Top 6 Hot Water Heat Pump Systems in Australia for Family Homes (2025 Guide)

Air source heat pumps offer Australian families an energy-efficient option, providing comfort and lower running costs all year-round. In this guide, we cover the top 6 air source heat pumps available that are perfect for family homes. They work great whether you’re constructing new or removing an obsolete system, there’s something here for everyone.

Top of the Line – High Price Point

Best for premium buyers prioritising performance and longevity

RECLAIM Stainless Steel 315L Heat Pump – Model REHP-CO2-315SST-V2

  • Installed Cost: Over $6,100
  • Rating: 9 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 6.02 – High Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF📥

The Reclaim split system heat pump is one of the leading air source heat pumps on the market today. The stainless steel tanks are made by an Australian manufacturer in Melbourne, while the air-conditioning unit is produced by Panasonic in Japan. Reclaim is a brand of Apricus Australia, based in Byron Bay, NSW, and well known for their solar hot water systems.

Positives

  • CO2 refrigerant – highly efficient, safe, and cost-effective with low global warming potential
  • Australian-made stainless steel tank – no anode required
  • Extremely quiet – operates at just 37 decibels
  • Excellent warranty – 7 years on compressor/controller, up to 15 years on the cylinder
  • Among the most efficient on the market – claims up to 80% reduction over traditional electric systems

Negatives

  • Boutique manufacturer – limited availability and service network
  • Split system increases installation complexity and cost
  • High upfront investment – long payback period compared to other systems

SANDEN Eco® Plus Hot Water Heat Pump System – Model SAN-315SAQA

  • Installed Cost: Approximately $6,900
  • Rating: 7 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 5 – Mid-Level Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF 📥

SANDEN is a well-established Japanese brand, known globally for its air-sourced heat pumps. While the company has been active in the Australian market for over 45 years, it remains a boutique manufacturer focused exclusively on heat pump systems. Both the stainless steel tank and the air-conditioning unit are manufactured in Japan, ensuring consistent build quality.

Positives

  • Among the most efficient heat pumps – claims up to 80% energy savings over traditional electric systems
  • Extremely quiet operation – just 37 decibels
  • Strong warranty – 6 years on compressor, up to 15 years on the cylinder
  • CO2 refrigerant – energy-efficient, low environmental impact, and safe

Negatives

  • One of the most expensive options to purchase and install
  • All components are manufactured overseas – less local sourcing
  • Boutique brand with limited domestic footprint
  • Long payback period due to high upfront investment

EVOHeat Air Sourced Heat Pump – Model EVO270-E

  • Rating: 6 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 4 – Lower Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF 📥

EVOHeat, based in Brisbane, is a well-known name in the pool heating space with over 20 years in the market. About five years ago, they expanded into hot water heat pumps. Their EVO270-E model follows the success of the original 270L-1 and has received strong consumer feedback on ProductReview. While the unit is believed to be assembled in China using components from Japan, it maintains a good track record in Australia.

  • Rating: 6 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 4 – Lower Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF

EVOHeat, based in Brisbane, is a well-known name in the pool heating space with over 20 years in the market. About five years ago, they expanded into hot water heat pumps. Their EVO270-E model follows the success of the original 270L-1 and has received strong consumer feedback on ProductReview. While the unit is believed to be assembled in China using components from Japan, it maintains a good track record in Australia.

Positives

  • R290 refrigerant – environmentally friendly and efficient
  • High customer satisfaction – strong online reviews and industry awards
  • User-friendly touchscreen controller
  • Simple 10-amp plug and backup heating element for easy operation

Negatives

  • Assembled in China by a third-party manufacturer
  • Boutique brand with a smaller product range and market share
  • Wi-Fi control functionality requires an extra paid upgrade
  • Shorter warranty – 5 years on compressor, 6 years on cylinder

Expert Note:
The EVO270-E is a decent initial option for heat pump hot water systems for families wanting lower prices and local servicing. Even though it has lower efficiency and shorter warranty period compared to other options, it is easy to use which improves customer experience greatly.

Entry-Level Market – Cost Competitive

  • Installed Cost: Approximately $3,400
  • Rating: 6 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 5.1 – Mid-Level Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF 📥

Fisher & Paykel, through their Haier brand, recently launched a new range of competitively priced heat pumps in Australia. Priced HP250M1U1 is manufactured in one facility in China, this model provides decent functionality along with good customer service support, earning it the title of the world’s third-largest air-conditioning company.

