Knowledge

YOUR WATER HEATER EMITS AS MUCH CO₂ AS A CAR

An average electric water heater used for heating domestic hot water produces around 1,300 kg of CO₂ emissions per year – the same as the annual emissions of a typical family car in Europe.
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In times when reducing our carbon footprint is more important than ever, we often overlook one of the closest and most effective solutions: heating domestic hot water. While we’re investing in electric vehicles, solar panels, and home energy renovations, a significant source of emissions quietly remains inside our homes. 

How much CO₂ does an electric water heater produce?

On average, an electric water heater consumes around 3,800 kWh of electricity annually to heat domestic hot water. Unless this electricity comes entirely from renewable sources, it results in approximately 1,300 kg of CO₂ emissions – roughly the same as a modern car driving 10,000 kilometers per year, or the average annual emissions of a European family car. 

Yes, you read that right – your daily showers and dishwashing contribute as much to emissions as your car over a full year. 

Why is an electric water heater no longer a suitable choice?

While electric water heaters are widely used and easy to install, they have low energy efficiency and come with high costs – both financial and environmental: 

  • High electricity consumption 
  • Higher monthly bills  
  • Short lifespan (typically 10–12 years) 
  • Reduced efficiency over time, especially in areas with hard water due to limescale buildup 
  • Significant carbon footprint 

Compared to modern alternatives, they are outdated and inefficient – especially in a time when energy savings are no longer optional, but essential. 

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Heat pump water heater: 75% lower energy use, 1,000 kg less CO₂

Replacing your electric water heater with a heat pump water heater is one of the fastest and most impactful steps you can take toward a more sustainable household. 

  • How does a heat pump water heater work? Domestic hot water heat pumps use the warmth from the surrounding air and can generate up to 4 kWh of heat from just 1 kWh of electricity.
    This means up to 75% less electricity is used to produce the same amount of hot water. 
  • How much can you save? Instead of consuming 3,400 kWh annually, your usage drops to around 850 kWh – saving you hudreds of euros per year. 
  • How much can you reduce emissions? CO₂ emissions drop from around 1,300 kg to just 300 kg annually – equivalent to the emissions from driving 7,000 kilometers.  And if the heat pump is connected to a solar power system, emissions for heating water can be reduced to almost zero. 
  • How is a heat pump water heater installed? KRONOTERM heat pump water heaters are designed for easy installation using your existing electrical and plumbing connections – with no major renovations required. 

A smart investment with high returns

Although the initial cost of a heat pump water heater is higher than that of a traditional heater, the significant savings quickly offset the investment. In many countries, financial incentives and subsidies are also available to reduce the upfront costmaking the switch even more accessible. 

The time to act is now

Sometimes, one simple decision can make all the difference. Replacing your outdated electric water heater with a modern heat pump reduces your costs, cuts your emissions, and helps create a cleaner environment. 

No need to look far for solutions. Start at home. Contact us to replace your old electric water heater with a high-efficiency heat pump system. 

Frequently Asked Questions

– 01
How much electricity does an electric water heater use for domestic hot water?

On average, around 3,800 kWh per yearresulting in about 1,300 kg of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to driving roughly 9,000 km. 

– 02
What’s the saving when switching to a heat pump?
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Electricity consumption drops by around 75% – from 3,800 kWh to 850 kWh per year. This translates to significantly lower energy bills and up to 1,000 kg fewer CO₂ emissions annually. 

– 03
Can I connect a heat pump water heater to my solar power system?
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Yes. When paired with solar panels, water heating can become nearly freeand virtually emission-free. 


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