Rheem vs Rinnai: Which Heat Pump Is Better? (2026)
Quick Verdict
Rinnai is the more efficient choice with a higher COP rating, meaning lower running costs over time, while Rheem is more budget-friendly with a lower upfront cost starting from $3,200.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Rheem | Rinnai |
|---|---|---|
| Price range (installed) | $3,200 - $4,800Lower | $3,350 - $4,800 |
| COP (efficiency) | 3.5 | 3.9Higher |
| Tank warranty | 5 years | 7 yearsLonger |
| Compressor warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Noise level | 47dB | 45dBQuieter |
| Annual running cost | ~$320/yr | ~$300/yrLower |
| Refrigerant type | R134a | R134a |
| Country of manufacture | Australia | Japan/Australia |
| Australian made | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Homeowners who want a reliable, well-supported mid-range option from a trusted Australian brand | Homeowners wanting a trusted household name with the best installer availability and AU-made option |
Price Comparison
Rheem starts from $3,200 installed (before rebates), while Rinnai starts from $3,350. That is a difference of roughly $150 at the entry level. Rheem is the more budget-friendly option upfront, though Rinnai 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. Rheem achieves a COP of 3.5, while Rinnai reaches 3.9. The Rinnai is 11% 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
Rheem offers a 5-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. Rinnai offers a 7-year tank warranty and 5-year compressor warranty. The Rinnai has the stronger warranty coverage with 7 years on the tank, giving you 2 extra years of protection compared to the Rheem. 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. Rheem operates at 47dB, while Rinnai runs at 45dB. The Rinnai is quieter at 45dB. At this level, it is similar to a quiet office and should be unnoticeable from inside most homes.
Climate Suitability
The type of refrigerant a heat pump uses significantly affects its performance in cold weather. Rheem uses R134a refrigerant, while Rinnai uses R134a. Both units use the same refrigerant type, so cold-weather performance should be comparable. R134a performs well in moderate climates but may lose some efficiency in very cold conditions.
Pros and Cons
Rheem
Pros
- Well-known trusted brand
- Wide installer network
- Integrated design (simpler install)
- Competitive pricing
- Australian made and owned
Cons
- Shorter warranty than premium brands
- Lower COP than Sanden/Reclaim
- Noisier than split systems
- R134a refrigerant (less eco-friendly than CO2)
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 Rheem if...
- You want a lower upfront cost (from $3,200 vs $3,350)
Choose Rinnai if...
- You want the best efficiency and lowest running costs (COP 3.9 vs 3.5)
- You want a longer tank warranty (7 years vs 5 years)
- Quiet operation matters to you (45dB vs 47dB)
- You want lower annual running costs (~$300/yr vs ~$320/yr)