Heat pump water heater (HPWH) Program FAQs

  1. I installed a heat pump water heater before Jan 01, 2021. Can I be eligible for the Peninsula Clean Energy rebate?

    No, all installations need to be done on or after Jan 01, 2021 for the Peninsula Clean Energy Rebate.

  1. Why do I have to use a BayREN Participating Contractor to be eligible for the program?

    The BayREN participating contractors are vetted by the program to ensure customers receive quality service. These contractors are highly experienced, familiar with the application process and will be able to submit the application on behalf of the customer. If a contractor you want to work with is not part of the list, please encourage them to join the program!

  1. I want to install two heat pump water heaters in my home. Can I get a rebate for each?

    No, each customer is limited to one heat pump water heater rebate.

  1. I need to upgrade my electrical panel for another project. Am I eligible for the electrical panel rebate?

    No, to be eligible for the additional electrical panel upgrade rebate, it needs to be paired with a Heat Pump Water Heater installation.

  1. Can my electrical panel be upgraded by a non-participating contractor?

    Yes, the electrical panel and associated wiring needed for the installation of a Heat Pump Water Heater may be upgraded by a non-participating contractor. But to get the PCE rebate for the panel upgrade, the electrical panel invoice needs to be submitted to the participating contractor, who will then upload it to the application portal for review and approval.

  1. Are sub-panels eligible for rebate?

    Yes, for homes with existing panel capacity of up to 200 Amps, addition of sub-panels required to make room for the new heat pump water heater is eligible for a rebate of up to $750.

  1. I am interested in installing a Heat Pump HVAC system. Am I eligible for Peninsula Clean Energy rebates?

    Currently, Peninsula Clean Energy is only incentivizing Heat Pump Water Heaters. The BayREN Home+ program offers $1,000 rebate for high efficiency Heat Pump HVAC that you may be eligible for. More details here.

  1. Why does my heat pump water heater have a backup heating element?

    Manufacturers use backup heating elements to ensure that the water heater will supply enough hot water in high-demand situations. However, you can avoid the use of the backup element by having a larger tank capacity heat pump water heater and/or thermostatic mixing valve installed.

  1. Will my new heat pump water heater provide enough hot water for me and my family?

    Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH) tend to heat up the water more gradually than do standard electric resistance water heaters. To ensure enough hot water is available for your needs, it is important to size the HPWH correctly so that it can use its efficient heat pump rather than the faster, but less efficient, back-up resistance heating element. Installing a thermostatic mixing valve along with your HPWH would further ensure you do not run out of hot water. The thermostatic mixing valve will allow you to set the tank temperature higher (e.g. 140 F), then mix that hot water with cold water to bring the temperature down to a safe, usable temperature (e.g. 125 F).

  1. What mode should I use on my heat pump water heater?

    For maximum efficiency, use whichever mode prioritizes the use of the heat pump. The owner's manual will describe each mode.

  1. How long will my heat pump water heater last?

    Heat pump water heaters have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

  1. What if I have a question that is not answered here?

    Contact an Energy Advisor at (866) 878-6008 or advisor@bayren.org.