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Product Information Quick Specs & Benefits View sizing, power, warranty and key product details
Recommended Household Size 3 people
Make Aquamax
Model 971160 / 9PS160 (PROTEC SERIES)
Volume 160L
Maximum Warranty 10 years
Height 1610 mm
Width 480 mm
Made In Australia
Main Cylinder Material Steel

Aquamax 160L Electric Hot Water System

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AQUAMAX 160L VE ELECTRIC STORAGE HOT WATER

AquaMAX 160L Electric Hot Water System – 981160G4, 981160G5 & 981160G7

The AquaMAX 160L Electric Hot Water System is a mains-pressure electric storage water heater designed for small to medium-sized households requiring dependable stored hot water in a relatively narrow upright cylinder.

The current 981160 range includes three single-element configurations: 981160G4 at 1.8kW, 981160G5 at 2.4kW and 981160G7 at 3.6kW. AquaMAX publishes 160 litres of hot-water delivery, dual-handed plumbing connections and suitability for indoor or outdoor installation.

Installed Today offers the AquaMAX 160L as a supply-only water heater or with supply and installation across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.

AquaMAX 160L at a glance: 160L hot-water delivery, single-element operation, 1.8kW / 2.4kW / 3.6kW model options, dual-handed Rp 3/4 water connections, 1610mm overall height, 480mm width, 515mm depth, indoor or outdoor installation suitability, 1400 kPa relief-valve setting and a manufacturer-listed 10-year cylinder warranty subject to AquaMAX warranty conditions.
ABOUT THE SYSTEM

About the AquaMAX 160L VE Electric Water Heater

The AquaMAX 160L is part of the manufacturer's vitreous-enamel electric storage range. It stores electrically heated water ready for household use and operates as a conventional mains-pressure storage water heater.

AquaMAX describes the 160L model as suitable for small to medium-sized families with a significant demand for hot water.

Compared with the separate AquaMAX 160L Squat model, the standard 981160 uses a much taller and narrower cylinder, making the two products suitable for different installation spaces.

WHO IT SUITS

Who Is the AquaMAX 160L Best For?

Small to Medium Households

AquaMAX publishes a maximum guide of up to five people under its stated household-use assumptions.

Electric Storage Replacements

The 981160 can suit replacement of a compatible upright electric storage water heater where plumbing, electrical supply, dimensions and access remain suitable.

Narrower Installation Areas

At approximately 480mm wide, the standard 160L model has a considerably narrower footprint than the separate 160L Squat model.

PRODUCT AT A GLANCE

AquaMAX 160L Key Details

160L Hot Water Delivery
1.8–3.6kW Element Options
Up to 5 People*
10 Years Cylinder Warranty*

*AquaMAX's current product page lists up to five people based on the manufacturer's stated shower and climate assumptions. It also advertises a 10-year cylinder warranty and 12 months parts-and-labour warranty, with conditions applying.

MODEL OPTIONS

AquaMAX 981160G4 vs 981160G5 vs 981160G7

Feature 981160G4 981160G5 981160G7
Hot Water Delivery 160L 160L 160L
Element Configuration Single element Single element Single element
Element Rating 1.8kW 2.4kW 3.6kW
Maximum Loading 1800W 2400W 3600W
Dimensions 1610 × 480 × 515mm 1610 × 480 × 515mm 1610 × 480 × 515mm
Empty Weight 55kg 55kg 55kg

The higher-powered model can reheat more quickly, but the electrical circuit must be suitable for the selected element load. Confirm the exact model and existing electrical supply before ordering.

HOUSEHOLD SIZING

How Many People Is the AquaMAX 160L Suitable For?

AquaMAX's current product information describes the 160L VE model as suitable for households of up to 5 people.

The manufacturer's feature guidance is based on seven-minute showers at 42°C mixed-water temperature in a moderate climate.

Actual suitability depends on shower duration, fixture flow rates, baths, kitchen and laundry use, climate and the electricity tariff available to reheat the water heater.

Household-size figures are sizing guides rather than guarantees. A household with long showers, baths or high simultaneous demand may require greater stored capacity even with fewer occupants.

