Solution Detail

Hot Water
& Heat pumps

Energy-efficient hot water collectors from iStore, Apricus, Reclaim, Stiebel Eltron, Dux, and Rinnai. Use free ambient-air heat to warm water with a minimal carbon footprint — cutting bills by up to 80%.

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Best Value All-Rounder

iStore

An Australian-engineered hot water system designed to replace traditional electric or gas hot water storage units. It extracts heat energy from the ambient air to heat water, drastically reducing household power consumption.

iStore 180L

Ideal For2–4 occupants
Power Consumption~0.58 kW
Thermal OutputUp to 4.0 kW
RefrigerantR290 (Eco, low GWP)
Noise Level≤46.6 dB @ 1m

iStore 270L

Ideal For3–6+ occupants
Power Consumption~0.85 kW
Thermal OutputUp to 5.05 kW
RefrigerantR290 (Eco, low GWP)
Noise Level≤46.6 dB @ 1m
Core highlights
1. High Efficiency (COP ~4.0 to 4.8)

Delivers up to 4.82 kW of heating output for every 1 kW of electrical energy consumed under optimal conditions — a Coefficient of Performance up to 482%.

2. Up to 70% Energy Savings

Cuts hot water heating costs significantly compared to conventional electric element systems, saving up to $1,000/year depending on usage and tariffs.

3. Solar PV Integration

Functions as a 'thermal battery'. Built-in timers let you set the heating cycle during peak solar production hours, running the heat pump entirely on surplus solar power.

4. Smart & App Controls

Built-in timer controls, vacation mode, and Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring and adjusting temperatures via the iStore app.

5. Rebate Eligible

Both the 180L and 270L qualify for Federal STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) and state-based hot water rebates (such as Solar Victoria), reducing upfront installation costs.

6. Warranty

Standard 5-year comprehensive parts and labour warranty.

Best Mid-Range Balance

Apricus

The All-In-One Heat Pump (model APHP-R290-260) is an energy-efficient hot water system designed specifically for Australian conditions. It replaces traditional gas or electric hot water cylinders by drawing heat energy from the surrounding air to heat household water.

APHP-R290-260

Tank Capacity260 Litres (up to 6 people)
Efficiency (COP)4.13 (>4x heating per kW)
Heat Pump Input / Output665 W input / ~2.6 kW output
Electric Boost Element1.8 kW (boost up to 70°C)
RefrigerantR290 (natural, near-zero GWP)
Operating Sound LevelUltra-quiet 43 dBA @ 1m
Operating Temp Range-7°C to +43°C
Warranty6-Year full parts & labour
Core highlights
1. Up to 70% Lower Running Costs

Drastically reduces electricity bills compared to standard electric resistance water heaters, cutting carbon emissions by up to 3 tonnes annually.

2. Dual Heating System

Uses the heat pump as the primary source (up to 60°C) with a built-in 1.8 kW electric heating element for high-demand scenarios or extra boosting up to 70°C.

3. Solar PV Timer Integration

Built-in programmable timer blocks on the touch controller let you run the heating cycle during midday peak solar production hours.

4. Micro-Channel Heat Exchanger

A wrap-around micro-channel condenser coil keeps the refrigerant isolated from contact with the potable water tank to prevent contamination and internal corrosion.

5. Smart App & Live Monitoring

Smart touchscreen display and Wi-Fi mobile app (Hot Water Hub) to view real-time power consumption, monitor water temperatures, and set operational modes remotely.

6. Australian Rebate Qualified

Eligible for STC certificates as well as state-specific heat pump rebates (Solar Victoria, VEEC, and ESC).

Premium / Cold Climates

Reclaim Energy

Widely regarded as a premium, top-tier hot water solution in Australia. Unlike standard all-in-one units, Reclaim's flagship system is a split system pairing an ultra-efficient outdoor heat pump compressor with a separate hot water storage tank. Best known for using natural CO₂ (R744) refrigerant, performing exceptionally in cold climates without an electric booster.

CO₂ Split System

System TypeSplit (compressor + separate tank)
Tank Sizes160L, 250L, 315L, 400L (glass-lined / stainless)
Efficiency (COP)5.0 to 6.0+ (~5 kW output / ~0.83 kW input)
RefrigerantNatural CO₂ / R744 (GWP=1)
Operating Sound LevelUltra-quiet 37 dBA @ 1m
Operating Temp Range-10°C to +43°C
Boost ElementNone needed (63°C–67°C via heat pump)
WarrantyUp to 10yr parts/labour, up to 15yr stainless tank
Core highlights
1. Up to 80% Energy Savings

Generates over 5 kW of heating output for every 1 kW of power consumed — one of the most efficient systems available.

