Heat pump hot water systems are fast becoming the system of choice for Australian households and businesses. Known for their efficiency, heat pumps are a fantastic alternative to solar hot water systems and a superior option compared to gas and electric hot water systems.
We’ll take a look at the most common heat pump brands available in Australia to help you decide which one will best suit your needs.
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Why choose a heat pump hot water system?
Choosing a heat pump hot water system for Australian household and businesses comes with several key benefits:
- Energy efficiency: Heat pump systems are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional electric or gas hot water systems. They use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water, rather than generating heat directly, which reduces energy consumption. This can lead to lower electricity bills over time.
- Environmental impact: Heat pumps have a smaller carbon footprint compared to gas and electric hot water systems. They use renewable energy from the environment (air or ground) to heat water, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making them a more eco-friendly option.
- Lower running costs: Although heat pump systems tend to have a higher upfront cost, their energy efficiency leads to lower operating costs. Over time, these savings can outweigh the initial investment, making heat pumps a cost-effective choice in the long run.
- Performance in various climates: Modern heat pump systems are designed to work well in a variety of climates, including Australia’s diverse conditions. Many models are equipped with advanced technology to operate effectively even in colder regions or during winter months.
- Incentives & Rebates: There are government rebates and incentives available for households that choose energy-efficient appliances, including heat pump hot water systems. These can help offset the higher initial cost.
- Long-term durability & reliability: Heat pump systems are built to last. Many come with long warranties (often up to 10 years), providing peace of mind for homeowners regarding long-term performance and maintenance.
- Quiet operation: Heat pump hot water systems are generally quieter than traditional systems. This is especially beneficial for households where the water heater is installed near living areas or bedrooms.
- Smart technology integration: Many heat pump models now come with smart features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their system remotely for added convenience and efficiency.
In summary, heat pump hot water systems offer a combination of energy efficiency, cost savings, and eco-friendliness, making them an appealing choice for Australian households looking to reduce their energy consumption and environmental impact.
Comparing heat pump brands and models available in Australia
The following list of heat pumps are the most common units offered for sale. Models with similar tank sizes were selected for fair comparison. We compare the quality, efficiency, and price of the units to better assist you in selecting the right one for your needs.
The ratings were determined based on a combination of the following:
- Manufacturer specifications: Efficiency ratings (COP), tank capacity, warranty periods, and energy consumption data from product datasheets.
- Customer reviews & feedback: Ratings and feedback from Australian consumers on product review sites (e.g., ProductReview, Choice, and Whirlpool forums).
- Industry expert reviews: Insights from clean energy and hot water system specialists, including comparisons from CHOICE Australia.
- Price comparisons: General price positioning of each model, balancing upfront costs, rebates, and long-term energy savings.
The star ratings (out of 5) are relative to other models in the list, aiming to give a fair assessment of quality, efficiency, and price.
| Model | Unit price * | Tank size | Tank dimensions (mm) | Time to reheat full tank | Refrigerant | Warranty | Coefficient of performance (COP) | Additional resistive element? | Operating temperature range | Max decibels | Quality rating (out of 5) ^ | Efficiency rating (out of 5) ^ | Price rating (out of 5) ^ | Aggregate rating ^ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apricus 260L | APHP-R290-260 | $3,500 | 260L | 1800 x 620 | 5.2 hours | R290 (Propane) | 6 years | 4.13 | Yes | -7 - 43°C | 43dB | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | ~4.17 |
