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Rheem Ambipower 280L Heat Pump Hot Water System

The Rheem 280L hot water system is ideal for homes with up to 4 people. Built tough with a Steel Enamel tank and backed by a 7-year warranty, it's a reliable, efficient choice for everyday hot water.
Was $3,649.00, Now $2,929.00
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Supply only skips the installation checker. Supply + install opens the installation questions so the right add-ons can be selected.
Are you replacing an existing hot water system?
This helps us work out whether this looks like a standard replacement or may need extra parts.
Are you replacing the same hot water system, identical make and model?
If yes, the valve kit will be recommended. If not, it will be required at the end.
Is it going in an existing location?
Existing location means the new system is going back into the same general installed position.
Where is the system located?
If it is outside, continue. If it is inside or under a house, the 2 Minute Compatibility Check must be completed first.
Are you changing system type, electrical connection type or needing to extend your electrical connection?
If yes, we will advise at the end that an electrical extension or new circuit may be needed, or you can organise your own electrician.
Do any site access issues apply?
If any access issue applies, direct them to the 2 Minute Compatibility Check first. If none apply, continue with the form.
Does your current installation meet current compliance requirements?
If no or unsure, we will recommend a valve kit or additional works as the safer starting point.
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      🔥 Quick Specs & Benefits

      • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Recommended Household Size: Suitable for larger households (4 people)
      • 🏷️ Make: Rheem
      • 🔖 Model: 551E280 (1.5kw BOOSTED - 10AMP PLUG IN)
      • 📦 Volume: 280L
      • 🔌 Power Connection Type: 10 Amp Plug & Lead
      • 🛡️ Maximum Warranty: 7 years
      • 📏 Height: 1832 mm
      • 📐 Width: 690 mm
      • 🌍 Made In: Australia
      • 🛠️ Main Cylinder Material: Steel Enamel
      • 🔥 STC Government Rebate: Eligible – additional savings may apply

      *Savings are estimates based on replacing a standard electric storage system with a heat pump. Actual savings vary depending on usage, tariffs, and installation.

       

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      • 💸 Money-Back Guarantee: Shop with confidence – full refund if not satisfied*
      • 📦 Fast Dispatch: Most orders shipped within 1 business day
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      • Verified Reviews: Rated 5 stars by real Australian customers
      • 🛡️ Genuine Warranties: We only sell brand-new, manufacturer-backed products

      *Terms and conditions apply. See refund policy for full details.

      * Requested element size may come delivered separately to system for electric systems - All units supplied with factory with 3.6kW


      **Where a unit supplied is capable of supplying more than 50°C, a tempering valve must be installed on the property or purchased with the order.

      Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

      Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump Hot Water System

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump Hot Water System is available from Installed Today as a supply-only heat pump water heater or as a complete supply and install package in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.

      Choose the unit only if you already have a licensed plumber or installer arranged, or check your supply and install package to confirm standard installation, valve kit requirements, outdoor location suitability, drainage, power point suitability, site access and available installation timeframes before checkout.

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug-in model is a larger-capacity heat pump hot water system designed for households wanting to reduce water heating energy use without needing a traditional roof-mounted solar hot water system. With 280L capacity, R290 natural refrigerant, high COP performance, 10 amp plug and lead connection, 1.5kW backup element, and suitability for up to 6 people under Rheem’s stated assumptions, it is a strong upgrade option for homes replacing an older electric storage hot water system.

      About the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e is part of Rheem’s AmbiPower heat pump range. It uses heat from the surrounding air to heat stored water, making it an energy-efficient alternative to a standard electric water heater.

      Unlike traditional solar hot water, the AmbiPower 280e does not rely on direct sunlight or roof-mounted collectors to heat water. Instead, it captures ambient heat from the air and transfers that heat into the stored water using heat pump technology.

      This page is focused on the 10 amp plug-in model, which is designed for homes where a suitable outdoor power point and installation location are available. The plug and lead version uses a 1.5kW backup element, making it different from the hardwired model, which uses a larger 2.4kW backup element.

      Buy Rheem AmbiPower 280e Plug-In Model Supply Only

      Order the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump online as a supply-only product. This option is ideal if you already have a licensed plumber, electrician or installer arranged and only need the unit supplied.

      The supply-only product price is for the hot water system itself. Installation, old system removal, disposal, valve kits, electrical work, plumbing alterations, drainage changes, compliance upgrades and additional site requirements are not included unless selected separately as add-ons.

