Review GE Heat Pump water heater:

original post 2012-4/ updated 2020

Search using google with ads

Review GE Heat Pump water heater/ 2014
See GE manuals available 2014
This was the original Heat pump brought to market by GE
Consumes 1830 kWh per year/
vs Ordinary 50 gallon electric consumes 4879 kWh per year

Update: GE heat pump was sold to Bradford White BW now supports the GE heat pump with parts and repair resources.
Bradford White sells an updated version of GE heat pump called the AeroTherm, available with choice 6 or 10 year warranty. Bradford has both 50-80 gallon tanks using tried-and-tested GE heat pump design with updated electronic control and status codes.
Parts sheet for 2020 BW Heat Pump matches parts sheet for 2012 GE
Which is best heat pump: compares the 4 brands on market 2019
Bradford White heat pump manuals 2019

2020

50 gallon GE Heat Pump / 2009 and 2012 models

2012 GE vs 2020 BW size comparison

2020 models
GE offered only 50 gallon, not 80 gallon. All today's brands have 50 and 80 gallon etc.
'First hour delivery' or amount of usable hot from a continuous draw seem high
Review all hybrid heat-pump models

2020 models
Marathon dual-element commercial grade heater offers more large tank, less weight, no anode rod, plus lifetime warranty on tank, but less efficiency.
Review Marathon heaters

Bradford heat pump manuals
GE heat pump manuals

Chart 1: 80 gallon heat pump features

Model

Gallon
rating of tank

Warranty:
Tank and parts.
Labor 1 year all models

First hour delivery

Temp
set
range

Anode...
Rod type

Volt and
amp rating.

Elements... can be replaced with any wattage

Optional
8" Duct kit
Raises cost of buying

Water con-
sections

Digital interface...
Install whole house surge protector in main panel to protect electronics

Air temp range for Heat pump operation

Noise
level when new

Bradford
RE2H80
T10

1 year labor, 10 year
Tank
and parts
Read

87 gal w elements

N/A

Mag-
nesium
Shorter life less odor
Read

208-
240
30 amp
60 Hz

4000 &
4500
Generic

Yes
100'\
expel and intake
Read

3/4"
Top
con-
nection

Displays current status

Mode/
Error Messages

35-
120°F
best for zone 3 cold regions

55 DBA

Bradford
RE2H80
T6

1 year labor, 6 year
Tank
and parts

87 gal w elements

N/A

Mag-
nesium

208-
240
30 amp
60 Hz

4000 &
4500
Generic

Yes

3/4"
Top
con-
nection

Displays current status

Mode/
Error Messages

35-
120°F

55 DBA

Chart 2: 80 gallon Installation/ maintenance
Brand	Minimum Room size without duct kit or louvered intake	Min intake space for air filter	Min repair space away from wall	Min exhaust space in front	Floor drain required for condensate and TP valve	Clean-wash Air intake filter each 6 months	Evaporator coil needs cleaning yearly	Maintenance cleaning steps show in manual	Service manual
Bradford White	700 ft³ 10´ x 10´ x 7´ see dimensions	8" Intake and Air filter on top	7" See image	7" ... "Free and clear" is best	Yes	Yes 8" headroom	Yes, if air filter not cleaned	Yes 2 pages Read	Service brief Read

Federal energy standard April 2015.... residential electric water heaters over 55 gallon must be heat pump Read .pdf

Other options instead of Heat Pump
1) 80 gallon standard 2-element tank if enrolled in 'demand response program' with local utility. Read spec sheet
2) commercial 80-100 gallon tank. Read spec sheet pg 21
3) install 2 heaters. Read: install 2 water heaters

Large bathtub, whirlpool tub, and walk-in-tub require at least 65+ gallon electric water heater.

Bradford White Manuals
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump troubleshoot-guide /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump installation checklist /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump ducting kit /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump installation-manual /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump parts /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm heat-pump specifications for 6 - 10 year warranty /pdf
Bradford White Aerotherm-heat-pump specifications for older GE heat pump type
Bradford White warranty sheet

Summary of Review
Power consumption:
The GE and Bradford White compressor consumes 600 watt ... 208-240Volt ... 2.5 amp.
10 gauge wire and 30 amp breaker are required.

Operation:
When the compressor cannot keep up with heating demand, the heat pump control board activates elements ... and the heat pump functions like ordinary non-simultaneous 4500 watt electric water heater where either the upper element is on, or lower element is on, or both elements are off. Both elements are never on at same time.

First hour delivery:
The older GE heat pump was available in 50 gallon and delivered (optimistically) 63 gallons usable hot. More realistic is 40-45 gallons.
Bradford White has expanded the line and offers 50 gallon size and also 80 gallon.
Once the 80 gallon tank is fully heated, it will deliver (with elements and compressor) approximately 80 gallons usable hot in a single continuous draw. More realistic is 65-70 gallons.
The compressor and elements are either-or, they do not both come on at same time.

