First-to-market with a fully integrated, 50-gallon heat pump water heater in 2009,  Rheem delivers yet another industry first: the HP-40 hybrid, a 40-gallon unit with an Energy Factor of 2.0 — twice the efficiency of a standard electric water heater

Rheem Water Heating has expanded its line of hybrid heat pump water heaters with a new 40-gallon model designed for smaller households with a lower hot-water demand. The new Rheem HP-40 hybrid meets ENERGY STAR^® requirements; certification is pending. The unit will be available in early June.

In September 2009, Rheem became the first manufacturer to deliver a fully integrated, high-efficiency heat pump water heater to the plumbing wholesale channel. Like the 50-gallon model unveiled in 2009, the new HP-40 hybrid offers an Energy Factor (EF) of 2.0, or more than twice the energy efficiency of a standard electric storage water heater. As a result, the new water heater qualifies for a federal tax credit as well as many state and utility rebates and incentives.

“The HP-40 hybrid, which is the only 40-gallon heat pump water heater available today, was designed with younger couples and empty-nesters in mind,” says Rheem senior product manager Tommy Olsen. “Their daily hot-water requirements are much less than those for a family of four or more, but they still want the excellent energy-saving benefits of a cutting-edge hybrid that integrates heat pump technology with conventional electric elements.”

With its 21-inch diameter, the new model boasts the same slim profile as its 50-gallon counterpart. But thanks to its smaller storage capacity, the HP-40 hybrid is 10 pounds lighter and 10 inches shorter, with an overall height of 65.5 inches. As a result, installation in spaces with restricted access — including attics and basement mechanical rooms — is even easier.  

Carrying a 10-year limited tank and parts warranty, the Rheem HP-40 hybrid offers three separate modes of operation:

Mode 1 — Energy Saver: The most energy-efficient setting is this “heat pump only” mode, which works by extracting warmth from the surrounding air, concentrating the heat and delivering it to the water. This mode provides an industry-leading 2.0 EF and a first-hour rating of 50 gallons — equivalent to the performance of a standard 40-gallon electric water heater.

Mode 2 — High Demand: When peak hot water demands are very high, using the combination “heat pump/electric elements” mode is the best choice.

Mode 3 — Electric Heat Only: A temporary “electric heat only” setting is available to ensure hot-water availability without operating the heat pump. If not reset by the user, the HP-40 hybrid will revert back to its previous setting (either Energy Saver or High Demand) after two weeks.

Rheem's newest heat pump water heater also incorporates these key features:

• 2.5-inch-thick, non-CFC foam insulation to minimize heat loss during standby periods when there is no demand for hot water
• A premium resistored anode rod extends tank life
• Long-lasting stainless steel resistored elements
• A factory-installed, brass drain valve
• A factory-installed temperature and pressure relief valve
• Hot- and cold-water and condensate drain connections (all ¾-inch N.P.T.) on the side of the water heater, rather than on the top, for easier installation and maintenance.

For more information on the growing Rheem line of hybrid heat pump water heaters, please visit http://www.rheempwh.com 

Note:Publication-quality photograph of the images shown in this press release can be downloaded at the following location on the web:

http://rheem.oreilly-depalma.com/2010/rheem_new_40_gallon_hybrid_water_heater.shtml

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.