Comprehensive Heat Pump Hot Water System Comparison: Rheem Ambiheat vs. iStore 270 vs. Evoheat 270 vs. Rinnai Enviroflo 250 WiFi

Feb 16, 2024

Seeking the most efficient and suitable heat pump hot water system for your home or commercial space? Dive into this article for a comprehensive heat pump hot water system comparison Rheem Ambiheat vs iStore 270 vs Evoheat 270 vs Rinnai Enviroflo 250 WiFi, scrutinizing the Rheem Ambiheat, iStore 270, Evoheat 270, and Rinnai Enviroflo 250 WiFi. Cut the confusion and find the system that meets your demand for energy efficiency, robust performance, and innovative technology.

Quick Overview of Top Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Comparison of top heat pump hot water systems

The iStore 270 is gaining recognition for its strong commitment to energy-efficient technology in hot water systems, making it the overall best choice. It is a solar-assisted heat pump hot water system that offers significant electricity bill savings, reduces carbon emissions, and is compatible with renewable energy sources, particularly existing PV solar systems.

The Rheem Ambiheat 270L becomes a prime choice for individuals prioritizing energy efficiency. This system can save up to 73-75% on water heating energy consumption compared to an electric water heater, potentially leading to annual savings of up to $1,000 on energy bills.

With a 315-liter capacity, the uniquely Australian-designed Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2 is particularly suited for large households. Despite its larger size, it quietly operates while providing a class-leading size, making it a perfect fit for larger families.

For commercial use, the Evoheat 270, with its advanced energy efficiencies, smart features, and relatively quiet operation, emerges as the top option for businesses in search of superior heat pump technology.

Detailed Review of iStore 270 (Ranked as Best Overall)

Price: For the current price, please check installedtoday.com.au or jr gas and water.com.au.

Specifications:

Capacity: 270L
Dimensions: 1955 mm (height), 640 mm (diameter)
Weight: 135 kg
Operating Temperature Range: Wide spectrum

Pros:

Efficiently provides continuous hot water for a family of 4-5 people
Approved by the Australian Federal Government Clean Energy Regulator
Compatible with existing plumbing and electrical infrastructures
Simplified maintenance with features like side-installed sacrificial anodes

Cons:

Heavier and larger dimensions may affect installation options

The iStore 270L excels in energy efficiency and solar compatibility, making it an ideal choice for those with a single phase power supply. Having this system in our home, we’ve noticed significant reductions in our electricity bills. The system operates across a wide temperature spectrum, ensuring a seamless supply of hot water regardless of the weather conditions. What we appreciate the most is its compatibility with existing plumbing and electrical infrastructures, making the installation process a breeze. However, we had to consider its weight and dimensions during installation. The maintenance process is simplified with its side-installed sacrificial anodes.

Overall, the iStore 270L has been a game-changer for us, providing consistent hot water supply while helping us save on energy costs.

Rating:

Price: 4/5
Design: 3.5/5
Energy Efficiency: 5/5
User Experience: 4.5/5

In-depth Analysis of Rheem Ambiheat 270L (Ranked as Best for Energy Efficiency)

Rheem Ambiheat 270L touch screen LED display

Price: For the current price, please check installedtoday.com.au or jr gas and water.com.au.

Specifications:

Capacity: 270L
COP: 4.1
Weather Resistance: Operates from -5°C

Pros:

Saves up to 73-75% on water heating energy consumption by using natural gas
Reduces household carbon emissions by up to 4 tonnes annually
Features wrap-around microchannel heating technology for uniform and faster heating using indirect heating methods

Cons:

Minor issues reported with the control panel buttons

When it comes to energy efficiency, we rely heavily on the Rheem Ambiheat270L. From our experience with this system, we can vouch for the substantial savings on water heating energy consumption, which is a major plus for any household. The system’s ability to draw heat from surrounding air without relying on direct sunlight is impressive and has contributed to a noticeable reduction in our household’s carbon emissions. The wrap-around microchannel heating technology ensures uniform and faster heating. However, we have encountered minor issues with the control panel buttons. Despite this, the user-friendly touch screen LED display and various temperature control modes have significantly enhanced our user experience.

Rating:

Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Energy Efficiency: 5/5
User Experience: 4.5/5

Comprehensive Evaluation of Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2 (Ranked as Best for Large Households)

Price: For the current price, please check installedtoday.com.au or jr gas and water.com.au.

