Heat pumps are now widely considered to be the most efficient hot water systems in the Australian market.
According to the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator, heat pump installations rose by 70% in 2023 as consumers embraced the environmental and cost-saving benefits of this technology.
While demand is rising, so too is the market share, with many quality heat pump models now available. So, how do you choose the best heat pump for your needs?
Homeowners need to consider a range of factors, including cost of installation, energy efficiency, and reliability, alongside any standout features that may suit their home and lifestyle.
Why Choose a Heat Pump?
Australian homeowners who are looking for a new hot water system have probably heard about the benefits of heat pump systems, but they may not know exactly how heat pumps work.
Much like a refrigerator in reverse, a heat pump system transfers heat from the surrounding air to warm the water. It does this by using a pump to circulate refrigerant through the water heater.
While traditional hot water systems use an energy-sucking heating element to increase water temperatures, heat pumps use a far smaller amount of electricity to power the pump, making them one of the most efficient and price-effective heating solutions available.
An investment in a quality heat pump system is also an investment in the planet. Heat pumps reduce greenhouse emissions, which are shown to significantly impact climate change.
Key Factors in Choosing a Heat Pump Brand
A heat pump hot water system is a significant investment. It is important to evaluate the following key factors to ensure you make an informed choice for you and your family.
- Efficiency ratings: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) are Energy Star ratings that indicate how energy-efficient a heat pump system is. The higher the rating, the more efficient the system, leading to lowered electricity costs and lower emissions.
- Cost and value for money: Opt for a system that balances pricing with performance.
- Warranty and customer support: Select a product that offers a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty backed by responsive customer service
- Brand reputation and customer reviews: Choose a solution with a strong brand reputation and positive online reviews from other customers.
Top Heat Pump Brands Compared
Reclaim
Established in 2017, Reclaim Energy is an Australian brand that manufactures premium heat pumps in Japan.
Key Features:
- Advanced technology
- Digital interfaces and smart control
- Comprehensive warranties
Strengths:
- Reclaim products offer a high Coefficient of Performance (COP), meaning they efficiently convert electricity into heat. This translates to superior performance, even when operating in relatively mild temperatures.
- Quiet operations
- Eco-friendly
Weaknesses:
- The primary drawback of Reclaim heat pumps is their high price point, which may be a barrier for some Australians.
Rheem
Rheem is a trusted name in Australia, providing reliable water heating solutions for over 80 years.
Key Features:
- Energy efficient
- Designed to operate in wide-ranging temperature conditions (-7°C to 43°C)
- Backup heating element
Strengths:
- Compared to traditional solutions, Rheem heat pumps have been shown to save up to 73% on energy consumption.
- Rheem systems feature advanced technologies including micro-channel heating.
- These systems are eligible for small-scale technology certificates (STCs) rebates, meaning savings upfront.
Rinnai
Rinnai is another well-established brand in Australia, known for providing reliable hot water solutions for over 50 years.
Key features:
- Energy efficient
- Hard water adaptable
- Quiet operation
Strengths:
- Rinnai pumps have a low noise output.
- These pumps include a built-in anti-frost feature allowing for operation in wide-ranging temperatures.
- Many Rinnai heat pumps are for rebates through the Australian Government’s Small-scale technology certificates (STCs), reducing the initial outlay.
Weaknesses:
- Rinnai heat pumps sit at the more expensive end of the market.
- Only a limited warranty is offered on maintenance labour and components.
Quantum Titan
An Australian-owned company known for its energy-efficient heat pumps. Their flagship model, the Titan 340 L, is designed to meet both commercial and residential needs.
Key features:
- High energy efficiency with up to 75% savings on running costs
- No electric booster element required
- No need for roof panels, making it easy to install
Strengths:
- The Quantum Titan 340L is extremely energy efficient, leading to significant cost savings over time.
- It uses an eco-friendly refrigerant and operates without the need for electric boosters, making it an environmentally friendly option.
- This unit can be used as a standalone system or in combination with other units for commercial applications, offering great flexibility.
Weaknesses:
- It has a higher decibel output than many domestic models, and it may be too loud to install near sleeping areas.
- Quantum offers limited warranty coverage on electrics and refrigeration components.
Stiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron is a German company with over 90 years of experience producing energy-efficient hot water systems. They are highly regarded for their engineering precision and sustainability features.
Key features:
- Stiebel Eltron heat pumps are known for generating up to four times the energy they consume, making them extremely efficient.
- Active defrost for use in colder climates.
- Quieter than most other units on the Australian market.
- These units offer solar integration for enhanced energy efficiency.
Strengths:
- High performance, especially in colder climates
- Built with European engineering, these systems offer next-level durability thanks to advanced features.
Weaknesses:
- Higher upfront costs
- Mixed reviews on reliability
How to Choose the Right Brand for You
With a range of popular and highly rated heat pumps on the market, you may find it difficult to decide which heat pump brand is right for you and your household.
Let’s explore some of the key things to consider when choosing a hot water system.
- Local availability and installation: Some brands may not have widespread availability or support, which can lead to maintenance issues down the track. Ensure the brand is available locally and that certified installers are accessible in your area.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for brands that have a high Coefficient of Performance (COP) and flow-on energy savings in the long term.
- Maintenance and Warranty: Check the warranty on different components, not just the cylinder itself.
- Noise Levels: For residential units, particularly where units need to be installed near bedrooms, you may want to compare the decibel levels of different options.
Ready to Shop Heat Pumps?
Heat pump systems are an eco-friendly, cost-efficient option for anyone upgrading their hot water system.
By considering the strengths and weaknesses of various options, you can select a heat pump that delivers year-round hot water, stands the test of time and saves on your energy bills in the long run.
At Same Day Hot Water Service, we supply and install top heat pump brands. With over 30 years of experience, our team ensures expert installation, repairs, and maintenance to help you switch to a greener future.
Call us today on 1300 721 996 or contact us via our website to explore our range of energy-efficient systems.