      Supply-only is best for customers searching for:

      • Rheem AmbiPower 280e price

      • Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug-in model

      • Rheem 280L heat pump for sale

      • Rheem 551E280R3P heat pump

      • Rheem AmbiPower 280e supply only

      • 280L heat pump hot water system supply only

      • 10 amp heat pump hot water system

      • Rheem R290 heat pump hot water system

      Rheem AmbiPower 280e Supplied and Installed in Brisbane & Gold Coast

      Installed Today can supply and install the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump Hot Water System in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.

      This option is designed for customers who want the heat pump supplied and professionally installed through one streamlined online order. The supply and install pathway helps confirm whether this system suits your property, whether a valve kit is required, whether the installation location is suitable, whether drainage is available, whether the power point is suitable, and whether any additional installation add-ons may be needed before checkout.

      The installed-from price is based on the product plus the matching standard installation option. Final pricing may vary depending on site access, power point suitability, drainage, valve requirements, old system removal or disposal selections, pipework changes, base requirements, compliance requirements and selected add-ons.

      Rheem AmbiPower 280e Installation in Brisbane

      For Brisbane customers, the Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug-in heat pump can be ordered with supply and install options through Installed Today. This is suitable for homes replacing an existing electric hot water system where the current location, access, plumbing, drainage and electrical setup are suitable for the selected installation option.

      The 280L size can be a strong fit for Brisbane family homes, townhouses, rental properties and households wanting to upgrade from standard electric storage to a more efficient heat pump hot water system.

      Customers in selected Brisbane suburbs can complete the installation check before checkout to confirm whether standard heat pump installation, valve kit selection, drainage, power point suitability, pipework, old system removal or disposal options may be required.

      This makes the page suitable for customers searching for Rheem AmbiPower 280e installation Brisbane, Rheem heat pump supplied and installed Brisbane, and 280L heat pump hot water replacement Brisbane.

      Rheem AmbiPower 280e Installation in Gold Coast

      Gold Coast customers can also order the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump Hot Water System with supply and install options in selected service areas.

      This pathway is useful for homeowners, landlords, property managers and renovators who want the product and installation organised together instead of buying the heat pump separately and arranging trades afterwards.

      Complete the supply and install check to confirm whether the existing setup is suitable and whether additional items such as valve kits, drainage, power point requirements, pipework, base support, access requirements or old system disposal may be required.

      This helps customers searching for Rheem AmbiPower 280e installed Gold Coast, Rheem heat pump installation Gold Coast, and 280L heat pump supply and install Gold Coast.

      Is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e Plug-In Model Right for Your Home?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump may be suitable if you are replacing a standard electric storage hot water system and want a larger, energy-efficient heat pump option from one of Australia’s most recognised hot water brands.

      It is commonly suited to family homes, larger townhouses, rental properties and households wanting lower water heating energy use than a standard electric water heater.

      Rheem lists the AmbiPower 280e as suitable for up to 6 people under stated usage assumptions. Real-world suitability depends on shower length, hot water usage, tariff setup, climate, installation location, airflow, drainage, electrical supply and household hot water habits.

      This system may suit you if:

      • You are replacing an existing electric hot water system

      • You want a 280L heat pump hot water system

      • Your household has up to 6 people under Rheem’s stated assumptions

      • You want a 10 amp plug and lead model

      • You have, or can add, a suitable outdoor power point

      • You want a Rheem heat pump with R290 natural refrigerant

      • You want a system that does not rely on direct sunlight

      • You want backup element support for boost or emergency heating

      • You want touch screen LED control

      • Your property has suitable airflow, drainage and installation space

      • You want the choice of supply only or supply and install

      Extra work may be required if:

      • The system is being moved to a new location

      • A suitable outdoor power point is not available

      • The existing electrical setup does not suit the plug-in model

      • Existing valves are old, missing or non-compliant

      • Extra pipework or drainage changes are needed

      • Access is restricted

      • A compliant base, tray, drainage or insulation is required

      • The old system needs additional removal or disposal work

      • The installation location has poor airflow or unsuitable clearances

      • The existing setup does not suit a heat pump installation

      Key Features of the Rheem AmbiPower 280e Plug-In Model

      • 280L heat pump hot water system

      • Plug and lead 10 amp model available

      • 1.5kW backup element on plug-in model

      • Suitable for up to 6 people under Rheem’s stated usage assumptions

      • Uses heat from surrounding air to heat water

      • Does not rely on direct sunlight

      • Smart energy-efficient alternative to a standard electric water heater

      • High COP of 5.2 under stated test conditions

      • Can save up to 73.9% on water heating energy consumption in Zone 3 compared with an electric water heater under Rheem’s stated conditions