After hot water is depleted, the tank is slow to reheat the water when used in most efficient heat pump mode. Recovery is estimated at 20 gallons per hour, requiring 2-1/2 hours to reheat 50 gallon tank, and 4 hours to reheat 80 gallon tank.
This implies that back-up elements might be needed to keep up with demand of 5-6 person home. If home has fewer people, or less consumption, or staggered use, then saving would be higher. All homes save money by using less hot water instead of buying more technology. All costs are energy.
If personal consumption patterns do not require 80 gallons usable hot per draw, then the expense of buying heat pump might be more than savings. It's not clear where the break even point is for all situations.

Savings:
According to DOE: Heat pump: 1830 kWh per year/ Ordinary 50 gallon electric: 4879 kWh per year.
However the energy-savings estimates for heat pump ignore overall costs .... such as purchase price, repairability, replacement part cost, inconvenience of needing large space and floor drain, promotion, advertising, shipping, packaging, consumption of energy from HVAC. Nor considers inconvenience of cleaning air intake screen two times a year, and occasionally needing to clean condensate tray, and evaporator coil. This maintenance is in addition to typical maintenance suggested for all electric water heaters, such as flushing each 6 months and inspecting anode rod each 1-3 years.

Electronics, surge, repairs:

All digitally-controlled water heaters are susceptible to surge ... Most people don't think about repairing washing machine or refrigerator before purchase, but the heat pump water heater might require service personnel who know about water heaters, computers, air conditioning, plumbing, and electric systems. Before buying, ask if there are qualified service technicians in your area? How much do they charge?? In 2014, service calls average $400+

Resources for DIY repair:
There is a 2012 service manual posted for GE heat pump, and a service brief for the more recent version Bradford White. The control system is different on the new BW models and service codes are different.
GE Hybrid service manuals
Bradford white service brief

Longevity vs ordinary electric heater:
Ordinary residential electric water heaters can be maintained to last 'forever' assuming periodic maintenance read maintenance, while the GE and other brands of heat pump generally cannot be maintained to last beyond expected life of 10-14 years. Ask how much a replacement heat pump will cost in 10-14 years etc?

Operation
Heat pumps are noisy when running... similar to small window air conditioner. Heat pump water heaters use ambient room temperature to heat water, and release cool air into same room, so ambient room temperature is cooling each time heat pump turns on. Heat pump works against the furnace in winter by using furnace-heated air to heat the water. In summer the heat pump puts off cool air and helps the air conditioner, but cool room air works against the heat pump. Locating heat pump next to warm air source, such as refrigerator or freezer, will let heat pump use warm air produced by refrigerator.

Installation
Bradford White Heat pump sucks in air from surrounding room through a filter located on top of unit.
Must have 17" above heater for access to filter and air supply.
If filter is cleaned regularly, every 6 months, then the evaporator coil will not get dirty.
Running unit with dirty filter will clog filter and lessen energy savings, or running unit without filter will clog evaporator coil and lessen energy savings, and cost money to clean coil.
Installing heater in clean environment will keep filter and evaporator coil cleaner, and cause less work, be cheaper, and more efficient.

Air exits out the back of the Heat Pump, which is why 16" space is recommended.
Heat pumps must be installed in chemical-free 8' x 10' room to provide enough air supply. Trace amounts of bleach and other chemicals will corrode internal Heat Pump parts, same as ordinary gas water heater.

If room is not 8' x 10' or equivalent, then must have adequate air supply from a louvered door or vent. Preferably warm air if you want to save money.
GE did not have duct kit, but Bradford White has a ducting kit for both incoming and outgoing air supply ... so if heater is installed in confined space, then air can be brought in from another room. Must be able to disconnect incoming air supply to clean filter. Read duct kit .pdf

Heat pumps must be installed plumb (straight up and down) and near a floor drain for condensate. The higher the air humidity, the more condensation. Condensation tubes gets clogged and must be cleaned.
Install at least 7" away from wall for repair and maintenance.

Original image
Installing Bradford White Heat pump
This installation might not have 7" space on left side to remove cover and inspect and replace anode rod

Heater must be full of water before applying power.
Must have 208-240 Volts.

3/4" Hot and cold pipes are connected to Hot and Cold sides.
Tank must be full of water before applying power or upper element might burn out, depending on mode.

Location & Space requirement Clearance specification .pdf
Do NOT choose laundry room or beauty shop or craft-work area because trace chemicals and dust will damage heat pump. Chemicals can damage heat pump and damage any gas water heater parts, and damage any gas appliance. Read Dust will clog Heat Pump air filter more frequently.

Choose dry, clean and naturally warm location
Air flow is critical: Efficiency is reduced if incoming air flow is restricted. Room size minimum 10' x 10' x 7' Smaller room can be used when louvered door is added. Minimum 7" service clearance from back wall and 7" from front wall for work access and air space pre-2012 Minimum 14" headroom for removal/cleaning air filter/ overall clearance height needed 82" (Redesigned heat pump 2012 requires 8" instead of 14" for 2012 air filter)

Drain valve: Leave space so garden hose can be attached to drain valve.
2012 models, drain valve was on back of unit and only 2-1/2" above floor. Current model, the drain located on front.

Magnesium Anode rod is sacrificial, and is located under hood, on top on left side of tank see anode. Work space must be available on left side of water heater to access anode using socket wrench and long cheater bar. Product manuals say anode will last 10 years. But water softeners can shorten life of anode rod. Read about anodes Read about Bradford and GE heat pump anode
Most water heaters have aluminum anode, but magnesium is less reactive and less likely to cause odor problems.

