to be an HVAC
contractor – that is, if you make the changing
market work for you.
About Rheem Manufacturing Company
Rheem Manufacturing Company (www.rheem.com) is privately held with headquarters in Atlanta. In its 82nd year of operation, the company manufactures a full-line of high-quality residential and commercial heating and cooling systems; tank, tankless, solar, and heat pump water heaters; swimming pool heaters and commercial boilers throughout North America and world markets. The company’s premium brands, including Raypak, Ruud and Rheem, have been recognized with countless industry and consumer awards for reliability, innovative design, and high quality. Rheem is the official heating, cooling, and water heating supplier to Kevin Harvick, Inc. and is the primary sponsor of NASCAR’s Nationwide Series “Driver of the Decade,” Kevin Harvick and his #33 car.
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