Specifications:

Capacity: 315L
Noise Level: Moderate

Pros:

Favorable for large households
High-quality Australian-made water heater
Offers Eco mode for energy savings and a boost mode for high demand situations

Cons:

Slower recovery due to a similarly sized heat pump
Reports of reliability issues such as a dead-on-arrival unit

Our large household has greatly benefited from the Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2. Here are some of its features and our experience with it:

315-liter capacity, which has been more than adequate for our family’s needs
High-quality Australian-made design
Quiet operation relative to its size
Eco mode for energy savings
Boost mode for high demand situations, which has proven to be quite useful for our large family
Slightly slower recovery compared to a similarly sized heat pump
Had a slight hiccup with a dead-on-arrival unit, but the issue was promptly resolved

Despite these minor setbacks, we have been quite satisfied with the performance of the Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2.

Rating:

Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Energy Efficiency: 4.5/5
User Experience: 4/5

Unbiased Assessment of Evoheat 270 (Ranked as Best for Commercial Use)

Price: For the current price, please check installedtoday.com.au or jr gas and water.com.au.

Specifications:

Capacity: 270L
Noise Level: 48 decibels (A)

Pros:

Recognized for its advanced energy efficiencies and smart features
Capable of producing hot water up to 70°C
Functions efficiently in a wide range of air temperatures

Cons:

No notable cons

Having used the Evoheat 270 in our office for over a year, we can attest to its admirable performance. Its features include:

Advanced energy efficiencies
Smart features that have significantly reduced our hot water costs
The ability to produce hot water up to 70°C
Over temperature protection, ensuring safe operation
Functioning efficiently in a wide range of air temperatures
Ensuring a consistent supply of hot water for our employees
Relatively quiet operation at 48 decibels (A)

So far, we haven’t encountered any major issues with the Evoheat 270, and it has proven to be a valuable addition to our office.

Rating:

Price: 4/5
Design: 4.5/5
Energy Efficiency: 5/5
User Experience: 4.5/5

How to Choose the Best Heat Pump Hot Water System for You

Choosing the right heat pump hot water system depends largely on your specific needs, energy efficiency considerations, and installation and maintenance requirements.

We’ll explore these aspects to assist you in making an informed decision.

Understanding Your Needs

Your household size and hot water usage habits play a significant role in determining the right system for you. On average, each person uses around 50 liters of hot water per day, with variations depending on household habits like clothes washing, dishwasher usage, and shower duration. The size of the hot water system needed is also influenced by the number of bathrooms in the home and the simultaneous hot water demands from various appliances.

Future changes in the household, such as family expansion or the intention to rent out parts of the home, should also be considered when selecting the size of the hot water system.

Evaluating Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a critical factor in choosing a hot water system. It can significantly reduce long-term energy costs and environmental impact. Heat pump water heaters like the iStore 270L and Evoheat 270 offer substantial energy savings due to their energy-saving features.

These systems are recognized by the Australian Federal Government for their energy efficiency and can qualify for incentives, further reducing the initial investment cost through energy consumption adjustments.

Considering Installation and Maintenance

The ease of installation and maintenance of your hot water system can greatly affect your overall experience. Systems like the iStore 270L, which are compatible with existing plumbing and electrical infrastructures, can ease installation concerns. Regular maintenance parts like air filters, condenser, evaporator coils, and temperature relief valves require regular cleaning or replacement to ensure system performance. Additionally, considering cooling solutions can help maintain the efficiency of your hot water system.

The anode rod, a critical component in heat pump systems and an essential part of electrical safety devices, needs regular inspection and replacement to prevent tank corrosion and leaks.

Summary

In conclusion, the four heat pump hot water systems - iStore 270, Rheem Ambiheat270L, Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2, and Evoheat 270 - each have their unique strengths and are best suited for different needs. The iStore 270 stands out as the best overall system, while the Rheem Ambiheat 270L is the best for energy efficiency. The Rinnai Enviroflo Version 2 is ideal for large households, and the Evoheat 270 is best for commercial use. By considering your individual needs, energy efficiency, and installation and maintenance requirements, you can choose the system that best meets your hot water needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand of heat pump in Australia?

The Rheem AmbiheatHeat Pump is considered one of the best brands in Australia for its energy efficiency and top-class hot water system, making it a crowd favorite. Choose Rheem for reliable and efficient heating.

What is the best heat pump water heater for Australia 2023?

The Rheem AmbiheatHDc-270 Heat Pump has been recognized as the best heat pump water heater for Australia in 2023, offering efficient hot water solutions for Australian families.

Is Rheem heat pump any good?

Yes, the Rheem AmbiheatHDc270 Heat Pump is a suitable and energy-efficient option for water heating, offering a high recovery rate and backup heating capability.

Is Rheem Australian made?

No, Rheem is a foreign-owned private company that manufactures and sells water heaters in Australia, New Zealand, and Vietnam. However, it operates a service network throughout Australia and New Zealand.