Wiring: Requires a dedicated 10 gauge wire and 30 amp breaker. USE whole house surge protector to protect all appliances. Use proper grounding. Use conduit if required by local code. 208-240 Volt only: Connecting to 120V AC will damage heater.

TP overflow tube cannot be downsized into smaller pipe, tube must travel downward at all times, and cannot terminate closer than 6" above drain or pool of water, maximum 30 feet length, maximum 4 elbow joints, overflow can be directed through outside wall, end of overflow tube cannot be threaded. 2009-2011 TP valve located on backside of tank. 2012 TP valve has been re-located to front of water heater on current heater.
TP and condensate drain cannot be combined

Condensate line attaches on back of unit or side of unit, and is not shown in illustration. Six foot condensate line supplied with unit. Must run downward into drain or bucket. Heat pump can produce up to 1 gallon condensate per day, depending on location, humidity etc

Estimated: heat pump regional map 2012 Obviously mid-Illinois is not same regional temperature as South Texas Larger image

Cold temperatures mean less efficiency Heat pump water heaters are most useful in hot-or-warm climates. In cold climates, heat pump efficiency drops when back-up heat elements are used to heat water During winter, the furnace is heating the air that heat pump uses to heat water. So you are heating water using the furnace, which is not efficient, and cancels estimated savings predicted by GE and other heat pump companies.
Ambient air temperature must be above 45°F If ambient air temperature falls below the limit, then electrical elements will activate to meet the hot water demand. This reduces expected savings.
Attic/ High heat: avoid exposing water heater to temperatures over 120 degrees F

Heat pump water heater integrated with refrigerator
Real science at work that you can apply. Heat from refrigerator re-used in water heater Modest home has 88 cent energy bill Water heater uses refrigerator heat Low-energy home uses heat pump integrated with heat from kitchen refrigerator pg9

Locating heat pump in naturally warm location is best plan

1) Same room as Freezer or refrigerator: For example refrigerators and freezers give off warm air. This warm air can be used by heat pump to heat water. In return, the heat pump gives off cool air that assists efficiency of refrigeration unit. This type installation does not work against household HVAC

2) Warm garage in Florida: Locating heat pump water heater in unheated-uncooled garage in Florida will not work against HVAC unit. Heat pump uses ambient Florida temperature to assist heat pump efficiency, and releases cool air to help moderate garage temperatures.

Heat pump will put out more cool air than refrigerator puts out warm air.

Use warm air inside home Note that heat pump water heater will run much more than typical refrigerator. And heat pump will put out more cool air than refrigerator puts out warm air. GE heat pump draws ambient room air across evaporator and blows cold air from vent located on back of unit This action works against furnace in cold climates, and means furnace is heating hot water. The heat pump condenser unit works in reverse of typical refrigerator. Heat pump blows cold air. Refrigerator blows warm air Using warm air from refrigerator and freezer in conjunction with heat pump water heater is good way to recycle air byproduct from each appliance Water heater uses refrigerator pdf pg9

Heat pump in attic Ambient room temperatures up to 120°F degrees are acceptable, but exposure to direct sun and high temperatures over 109°F will shorten life of compressor and wiring. Compressor will generally be too hot to touch, but very hot temperatures will damage any electrical device.
Many water heaters in Texas, Fla etc are located in attic. Heat pump needs space for air filter and anode rod, plus condensate drain. Always protect water heater from freezing, and flood. Water heater must be installed in Vertical position. If water heater was laying down, then stand water heater upright position for 12-24 hours to allow refrigerant and lubricating oils to to properly distribute themselves. Unit weight 200 lbs, Total weight 470 lbs filled with water. Locate water heater over load-bearing wall. Use 3/4" plywood over 16" OC joist. Use minimum 2x8 joist. Heavy weight in middle of 2x6 and 2x8 joist will cause ceiling to sag over time if joist span is too long.
How to lift heavy water heater into attic

Heat pump makes noise People are aware of the noise. Most people can hear it from other room. Do not buy heat pump if noise bothers you.

Promo brochure says: Operating Sound Level 55-58 DBA 55-58 DBA is from sales brochure and might underestimate annoyance for some people. Locate heater where noise will not interfere with daily routine

Promo brochure says: "Most electrical appliances, even when new, make some sound

Bradford White AeroTherm

Advantages of ordinary electric heater vs heat pump
-You can install ordinary electric water heater yourself... inside a small closet, in a dirty environment like a shop etc. How to install electric water heater
-You can troubleshoot and repair ordinary electric water heater yourself...   Troubleshoot electric water heater
-Ordinary electric can be maintained to last forever, How to maintain water heater
-Ordinary electric water heater has simple generic parts: 2 thermostats and 2 elements and dip tube and anode rod  How to replace elements   How to replace thermostat   Dip tube   Anode rod
-Ordinary electric can be set on a timer, Compare timers  Off peak water heater strategies
-Ordinary electric can be altered many ways to meet specific goals. Wire water heater for 120V   How to wire water heater thermostats   Add another thermostat to water heater   Convert AC water heater to DC
Connect water heater to generator      Use timer to toggle between temperatures   Off peak thermostat wiring
Operate 2 water heaters with one 30 amp circuit
-You can connect ordinary electric water heater to 120-208-240-277-480 volt *** changing only the elements to match voltage.
Select various voltages for element