| Aquatech X6 225L | X6 | $2,295 | 225L | 1580 x 620 | 3.2 hours | R290 (propane) | 5 years | 4.15 | Yes | -5 to + 43°C | 42dB | 4.2 | 4 | 4.2 | ~4.13 |
| Ecogenica R-seriies split 215L | R 215 | $2,200 | 215L | 1815 x 510 | 3.2 hours | R290 (propane) | 7 years tank, 5 years heat pump | 5 | No | -7 to + 43°C | 50dB | 4 | 4.2 | 4 | ~4.07 |
| Emerald Energy All-in-one 270L | EE-HWS-A1-270 | $2,990 | 270L | 1826 x 600 | 3.5 hours | R290 (propane) | 5 years | 4.9 | No | -7 - +43°C | 49dB | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.1 | ~4.17 |
| Envroheat 250L | 250EH1-15 | $2,000 | 250L | 1965 x 629 | 5 hours | R134a | 5 years tank, 1 year electronics | 3.9 | No | -7 to 46°C | 46dB | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4 | ~4.13 |
| Evoheat 270L | Evo270-1 | $3,800 | 270L | 1992 x 640 | 3 hours | R134a | 6 years tank, 5 years compressor and parts | 4.27 | Yes | -7 - +43°C | 48dB | 4 | 4 | 4.3 | ~4.10 |
| Haier Monoblock 250L | HP250M1-U1 | $3,900 | 250L | 1951 x 630 | 3.5-5 hours | R290 | 7 year tank, 5 year parts and labour | 4.49 | Yes | -7 to 45°C | 43dB | 3.9 | 3.8 | 4.4 | ~4.03 |
| iStore 270L | PASHW015-270LD-FL02-R290 | $2790 | 270L | 1950 x 640 | 4.15 hours | R290 (propane) | 5 years | 4.8 | Yes | -7 to 45°C | 46dB | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4 | ~4.10 |
| Quantum 270L | 270-08AC6-290 | $3500 | 270L | 1900 x 650 | 3.71 hours | R290 (Propane) | 5 years tank, 2 years electrics | 4.3 | No | -10 to +35°C | 50dB | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4 | ~4.10 |
| Reclaim 250L | REHP-CO2-250GL | $4700 | 250L | 1349 x 613 | 3.08 hours | R744 (CO2) | 10 years (wi-fi enabled) | 5 | No | -10 to 43°C | 37dB | 4.2 | 4 | 4.2 | ~4.13 |
| Rheem Ambiheat 270L | HDc270 | $3,629 | 270L | 1825 x 690 | 3.5 hours | R513a | 7 years tank, 3 years sealed system | 4.5 | Yes | -5 to +43°C | 48dB | 4.5 | 4.4 | 4.3 | ~4.40 |
| Rinnai Enviroflo 250L | EHPA250VMA | $3,400 | 250L | 1847 x 627 | 4 hours | R290 (propane) | 7 years tank, 3 years heat pump, 1 year valves | 5 | Yes | -1 to + 45°C | 48dB | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4 | ~4.17 |
| Sanden 250L | SAN-250SAQA | $5000 | 250L | 1428 x 719 | 3.61 hours | R744 (CO2) | 10 years tank, 6 years heat pump | 5 | No | -10 to 43°C | 37dB | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4 | ~4.27 |
| Solarhart Atmos Eco 280L | 280HER | $3,500 | 280L | 1832 x 690 | 4.5 hours | R290 (Propane) | 7 years tank, 3 years pump, 1 year electronics | 5.2 | Yes | -6 to + 43°C | tbddB | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.1 | ~4.17 |
| Stiebel Eltron WWK 222L | WWK 222 | $3,000 | 222L | 1553 x 690 | 5 hours | R-134a | Cylinder 5 years, valves 1 year | 3.94 | No | -5 to + 42°C | 45dB | 4.4 | 4.2 | 3.9 | ~4.17 |
| Thermann Split 250L | 250 | $5,009 | 250L | 1444 x 623 | Not specified | R744 (CO2) | 6 years heat pump, 10 years tank, 2 years parts | 5 | No | -10 to + 43°C | 37dB | 4 | 4.1 | 4.2 | ~4.10 |
*Unit price does not include installation costs or deductions for any state or federal incentives
^The rating values are illustrative and based on aggregated review scores reported by multiple industry and consumer sources.
Current available models of heat pump hot water systems
Heat pumps vary according to make, model and capacity. Explore the most common heat pumps installed in Australia.
Apricus 260L
APHP-R290-260
The Apricus 260L is a top-tier heat pump using R290 refrigerant, which is a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. The system is known for its high energy efficiency, making it a solid investment for households looking to reduce energy consumption. It has a large capacity, making it suitable for medium-sized families, and provides quick hot water recovery, ensuring you won’t be left waiting for long periods. On the downside, the installation process can be more involved, particularly if space constraints are a factor. Additionally, Apricus is a smaller brand compared to others, which might mean limited availability of spare parts or support services in some areas, and this could be an issue over time.
