Vulcan DUOMAX 160L Electric Hot Water System - Installed Today
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Product Information Quick Specs & Benefits View sizing, power, warranty and key product details
Recommended Household Size 3 people
Make Vulcan
Model 681160
Volume 160L
Maximum Warranty 10 years
Height 1550 mm
Width 480 mm
Made In Australia
Main Cylinder Material Steel Enamel

Vulcan DUOMAX 160L Electric Hot Water System

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VULCAN ELECTRIC HOT WATER

Vulcan Duomax 160L Electric Storage Hot Water System

The Vulcan Duomax 160L Electric Storage Hot Water System is a compact-to-medium electric water heater designed for smaller households, units, townhouses and replacement installations where a larger 250L, 315L or 400L storage system is not required.

With 160 litres of hot water delivery, a 3.6 kW single element, vitreous enamel lined cylinder and suitability for indoor or outdoor installation where compliant, it is a practical option for many existing 160L electric hot water replacements.

Installed Today offers the Vulcan Duomax 160L as a supply-only hot water system or with supplied-and-installed options in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, where available.

Vulcan Duomax 160L at a glance: this is a 160L single-element electric storage hot water system designed for smaller households and moderate hot water demand. The selected 3.6 kW model requires a continuous electricity tariff, can be installed indoors or outdoors where suitable and is commonly considered for like-for-like 160L electric storage replacement.
WHAT IT DOES

What Does the Vulcan Duomax 160L Do?

The Vulcan Duomax 160L stores and heats water inside an insulated vitreous enamel lined cylinder. Its electric heating element maintains stored hot water ready for use at showers, sinks and other connected hot water outlets.

The 160L capacity provides more stored hot water than compact 50L, 80L or 125L systems while requiring considerably less space than larger 250L, 315L and 400L cylinders.

This makes it particularly relevant to smaller homes and replacement installations where moderate hot water capacity is required without installing a large family-sized storage system.

WHO IT SUITS

Who Is the Vulcan Duomax 160L Best For?

Smaller Households

Designed for homes with moderate daily hot water demand where a larger 250L or 315L storage system is unnecessary.

Units & Townhouses

The narrower 160L format can suit units, townhouses, rental properties and homes where installation space is more limited.

160L Electric Replacements

A practical option where an existing 160L electric storage system is being replaced and the current location and services remain suitable.

WHO IT HELPS

What Problems Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Help Solve?

Replacing an Ageing 160L Unit

Provides a straightforward replacement pathway for many properties already using a similar-sized electric storage system.

Compact System Is Too Small

The 160L capacity provides more stored hot water than smaller 50L, 80L or 125L systems where household demand has increased.

Limited Installation Space

Its narrower format can make it more practical than larger electric cylinders where available width is restricted.

PRODUCT AT A GLANCE

Vulcan Duomax 160L Key Details

160LHot Water Delivery
3.6 kWSingle Element
Up to 4Vulcan Sizing Guide
10 YearsCylinder Warranty

Vulcan lists the 160L model for a maximum of 4 people under stated usage conditions. Actual suitability depends on household demand, shower habits, climate and other usage factors.

PRODUCT SUITABILITY

Is the Vulcan Duomax 160L Right for My Home?

A Good Choice If...

You want a 160L electric storage system, have moderate hot water demand or are replacing an existing similar-sized electric water heater.

Consider Another Option If...

Your household has consistently high hot water demand, regularly runs out of hot water with a 160L system or requires an off-peak-only storage arrangement.

Check Before Ordering

Confirm dimensions, access, continuous-tariff electrical supply, valve condition, water pressure, drainage, pipework and installation location.

HOUSEHOLD SIZING

How Many People Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Suit?

Vulcan lists the 160L model as suitable for a maximum of 4 people under the manufacturer's stated usage conditions.

This is a general sizing guide rather than a guarantee. Two households with the same number of people can use very different amounts of hot water.

  • Number of people in the property
  • Average shower duration
  • Shower flow rates
  • Bath usage
  • Kitchen and laundry demand
  • Climate and incoming water temperature
  • Continuous tariff availability
  • Timing of household hot water use
HOW IT WORKS

How Does the Vulcan Duomax 160L Work?