Why Buy Heat Pump?	Savings If you need 80 gallon first hour and don't want to install two 40 gallon electric heaters, or higher price commercial grade heater, then heat pump is good choice Two water heaters 1) Promotional literature says Heat Pump water heaters save $200-$300 per year net cost vars ordinary electric water heater. And this might be TRUE depending on operating Mode, consumption, water temperature, ambient room temperature. Except my 2-person home has 30 gallon electric heater that costs $240 per year to operate, so heat pump cannot save money for my circumstance because the heat pump purchase price is so high, and longevity of my maintained water heater is indefinite, while heat pump will last 12-14 year max. 2) Research shows that heat pump water heaters save energy vars ordinary tank-type electric water heater, except cost of buying, installing, and maintaining each type heater is not considered. 3) There might be government tax credits or tax rebates ... a questionable arrangement where you loan yourself money to buy something that you wouldn't buy otherwise. Real world 2012-4: GE heat pump has EF2.35, but Reducing consumption is best way to save money Read more Most people say their electric bill went down, a few report the electric bill did NOT go down. Nobody says electric bill went up.
Read Research	Research: pdf files Heat pump water heater uses heat from refrigerator/ science you can use Laboratory evaluation of heat pump water heaters that appears to be comprehensive Scientific Testing that might not be paid-for by industry Department of energy that might not be paid-for by industry
	Give us real-world facts instead of glossy brochures and rainbow promise of saving money. Manufacturers should put small electric meter on each appliance >> forget the wifi that intrudes privacy ... forget the 'energy-star' and 'energy factor' baloney that awards giant homes and appliances high ratings when the real measure should be 'kWh per person,' or KwPP rating (copyright waterheatertimer.org 2012) You can buy electric meter and hook it up the heater for $50. How to install meter on electric water heater
Heat pump modes 2009 and 2012 control panels Choose operating mode, set water temperature using eye-level keypad and LCD readout	GE Operating modes pre 2009-11 pdf GE heat pump operating modes 2012 pdf See product manuals Unit is shipped in default hybrid mode. This mode uses back-up heat elements only when needed to maintain water temperature, for example when incoming water is cold, or when heat pump cannot keep up with peak demand, or if thermostat is set high, or ambient room temperature is low. eHeat is most efficient mode. eHeat mode does not use back-up heat elements, and heating recovery is slowed, but savings are maximized. Other modes can be selected. Adjusting water temperature before 2012 pdf Adjusting temperature 2012 pdf Unit is shipped with default temperature set at 120°F. Temperature setting 120°F is economical. Setting temperature higher costs more money to operate. Heat pumps are for moderate consuming homes with 1-4 people that do not require very hot temperatures. Which temperature is best for water heater? Standby loss vs consumption. There is no single best answer for all situations. Reducing temperature and reducing consumption are best way to save money. Stop cold air function Heat pump water heaters blow cold air. If you turn it off, then water is heated by elements. Using elements is same as ordinary electric water heater, so why buy a more expensive heat pump?
See Larger image Heat pump vs refrigerator Note that heat pump water heater will run much more than typical refrigerator. And put out more cool air than refrigerator puts out warm air. Refrigerator uses refrigeration cycle to make the refrigerator cold, and then the compressor releases warm air into the room. Heat pump water heater uses refrigeration cycle to make water hot, and then releases cool air into room. It takes more energy to heat 80 gallons of water by 60°F than it does to cool 40 cu feet of air by 30°F. Both appliances work for-or-against the HVAC system depending on season. Both appliances require periodic cleaning to keep unit efficient. Except Heat pump air filter must be cleaned twice per year. Both appliances must be installed in dry locations. Refrigerator is 120 volts 7-8 amps, 840 watts with simple control system. Heat pump is 240 volts, 22.8 amps, 600-4500 watt with a control system that must monitor multiple functions and report possible errors and faults. Both refrigerator and heat pump appliances are reliable. However heat pump has added problems with air supply, air filter, and from heating water that causes more maintenance for anode and condensate, with possible rusted tank, high pressure, clogged pipes, etc. There is no guarantee that you will save money Most people say their electric bill went down, a few report the electric bill did NOT go down. Nobody says electric bill went up Average service call to fix heat pump is $400 (year 2012) Contrast: You can fix ordinary tank-type water heater yourself same-day using generic off-the-shelf parts for $50 How to troubleshoot electric water heater Ordinary electric water heater can cost $500 per year to operate x 10 years = $5000. Ordinary heater is cheaper to buy up front, and cheaper to fix and maintain. But operation cost is typically higher than heat pump water heater, while maintenance cost is less.
Warranty GE 10 year warranty Bradford White warranty sheet Manuals See GE heat pump manuals See Bradford White heat pump manuals	GE Heat pump has 10-year limited warranty, for original-owner single-family residential installation ... for defects in workmanship when unit is installed and maintained according to product manual. Most water heater warranties are same. Warranty is NOT void if homeowner installs unit when installed correctly as shown in manual. Warranty does not appear to be transferable to another homeowner if home is sold, or transferable if unit moved to another location. Warranty covers defects in workmanship. First year is parts and labor, assuming correct installation. After first year, the warranty is basically free replacement parts without labor, and you have to wait for parts to arrive. Average service call for technician is $400. Warranty does not guarantee that unit will work flawlessly, or that unit will not need service and maintenance. Call GE 888-443-4394
Is the 10 year warranty a good value? Not necessarily 10% vs 16% Call GE 888-443-4394 for warranty and basic troubleshoot and to find GE-certified local technician	Expected lifespan of GE heat pump is 10-14 years. First year warranty is full coverage parts and labor. So 7-10% of expected lifespan has full coverage. GE 10 year warranty Bradford White 10 year warranty Contrast 10 year-warranty with cheaper tank that has 6 year warranty. Expected lifespan of cheaper tank is 6 years. First year warranty is full coverage parts and labor for cheaper 6 year tank and for heat pump. So regular tank has full warranty coverage for 16% of expected lifespan while heat pump has full coverage for 10% of expected lifespan.

