Finding the right water heater can feel overwhelming. You want something reliable, efficient, and kind to your wallet over time. A hybrid electric water heater, also known as a heat pump water heater, might be your perfect match. These smart units pull heat from the surrounding air to warm your water, using far less electricity than traditional models. This roundup reviews the best options, from whole-home systems to portable solutions, helping you cut energy bills without sacrificing a steady hot shower. We’ve tested and compared to bring you clear, honest recommendations.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Hybrid Electric Water Heater Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Rheem 50 Gal. Smart High Efficiency Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater with 10-Year Warranty
- 2.2 2. Zojirushi CV-JAC50XB 5.0 Liter VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer
- 2.3 3. Camco Hybrid Heat Kit to Convert a 6-Gallon RV Gas Water Heater to 120V Electric
- 2.4 4. Zojirushi Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer
- 2.5 5. YALICE Water Heaters, Solar Power Water Heater Electric, 2200 Watts Hot Water Heater, 21 Gallons
- 2.6 6. SIVUATEK 14kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater for Two Points of Use
- 2.7 7. APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater with Memory Function and LED Display
- 2.8 8. Portable Immersion Water Heater 1800W 120V, Electric Heater for Buckets, Bathtubs and Mini Pools
- 2.9 9. GE Appliances 10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water Heater with Adjustable Thermostat
- 2.10 10. Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater in Gray for Whole Home Use
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Hybrid Electric Water Heater
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
- 4.1 Q: How much money can a hybrid water heater actually save me?
- 4.2 Q: Where is the best place to install a hybrid heat pump water heater?
- 4.3 Q: Are hybrid water heaters noisy?
- 4.4 Q: Can I install a hybrid water heater myself?
- 4.5 Q: What’s the difference between a hybrid and a tankless water heater?
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Hybrid Electric Water Heater Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Rheem 50 Gal. Smart High Efficiency Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater with 10-Year Warranty
This Rheem hybrid heat pump unit is a top-tier solution for whole-home hot water. It combines an electric heat pump with traditional electric elements for ultimate efficiency and backup power. The 50-gallon capacity and smart connectivity make it ideal for modern, energy-conscious families.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-High Efficiency: Uses a heat pump to draw ambient heat, cutting energy use by up to 75%.
- ✓ Smart Home Ready: Connects to an app for scheduling, tracking usage, and receiving alerts.
- ✓ 10-Year Warranty: Comprehensive protection on the tank and parts for long-term peace of mind.
- ✓ Multiple Modes: Choose from Hybrid, Electric-only, or Energy-Saving heat pump-only operation.
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as our Best Choice because it delivers the full promise of a hybrid water heater. The energy savings are real and substantial. The smart features add convenience, and the long warranty shows Rheem stands behind its product. It’s a future-proof investment.
Best For
Households with 3-5 people looking to significantly reduce their energy bills and embrace smart home efficiency.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive potential savings on electricity bills.
- Excellent smart home integration and control.
- Industry-leading 10-year warranty.
- Quiet and efficient heat pump operation.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than standard electric heaters.
- Requires sufficient space and ambient air temperature to work optimally.
- Professional installation is highly recommended.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We’ve been using this for about a year and my electricity bill for water heating has been cut in half. The app is easy to use to set a schedule. Very happy with the purchase.”
Customer Review: “Installation wasn’t a DIY job for me, but once it was in, it’s been flawless. Quiet and keeps up with our family’s demand. The peace of mind with the 10-year warranty is priceless.”
2. Zojirushi CV-JAC50XB 5.0 Liter VE Hybrid Water Boiler and Warmer
This isn’t a whole-home heater, but a brilliant countertop hybrid water boiler. It uses vacuum insulation and efficient heating to keep water at your perfect temperature all day. It eliminates the need to boil a kettle repeatedly, saving time and energy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Quick Temp Mode: Heats water directly to a set keep-warm temperature without a full boil, saving energy.
- ✓ Vacuum Insulation: Keeps water hot for hours with minimal reheating, making it very efficient.
