Hybrid Tanks
Hybrid Tanks | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | White Pine
When the crisp White Pine mornings hit, you need hot water that shows up on time and keeps the energy bills in check. HEP’s hybrid tanks plumbing system pairs electric heat-pump efficiency with the dependable storage capacity of a traditional tank water heater, giving you the best of both worlds without major changes to your existing setup. Whisper-quiet operation, rapid recovery rates, and smart-home–ready controls mean comfort you can feel and savings you can see.
Our local, licensed technicians handle everything—from sizing and seamless installation to routine maintenance—so you enjoy endless hot showers and peace of mind. Ready to upgrade? Call HEP today and discover how a hybrid tank water heater can bring reliable, eco-friendly performance to your White Pine home.
FAQs
What is a hybrid tank water heater and how does it work?
A hybrid water heater—also called a heat-pump water heater—combines a traditional electric storage tank with an efficient heat-pump unit mounted on top. The heat pump pulls warmth from the surrounding air in your utility room or garage and transfers that heat to the water in the tank. When demand is high or room temperatures drop, the unit automatically switches to standard electric elements for backup. The result is a single appliance that offers the rapid recovery of a tank heater and the energy savings of heat-pump technology.
How much energy can I save with a hybrid unit compared to a standard electric water heater?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that hybrid heat-pump water heaters use up to 70 % less electricity than conventional electric tanks. For an average White Pine household of four, that translates to roughly 3,000–4,000 kWh in annual savings—or $300–$400 per year at current utility rates. Over the 10- to 15-year life of the unit, most homeowners recover the higher purchase price several times over in lower energy bills.
Is a hybrid water heater a good choice for White Pine’s climate?
Yes. Heat-pump technology is most efficient when the ambient air temperature is between 40 °F and 90 °F—exactly the range found in most basements, utility closets, and garages across Jefferson and Hamblen counties. Even during colder East Tennessee winters, the hybrid’s built-in electric elements ensure you never run out of hot water. Our technicians will help you locate the unit in a space that optimizes year-round performance.
What size hybrid tank water heater do I need for my home?
Sizing depends on peak-hour demand, which we calculate using the number of full baths and household occupants. In White Pine, the most common selections are: • 50-gallon models—ideal for 2–3 occupants or one-bath homes. • 65-gallon models—well suited for 3–5 occupants or two baths. • 80-gallon models—recommended for larger families or homes with soaking tubs. During your in-home estimate, we verify incoming water temperature, recovery needs, and available floor space to confirm the perfect fit.
How long does installation take and will my plumbing need changes?
A straightforward replacement of an existing electric tank usually takes our licensed plumbers 3–4 hours. We disconnect and haul away the old heater, set the new hybrid onto an isolation pad, connect water, electrical, and condensate drain lines, and program initial settings. If you are switching from gas, moving the unit, or adding a dedicated 240-V circuit, expect an additional 1–2 hours. All work is performed to current White Pine building codes, and we pull the permit if one is required.
What maintenance and warranty coverage should I expect?
Hybrid water heaters need the same annual tasks as traditional tanks—testing the temperature-pressure relief valve and flushing sediment—but also two additional items: • Cleaning the air filter every 3–6 months (a 2-minute job you can do yourself). • Checking the condensate drain to ensure proper flow. Most leading manufacturers offer a 10-year parts and tank warranty on hybrid models, and our White Pine plumbing company provides a one-year labor warranty on the installation. Enrolling in our low-cost maintenance plan keeps your warranty valid and ensures maximum efficiency.