Pennsylvania homeowner explores how a wood stove may improve a heat pump water heater

A Pennsylvania homeowner considering a heat pump water heater asked other homeowners for guidance on an unusual setup: putting the unit in a basement warmed by a wood stove.

The responses were largely positive, with commenters saying the stove’s heat could actually help the water heater run more efficiently.

What to know

In a Reddit post in the r/heatpumps community, the homeowner said a wood stove provides supplemental winter heat in a basement of about 500 square feet in North Central Pennsylvania.

They asked whether the dry, hot air would be a good match for a heat pump water heater, noting that the basement typically reaches around 80 degrees while the stove is burning and can get as high as 90 degrees. They also asked what to expect during the winter months with the stove in the same room.

Because a heat pump water heater pulls warmth from the surrounding air instead of creating heat directly, several commenters said the warm basement sounded like a favorable location.

“That’s actually ideal for a heat pump,” one commenter said. “They move heat from air instead of generating heat, which means the higher the room temperature, the more efficient it is.”

Some commenters also said the setup could reduce energy costs. One person who had installed a similar unit said it worked without issues and lowered their electricity bill by about $20 to $30 a month.

Additional context

One detailed reply noted that the water heater would cool the basement somewhat by drawing heat from the wood stove’s warm air into the water. That cooling effect might be easier to notice during spring and fall, when the stove is not running as often.

The same commenter added that low winter humidity would not prevent the unit from working, though it could mean less condensation to collect. Others also mentioned that the appliance may provide dehumidification during summer.

There was some disagreement, however, about whether the basement was large enough. One commenter thought 500 square feet was sufficient, while another cautioned against installing an 80-gallon model.

What homeowners can do

One commenter advised keeping the water heater away from the wood stove’s clearance area and away from the path of its hottest direct airflow. They also suggested checking the manufacturer’s maximum ambient operating temperature before buying.

That same reply warned that ash and dust near the stove could require more frequent air-filter cleaning. It also recommended installing a drain line or condensate pump, even with the dry winter air.

Another commenter said they had direct experience with the same type of setup and that it worked well.

“I have that exact set-up, it works great!” they wrote.

For homeowners weighing upgrade options, Cala offers smart heat pump water heaters. The company says its customizable units can help reduce energy bills by heating water only when needed. Along with the placement and maintenance issues raised in the Pennsylvania discussion, homeowners can consider whether smart controls would fit their water-heating needs.

More reading

Other homeowners have also looked for guidance on using a wood stove or switching to a heat pump water heater.

• In Pennsylvania, a wood-stove beginner learned that green wood can create problems when getting ready for winter.
• One homeowner considered replacing oil-fired water heating to keep the boiler off throughout the summer.
• A Massachusetts homeowner said a heat pump water heater helped cut electricity use.
• A Texas homeowner considered heat pump water heating for a garage that can reach 100 degrees.