- ✓ Four Temperature Settings: Choose from 160°F, 175°F, 195°F, or 208°F for tea, coffee, or instant meals.
- ✓ Micro-Computerized Control: Precise temperature management for consistency and safety.
Why We Recommend It
It’s our Editor’s Choice for point-of-use hybrid heating. The build quality is exceptional, and the energy-saving “hybrid” design (vacuum insulation + efficient reheating) is genius. It’s a luxury that becomes a daily essential for anyone who drinks hot beverages regularly.
Best For
Home offices, kitchens, or anyone who wants instant, energy-efficient hot water for drinks, soups, or cooking without running a tap.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superb energy efficiency for its purpose.
- Extremely convenient and saves counter space vs. a kettle.
- Outstanding Zojirushi build quality and reliability.
- Multiple precise temperature settings.
Cons:
- Not for whole-home water heating.
- Higher price point than a standard electric kettle.
- Requires a dedicated countertop spot.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “bought this on a prime deal… this is the nicest one they sell americans. obviously zojirushi makes WAY cooler boilers…”
Customer Review: “I have had Zojirushi rice cooker and water boiler in the past. In my opinion they have excellent and quality products. I have never had issues with their products.”
3. Camco Hybrid Heat Kit to Convert a 6-Gallon RV Gas Water Heater to 120V Electric
This clever kit creates a hybrid system for your RV. It lets you switch between propane gas and 120V electric heating. This flexibility saves propane when you’re at a campsite with hookups and provides a reliable backup.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Creates a Hybrid System: Adds electric heating to your existing RV gas water heater.
- ✓ Complete Kit: Includes heating element, thermostat, switch, wiring, and clear instructions.
- ✓ Saves Money: Use cheaper shore power instead of burning through propane.
- ✓ Maintains LP Option: The original gas system remains fully functional.
Why We Recommend It
It’s the Best Budget pick because it delivers huge value for RV owners. For a low cost, you gain flexibility and reduce your reliance on propane. The installation is straightforward for a DIYer, and it pays for itself quickly in fuel savings.
Best For
RV and camper owners with a 6-gallon gas water heater who want the option to heat water with electricity at campgrounds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable way to add electric heating.
- Easy to install with all parts included.
- Significantly extends propane supply.
- Works reliably as a backup heating source.
Cons:
- Only compatible with specific 6-gallon RV heaters.
- Electric heating is slower than gas.
- Requires a 120V power source to operate.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Over the past couple years, I’ve spent hundreds of dollars on LPG… I decided to look into electric elements for RV gas heaters. The one here seemed to be the best…”
Customer Review: “Very happy with this conversion kit. It keeps the LP burner and thermostat in place and adds an electric heater element… Everything needed was included…”
4. Zojirushi Hybrid Water Boiler & Warmer
A classic and reliable model from Zojirushi, this hybrid water boiler uses vacuum insulation technology to keep water hot with minimal energy. It’s a workhorse for the kitchen that provides constant hot water access.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Micro Computerized Control: Precisely manages temperature for safety and efficiency.
- ✓ Four Keep-Warm Settings: Versatile temperatures from 160°F to 208°F.
- ✓ Quick Temp Mode: Optional mode to warm water without a full boil, saving energy.
- ✓ Durable Construction: Built to last for years of daily use.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this as a proven and slightly more accessible alternative to the CV-JAC50XB. It offers the same core Zojirushi quality, efficiency, and convenience. Its long track record means you’re buying a reliable product.
Best For
Families or individuals who want a dependable, energy-efficient hot water dispenser for daily use without the latest smart features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely reliable with a proven history.
- Excellent vacuum insulation reduces energy consumption.
- Simple, user-friendly interface.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- Lacks some of the newer features of the latest models.
- Can be a bit tall for some kitchen cabinets.
- Initial heat-up time is slower than a fast kettle.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This thing is awesome! Four liters of boiling hot water… always ready to dispense on my countertop… It heats up very fast… Maybe one of my top 10 purchases.”
Customer Review: “After 6 years and 4 months, I had to finally replace this… I chose the same model… Worth every single penny for reliable hot water any time.”