2. Superior Low-Temperature Heating

Where standard refrigerants struggle in sub-zero weather, CO₂ thrives in extreme cold — reliably heating water to 63°C even at -10°C ambient.

3. Whisper Quiet (37 dBA)

Operating at just 37 decibels, it is one of the quietest heat pumps on the market — allowing flexible placement near bedroom windows or boundaries.

4. Flexible Tank & Modular Setup

Because the heat pump unit is separate from the tank, choose between glass-lined or high-grade stainless steel tanks in various sizes to match household demand.

5. Smart Controller & App

Six preset operational modes (including Off-Peak, Daytime PV mode, and One-Shot Boost) with optional Wi-Fi app monitoring for tracking energy usage.

6. Rebate Eligible

Fully approved for Australian Federal STC certificates and state rebates (VEEC, Solar Victoria, ESC).

Durability & Low Power

Stiebel Eltron

The WWK Series (WWK 222 and WWK 302) is a popular German-engineered, all-in-one hot water heat pump range in Australia. Known for robust build quality and reliability, it is designed for outdoor and indoor installations (with adequate ventilation) and features active defrosting for cold climates.

WWK 222 / 222 H

Tank Capacity220 Litres (2–4 people)
Power Consumption~0.55 kW (heat pump mode)
Seasonal COP~3.94
Noise LevelQuiet 45 dBA @ 1m
RefrigerantR134a
Operating Temp Range-5°C to +42°C (active defrost)

WWK 302 / 302 H

Tank Capacity302 Litres (3–6+ people)
Power Consumption~0.55 kW (heat pump mode)
Seasonal COP~3.58
Noise LevelQuiet 45 dBA @ 1m
RefrigerantR134a
Operating Temp Range-5°C to +42°C (active defrost)
Core highlights
1. Up to 74% Energy Savings

Consumes under 700 W of electrical power in standard heat pump operation, delivering significant energy savings over conventional electric resistance water heaters.

2. German Engineering & Maintenance-Free Anode

Uses a current impressed (electronically powered) anode rather than a sacrificial magnesium anode, eliminating the need for periodic anode replacements in hard or soft water areas.

3. Active Defrost Technology

An active hot-gas defrost system prevents icing on the evaporator coil, allowing efficient operation down to -5°C without freezing up.

4. Roll-Bond Condenser

An encased wrap-around condenser design ensures optimal heat transfer without placing internal coils inside the potable water tank.

5. Solar PV Compatible

Connects with rooftop solar systems or smart home energy management switches to run during daytime peak solar production windows.

6. Warranty & Rebates

Qualified for Australian Federal STC certificates and state rebates (VEEC, Solar Victoria, ESC). Supported by a 5-year tank warranty and 2-year parts/labour warranty. 'H' models include an integrated 1.7 kW smart electric booster.

Easy Retrofit

Dux

Dux Hot Water — one of Australia's longest-established water heating manufacturers — offers the Dux Ecosmart Heat Pump range (replacing the older-generation Dux Airoheat). Designed and built in Australia, these all-in-one systems are engineered specifically for Australian conditions and ease of replacement for existing outdoor electric storage tanks.

Dux Ecosmart 200L

Ideal For2–4 occupants
Efficiency (COP)Up to 4.1
RefrigerantR290 (low GWP)
Thermal Output2.5 kW
Boost ElementIntegrated backup for low temps / quick boost
Operating Range-6°C to +45°C ambient

Dux Ecosmart 285L

Ideal For3–6+ occupants
Efficiency (COP)Up to 4.1
RefrigerantR290 (low GWP)
Thermal Output2.5 kW
Boost ElementIntegrated backup for low temps / quick boost
Operating Range-6°C to +45°C ambient
Core highlights
1. Up to 71%+ Energy Savings

Cuts hot water heating energy consumption by up to 71.6% compared to a conventional electric storage system.

2. Patented In-Tank Coil

A patented dual-wall wrap-around heating coil directly transfers heat into the water while keeping refrigerant safely isolated from potable water.

3. Smart App & Wi-Fi Controls

Connects via the Dux HP / Smart Life mobile app to manage modes (Auto, ECO, Holiday, Boost) and program timers to run during peak daytime solar generation.

4. Straightforward Retrofit

Designed with the same footprint and dual-side water connections as standard outdoor electric tanks, allowing fast swapping by standard hot water trades.

5. Durable Tank Construction

Commercial-grade enamel lining, dual anodes for corrosion resistance, anti-corrosive component coatings, and a rust-proof polymer base.

6. Warranty & Government Rebates

7 years on tank, 3 years on refrigeration components, 1 year parts & labour (up to 5-year whole-of-product coverage under state programs like Solar Victoria). Fully eligible for STC certificates and state rebates.

