I've had mine for about a year. I put it in my garage which previously, would reach easily 100F + in the summer. This past summer, on the hottest day, it got to about 90 in the garage. When the water heater was running, it easily kept the garage below 90. I purchased the hybrid version which can use straight electricity when the heat pump won't cut it. This serves to also keep the garage cooler for the second fridge I have in the garage.
I was previously on propane to heat my water, which was costing between $50 - $60 a month. During the summer, my electricity bill only went up $12 a month. During the coldest part of winter, it was at about $30 a month more. But, I pay considerably less for electricity in the winter than in the summer.
Just for reference, I purchased the Rheem 65 gal 10 year warranty from Home Depot when it was on sale. This has definitely been one of the best purchases
I live in Northern CA too, about 40 miles Easy of Sacramento. I live in Comcast's zone (so I get 100/5) but my friend .5 mile away only has DSL as an option. A lot of people around me have to use radio frequency internet or satellite. Before I even considered a house, I would first confirm with Comcast that they serviced that house. Double check though! We were in escrow for a different house before I realized Comcast had given me the wrong info the first time.
I was previously on propane to heat my water, which was costing between $50 - $60 a month. During the summer, my electricity bill only went up $12 a month. During the coldest part of winter, it was at about $30 a month more. But, I pay considerably less for electricity in the winter than in the summer.
Just for reference, I purchased the Rheem 65 gal 10 year warranty from Home Depot when it was on sale. This has definitely been one of the best purchases