5. YALICE Water Heaters, Solar Power Water Heater Electric, 2200 Watts Hot Water Heater, 21 Gallons
This is a true solar-electric hybrid system. It uses solar panels (sold separately) to heat water during the day and switches to grid power when needed. It’s a fantastic off-grid or supplemental solution for cabins, workshops, or eco-homes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Solar-Electric Hybrid: Primary heat from solar, with automatic electric backup.
- ✓ 21-Gallon Capacity: Suitable for small homes, cabins, or as a point-of-use heater.
- ✓ Smart LED Display & Control: Adjustable thermostat, timer, and remote control capability.
- ✓ Energy Independent: Greatly reduces reliance on the grid when paired with solar panels.
Why We Recommend It
It fills a unique niche for those wanting to leverage solar power. If you’re installing solar panels anyway, adding this dedicated water heater maximizes your investment. The automatic failover to electric ensures you never run out of hot water.
Best For
Eco-conscious homeowners, off-grid cabins, workshops, or as a supplemental heater for a garage or pool house.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Can virtually eliminate water heating costs with sufficient solar.
- Substantial 21-gallon storage capacity.
- Good smart features with remote control.
- Excellent for sustainable living setups.
Cons:
- Requires purchase and installation of separate solar panels.
- Not a standard plug-and-play appliance; setup is more complex.
- Larger footprint than tankless models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been eyeing a solar water heater for years… After a few weeks of use, I can confidently say it’s one of the best upgrades I’ve made… It’s efficient, easy to use, and has already made a noticeable dent in my bills.”
Customer Review: “As an eco-conscious person, this hybrid system is perfect. It uses solar energy during the day, which saves on bills and is good for the environment.”
6. SIVUATEK 14kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater for Two Points of Use
This tankless electric model offers a different kind of efficiency: it heats water on demand, so you never pay to keep a tank hot. This 14kW unit is perfect for supplying one or two fixtures simultaneously, like a kitchen sink and a shower.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ On-Demand Heating: No standby energy loss, only uses power when water is flowing.
- ✓ Compact & Space-Saving: Small wall-mounted design frees up floor space.
- ✓ 99% Thermal Efficiency: Nearly all electricity is converted directly into heat.
- ✓ Simple Digital Interface: Easy temperature adjustment and monitoring.
Why We Recommend It
While not a “hybrid” in the heat pump sense, its on-demand efficiency is a major benefit. We recommend it for small apartments, additions, or point-of-use applications where space is limited and you want endless hot water for a couple of fixtures.
Best For
Small homes, apartments, guest houses, or as a supplemental heater for a remote bathroom or kitchen.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eliminates standby energy costs completely.
- Provides unlimited hot water.
- Extremely compact installation.
- Easy to adjust output temperature.
Cons:
- Requires a significant electrical upgrade (60-amp circuit).
- Flow rate is limited; may struggle with simultaneous use in colder climates.
- Higher upfront cost for the unit and electrical work.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This product is AMAZING. The only thing you have to do is buy a 120V breaker… slap that breaker into your breaker box…”
Customer Review: “Installed. So far it works quite well. Just had to change the 220v breaker to 60amp… I like it. Does not take up much room.”
7. APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater with Memory Function and LED Display
This is a powerful tankless electric heater designed for larger demands. With 27kW of power, it can supply multiple fixtures in a whole home. The memory function and sleek design add a touch of modern convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High Power Output (27kW): Capable of supplying a whole house with hot water.
- ✓ Memory Function: Remembers your last temperature setting after a power cycle.
- ✓ Ultra-Compact Design: Saves over 90% of the space a traditional tank would use.
- ✓ Precise LED Control: Set temperature between 86°F and 140°F with accuracy.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for households that want the space-saving and endless hot water benefits of tankless but have higher demand. The memory function is a small but useful feature, and the high power rating means better performance in colder climates.
Best For
Medium to large homes (3+ bathrooms) looking to replace a bulky tank heater with an efficient, whole-home tankless solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Delivers true whole-home hot water capacity.
- Saves a tremendous amount of space.
- No standby energy loss.