      • R290 natural refrigerant

      • R290 refrigerant listed with GWP under 3

      • Advanced wraparound microchannel heating technology

      • Designed for uniform and faster water heating

      • Suitable for cold climates with operating range from -6°C to +43°C

      • Suitable for harsh water conditions

      • Enamel lined water tank to help reduce corrosion risk

      • Side fan design for airflow and weather protection

      • Painted sheet metal outer shell

      • Aluminium top cover to help reduce corrosion

      • User-friendly touch screen LED display

      • Product performance information through controller

      • Eligible for STCs where requirements are met

      • May be eligible for additional incentives in some states

      • Standard and Blue Anode model options available

      • 10-year cylinder supply warranty under Rheem warranty terms

      • 3-year cylinder labour warranty under Rheem warranty terms

      • 3-year sealed system supply and labour warranty under Rheem warranty terms

      • 1-year parts supply and labour warranty under Rheem warranty terms

      Quick Specs

      Brand: Rheem
      Range: AmbiPower Heat Pump
      Product: Rheem AmbiPower 280e Heat Pump
      Model Family: 551E280
      Plug and Lead Model: 551E280R3P
      Blue Anode Plug and Lead Model: 551E280R3P/BL
      System Type: Heat Pump Hot Water System
      Capacity: 280L
      Recommended Household Size: Up to 6 people under Rheem’s stated usage assumptions
      Connection Type: 10 amp plug and lead model
      Plug-In Backup Element: 1.5kW
      Hardwired Backup Element: 2.4kW on hardwired versions
      Refrigerant: R290 natural refrigerant
      Listed Refrigerant GWP: Under 3
      COP: 5.2 under stated test conditions
      Heating Technology: Advanced wraparound microchannel heating
      Operating Climate Suitability: -6°C to +43°C
      Control Type: Touch screen LED display
      Water Quality Suitability: Suitable for harsh water conditions
      Government Incentive Eligibility: STCs where requirements are met
      Cylinder Warranty: 10 years, subject to Rheem warranty terms
      Cylinder Labour Warranty: 3 years, subject to Rheem warranty terms
      Sealed System Warranty: 3 years supply and labour, subject to Rheem warranty terms
      Parts Warranty: 1 year supply and labour, subject to Rheem warranty terms

      10 Amp Plug and Lead Connection

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug-in model is designed for connection to a suitable 10 amp power point.

      This can make it a practical option for some replacement jobs where the property already has a compliant outdoor power point in the right location, or where a suitable power point can be added by a licensed electrician.

      The plug-in model should not be treated as a simple appliance swap without checking the full installation. The site still needs suitable plumbing, drainage, valves, airflow, clearance, base support, electrical protection and compliance.

      Plug-In Model vs Hardwired Model

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e range includes both plug-in and hardwired options.

      The plug-in model uses a 1.5kW backup element and is designed for compatible 10 amp plug and lead installation. The hardwired model uses a 2.4kW backup element and requires hardwired electrical connection.

      The right option depends on the property, the existing electrical setup, the available circuit, the installation location, recovery needs and whether the customer wants a plug-in or hardwired setup.

      For customers specifically wanting a 10 amp heat pump, the plug and lead version is the correct product pathway.

      Lower Energy Hot Water

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e is designed to reduce water heating energy use compared with a standard electric water heater.

      Heat pump technology works by absorbing heat from the surrounding air and transferring that heat into the stored water. This allows the system to produce hot water efficiently without relying only on direct electric element heating.

      Rheem lists potential water heating energy savings of up to 73.9% in Zone 3 when replacing an electric water heater under stated conditions. Actual savings can vary depending on location, the system being replaced, hot water consumption, tariff setup, household usage, solar PV use and installation conditions.

      R290 Natural Refrigerant

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e uses R290 natural refrigerant, which has very low global warming potential compared with many older refrigerant types.

      Rheem lists the refrigerant with a GWP of under 3, making the AmbiPower 280e a strong choice for customers wanting efficient hot water technology with lower-impact refrigerant design.

      Advanced Wraparound Microchannel Heating

      The AmbiPower 280e uses advanced wraparound microchannel heating technology designed to support uniform and faster water heating.

      This design helps transfer heat efficiently into the stored water and supports recovery performance for family households with regular daily hot water demand.

      Built for Australian Conditions

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e has been designed and tested for harsh Australian conditions.