Use safety grab bar on bathtub Safety grab bar at Amazon Bathtub safety grab bars	GE 50 gallon heat pump is for modest-consumption household Regular bath uses 12-15 gallons hot water; Shower uses 5-9 gallons hot water. Save 10 gallons hot water each time by taking shower instead of bath. First hour delivery: GE 50 gallon heat pump delivers 63 gallon first hour and will supply maximum 4 baths in quick succession before water is cold. Recovery: When using most efficient eHeat mode, the recovery time is slow, for example 10 gallons per hour or less (vars 21 gallons per hour in full heat mode) depending on incoming water temperature, ambient room temperature and water heater thermostat setting. Recovery means how long it takes tank to reheat water after Hot is consumed. First-hour rating is how much hot water is available for peak-usage times when tank is fully heated. Electric water heaters that use elements to heat water, recover about 21 gallons per hour. Heat pump modes offer choice to use elements and recovery is same as ordinary electric water heater, and cost of operation is same as ordinary water heater -or- choose not to use elements for more efficiency, but slower heating. Utilizing most efficient modes, Heat pump mode and eHeat mode, means slower recovery rate, but maximum savings. If you set the thermostat higher, recovery takes longer. But first hour delivery is higher. When water is hotter, more cold water is mixed with the hot, and so available hot water lasts longer. Keeping tank hotter costs more money. Reducing water temperature, and reducing consumption are best ways to save money. How to increase amount of hot water Save 10 gallons hot water each time by taking shower instead of bath Household water use information GE Heat pump not recommended for homes that use very hot water Factory setting is 120°F. Temperature range for GE heat pump is 100°-140°F. All estimated savings from using heat pump are based on 120°F degrees. Higher temperatures require heat elements. 135°F recommended for killing bacteria when washing clothes. Select correct size heater for household consumption using chart on left Call GE 888-443-4394 for warranty and basic troubleshoot and to find GE-certified local technician
Larger image
	50 gallon GE heat pump has first-hour-rating 63 gallons First-hour rating chart is based on expected peak usage at certain times of day, beginning with fully heated tank set to 120 degrees. Homes with less consumption per person, or consumption does not peak at certain times, or when water heater temperature is set higher, then home can have more occupants than chart. For example if 5 people live in home, and each takes a shower in quick succession, then GE heat pump will meet peak demand. If 5 people expect long hot bath in succession, the last folks may be disappointed with amount of available hot water Remember, as hot water is consumed, new cold water enters tank at bottom and will slowly mix with hot, causing temperature inside tank to decline until unit turns ON again. How electric water heaters work 50 gallon GE heat pump NOT recommended for home with large bathtub / install 80-100 gallon size Rule of thumb for whirlpool bathtub, and large garden bathtub = minimum 80 gallons first-hour-delivery

Drip pan saves damage See drip pan installation Water heater drip pans at Amazon Drip pan saves damage from water leaks	Install GE Heat pump water heater in drip pan to prevent water damage from condensate or leak. Prevent leaking tank by checking and replacing anode rod see GE heat pump anode Make sure hose can still attach to water heater drain valve. Drain valve located on front or water heater 2012 See drip pan installation Leaking water heater
Installation Notes: Drain valve is only 2-1/2" from bottom of heater. Can be difficult to attach hose	Water heater must be installed in Vertical position Ambient room temperature must not fall below 45 degrees F. Remember: In winter, your furnace is being used to heat the water
Add expansion tank to extend service life of water heater and plumbing fixtures Add pressure reducing valve if water pressure exceeds 80 psi Check pressure using BTG100 pressure gauge attached to water heater drain valve	Flooring and weight 200 lbs + 5.4 lbs x 50 gallons = total weight 470 lbs = about same as 3 people
Water Temperature setting range 100 to 140 degrees F Factory default 120 degrees	Do not duct air from a garage or other space where potentially harmful fumes from solvents, chemicals or exhaust from automobiles are present. Install Gas and carbon monoxide detector.
Standby power consumption 2 watts.	How to maintain typical water heaters