KEY FEATURES

Key Features of the AquaMAX 160L

Vitreous Enamel Tank

The storage cylinder is steel with an internal vitreous-enamel lining as part of AquaMAX's cylinder-protection design.

Dual-Handed Connections

AquaMAX provides hot and cold plumbing connections on both sides to give installers flexibility on compatible replacement jobs.

Mains-Pressure Operation

AquaMAX identifies its VE electric range as mains-pressure water heaters designed to provide conventional household hot-water delivery.

Three Element Options

The current 981160 range provides 1.8kW, 2.4kW and 3.6kW single-element choices.

Indoor or Outdoor Installation

AquaMAX specifies the current 160L VE water heater as suitable for either indoor or outdoor installation where the site is compliant.

Replacement Friendly

The upright format and dual-handed connections can make the 981160 suitable for selected like-for-like electric storage replacements.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

AquaMAX 160L Specifications

Specification AquaMAX 160L VE
Brand AquaMAX
Range VE Electric Storage
1.8kW Model 981160G4
2.4kW Model 981160G5
3.6kW Model 981160G7
Hot Water Delivery 160L
Element Configuration Single element
Element Ratings 1.8kW / 2.4kW / 3.6kW
Manufacturer Household Guide Up to 5 people under AquaMAX's stated assumptions
Water Connections Rp 3/4
Connection Layout Dual handed hot and cold connections
Expansion Control Valve Setting 1200 kPa where required
Maximum Water Supply Pressure With ECV 960 kPa
Maximum Water Supply Pressure Without ECV 1120 kPa
Relief Valve Pressure 1400 kPa
Installation Indoor or outdoor
Empty Weight 55kg
Shipped Weight 59kg
Manufacturer-Listed Cylinder Warranty 10 years, conditions apply
Manufacturer-Listed Parts & Labour Warranty 12 months, conditions apply
DIMENSIONS

AquaMAX 160L Dimensions

1610mm Overall Height
480mm Width
515mm Depth
55kg Empty Weight
Dimension Measurement
Overall Height 1610mm
Overall Width 480mm
Overall Depth 515mm
Empty Weight 55kg
Shipped Weight 59kg

Allow additional room for valves, pipework, electrical connection and future servicing rather than relying only on the cabinet dimensions.

160L STANDARD VS SQUAT

AquaMAX 160L Standard vs 160L Squat

Feature Standard 981160 Squat 9W1160
Hot Water Delivery 160L 160L
Height 1610mm 965mm
Width 480mm 640mm
Depth 515mm 680mm
Element Options 1.8kW / 2.4kW / 3.6kW 1.8kW / 2.4kW
Installation Shape Tall and relatively narrow Short and wide

Both systems provide 160L hot-water delivery, but their dimensions and pressure specifications are different. Do not use the 160L Squat specifications for the standard 981160 model.

WATER PRESSURE

AquaMAX 160L Water Pressure Requirements

The standard 981160 has different pressure specifications from the AquaMAX 160L Squat.

AquaMAX currently specifies a 1400 kPa relief-valve pressure and an 1200 kPa expansion-control valve setting where an ECV is required.

The published maximum water-supply pressure is 960 kPa with an ECV and 1120 kPa without an ECV.

These are the current manufacturer specifications for the standard 981160 models. Do not substitute the lower 1000 / 850 kPa valve figures used on other AquaMAX VE models.

INDOOR OR OUTDOOR

Can the AquaMAX 160L Be Installed Outside?

Yes. AquaMAX lists the current 981160 VE electric water heater as suitable for indoor or outdoor installation.

The installation location must still provide appropriate structural support, plumbing, electrical connection, drainage and service access.

Where leakage could cause property damage, the installer should provide the required compliant tray and drainage arrangement for the site.

DUAL-HANDED PLUMBING

Flexible Hot & Cold Water Connections

AquaMAX describes the 160L VE as dual handed, with inlets and outlets designed to make compatible replacement installations easier.

This can reduce unnecessary pipework changes where the existing installation has hot and cold connections approaching from a particular side.