1. Cold Water Enters

Cold water enters the storage cylinder through the water supply connection.

2. The Element Heats the Water

The 3.6 kW single electric element heats the stored water inside the cylinder.

3. Hot Water Is Stored

The heated water remains stored until required at showers, sinks and other connected hot water outlets.

KEY FEATURES

Key Features of the Vulcan Duomax 160L

160L Hot Water Delivery

Provides stored hot water capacity suitable for smaller households and moderate daily hot water use.

3.6 kW Single Element

The selected model uses a single 3.6 kW electric heating element.

Vitreous Enamel Cylinder

The storage cylinder uses a vitreous enamel lining designed to help protect the internal steel cylinder surface.

Continuous Tariff

The 160L model is listed as requiring connection to a continuous electricity tariff.

Indoor or Outdoor Installation

The system can be installed indoors or outdoors where the location meets the required plumbing, drainage, electrical and access conditions.

Narrow 480mm Width

The Vulcan specification lists a width of approximately 480 mm, making this model narrower than many larger electric storage cylinders.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Vulcan Duomax 160L Specifications

Specification Details
Brand Vulcan
Range Duomax
Product Reference 681160G7
Manufacturer Part Number 6DS160G7
System Type Electric storage hot water system
Hot Water Delivery 160 litres
Element Type Single element
Element Rating 3.6 kW
Manufacturer Household Guide Up to 4 people under stated usage conditions
Tariff Requirement Continuous tariff
Installation Type Indoor or outdoor where suitable
Cylinder Vitreous enamel lined steel cylinder
Water Connections Rp 3/4"
ECV Setting 850 kPa
Maximum Supply Pressure With ECV 680 kPa
Maximum Supply Pressure Without ECV 800 kPa
Relief Valve Pressure 1000 kPa
Manufacturer Dimensions 1550 mm high x 480 mm wide x 494 mm deep
Shipped Weight 56 kg
Warranty 10 year cylinder warranty and 12 months parts and labour, subject to current Vulcan warranty conditions
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

What Is Required to Install the Vulcan Duomax 160L?

The 160L Vulcan is smaller than the larger Duomax models, but the installation position, plumbing, drainage and electrical requirements still need to be checked before ordering.

  • Suitable stable installation position
  • Space for the 160L cylinder
  • Safe delivery and lifting access
  • Suitable cold and hot water pipework
  • Correct valve arrangement
  • Suitable incoming water pressure
  • Relief and expansion drainage
  • Continuous electrical supply
  • Electrical circuit suitable for the 3.6 kW element
  • Suitable electrical isolation
  • Service and maintenance access
  • Safe tray and drainage where required indoors
ACCESS & DIMENSIONS

Will the Vulcan Duomax 160L Fit in the Existing Location?

Vulcan lists the 160L model at approximately 1550 mm high, 480 mm wide and 494 mm deep.

Its narrower width can make the system useful for tighter replacement positions, but access still needs to be checked carefully.

Check the full delivery path. Stairs, cupboards, raised platforms, narrow side access and tight laundry areas can still affect installation even when the final system position has enough space.
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

What Electrical Supply Does the Vulcan Duomax 160L Need?

The selected model uses a 3.6 kW single electric element and is listed as requiring connection to a continuous tariff.

This is an important difference compared with some larger electric storage systems that may be suited to off-peak or controlled-load heating arrangements.

The existing electrical circuit, wiring and isolation should be checked before installation. Any required electrical alterations need to be completed by an appropriately licensed electrical contractor.

CONTINUOUS TARIFF

Why Does the Vulcan Duomax 160L Use Continuous Power?

The Vulcan 160L is listed as requiring a continuous electricity tariff, which allows the system to reheat water as required rather than relying only on a limited off-peak heating window.

This is particularly relevant with a smaller storage capacity because the system has less stored water available than a 250L, 315L or 400L unit.

If you are replacing a water heater currently connected to a different tariff arrangement, the electrical setup should be checked before ordering the new system.

WATER PRESSURE

What Water Pressure Limits Apply?

850 kPa ECV Setting

The listed expansion control valve setting is 850 kPa.