Larger image

Consider earthquakes
Use earthquake straps to protect property from damage
Buy
Earthquake straps

Flammable and corrosive vapors

Site location must be free from corrosive chemicals in the atmosphere such as sulfur, fluorine, and chlorine. These elements are found in aerosol sprays, detergents, bleaches, cleaning solvents, air fresheners, paint, and varnish removers, refrigerants, and many other commercial and household products. Same is true for all gas-burning appliances, such as gas water heater
Heat pump can ignite flammable vapors, just like open fireplace or toaster oven. Turn unit off when using gasoline, shellac, varnish, flammable paints, solvents, thinners, contact cement etc. Same is true for all gas-burning appliances, such as gas water heater

Heat pump water heaters are not protected from surge Most appliances today have electronics. Few of these appliances are protected from surge Homeowner insurance might have appliance exclusion. Read policy Water heater warranty does not cover surge event. Protect 120V and 240V circuits with whole house surge protector How to wire whole house surge protector Intermatic IG1240RC3 whole house surge protector/ pdf/a>

Set water heater high enough to avoid flood Do NOT touch Flooded water heater or water heater that is wet or was wet/ electrocution danger.
When water heater gets wet, the parts can short. Water heater must be dry before put back into operation. If whole water heater went under water, then replace water heater
Flooded water heater Emergency steps to turn off water heater Leaking water heater
Do not install Heat pump in damp or wet location

Electronics are not suited to wetness Do NOT touch water heater that is wet or was wet/ electrocution danger.

GE Heat pump Maintenance

Air Filter
Do not locate Heat pump water heater in dusty location: for example laundry room or shop. Condenser fan pulls cubic feet of air from surrounding room. Room air enters filter on top of heater, and cold air exits heater. Dust and particulate is trapped by filter and protects evaporator from getting clogged.
Clean air filter at least once per year. Unit has error code to remind that filter needs cleaning.
If filter is dirty, the efficiency of unit will drop. If filter becomes clogged, the unit will automatically switch heat elements ON to compensate for loss of heat pump efficiency. Do not run heat pump without filter, or the evaporator will clog with debris and efficiency will drop
How to clean Heat pump air filter: Leave power ON. Switch unit to vacation mode so unit will not operate while filter is out. Lift filter evenly with both hands. Wash filter outdoors gently using water and soft rag. Do not use brushes or scraper.

Illustration shows concept GE heat pump has brass drain valve. Brass is preferred by plumbers since it will not break when removed. Dripping drain valve can be repaired with garden hose cap.

Flush water heater
Flush water heater once each 6 months Recommended for all water heaters, gas and electric How to flush water heater
Older GE models, drain valve on back of unit. Newer model, drain located on front. Drain valve located 2-1/2" above floor. Drain located close to floor, it is more difficult to attach garden hose. Remember, the water heater has to be drained some day. Leave room when installing water heater.

2012 Condensate lines located on right side of tank 2009-2011 condensate lines on back of unit. Remove back cover to reach tray. Blue color added for illustrative purpose

Condensate lines need to be kept clean to prevent damage to home
How it works: Air filter sits directly in front of Evaporator. Fan pulls air from room into evaporator Warm moist air passing through evaporator can cause water to condensate on the coils and drip down into condensate tray. Water empties out of tray into primary condensate drain line and flows to bottom of water heater.
If primary drain is clogged, water will flow out secondary If both primary and secondary are clogged, water will drip down side of water heater. Different brands of heat pump have different diameter condensate line. GE has a smaller line. Other brands use ¾” condensate line.
Condensate line should drop down side of tank and terminate 3-6” above a floor drain.
Some people use a bucket and then dump bucket periodically. Don’t let water in bucket get higher than drain line. Other people use a pump to evacuate condensate water into household drain.
Check and clean condensate drain lines periodically

How to clean condensate line:
1) Remove condensate line, take outdoors, use wire to make sure ends are open, swing line around over head to clean tubing, and then rinse outdoors. Water inside tube is not clean and contains bacteria.
2) Use turkey baster to squirt clorox or hydrogen peroxide into primary or secondary drain openings to help remove algae or debris
Gallo gun and CO2 cartridge Buy a tool, and blow out the clog all over room

See another image

Clean evaporator fins All water heaters need periodic maintenance. Heat pump water heater requires more maintenance than ordinary electric water heater. Ordinary electric water heater needs less maintenance than heat pump. Evaporator may not be easy to access because of compressor, fan blade and housing. Typical Water heater maintenance
Maintaining full output might require occasional professional cleaning of evaporator. Undo screws and remove water heater cover. Remove air filter as needed. Carefully clean evaporator fins. Only use water and a soft brush. Tape a soft-bristle toothbrush to a stick. Never use acidic or alkaline cleaning agents
If evaporator has not been wet, then use compressed air to blow out dust. Do not expect detailed instructions or illustrations in product manual.

