Why Install a Heat Pump Water Heater?

Most heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are two to three times more efficient than traditional electric water heaters, and have lower operating costs. However, HPWH systems typically cost more to buy and install than traditional heaters, and must be installed in an appropriate space such as a garage or basement. To learn more about whether a HPWH is right for your home, please speak to one of our energy counselors at 360-992-3355 or try this interactive heat pump water heater selector tool

How Heat Pump Water Heaters Work

HPWHs work like a refrigerator, but in reverse: While a refrigerator pushes heat from inside the unit out to the surrounding air, a HPWH uses fans and an evaporator to pull warmth from the surrounding air, then transfer it to water in the storage tank.

Let us Help You!

We currently offer a $700 rebate for qualifying Tier 3 and 4 HPWHs replacing electric storage water heaters in existing homes. We also offer an $800 rebate for split system heat pump water heaters replacing electric storage water heaters in new and existing homes.

*Please note heat pump water heaters purchased at an Oregon Lowe’s or Home Depot store receive the $700 rebate at the point of purchase (instant rebate).

To Qualify for Your Rebate:

  1. Homeowner must live in Clark County and follow all local code and permitting requirements. If your home is within city limits, you must also check with your city building division and make sure to comply with city-specific code and permitting requirements.
  2. Existing single-family and manufactured homes all qualify for the heat pump water heater (HPWH) rebate. In existing homes, the HPWH must replace an electric storage water heater on a one-for-one basis.
  3. HPWHs must be new and (1) listed on the HPWH qualified products list as meeting Tier 3 or 4 requirements of the Northern Climate Specification, and (2) installed according to manufacturer’s specifications.
  4. HPWHs can be self-installed or installed by a heat pump water heater contractor. If the heat pump water heater installed requires ductwork (in conditioned space) it must be contractor installed.
  5. Whether installed by a contractor, non-contractor or homeowner, the installer must view a manufacturer training video prior to installation of the installed HPWH equipment, if available. On the Heat Pump Water Heater Form for your rebate, you must list the website for the training (Manufacturer Training Location) as well as the date that the installer viewed the training video (Date of Training). If you hire a contractor to do the installation, please ask them for this information so you can include it on the form. If this information is missing, we will not be able to process your rebate.
  6. Complete our Heat Pump Water Heater Form, attach your purchase receipt/invoice and return it to Clark Public Utilities as indicated on the form.
  7. NOTE: Limited to one heat pump water heater rebate per household.

You should receive your rebate check in the mail within 6 to 8 weeks.

Questions? Please contact us or call 360-992-3355 to learn more about rebate eligibility and our list of approved installation contractors.

Your energy savings and project costs will vary. Program requirements and rebate amounts are subject to change without notice. We do not endorse any particular contractor, manufacturer or product. We make no express or implied warranties of these products or installations.