Richmond Encore 50-Gallon Heat Pump Water Heater
Richmond Encore 50-Gallon Heat Pump Water Heater Review
The Richmond Encore 50-Gallon Heat Pump Water Heater is Rheem's plumber-channel 50-gallon heat-pump under the Richmond brand. Functionally equivalent to Rheem ProTerra 50-gallon at Home Depot.
Specs: 50 gallons stored, integrated heat pump + 4500W backup resistance element, UEF 3.55, ENERGY STAR Most Efficient certified, 10-year tank and 10-year compressor warranty.
Same fundamental engineering as ProTerra. About $1,699 plumber-channel pricing, $2,700 plumber-installed before federal + utility rebates. After IRA Section 25C credit + utility rebates, net install cost often drops to $700-$1,700.
Install requirements: 750+ cubic feet of air around unit, 50-90°F ambient, condensate drainage. Right install: basements, large utility rooms, attached garages in moderate climates.
Right buyer: 3-person household accessing heat-pump category through plumber-channel preference. For DIY/retail purchase, Rheem ProTerra is the equivalent product at Home Depot.
- Heat pump technology — 2–3× more efficient than resistance electric; UEF 4.00 qualifies for federal tax credits
- UEF 4 — top-tier efficiency; qualifies for Inflation Reduction Act §25C residential credit
- 10-year warranty — solid above-average coverage for this class
- Heat pump mode requires 1,000 sq ft ambient space and 40–90°F surrounding air — loses efficiency in cold utility rooms