Dual-handed connections do not mean every existing installation will be a direct fit. Valve location, pipe condition, drainage, electrical supply and access still need to be checked.

ELEMENT OPTIONS

1.8kW, 2.4kW or 3.6kW?

1.8kW – 981160G4

The lowest-load option in the current 160L range. Reheating is slower than the higher-powered versions.

2.4kW – 981160G5

A mid-range element option balancing electrical load with faster reheating than the 1.8kW model.

3.6kW – 981160G7

The highest-output option currently listed for the standard AquaMAX 160L, subject to a suitable electrical circuit.

Element rating affects electrical load and recovery speed. Do not change element size without confirming the circuit, cabling, protective devices and tariff arrangement with a qualified electrical worker.

ELECTRICITY TARIFF

Check the Electricity Tariff Before Sizing

AquaMAX's household guidance should be considered together with the property's electricity tariff.

A continuously energised water heater can recover throughout the day, while a controlled or off-peak supply may only heat during nominated periods.

Where heating time is restricted, the stored hot-water capacity needs to cover household demand until power becomes available again.

INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

What Is Required to Install the AquaMAX 160L?

The AquaMAX water heater should be installed by appropriately qualified trades in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements and applicable plumbing and electrical rules.

  • Correct 981160G4, G5 or G7 model selected
  • Suitable supporting surface and installation position
  • Rp 3/4 compatible water pipework
  • Correct 1400 kPa relief-valve arrangement
  • 1200 kPa ECV where required
  • Pressure control where incoming supply exceeds permitted limits
  • Suitable isolation and non-return valve arrangement
  • Compliant relief-valve drainage
  • Safe tray and drainage where required by the installation
  • Suitable temperature-control equipment where required
  • Electrical circuit matched to the selected element rating
  • Permanent electrical connection by a qualified electrical worker
  • Access to valves, controls and service components
  • Suitable indoor or outdoor location
SUPPLY ONLY

Buy the AquaMAX 160L Supply Only

Choose supply only if you require the AquaMAX 160L and already have appropriately qualified plumbing and electrical installation arranged.

The supply-only price covers the selected water heater itself. Installation, site-specific valves, electrical work, plumbing changes, drainage, safe trays, supporting-base work, removal and disposal are separate unless specifically included in the order.

Before ordering, confirm whether you require the 981160G4 1.8kW, 981160G5 2.4kW or 981160G7 3.6kW model.

SUPPLY & INSTALL

AquaMAX 160L Supplied & Installed

Supply Only

Order the selected AquaMAX 160L where suitable plumbing and electrical installation are already arranged.

Brisbane Installation

Eligible Brisbane customers can check available supply-and-install options for replacement of a compatible electric storage water heater.

Gold Coast Installation

Eligible Gold Coast customers can also check installation options including plumbing, pressure controls, electrical supply, drainage, access and compliance requirements.

AUSTRALIA-WIDE SUPPLY

Buy the AquaMAX 160L Across Australia

Installed Today offers supply-only ordering across supported Australian delivery areas, subject to product availability, with local supply-and-install options available in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast locations.

Customers outside the local installation area can arrange compliant installation through appropriately qualified local trades.

Brisbane Gold Coast Sydney Melbourne Adelaide Perth
BRISBANE INSTALLATION

AquaMAX 160L Installation Brisbane

Eligible Brisbane customers can order the AquaMAX 160L with a local installation option where available.

A compatible like-for-like replacement is generally more straightforward where the existing location already has suitable plumbing, drainage, electrical provision and physical space for the approximately 1610mm high × 480mm wide × 515mm deep water heater.

Additional work may be required for valve replacement, pressure-control changes, electrical alterations, extra pipework, drainage, safe-tray requirements, relocation or difficult access.

GOLD COAST INSTALLATION

AquaMAX 160L Installation Gold Coast

Eligible Gold Coast customers can also check supplied-and-installed options for the AquaMAX 160L.

Before installation, confirm the required element rating and check the existing electrical circuit, plumbing, water pressure, valves, drainage, supporting surface, dimensions and delivery access.