680 kPa With ECV

The listed maximum incoming water supply pressure is 680 kPa where an ECV is installed.

800 kPa Without ECV

The listed maximum incoming water supply pressure is 800 kPa where an ECV is not installed.

Incoming water pressure and the condition and suitability of the existing valves should be checked as part of the installation.

INDOOR OR OUTDOOR

Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Be Installed Indoors or Outdoors?

Indoor Installation

Indoor installation is possible where the position provides suitable access, drainage, leak protection, plumbing, electrical supply and any required safe tray arrangement.

Outdoor Installation

Outdoor installation is possible where the heater has a suitable stable base, service access and compliant plumbing and electrical connections.

REPLACEMENT & UPGRADES

Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Replace My Existing System?

The Vulcan Duomax 160L can be a practical like-for-like replacement where an existing similar-sized electric storage water heater occupies a suitable location and the plumbing, drainage and electrical supply are compatible.

Like-for-Like Replacement

Usually the simplest pathway where an existing 160L electric system is being replaced in the same suitable position.

Changing Tank Size

Moving from a smaller or larger system may require changes to pipework, drainage, electrical setup or the installation position.

Relocating the System

Moving the hot water system to a new location can require additional plumbing, drainage, electrical work and installation labour.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

What's Included With the Vulcan Duomax 160L?

Supply Only

Choose supply only if you already have the required licensed trades arranged and simply need the Vulcan Duomax 160L supplied.

Supplied & Installed

Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers can choose a supplied-and-installed option where available and suitable for the property.

Possible Additional Work

Valve kits, electrical alterations, pipework changes, drainage, system removal, disposal, relocation and difficult-access work may be additional depending on the site.

SUPPLY OR INSTALL

Choose How You Want to Order the Vulcan Duomax 160L

Supply Only

Choose supply only if you already have a licensed plumber and the required electrical installation arranged.

Brisbane Installation

Supply and installation may be available across selected Brisbane service areas, subject to site suitability and availability.

Gold Coast Installation

Supply and installation may be available across selected Gold Coast service areas, subject to site suitability and availability.

AUSTRALIA-WIDE SUPPLY

Buy the Vulcan Duomax 160L Across Australia

Installed Today can offer supply-only ordering to supported Australian locations, while eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers may also have supplied-and-installed options available.

Brisbane Gold Coast Sydney Melbourne Adelaide Perth
BRISBANE INSTALLATION

Vulcan Duomax 160L Supply & Installation Brisbane

The Vulcan Duomax 160L can suit Brisbane homes, units and townhouses replacing an existing smaller electric storage water heater where the current installation position, plumbing, electrical supply and drainage remain suitable.

Before installation, the site should be checked for access, valves, water pressure, pipework, base condition, continuous electrical supply and old-system removal requirements.

GOLD COAST INSTALLATION

Vulcan Duomax 160L Supply & Installation Gold Coast

Gold Coast customers may be able to choose the Vulcan Duomax 160L with installation where service coverage and site conditions allow.

The model can suit apartments, townhouses, smaller homes, rentals and investment properties requiring a conventional 160L electric storage replacement.

COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Vulcan Duomax 160L vs 125L Electric Storage

Consideration 160L Electric Storage 125L Electric Storage
Stored Hot Water Greater stored capacity Lower stored capacity
Typical Application Smaller households with moderate demand Lower-demand households or tighter spaces
Physical Size Larger than 125L Typically more compact
Consider 160L When... You need additional stored capacity 125L already meets household demand
COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Vulcan Duomax 160L vs 250L Electric Storage

Choose 160L When...

Household hot water demand is moderate, installation space is more limited and the extra capacity of a 250L system is unnecessary.

Consider 250L When...

The household regularly needs more stored hot water, has more occupants or experiences frequent hot water shortages with a smaller system.

COMPARE TECHNOLOGIES

Vulcan Duomax 160L vs Heat Pump Hot Water

The Vulcan Duomax uses a conventional electric resistance element to heat stored water. A heat pump instead transfers heat from the surrounding air into stored water and has different installation and operating requirements.

Choose Electric Storage When...

You want a straightforward like-for-like electric replacement and the existing location and electrical setup already suit this type of system.