Aquatech X6 225L
X6
The Aquatech X6 225L is a compact yet efficient heat pump that is well-suited for smaller households or those with limited space. Its quieter operation is a standout feature, which can be a significant advantage if the heat pump is placed near living or sleeping areas. The unit uses advanced technology to provide efficient water heating, which helps save on electricity bills. However, while it’s an excellent choice for smaller homes, its 225L capacity might not be adequate for larger families. Additionally, some users report that it doesn’t perform as well in extremely cold climates, and the system could struggle to maintain its efficiency during winter months in colder regions.
Ecogenica R-series split 215L
R 215
The Ecogenica R-series split 215L heat pump offers a flexible and space-saving design. The split system allows for the compressor to be placed separately from the tank, making it easier to install in locations with limited space or for those who prefer less intrusive installations. It uses R290 refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly than traditional options. While this system has great energy efficiency and decent hot water output, its 215L capacity may not be sufficient for larger households. Furthermore, the longevity of the system has been questioned by some users, with reports suggesting that regular maintenance is essential to keep the system running smoothly. This could mean higher ongoing costs for upkeep.
Emerald Energy All-in-one 270L
EE-HWS-A1-270
The Emerald Energy All-in-one 270L is an all-in-one heat pump, meaning that both the tank and compressor are contained in a single unit. This makes it easier to install, particularly in spaces where a split system might be more difficult. The 270L capacity is more than sufficient for medium to large households, ensuring hot water availability throughout the day. It also offers great energy efficiency and fast recovery times, which reduces the wait time for hot water. The main disadvantage is the higher upfront cost compared to some other options. Additionally, while the unit is well-designed, some users have noted that it can be slightly noisier than other models, especially when operating during peak periods.
Enviroheat 250L
250EH1-15
Enviroheat’s 250L heat pump is designed for eco-conscious consumers, using R290 refrigerant, which offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. This model provides reliable energy efficiency and performance, delivering hot water quickly and economically. It’s ideal for medium-sized homes. One downside is that the 250L capacity may be insufficient for larger households with higher hot water demands. Additionally, the unit may not perform as efficiently in extremely cold conditions, leading to higher energy consumption. Regular maintenance is required to maintain optimal performance, which could incur additional costs over time.
Evoheat 270L
Evo270-1
Evoheat’s 270L heat pump is a high-performance unit with great energy efficiency, making it an ideal option for medium to large households. Its ability to provide quick hot water recovery ensures that the system keeps up with the demands of busy families. The Evoheat is also built to perform well in colder climates, which is a huge advantage for homes in regions with cooler temperatures. However, the system’s high initial cost may deter some buyers, and the installation process can be complex, requiring professional help. Additionally, some users have mentioned that while the unit is effective, it can be a bit bulkier compared to other options, which may limit installation flexibility.
Haier Monoblock 250L
HP250M1-U1
The Haier Monoblock 250L is a compact, monoblock heat pump system, meaning that the tank and compressor are integrated into one unit. This design makes it more straightforward to install, as there’s no need for separate connections between the tank and the compressor. The system is also relatively quiet, ensuring that it doesn’t disrupt daily life in the home. Its 250L capacity is suitable for smaller households, but larger families may find it inadequate. Additionally, some users have noted that the unit can be louder than expected during operation, particularly during the initial heating phase. It’s also worth noting that the unit may not perform as efficiently in colder climates compared to others on the market.
iStore 270L
PASHW015-270LD-FL02-R290
The iStore 270L is another highly efficient heat pump that uses the environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant. This unit is well-regarded for its energy-saving features, which help reduce electricity costs. It has a strong capacity, making it suitable for medium to large households. However, its initial cost is on the higher end, which might be a concern for those on a tight budget. Additionally, while the system is effective, installation can be more complex, and it may require a professional installer to ensure it runs optimally. Some users also report that the unit can take up more space than other models, which might be a consideration if installation space is limited.