- Convenient memory function.
Cons:
- Requires a very substantial electrical service upgrade (multiple 40-50 amp breakers).
- High installation cost due to complex electrical requirements.
- Water flow can be affected by inlet temperature.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This 190,000 BTU propane tankless water heater provides excellent performance, fast heating, and dependable hot water…” (Note: This review appears to be for a different product, but speaks to tankless performance).
Customer Review: “I own a tiny house… The old water heater was a giant, rumbling tank… I bought this tankless model and the difference is night and day. Endless hot showers in a tiny space!”
8. Portable Immersion Water Heater 1800W 120V, Electric Heater for Buckets, Bathtubs and Mini Pools
This is the ultimate portable, plug-in hybrid heating solution. It’s an immersion element you lower into any container of water. It’s perfect for jobs where you need a lot of hot water but don’t have a fixed heater, like filling a livestock trough, washing a dog, or emergency hot water.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ True Portability: Plug into any standard 120V outlet and immerse in water.
- ✓ Smart Thermostat & Display: Set a desired temperature and see real-time readings.
- ✓ Safety Features: Auto-shutoff and dry-burn prevention for peace of mind.
- ✓ 1800W Fast Heating: Heats large volumes of water relatively quickly.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a fantastic tool, not a permanent home appliance. We recommend it for its incredible versatility. For farmers, pet owners, DIYers, or as a backup during a water heater failure, this device is invaluable and very efficient for its specific task.
Best For
Outdoor tasks, workshops, farms, camping (with power), pet care, or as an emergency hot water source.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable versatility and portability.
- Very safe with multiple protection features.
- Easy to use with clear temperature control.
- Affordable and energy-efficient for on-demand heating.
Cons:
- Not for whole-home or permanent plumbing.
- Must be fully submerged to operate safely.
- Heating time depends on volume of water.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This 1800W portable immersion water heater is a powerful and convenient solution for quickly heating water… The built-in thermostat with real-time temperature display makes it simple to monitor and control water temp.”
Customer Review: “I bought this for occasional use, and it has been very reliable… It heats water much faster than I expected… The real-time temperature display is a nice touch.”
9. GE Appliances 10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water Heater with Adjustable Thermostat
This is a compact, traditional electric tank heater designed for easy installation. While not a “hybrid” in technology, its “plug and play” nature and small size make it a hybrid solution in terms of application—perfect for boosting hot water at a remote sink or in an RV.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Easy Installation: Uses standard 3/4″ plumbing and plugs into a 120V outlet.
- ✓ Compact 10-Gallon Size: Fits in tight spaces under sinks, in cabins, or RVs.
- ✓ Solid Warranty: Backed by an 8-year limited warranty for reliability.
- ✓ Adjustable Thermostat: Lets you set your preferred water temperature.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its simplicity and reliability in point-of-use scenarios. If you need hot water in a garage workshop, a barn sink, or a tiny home, this is a straightforward, effective solution without complex plumbing or electrical work.
Best For
Point-of-use applications like remote bathrooms, workshops, cabins, bar sinks, or as a booster for a specific fixture.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very easy to install for a DIYer.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Trusted GE brand with a good warranty.
- Works with standard household voltage (120V).
Cons:
- Standard efficiency, not high-efficiency like a heat pump.
- Limited 10-gallon capacity.
- Has standby heat loss like any tank heater.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Easy to install super hot booster tank for my shower. I love it.”
Customer Review: “Installed this under my kitchen sink to get instant hot water. Works perfectly and was much easier than running a recirculation line.”
10. Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater in Gray for Whole Home Use
Another powerful tankless option from a reputable brand. This Rheem model features self-modulating technology that adjusts power based on demand, saving energy. It’s designed as a complete replacement for a traditional tank in many homes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Self-Modulating Technology: Automatically adjusts energy use to match hot water flow.
- ✓ Digital Temperature Control: External display with +/- 1°F accuracy.
- ✓ Durable Copper Heating Elements: Serviceable for long life.
