Are heat pump water heaters more efficient than conventional water heaters? What is the uniform energy factor?

Written by jgowans on March 28, 2021. Posted in Common Questions.

Heat pump water heaters are much more efficient than gas, propane, or conventional electric water heaters. The uniform energy factor (UEF) is the new metric for rating the energy efficiency of water heaters. The higher the UEF, the higher the efficiency. Heat pump water heaters have UEF ratings between 3.0 and 3.5, while “efficient” gas and propane water heaters have UEF ratings between 0.65 and 0.70. Conventional electric water heaters have UEF ratings of about 0.95.

Love Electric aims to accelerate the adoption of heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and other efficient electric technologies in homes and businesses across Colorado, to lower consumer energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide improved health, comfort and other benefits. Love Electric is an initiative of the Beneficial Electrification League of Colorado (BEL-CO).

Are heat pump water heaters more efficient than conventional water heaters? What is the uniform energy factor?

For Consumers

For Installers

News & Insights

Are heat pump water heaters more efficient than conventional water heaters? What is the uniform energy factor?

For Consumers

For Installers