Quantum 270L
270-08AC6-290
Quantum’s 270L heat pump stands out for its energy efficiency and eco-friendly R290 refrigerant. It’s a reliable choice that provides excellent hot water performance, with a fast recovery rate ensuring that you’re never left without hot water. The system is also robust and performs well in various weather conditions, including cooler climates. However, the 270L capacity might be too large for smaller homes, and its size could make it less suitable for properties with limited installation space. Additionally, while the energy savings are significant over time, the upfront cost may be a hurdle for some buyers.
Reclaim 250L
REHP-CO2-250GL
Reclaim’s 250L heat pump uses CO2 refrigerant, which is one of the most environmentally friendly refrigerants available, offering excellent energy efficiency and low environmental impact. This system is ideal for eco-conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still enjoying reliable hot water. The 250L capacity is best suited for smaller homes or households with lower hot water demands. However, the main downside is that CO2 refrigerant systems can be more expensive to repair and maintain due to the availability of parts and specialist knowledge required. Additionally, the system may not be able to cope with the high demand of larger families.
Rheem Ambiheat 270L
HDc270
The Rheem Ambiheat 270L is a well-known and trusted brand in the hot water system market. It offers great energy efficiency, helping households save on electricity bills. The 270L capacity is ideal for medium to large homes, ensuring a consistent supply of hot water for busy families. One of its biggest advantages is its consistent and reliable performance, backed by the reputable Rheem brand. However, the unit’s initial cost is relatively high, which may be a barrier for some customers. Additionally, professional installation is required, which can add to the overall expense. Some users also report that the system can be slightly bulkier than other models, limiting installation flexibility.
Rinnai Enviroflo 250L
EHPA250VMA
The Rinnai Enviroflo 250L is a solid, eco-friendly heat pump that uses R290 refrigerant, providing excellent energy efficiency for smaller homes or households. The 250L capacity is ideal for families with lower hot water demands. It performs well in most conditions and is relatively easy to install. However, its 250L capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or homes with higher hot water requirements. Additionally, while it performs well in milder climates, it may not be as efficient in colder conditions, which could result in higher energy consumption during the winter months.
Sanden 250L
SAN-250SAQA
The Sanden 250L heat pump is one of the top performers in the market, known for its exceptional energy efficiency and long-term reliability. It uses CO2 refrigerant, which is highly eco-friendly and offers great performance, especially in colder climates. The Sanden system is also built to last, making it a solid investment for long-term savings. However, it comes at a premium price point, and installation can be more complex than with some other models. Additionally, due to its design, it may take up more space than some buyers expect, limiting installation options in smaller properties.
Solarhart Atmos Eco 280L
280HER
The Solarhart Atmos Eco 280L is a high-capacity heat pump, offering 280L of hot water storage, making it suitable for larger households. It operates efficiently in colder climates, ensuring a reliable supply of hot water even in cooler conditions. The system is also built to last, providing long-term savings on energy bills. However, the initial cost of the unit is higher than many other options, and its size may be too large for smaller homes, particularly if space for installation is limited. Additionally, some users have found it to be noisier than other models during operation.
Stiebel Eltron WWK 222L
WWK 222
The Stiebel Eltron WWK 222L is a highly efficient, compact heat pump designed for medium-sized homes. It operates quietly and provides a steady supply of hot water, making it a good option for households with average water usage. The 222L capacity is well-suited for smaller families or homes with moderate hot water needs. However, larger households may find the capacity insufficient. The unit’s price is on the higher end, and while it’s durable, some buyers may prefer larger capacity models if they have greater hot water demands.
Thermann Split 250L
250
The Thermann Split 250L is an efficient, split-system heat pump, offering a separate compressor and tank for easier installation. It’s a quiet system and performs well in both warm and cold climates, providing reliable hot water for medium-sized homes. However, the 250L capacity may not be enough for larger households, and the split system requires more space than monoblock models. The upfront cost can also be higher, especially if you need professional installation. Additionally, while it’s energy-efficient, some users find that it takes a bit longer to heat water compared to other models.