WHAT MAY REQUIRE EXTRA WORK

Check These Items Before Ordering Installation

  • Relocating the water heater
  • Changing to a different element rating
  • Electrical circuit or switchboard modifications
  • Old, missing or non-compliant valves
  • Additional hot or cold water pipework
  • Pressure-limiting or expansion-control equipment
  • Relief-valve drainage alterations
  • Safe-tray installation or drainage work
  • New or modified supporting base
  • Restricted delivery or service access
  • Tempering or delivery-temperature compliance work
  • Removal and disposal of the existing water heater
WARRANTY

AquaMAX 160L Warranty

AquaMAX's current product page advertises a 10-year cylinder warranty and 12 months parts-and-labour warranty for the 981160 range.

The 10-year cylinder statement should not be interpreted as 10 years of complete parts-and-labour coverage. Warranty eligibility remains subject to AquaMAX's current terms, correct installation, water conditions and application.

For warranty decisions, use the warranty documentation applicable to the exact 981160 model and serial number supplied.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Questions About the AquaMAX 160L

What are the current AquaMAX 160L model numbers?

The current standard 160L range includes 981160G4, 981160G5 and 981160G7.

How much hot water does the AquaMAX 160L deliver?

AquaMAX specifies 160 litres of hot-water delivery.

How many people is it suitable for?

AquaMAX describes the 160L model as suitable for households of up to 5 people under its stated usage assumptions. Actual suitability depends on household demand and tariff.

Is the AquaMAX 160L single or twin element?

The current 981160G4, 981160G5 and 981160G7 models are single-element water heaters.

What element sizes are available?

The current range includes 1.8kW, 2.4kW and 3.6kW options.

Which model is 1.8kW?

The 981160G4 is the 1.8kW model.

Which model is 2.4kW?

The 981160G5 is the 2.4kW model.

Which model is 3.6kW?

The 981160G7 is the 3.6kW model.

Can the AquaMAX 160L be installed outdoors?

Yes. AquaMAX lists the 981160 as suitable for indoor or outdoor installation.

What are the AquaMAX 160L dimensions?

The current manufacturer specifications list approximately 1610mm high × 480mm wide × 515mm deep.

How much does it weigh?

AquaMAX lists approximately 55kg empty and 59kg shipped.

What size water connections does it use?

AquaMAX specifies Rp 3/4 water connections.

Are the connections dual handed?

Yes. AquaMAX describes the 160L VE as having dual-handed inlets and outlets.

What is the relief-valve pressure?

AquaMAX currently lists a 1400 kPa relief-valve pressure for the standard 981160 models.

What is the ECV setting?

AquaMAX currently lists a 1200 kPa ECV setting where an expansion-control valve is required.

What is the maximum water pressure with an ECV?

AquaMAX specifies a maximum water-supply pressure of 960 kPa with an ECV.

What is the maximum water pressure without an ECV?

AquaMAX specifies a maximum water-supply pressure of 1120 kPa without an ECV.

Are the pressure specifications the same as the 160L Squat?

No. The standard 981160 uses different published pressure settings from the separate 9W1160 Squat model, so the two specification sets should not be mixed.

What is the difference between the standard 160L and 160L Squat?

The standard 981160 is approximately 1610mm high × 480mm wide × 515mm deep. The separate Squat model is much shorter but significantly wider and deeper.

What warranty does AquaMAX list?

AquaMAX's current product page lists a 10-year cylinder warranty and 12 months parts and labour, subject to warranty conditions.

Does the AquaMAX 160L require professional installation?

Yes. Plumbing and permanent electrical work must be completed by appropriately qualified trades and the installation must comply with applicable requirements.

Can I buy the AquaMAX 160L supply only?

Yes. Installed Today offers a supply-only pathway where compliant installation is already arranged.

Can Installed Today install the AquaMAX 160L?

Supply-and-install options are available in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Final requirements depend on the selected element rating, electrical supply, plumbing, pressure controls, drainage, dimensions, access and site compliance.

WHY INSTALLED TODAY

Why Order the AquaMAX 160L From Installed Today?