Water heater electronics
GE electronics are not protected from surge. Damage from surge is not covered under warranty. All household electronics are susceptible to surge New washing machine, kitchen appliances etc are not protected Homes today should have whole-house surge protection Do not expect surge advisory in GE product manual
Ordinary tank-type electric water heater is not susceptible to surge, and if lightning strike disables ordinary heater, it can generally be fixed same day using generic off-the-shelf parts for less than $50

Heat pump is NOT protected from power surge

Whole house surge Larger image Connect surge protector to 20 amp double-pole circuit breaker Intermatic IG1240RC3 whole house surge protector/ pdf How to wire whole house surge protector

AO Smith heat pump has power anode rod for homes with anode-related odor problems

Vent to bring or send air to-from another room
DOES NOT FIT GE***********Made for tall model AO Smith heater

Duct kit for State heat pump water heaters

State heat pump has kit to bring air from different room
Duct kit for State heat pump water heaters State heat pump manual Confined space installation page 5 Diagnostic codes page 18

Use thru-wall fan if room size is smaller than 10' x 10'
Hybrid heat pump water heater requires 10' x 10' room
If you do not have that size room, then install thru-wall fan
Running a fan to supply air to meet the needs of heat pump water heater adds energy cost, but saves energy if heat pump cannot get enough fresh air ... why? the heat pump loses efficiency with restricted air flow.
Wires and amp or current switch must be inside enclosed box. Note that the amp switch must be installed on 1 wire in the circuit, or it will not activate.
Larger image
Buy:
Thru-wall fans at Amazon
Thru-wall fan at Amazon
Current switch/ current transducer

Larger image

2012 parts: color added for illustration State hybrid has non-sacrificial powered anode rod

Large Image from 2009

Anode rod GE heat pump has sacrificial anode rod
GE heat pump anode rod is located on top of tank Anode should be inspected within 12 months of installation. Remove front hood to access anode rod Should be able to remove anode rod without moving compressor or evaporator.
Remove and inspect anode rod each 1-3 years Be careful not to damage evaporator coil or air filter housing; set piece of masonite in front of other parts if needed. Cut new anode rod to 42" length. Replace with standard 1-1/6" hex head magnesium rod
Anode rod keeps tank from rusting. Once anode depletes, the steel tank will rust. Anode rods
Do not expect anode illustration in product manual
GE has sacrificial magnesium anode rod that needs to be inspected each 1-3 years. Water softener will cause anode rod to deplete sooner. GE manuals says anode will last 10 years.
State heat pump has powered anode rod that will not deplete and will not cause odor.

Homes with hot-water odor problems should avoid GE heat pump Consider buying State heat pump with power anode rod Or buy ordinary tank-type water heater and install power anode rod Anode rods State heat pump manual State heat pump parts Powered anode rod page 15 manual

Understanding the Parts Do not expect parts list or parts information in GE product manual If you buy window air conditioner or refrigerator, most people are not concerned about the parts. Some people are. 2009 design showing GE air intake on front of unit. Blower moved behind evaporator in recent models. Air intake duct line can be run to outside wall. Do not put air intake duct line inside garage where CO fumes can enter home.

Larger image of HTP parts sheet

Image from 2009 GE heat pump F9 and F10 code means element failure.
How to replace GE heat pump elements from 2009 .pdf

T2 temperature sensor Temperature range detects freezing temperatures and overheating event
GE heat pump has 2 reset buttons Reset button or TCO or Thermal cut off trips in event of overheating. Both thermal cutouts require manual reset Over heating can be caused by failed TCO, cracked element shorted to ground, bad T2 tank-temperature-sensor located just above TCO reset buttons, loose wire near the TCO, or any high heat event. Read more about sensors page-30 in 2009 pdf GE heat pump Troubleshoot and fault codes 2012
GE elements are replaceable using generic elements from hardware The control will record a heating element fault if the current is less than 10 amps when the element relay on the board is energized. How to test water heater elements
L1 and L2 refer to the power lines from circuit breaker 240Volt power has two hot lines, and they are called L1 and L2 When L1 and L2 are both cut off, the unit has NO power. When L1 is cut, then all 240Volt circuits are inoperable, but unit has live electricity. Read about 120Volts vars 240Volts

GE heat pump sensors 2009
T2 Tank sensor also shown in photo above Heat pump sensors 2009 Read more about sensors page-30 in 2009 pdf All GE Heat pump .pdf manuals
Each heat pump unit has several sensors that track performance. Each time a sensor detects performance outside typical operating parameters, an error is registered. When enough errors accumulate, or a specific group of errors accumulate, an error code message is issued.

GE Heat pump product manuals Manuals installation, maintenance and troubleshooting steps, but no repair information or parts sheet

Product manuals by date
See all manuals by date
Read product manuals for troubleshoot steps.
GE Heat pump Product manual 10-2009
GE Heat pump Product manual 5-2011
GE Heat pump Product manual 2-2012

Spec sheets by date
GE heat pump features 2009 Spec sheet 2009 Specification sheet 3-2010 Specification sheet 2-2012

GE heat pump Service manual? GE does not post current service manuals for heat pump water heaters

There is 1 GE heat pump service manual brief from 2009 when product was first introduced GE heat pump service manual brief from 2009 Shows sensors, 2009 error codes, ohm readings, and basic part replacement. The 2010 and 2012 product are different, and no service manual is posted for later models

No current service manual Average service call to repair GE heat pump is $400 GE wants a service technician sitting in front of unit

This is a problem for many folks. You can't fix the GE heat pump yourself. You have to pay for service. It means you shouldn't buy the product.