      The system includes an enamel lined water tank to help reduce corrosion risk, a side fan design for airflow and rain protection, a painted sheet metal outer shell and an aluminium top cover to help withstand outdoor exposure.

      This makes it a practical heat pump option for homes where the unit will be installed outdoors in a suitable location with correct clearances, drainage and access.

      Touch Screen LED Display

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e includes a user-friendly touch screen LED display.

      The display provides system visibility, performance information and easier operation for the homeowner compared with older-style electric storage systems.

      Suitable for Cold and Harsh Conditions

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e is designed to operate across a broad climate range and is listed as suitable for cold climates from -6°C to +43°C.

      It is also listed as suitable for harsh water conditions, making it a practical heat pump option for a wider range of Australian homes where installation conditions and water quality need to be considered.

      Government Incentives and STCs

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e may be eligible for government incentives where requirements are met.

      Eligible heat pump hot water systems may qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates and may also be eligible for additional state-based incentives in some areas, depending on product model, installation location, installer requirements, installation year and program rules.

      Any rebate, STC discount or incentive should be confirmed before ordering or installation.

      Common Uses

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump can be suitable for:

      • Electric hot water system replacement

      • Heat pump hot water upgrades

      • Family homes

      • Larger townhouses

      • Rental properties

      • Investment properties

      • Homes with up to 6 people under Rheem’s stated assumptions

      • Homes wanting lower energy use than standard electric storage

      • Homes where traditional roof-mounted solar hot water may not be suitable

      • Properties needing a 280L heat pump hot water system

      • Homes with suitable outdoor 10 amp power point access

      • Supply-only orders where a licensed installer is already arranged

      • Supply and install orders in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast areas

      Suitability depends on household size, hot water usage, tariff setup, installation location, airflow, drainage, plumbing condition, electrical supply and compliance requirements.

      Why Order From Installed Today?

      Installed Today gives customers a simple way to order the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 Amp Plug-In Heat Pump Hot Water System as either a product-only purchase or a supply and install package in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.

      You can compare the unit-only price, check the installed-from price, complete the installation compatibility check and select matching installation add-ons before checkout.

      Why customers choose Installed Today:

      • Supply only or supply and install options

      • Installed-from pricing shown separately

      • Compatibility check before checkout

      • Valve kits and installation add-ons available online

      • Brisbane and Gold Coast service area support

      • Suitable for heat pump hot water replacement orders

      • Clear product and installation pathway before checkout

      • Practical 280L heat pump replacement option

      • Product-only ordering for customers with their own licensed installer

      • Supply and install pathway for selected heat pump upgrades

      • 10 amp plug and lead model available

      • Rheem heat pump hot water system from a recognised Australian hot water brand

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Can I buy the Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug-in model supply only?

      Yes. You can buy the Rheem AmbiPower 280e 10 amp plug-in model as a supply-only product if you already have a licensed installer arranged. The unit-only price does not include installation, old system removal, disposal, valve kits, electrical work, plumbing alterations, drainage changes or compliance upgrades unless selected separately.

      Can I get the Rheem AmbiPower 280e installed in Brisbane?

      Yes. Supply and install options are available in selected Brisbane service areas. Complete the installation check to confirm whether the standard heat pump installation option suits your property and whether additional add-ons may be required.

      Can I get the Rheem AmbiPower 280e installed in Gold Coast?

      Yes. Selected Gold Coast service areas are available. Installation suitability depends on access, existing plumbing, electrical requirements, drainage, valve condition, airflow, clearances, power point suitability, compliance and selected add-ons.

      Is installation included in the product price?

      No. The main product price is the unit-only price. The installed-from price is shown separately so you can compare supply only against supply and install.

      What does the installed-from price include?

      The installed-from price is based on the Rheem AmbiPower 280e unit plus the matching standard installation option. Final pricing may vary depending on valve kits, removal or disposal selections, pipework, drainage, electrical work, access, compliance and other selected add-ons.

      Do I need a valve kit?

      Many hot water replacements require compatible valves to meet installation and compliance requirements. The installation check helps identify whether a valve kit is recommended for your order.

      What is the model number for the Rheem AmbiPower 280e?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e model family is 551E280. The 10 amp plug and lead model is listed as 551E280R3P, with a Blue Anode plug and lead option listed as 551E280R3P/BL.

      What is the tank capacity?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e has a 280L capacity.

      How many people is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e suitable for?

      Rheem lists the AmbiPower 280e as suitable for up to 6 people under its stated usage assumptions. Actual suitability depends on shower length, hot water usage, tariff setup, climate and household habits.