Supply Only Unit Ordering
1.8–3.6kW Model Options
Australia Wide Supported Supply
Brisbane & Gold Coast Installation Options

Installed Today provides a clear pathway to order the AquaMAX 160L as a product-only purchase or combine it with an eligible local installation option. Confirm the selected model, element rating, household demand, electricity tariff, electrical supply, water pressure, valves, dimensions, drainage and old-system removal requirements before checkout.

FINAL CHECK

Is the AquaMAX 160L Right for You?

The AquaMAX 160L VE 981160 is suited to small and medium-sized households wanting a conventional upright mains-pressure electric storage water heater with 160L hot-water delivery, dual-handed connections and a choice of three element ratings.

Before ordering, confirm whether the property requires the 981160G4 1.8kW, 981160G5 2.4kW or 981160G7 3.6kW, and check household demand, electrical circuit, water pressure, plumbing, drainage and available installation space. Choose supply only where compliant installation is already arranged, or check Installed Today's Brisbane and Gold Coast installation options.

 

Tempering Valve and Element Information

*Element size information:
All electric hot water units are supplied as standard with a 3.6kW element unless otherwise stated on the product page, invoice, or order confirmation.

If a different element configuration is requested, such as 1.8kW or 2.4kW, the hot water unit may still arrive with the standard 3.6kW element fitted from the manufacturer. The requested 1.8kW or 2.4kW element will be supplied separately with the order for installation by a suitably licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder.

Any element changeover, electrical connection, disconnection, wiring, testing, or modification must be carried out by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder. Elements must not be changed, connected, modified, or tested by an unlicensed person.

Alternative elements supplied for non-standard configurations may be generic replacement elements and may not be the same brand as the hot water unit unless specifically stated. Generic elements are supplied to suit the requested element size and electrical configuration, but final suitability must be checked by the licensed installer before installation.

1.8kW and 2.4kW elements supplied separately with a hot water unit include a 12-month supply-only parts warranty from the date of purchase, provided the element has been correctly installed by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder and used under normal operating conditions.

This element warranty covers the replacement supply of the element only. It does not include labour, call-out fees, electrical work, plumbing work, fault finding, removal, reinstallation, testing, travel, downtime, damage caused by incorrect installation, or any other associated costs. Warranty may be declined where the element has been incorrectly installed, dry-fired, modified, damaged, connected to incorrect voltage or wiring, affected by power issues, used in unsuitable water conditions, or installed by an unlicensed person.

Proof of purchase, installer details, electrical licence details, photos, and/or return of the faulty element may be required before a warranty claim is approved.

**Tempering valve information:
Where a hot water system is capable of delivering water above 50°C, a compliant tempering valve must be installed to control the temperature delivered to personal hygiene fixtures such as showers, baths, basins, and bathroom outlets. This helps reduce the risk of scalding and assists with meeting plumbing compliance requirements.

A tempering valve blends hot and cold water to deliver a safer controlled outlet temperature to required fixtures. The hot water unit itself may store water at a higher temperature, but the water delivered to personal hygiene outlets must be controlled where required by plumbing regulations.

If your property already has a suitable, compliant tempering valve installed, your licensed plumber can assess whether it is appropriate for use with the new hot water system. Existing valves may not always be suitable due to age, condition, compliance requirements, valve type, location, or system compatibility.

If a compliant tempering valve is not already installed, or if the existing valve is unsuitable, one must be supplied and installed by a licensed plumber as part of the hot water installation.

Tempering valves are not automatically included with every supply-only hot water unit unless specifically selected, listed as included, or purchased as part of a suitable valve kit. If a tempering valve is required, please purchase the appropriate valve kit with your order or arrange for your licensed installer to supply and install the correct tempering valve on site.

It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure the installation is completed by appropriately licensed trades and that all required valves, fittings, electrical work, plumbing work, and compliance requirements are allowed for as part of the installation.

A Simpler Way to Buy Hot Water, Filters, Pumps and Plumbing Products

Buying a new hot water system, water filter, pump or plumbing product should be clear, simple and easy to organise.

Installed Today helps you compare products, check supply-only pricing and, where available, build an optional installation package before checkout. That means you can choose the product, review the available options and order with more confidence, without the usual back and forth just to understand the starting price.