Consider a Heat Pump When...

You are considering changing technology and have a suitable location with appropriate airflow, drainage, electrical supply, space and noise considerations.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Questions About the Vulcan Duomax 160L

Can I Buy the Vulcan Duomax 160L Supply Only?

Yes. Supply-only ordering is suitable if you already have the required licensed trades arranged for installation.

Can Installed Today Install the Vulcan Duomax 160L?

Supply and install options may be available in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, subject to service coverage, site suitability and installation availability.

Is Installation Included in the Product Price?

No. The product-only price is for the water heater unless an installed option is selected. Site-specific installation extras may also apply.

How Much Hot Water Does the Vulcan Duomax 160L Deliver?

The listed hot water delivery is 160 litres.

How Many People Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Suit?

Vulcan lists the model for a maximum of 4 people under stated usage conditions. Actual suitability depends on household hot water demand.

What Size Element Does It Use?

The 681160G7 model uses a 3.6 kW single element.

Is the Vulcan Duomax 160L Twin Element?

No. This product is the single-element version.

Can the Vulcan Duomax 160L Run on Off-Peak Electricity?

The 160L model is listed as requiring connection to a continuous tariff. The existing electricity arrangement should therefore be checked before replacement.

Can It Be Installed Indoors?

Yes, provided the location meets the required access, plumbing, electrical, drainage and leak-protection requirements.

Can It Be Installed Outdoors?

Yes, where the outdoor location has a suitable base, service access and compliant plumbing and electrical connections.

What Are the Manufacturer Dimensions?

Vulcan lists the model at approximately 1550 mm high x 480 mm wide x 494 mm deep.

What Water Connections Does It Use?

The listed water connections are Rp 3/4-inch.

What Is the ECV Setting?

The listed ECV setting is 850 kPa.

What Is the Maximum Water Supply Pressure?

The listed maximum supply pressure is 680 kPa with an ECV and 800 kPa without an ECV.

What Is the Relief Valve Pressure?

The listed relief valve pressure is 1000 kPa.

Can It Replace an Existing 160L Electric Water Heater?

Potentially, yes. A like-for-like replacement can be relatively straightforward where the location, plumbing, electrical supply, water pressure and drainage remain suitable.

Does It Need a New Valve Kit?

The existing valves should be assessed rather than automatically reused. Older, unsuitable or non-compliant valves may need replacement as part of the installation.

Does It Need Electrical Work?

The existing electrical installation should be checked for compatibility with the 3.6 kW element and continuous-tariff requirement. Additional electrical work may be required where the current setup does not suit the replacement.

Should I Choose 160L or 250L?

The appropriate size depends on actual household demand. A 160L unit takes up less space and can suit smaller households, while a 250L system provides substantially more stored hot water for higher usage.

WARRANTY & MAINTENANCE

Vulcan Duomax 160L Warranty and Maintenance

The supplied product information lists a 10 year cylinder warranty together with 12 months parts and labour, subject to current Vulcan warranty conditions.

Correct installation, appropriate valves, suitable water pressure and ongoing maintenance all contribute to the long-term performance of an electric storage hot water system.

Current warranty conditions should always be checked against the documentation supplied with the specific unit.

WHY INSTALLED TODAY

Why Order the Vulcan Duomax 160L From Installed Today?

Supply-Only Ordering

Suitable for customers who already have the required licensed plumber and electrical arrangements in place.

Installation Options

Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers can check available supplied-and-installed options.

Clear Installation Add-Ons

Valve kits, old-system removal, disposal, electrical work and other installation requirements can be separated from the unit price where applicable.

FINAL CHECK

Is the Vulcan Duomax 160L Right for You?

The Vulcan Duomax 160L is primarily suited to smaller households, units, townhouses and properties wanting a conventional electric storage hot water system without the size of a 250L or larger cylinder.

Its key strengths are its 160L hot water delivery, 3.6 kW single element, relatively narrow 480 mm width and indoor or outdoor installation suitability.

Before ordering, check household hot water demand, dimensions, access, valves, water pressure, drainage and the required continuous electrical tariff. Choose supply only if you already have licensed trades arranged, or check available Brisbane and Gold Coast installation options where applicable.

 

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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