- ✓ Up to 4.4 GPM Flow Rate: Good capacity for whole-home use in moderate climates.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for those who trust the Rheem brand and want a reliable, efficient tankless solution. The self-modulating feature is a smart efficiency boost over fixed-power models, and the build quality is solid for long-term use.
Best For
Homes in warmer climates or with moderate hot water needs looking to switch from a tank to an efficient Rheem tankless system.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Energy-saving self-modulation.
- Precise digital temperature control.
- Rheem’s reliable reputation and service network.
- Compact and saves valuable space.
Cons:
- Like all electric tankless, requires a heavy-duty electrical circuit.
- Performance is highly dependent on incoming groundwater temperature.
- May not support multiple simultaneous showers in cold climates.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve installed three of these, and all have worked flawlessly. One of them provides adequate hot water for a small home (2 adults) having a shower, lavatory, kitchen sink…”
Customer Review: “There are many factors to consider… I live in North Central Florida where the ground water is warm, and this unit works perfectly for my 3-bedroom home.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Hybrid Electric Water Heater
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right unit is more than just picking the top-rated model. Think about your home’s needs first. Capacity is key—a 50-gallon tank suits a family of four, while a 10-gallon works for a cabin. Efficiency is measured by the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF); higher numbers mean lower operating costs. For heat pump hybrids, note they work best in spaces that stay between 40°F and 90°F. Also, check the first-hour rating (FHR), which tells you how much hot water it can deliver in an hour during peak use.
Budget Planning
Your budget has two parts: the purchase price and long-term savings. A hybrid heat pump water heater costs more upfront than a standard electric model—often double. But it can save you $300 or more a year on energy bills. Look for federal or local utility rebates; they can knock hundreds off the initial cost. Don’t forget installation, which can be $500-$1500 for complex setups. Sometimes, spending more now saves a lot later.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “best” water heater for everyone. The Rheem hybrid is fantastic for whole-home savings. The Zojirushi boilers are unbeatable for kitchen convenience. The Camco kit is a budget win for RVers. Match the product to your specific need: whole-home efficiency, point-of-use convenience, portable flexibility, or off-grid sustainability. Read reviews, get quotes, and choose the one that fits your life and wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much money can a hybrid water heater actually save me?
A: A lot. A heat pump hybrid water heater can be up to three times more efficient than a standard electric model. For an average household, that often means saving $200 to $400 per year on electricity bills. The exact amount depends on your local energy rates, hot water usage, and the unit’s efficiency rating.
Q: Where is the best place to install a hybrid heat pump water heater?
A: Install it in a space with plenty of air flow and consistent, moderate temperatures. A basement, garage, or utility room that stays above 40°F year-round is ideal. It needs to pull in surrounding air, so avoid tiny, cramped closets. Also, remember it will exhaust cool, dry air—which can be a bonus for dehumidifying a basement in summer.
Q: Are hybrid water heaters noisy?
A: They are quieter than a furnace but not silent. The heat pump compressor makes a soft humming sound, similar to a refrigerator. It’s usually not bothersome if installed in a basement or utility room. It’s much quieter than a traditional tankless heater’s powerful fan.
Q: Can I install a hybrid water heater myself?
A> It’s possible for very experienced DIYers, but we don’t recommend it for most people. Installation involves plumbing, electrical work (often 240V), and sometimes modifying drain lines for condensation. Plus, improper installation can void the warranty. Hiring a licensed professional ensures it’s done safely and correctly.
Q: What’s the difference between a hybrid and a tankless water heater?
A> A hybrid (heat pump) has a storage tank and uses electricity to move heat from the air into the water. A tankless (on-demand) has no tank and heats water directly with high-powered electric elements or gas burners only when you need it. Hybrids are best for overall energy savings, while tankless are best for unlimited hot water and saving space.
We’ve explored a wide range of solutions, from the ultra-efficient whole-home Rheem hybrid to portable immersion heaters for specific tasks. The right hybrid electric water heater can lower your bills, increase your convenience, and even reduce your carbon footprint. The key is to align the technology with your specific needs. Review our top picks, consider the buying guide, and take the step towards a more efficient and reliable hot water supply today. Your perfect match is out there.
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