Reclaim Energy vs Rinnai: Which Heat Pump Is Better? (2026)
Quick Verdict
Reclaim Energy is the more efficient choice with a higher COP rating, meaning lower running costs over time, while Rinnai is more budget-friendly with a lower upfront cost starting from $3,350.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Reclaim Energy | Rinnai |
|---|---|---|
| Price range (installed) | $3,800 - $5,200 | $3,350 - $4,800Lower |
| COP (efficiency) | 4.5Higher | 3.9 |
| Tank warranty | 10 yearsLonger | 7 years |
| Compressor warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Noise level | 37dBQuieter | 45dB |
| Annual running cost | ~$280/yrLower | ~$300/yr |
| Refrigerant type | CO2 (R744)Eco-friendly | R134a |
| Country of manufacture | Australia | Japan/Australia |
| Australian made | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Homeowners wanting premium Australian-made quality with the quietest operation | Homeowners wanting a trusted household name with the best installer availability and AU-made option |
Price Comparison
Reclaim Energy starts from $3,800 installed (before rebates), while Rinnai starts from $3,350. That is a difference of roughly $450 at the entry level. Rinnai is the more budget-friendly option upfront, though Reclaim Energy may deliver savings through lower running costs over time. Both prices are for fully installed systems before government rebates and STCs, which can reduce the out-of-pocket cost by $1,000 to $3,000 depending on your state.
Efficiency Comparison
COP (Coefficient of Performance) is the key efficiency metric for heat pumps. A higher COP means more heat output per unit of electricity consumed. Reclaim Energy achieves a COP of 4.5, while Rinnai reaches 3.9. The Reclaim Energy is 15% more efficient, which translates to roughly $20 less per year in running costs. Over a 10-year lifespan, that efficiency advantage adds up to approximately $200 in savings.
Warranty Comparison
Reclaim Energy offers a 10-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. Rinnai offers a 7-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. The Reclaim Energy has the stronger warranty coverage with 10 years on the tank, giving you 3 extra years of protection compared to the Rinnai. A longer tank warranty can provide significant peace of mind, as the tank is the most expensive component to replace.
Noise Comparison
Noise is an important consideration, especially for suburban installations where the unit may be close to bedrooms or neighbouring properties. Reclaim Energy operates at 37dB, while Rinnai runs at 45dB. The Reclaim Energy is quieter at 37dB. At under 40dB, this is comparable to a quiet library and unlikely to cause any disturbance.
Climate Suitability
The type of refrigerant a heat pump uses significantly affects its performance in cold weather. Reclaim Energy uses CO2 (R744) refrigerant, while Rinnai uses R134a. Reclaim Energy has the advantage here. CO2 (R744) refrigerant performs exceptionally well in cold climates, maintaining high efficiency even when temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius. R134a-based systems like the Rinnai can lose efficiency in colder conditions, though they still perform well in most Australian climates.
Pros and Cons
Reclaim Energy
Pros
- Australian designed
- Split system design allows flexible installation
- Very quiet (37dB)
- Excellent COP of 4.5
- CO2 refrigerant (environmentally friendly)
- Eligible for higher VIC rebate tier
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires separate indoor tank space
- Limited installer network in some areas
Rinnai
Pros
- Australia's most trusted hot water brand
- AR Series is Australian-made (higher VIC rebate)
- Widest installer network in AU
- 340L is largest integrated residential heat pump in AU
- Smooth transition path from Rinnai gas
Cons
- Not the most efficient COP vs CO2 brands
- Only AR Series is Australian-made
- E-Series has shorter warranty
- Standard R134a refrigerant
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Reclaim Energy if...
- You want the best efficiency and lowest running costs (COP 4.5 vs 3.9)
- You want a longer tank warranty (10 years vs 7 years)
- Quiet operation matters to you (37dB vs 45dB)
- You want lower annual running costs (~$280/yr vs ~$300/yr)
- You live in a colder climate and want CO2 refrigerant for better cold-weather performance
Choose Rinnai if...
- You want a lower upfront cost (from $3,350 vs $3,800)