Flexible Sizing & 10A Plug

Rinnai

A long-trusted household name in Australian water heating. Rinnai's heat pump range, marketed under the Enviroflo series, offers both monobloc (all-in-one) and split-system options designed to handle tough local climate conditions.

Enviroflo GR Series (All-in-One)

System TypeMonobloc (integrated tank & heat pump)
Tank Capacities180L, 215L, 265L, 280L, 300L
Heat Output / CapacityVaries by size
RefrigerantR290 (low GWP)
Electrical ConnectionStandard 10A plug on 180L, 265L, 300L
Noise Level~45–46 dBA @ 1m
Operating Temp Range-7°C to +45°C (anti-frost)
Cylinder Warranty7 Years

Enviroflo S Series (Split System)

System TypeSplit (outdoor compressor + tank)
Tank Capacities250L, 315L, 400L
Heat Output / Capacity5.0 kW or 7.0 kW options
RefrigerantR290 or R32 (5kW vs 7kW)
Electrical ConnectionHardwired / 15A circuit
Noise Level~45 dBA @ 1m
Operating Temp Range-10°C to +45°C
Cylinder Warranty10 Years (Australian-made tanks)
Core highlights
1. Up to 70–75% Energy Savings

Cuts power consumption significantly compared to a standard electric water heater, lowering carbon emissions and electricity bills.

2. Plugging Convenience (10A Models)

Select GR Series sizes (180L, 265L, 300L) come with a standard 10 Amp power plug for fast, straight-swap electric replacement without heavy electrical upgrades.

3. Solar PV & SmartLife App Integration

Built-in Wi-Fi via the SmartLife / Rinnai Link mobile app to configure operational timers and prioritise running during peak daytime solar generation.

4. Multiple Operating Modes

Includes Standard, ECO, Hybrid, Electric, and Vacation modes to optimise recovery speeds or maximise energy savings based on family needs.

5. Inbuilt Emergency Boost Element

Comes standard with an auxiliary backup heating element to guarantee hot water supply during sudden cold snaps or spikes in household demand.

6. High Water Pressure Rating & Rebates

Rated to handle up to 1000 kPa water pressure. Fully eligible for Australian Federal STC certificates and state rebates (VEEC, Solar Victoria, ESC).

Master comparison

All brands, side by side

BrandSystem TypeTank OptionsCOPNoiseRefrigerantTank WarrantyBest Use Case
iStoreAll-in-One180L, 270L~4.0 – 4.846.6 dBAR290 (Eco)5 YearsBest Value All-Rounder: excellent budget performance and solar PV timer features.
ApricusAll-in-One260L4.1343 dBAR290 (Eco)6 YearsBest Mid-Range Balance: quiet operation, smart app controls, and solid efficiency.
Reclaim EnergySplit System160L to 400L5.0 – 6.0+37 dBA (Ultra-Quiet)CO₂ (R744)Up to 15 YearsPremium / Cold Climates: maximum efficiency, operates down to -10°C without electric boost.
Stiebel EltronAll-in-One200L to 302L~3.6 – 3.945 dBAR134a / R2905 YearsDurability & Low Power: maintenance-free anode and ultra-low current draw (~2.3A).
DuxAll-in-One200L, 285L~4.1~45 dBAR290 (Eco)7 YearsEasy Retrofit: matches classic outdoor electric tank footprints with Australian backing.
RinnaiAll-in-One & Split180L to 400L~4.0 – 4.2~45 dBAR290 / R327–10 YearsFlexible Sizing & 10A Plug: wide choice of tank sizes and plug-and-play installation models.
Key decision factors

Choose the right heat pump

Budget & Upfront Cost

Budget-Friendly

iStore and Dux generally offer lower upfront purchase and installation costs, popular for straightforward electric replacements.

Mid-Tier

Apricus, Rinnai, and Stiebel Eltron sit in the middle bracket with enhanced build materials, smart app capabilities, or lower current draws.

Premium Investment

Reclaim Energy carries the highest upfront cost ($4,500–$6,000+ installed) but yields the highest long-term energy savings and longest service life.

Climate & Temperature Performance

Cold Climates (-5°C to -10°C)

Reclaim Energy (CO₂ refrigerant) leads performance in frost-prone regions without an electric resistance boost. Stiebel Eltron also performs strongly in sub-zero temps due to its active hot-gas defrost system.

Moderate / Warm Climates

iStore, Apricus, Dux, and Rinnai all excel across standard Australian coastal and temperate conditions using eco-friendly R290 refrigerant.

Noise Sensitivity

Whisper Quiet

Reclaim Energy (37 dBA) and Apricus (43 dBA) are the quietest units — ideal for placement near bedroom windows or narrow side paths.

Standard Quiet

iStore, Stiebel Eltron, Dux, and Rinnai all operate around 45–46 dBA, comfortable for most outdoor installation positions away from windows.

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