Positives

  • Manufactured end-to-end in one factory – consistent build quality
  • Supported by one of the world’s largest air-conditioning brands
  • Competitive pricing, including backup heating element
  • Good warranty coverage – 5 years on compressor, 7 years on cylinder

Negatives

  • Slightly noisy operation – runs at 47 decibels
  • Fully manufactured in China – may concern some buyers
  • New to the Australian market – limited long-term usage data

Expert Note:
The Haier HP250M1U1 is a reasonable first option for families wanting to cut costs on initial investment while still enjoying a balanced COP and mid-range operating efficiency fuelled by a well-known brand. It is a newcomer to the field of hot water heaters, but is a newcomer with promise based on the reputation of its manufacturers.

Rinnai 280L GR Series – Model EHPG280VM

  • Installed Cost: Approximately $3,200
  • Rating: 6 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 8.4 – Exceptional Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF 📥

Rinnai has been serving the Australian hot water market for over two decades. The 280L GR Series is a locally assembled unit with Japanese-made compressors and a Melbourne-manufactured tank, all brought together under one roof. This model blends affordability with standout efficiency, making it a strong value proposition for larger households.

Positives

  • Made in Australia by one of the world’s leading hot water brands
  • Excellent after-sales service and spare parts availability
  • Smart features – user-friendly digital interface and mobile app control
  • Solid warranty – 5 years on the compressor, 7 years on the cylinder

Negatives

  • Large and bulky – 1,925mm tall and 652mm wide
  • Slightly louder operation – 45 decibels
  • Heavier unit – may require more effort during installation

Expert Note:
The Rinnai 280L GR Series is one of the top models on the market with exceptional energy efficiency and local manufacturing quality. For homeowners seeking dependable long-term performance at a value price, this unit is an outstanding mid-market option.

Middle Market – Mid-Range Price Point

  • Installed Cost: Approximately $3,900
  • Rating: 10 out of 10 stars
  • Coefficient of Performance (COP): 4.5 – Mid-Level Efficiency
  • Product Brochure: View PDF 📥

Rheem launched the AmbiHeat 270L around four years ago, building on two earlier models and incorporating key improvements. With over 25 years of heat pump manufacturing experience, Rheem also acquired an air-conditioning company to manage component quality in-house. The 270L is the premium model in the AmbiHeat range, featuring a glass-lined tank made in Sydney and a Japanese-manufactured compressor.

Positives

  • Large compressor with fast heat recovery, plus backup heating element
  • One of Australia’s largest manufacturers – excellent after-sales service and spare parts availability
  • All-in-one design – easier installation with fewer complications
  • Outstanding value – competitively priced for a locally made unit

Negatives

  • Slightly louder than premium models – runs at 47 decibels
  • Bulky dimensions – 1,825mm tall and 690mm wide
  • Shorter warranty – 3 years on compressor, 7 years on cylinder

Expert Note:
Rheem is our top recommendation for a mid-market air source heat pump. It combines durability, energy efficiency, and trusted local manufacturing, all at a price point that makes sense for most family homes. This model wasn’t rushed to market — it was built on years of R&D, and it shows.

FAQs

What Is the Best Air Source Heat Pump for Family Homes in Australia?
Choosing the best heat pump depends on your needs. If you’re after premium performance, Reclaim and Sanden models stand out. For value and reliability, brands like Rheem and Rinnai offer a strong balance of price and features.
They can be! While some models have a higher upfront cost, many Aussie homeowners find the long-term energy savings and low maintenance worth the investment—especially with rising electricity prices.
Prices vary, but most systems range from around $3,200 for entry-level models up to $6,900 for top-end units. The final cost usually includes installation.
If a quiet system matters to you, Reclaim and Sanden are both great picks. They operate as quietly as 37 decibels—almost whisper-level noise.
For most family homes, a 250L to 315L heat pump is the sweet spot. Every model featured here falls within that range and is designed with families in mind.
Yes, several models like EVOHeat, Haier, and Rheem include a built-in backup heating element to help out during cold snaps or higher demand.
They are! Brands like Rheem and Rinnai have Australian-made tanks and local assembly, giving you better access to service, spare parts, and trusted support.
Warranties differ by brand. Most offer around 5–7 years on the compressor and up to 15 years on the tank, depending on the model.