Reclaim Energy vs Stiebel Eltron: 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 Stiebel Eltron is more budget-friendly with a lower upfront cost starting from $3,500.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Reclaim Energy | Stiebel Eltron |
|---|---|---|
| Price range (installed) | $3,800 - $5,200 | $3,500 - $5,000Lower |
| COP (efficiency) | 4.5Higher | 3.8 |
| Tank warranty | 10 yearsLonger | 5 years |
| Compressor warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Noise level | 37dBQuieter | 44dB |
| Annual running cost | ~$280/yrLower | ~$340/yr |
| Refrigerant type | CO2 (R744)Eco-friendly | R134a |
| Country of manufacture | Australia | Germany |
| Australian made | Yes | No |
| Best for | Homeowners wanting premium Australian-made quality with the quietest operation | Those who value German engineering and build quality at a mid-to-premium price point |
Price Comparison
Reclaim Energy starts from $3,800 installed (before rebates), while Stiebel Eltron starts from $3,500. That is a difference of roughly $300 at the entry level. Stiebel Eltron 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 Stiebel Eltron reaches 3.8. The Reclaim Energy is 18% more efficient, which translates to roughly $60 less per year in running costs. Over a 10-year lifespan, that efficiency advantage adds up to approximately $600 in savings.
Warranty Comparison
Reclaim Energy offers a 10-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. Stiebel Eltron offers a 5-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. The Reclaim Energy has the stronger warranty coverage with 10 years on the tank, giving you 5 extra years of protection compared to the Stiebel Eltron. 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 Stiebel Eltron runs at 44dB. 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 Stiebel Eltron 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 Stiebel Eltron 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
Stiebel Eltron
Pros
- German engineering quality
- Good efficiency
- Solid warranty backing
- Established global brand (100+ years)
- Strong Australian support network
Cons
- Higher cost than local brands
- Heavier unit
- Not Australian-made (misses higher VIC rebate tier)
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Reclaim Energy if...
- You want the best efficiency and lowest running costs (COP 4.5 vs 3.8)
- You want a longer tank warranty (10 years vs 5 years)
- Quiet operation matters to you (37dB vs 44dB)
- You want lower annual running costs (~$280/yr vs ~$340/yr)
- You want Australian-made (eligible for higher VIC rebate tier of $1,400 vs $1,000)
- You live in a colder climate and want CO2 refrigerant for better cold-weather performance
Choose Stiebel Eltron if...
- You want a lower upfront cost (from $3,500 vs $3,800)