      Is this the 10 amp plug-in model?

      Yes. This page is written for the 10 amp plug and lead model of the Rheem AmbiPower 280e.

      What backup element does the plug-in model use?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e plug and lead model uses a 1.5kW backup element.

      What is the difference between the plug-in and hardwired model?

      The plug-in model uses a 10 amp plug and lead connection with a 1.5kW backup element. The hardwired model uses a hardwired electrical connection with a 2.4kW backup element. The right model depends on the property, electrical setup and installation requirements.

      What refrigerant does the Rheem AmbiPower 280e use?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e uses R290 natural refrigerant.

      What is the GWP of the refrigerant?

      Rheem lists the R290 refrigerant used in the AmbiPower 280e with a GWP of under 3.

      What is the COP of the Rheem AmbiPower 280e?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e is listed with a COP of 5.2 under stated test conditions.

      Does the Rheem AmbiPower 280e need direct sunlight?

      No. The AmbiPower 280e uses heat from the surrounding air and does not rely on direct sunlight to heat water.

      Is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e suitable for cold climates?

      Yes. Rheem lists the AmbiPower 280e as suitable for cold climates with an operating range from -6°C to +43°C.

      Is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e suitable for harsh water conditions?

      Yes. Rheem lists the AmbiPower 280e as suitable for harsh water conditions.

      Can the Rheem AmbiPower 280e reduce running costs?

      Yes. Rheem lists potential water heating energy savings of up to 73.9% in Zone 3 compared with an electric water heater under stated conditions. Actual savings depend on location, household usage, tariff setup, installation conditions and the system being replaced.

      Is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e eligible for rebates?

      The Rheem AmbiPower 280e may be eligible for STCs and may be eligible for additional incentives in some states where requirements are met. Eligibility and value can vary depending on location, installation year, product model, installer requirements and program rules.

      What is the warranty on the Rheem AmbiPower 280e?

      Rheem lists the AmbiPower 280e with a 10-year cylinder supply warranty, 3-year cylinder labour warranty, 3-year sealed system supply and labour warranty, and 1-year parts supply and labour warranty, subject to Rheem warranty terms and conditions.

      Is the Rheem AmbiPower 280e good for replacing an electric hot water system?

      Yes. The Rheem AmbiPower 280e can be a strong heat pump replacement option for selected electric hot water systems, provided the property has suitable space, airflow, drainage, electrical supply, power point suitability and plumbing conditions.

      What is the difference between the Rheem AmbiPower 180 and 280e?

      The AmbiPower 180 is the smaller model and is better suited to smaller households. The AmbiPower 280e has larger 280L capacity and is better suited to family homes or households with higher daily hot water demand.

      Hassle-Free Installation – Done Right by Trusted Experts!

      Need professional installation? We’ve got you covered! Our optional installation service connects you with our network of certified, trusted contractors, ensuring a smooth and stress-free setup.

      How It Works:

      🔹 Step 1: Select Installation Service
      Choose to include professional installation when purchasing your new system.

      🔹 Step 2: Pay for Installation Upfront
      Simply add the installation service prior to adding your product to cart —no hidden fees, no surprises.

      🔹 Step 3: We Assign a Certified Contractor
      We’ll match you with a licensed, experienced contractor from our network to handle the installation.

      🔹 Step 4: Schedule Your Installation
      The assigned contractor will contact you directly to arrange a convenient time for installation.

      🔹 Step 5: Direct Support When You Need It
      For any installation-related questions, your contractor is your first point of contact. If any issues arise, our team is here to help.

      🚨 Please Note: Installed Today supplies the product and connects you with a certified contractor for installation.

      We’re committed to delivering top-quality products and facilitating a seamless installation experience. Have product questions? Reach out to us anytime! 🔥

      📦 Fast & Reliable Delivery – What to Expect

      🚛 Standard Delivery: 2-8 Business Days

      Express Delivery: 1-4 Business Days

      🔹 Super Fast Turnaround!90% of hot water orders in metro areas arrive within 1 business day! 🚀

      🔹 Weather Delays – Hot water systems can’t be shipped via courier in the rain, so delivery may be delayed during severe weather.

      🔹 Express Delivery Guarantee – If your express order takes longer than 1-4 business days, we’ll automatically adjust the timeframe to 2-8 days and refund your express shipping charge – no need to chase it up!

      🔹 Track Your Order – We’ll send you a delivery details as soon as your order is dispatched.

      Need help with your delivery? Get in touch – we’re happy to help! 😊

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