What does it mean to the customer? You cannot fix it yourself. Delay, expense, and possibly less-than-successful service. When GE heat pump stops working, product manual has basic troubleshooting, but manual says to call GE. GE representatives will NOT connect customers to tech support. Only 'qualified' service technicians get information from GE tech support. Rheem/GE refuse to post service manuals for any water heater. This is bad for customer confidence and independence. Think about this for a moment: Customers are most familiar with environmental and usage habits that affect heat pump operation. Yet customers cannot read a service manual to better avoid unique problems. Nor can customers exchange information with GE tech support to better understand product specifics. Nor can a young person read the inner workings of a heat pump and spark un-invented innovation. Service technician that visits home [for $400] cannot read the service manual either, or exchange information with other service technicians based on technical reading. All innovation and thinking is done at GE. There is no exchange of repair information via the internet. Maybe this action protects livelihood of local technicians, or protects GE from patent lawsuit, but this is also why you should not buy the GE heat pump.

Service manual, Troubleshoot, error codes from different companies

GE heat pump service manual brief from 2009
GE heat pump wiring diagram 2009
Sanyo Heat Pump service manual
State Heat pump troubleshooting guide
Bosch heat pump error codes
HTP heat pump troubleshoot and error codes
Rheem heat pump parts

GE Heat pump Error Codes From various sources Might not be current GE heat pump Troubleshoot and fault codes 2012 GE heat pump Fault codes 2009 GE hybrid warranty 2012 Call GE 888-443-43954	Information about error codes and diagnostics is not guaranteed 100% accurate / F-10 Is check upper element and wiring F-9 is check lower element and wiring F-D is check filter sensor and wiring F-B Is check sensor wiring resistance, check expansion valve and check charge pressure F-C service code stands for "Failed Compressor"] F3 Compressor failure F4 through F8 heat pump failure F9 water system failure lower element fault F10 water system failure upper heating element fault SF system failure F2 means T2 tank sensor fault SF System failure F1 means TCO tripped GE heat pump service manual from 2009 All GE Heat pump .pdf manuals Run Cond C fault code Each heat pump unit has several sensors that track performance. Each time a sensor detects performance outside typical operating parameters, an error is registered. When enough errors accumulate, or a specific group of errors accumulate, an error code message is issued.
Access to GE heat pump diagnostics menu requires access code	How to access GE heat pump diagnostics pre 2012: Several selections within the diagnostics menu require an access code Scroll to the diagnostic mode and select it. The access code is FILTER, LOCK, and VACATION pads pressed sequentially within 3 seconds of each other Use arrow code to scroll through selections 2009 Heat pump: Each sensor will will show with range and ohm reading in real time, Each component will show status Some people report this does not work. This product is evolving. Heat pump water heaters are changing. Technology does not wait. Don't buy expensive complicated water heaters that cannot be repaired by consumer, and no service manuals are available.
How to reset GE heat pump error codes	With the heater powered up, scroll diagnostics mode. and select it. The unit will ask you for a code Press FILTER, LOCK, and VACATION pads pressed sequentially within 3 seconds of each other This should bring up a screen that shows the fault codes. Scroll to the "clear all fault codes" with the arrow keys. When thats highlighted, repeat the code Filter, Lock, Vacation

Larger image

Photos of repair 2012 Parts:
Condenser and fan Top cover and control\
Body parts
Condensate drain
Anode rod location
Anode rod location
2 Heat pump sensors 2009
Fan pulls air through filter and then through evaporator coil, and then cool air exits back of unit
811 wire tie 737 grommet 736 clip compressor mount 390 Comp process tube 5/16 389 Tube discharge formed 388 Filter dryer asm 385 Accumulator asm 380 Evaporator kit 374 Fan blade asm 373 Nut: fan blade to motor 372 Washer 371 Spring washer 370 Fan blade 367 8-32 screw
362 Seal foam evaporator 361 Seal foam barrier 360 Fan shroud asm 354 Fan motor asm 351 Flange fan 350 Motor fan
348 Wire grd compressor 341 Drier & eev valve asm 340 Eev coil 333 Mastic thermal sensor 327 Relay start compressor 326 Overload, compressor 325 Compressor kit 315 10-32 screw 313 Condensate drain
312 Cap mounting bracket 310 Bkt capacitor mounting 311 clip capacitor mount 306 Cover electric comp 305 Capacitor start

Buy
Tools
Milwaukee
DEWALT
Black and Decker
Stanley
SKIL
Makita
Porter-Cable
Bosch

Irwin Hand tools
Klein hand tools
Fluke electrical testing
Dremel hobby tools

Campbell Hausfeld air powered
Tekton automotive

Powerbuilt automotive
Saws and saw blades

Buy from my affiliate links every time/ thanks:
Amazon
''As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases''
Enter Amazon from any link on my site, fill cart with any item ... purchases pay small commission

E-mail: geno03245w@gmail.com
My response might end up in spam folder, check email folders
Waterheatertimer on Twitter
Message thru facebook