Whether you already know exactly what you need or you are still comparing options, Installed Today gives you a clearer way to buy the right product for your home, budget and timing.

Why Customers Choose Installed Today

Supply Only or Optional Installation

Choose the product on its own, or add installation where available on selected products and in eligible service areas. This gives you the flexibility to order the way that suits you best.

Clear Pricing Before Checkout

See the product price upfront, then review available installation options and common add-ons before placing your order. You can check the package total before checkout, instead of waiting on basic pricing just to get started.

Product Details That Actually Help

Key specs, sizing details, warranty information, product features and suitability notes are shown clearly, making it easier to compare products properly before you buy.

Common Installation Add-Ons Available

Where relevant, you can add common installation extras such as valve kits, bases, access-related items, removal, electrical options or other site-specific upgrades before checkout.

Built Around Brisbane and Gold Coast Homes

Our product and installation options are selected with common Brisbane and Gold Coast homes in mind, including local water quality, access issues, plumbing layouts, replacement requirements and typical installation conditions.

One Simple Order

Add the product and selected options to cart in one order, instead of trying to organise separate suppliers, installers, parts and payments yourself.

Practical Help Before You Buy

Not sure which size, model or installation option is right? Installed Today gives you a clearer path to compare your options before you order.

Designed to Make Your Decision Easier

Installed Today is built for customers who want a faster, clearer and more convenient way to buy.

Instead of guessing what is included, waiting for basic pricing or trying to work out which extras may be needed, you can review the product, compare your options and move forward with confidence.

Choose supply only if you just need the product.

Choose an optional supplied and installed package where installation is available and you want the product and selected install options organised in one order.

Add common extras before checkout if your job needs additional parts, removal, access support or site-specific options.

It is a simpler way to organise the product, the selected extras and the parts of the job that matter most.

Important Installation Note

Installation availability, inclusions and add-ons vary by product type, service area, site access, existing services, selected options and property requirements.

Some jobs may require additional work, upgrades or checks before installation can proceed. Final suitability may need to be confirmed based on site conditions, plumbing, electrical requirements, valves, drainage, access and compliance requirements.

Supply-only orders do not include installation, old unit removal, disposal, valve kits, electrical work, plumbing alterations or compliance upgrades unless these are clearly selected or included in your order.

Fast Delivery and Install-Aligned Shipping

Installed Today makes delivery simple, whether you are ordering supply-only or choosing an optional install package.

For supply-only orders, you can select from available delivery options at checkout. For eligible orders with installation selected, shipping is included and coordinated to align with your selected installation period where possible.

Delivery Options

Same Day Delivery

Same day delivery may be available for selected hot water systems in Brisbane and Gold Coast metro areas when ordered before 7:00am.

Availability depends on stock, courier capacity, delivery location, product type and safe transport conditions.

Express Delivery

Express delivery is available on selected products and locations, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 1–4 business days.

Standard Delivery

Standard delivery is available on selected products, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 2–8 business days.

Free Shipping with Installation

When you select an eligible installation package, delivery is included as part of the supplied and installed order.

Your product delivery will be organised to align with your selected installation period where possible, helping avoid separate courier timing, storage issues or delays between delivery and installation.

Fast Metro Delivery

Most hot water orders in metro areas are delivered quickly, with many arriving within 1 business day depending on stock, location, order time and courier availability.

Weather and Transport Delays

Hot water systems are large, heavy products and cannot always be transported safely during rain or unsafe handling conditions.

Delivery timeframes may be affected if wet weather impacts loading, unloading, transport access or safe delivery conditions.

Express Delivery Refund

If your express delivery order takes longer than the estimated 1–4 business day express timeframe, your order will move to the standard 2–8 business day delivery timeframe and your express shipping charge will be refunded automatically.

Order Tracking

We will send your delivery details once your order has been dispatched or scheduled.

For supplied and installed orders, delivery timing may be coordinated around your selected installation period rather than sent as a separate courier-only delivery.

Need Help with Delivery?

Not sure whether to choose supply-only delivery or an optional install package? Contact our team before ordering and we can help you understand the best option for your product, location and timing.

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