We’ll get back to you promptly with specialist advice — and a great price.
Emergency or you’d rather a phone chat? Call 0800 468 928
Choosing a hot water system requires a balance of installation ease, winter performance, energy efficiency, operational technology and reliable longevity. Built specifically for local conditions, the Rinnai Hydraheat is a premium solution for homeowners looking for homegrown reliability.
1. Modular Design: The Ultimate Servicing Advantage
Unlike most monoblock systems, where the pump and tank are a single "fused" unit, the Hydraheat features a clever modular design. The head unit sits on top of the storage cylinder but can be easily removed. This makes long-term servicing far easier—if the head unit ever needs specialised repair, a technician can swap it out without needing to drain the entire tank or disconnect your household plumbing.
2. Industry-Leading Efficiency with R290
The Hydraheat is a category leader in sustainability, boasting a COP of up to 4.7. It utilises R290 (Propane)refrigerant, a natural agent with an ultra-low Global Warming Potential (GWP). This translates to up to a 75% reduction in electricity costs compared to a standard electric cylinder.
3. Engineered Specifically for the NZ Climate
Designed and built in New Zealand, the Hydraheat is engineered to operate in full heat pump mode down to -10°C. It is built to withstand high UV levels and coastal salt spray, ensuring the outer casing and components last in the Canterbury environment.
4. Intelligent Operation Modes
The system comes with a modern OLED interface and six distinct modes, including Eco 50/55 for maximum savings and High Usage/Boost, which engages the 2kW element for rapid recovery when you have a house full of guests.
5. Whisper-Quiet for Suburban Living
Operating at just 45dB(A), this unit is exceptionally quiet. For Christchurch homeowners on smaller sections, this means you can install it near a boundary without causing a nuisance to neighbours.
Tim’s Installation Reality Check: Height Matters. The Hydraheat is tall (1750mm to 1995mm). Because it discharges cold air from the top, we cannot install it directly under low-hanging eaves or windows. We need a clear 500mm of "breathing room" above the unit to ensure it doesn't recycle its own cold air.
Capacity Suitable Household Size
275 Litres 3 to 5 people
340 Litres 5 to 7 people
Tim’s Sizing Note: The "Kiwi Family" Buffer
The 275L Hydraheat is our most popular model for a standard family. However, if you have teenagers who take back-to-back showers or you've just installed a massive rain-head shower, I almost always recommend stepping up to the 340L. Heat pumps recover slower than standard electric, so "volume is king."
Warranty Information (Domestic Use)
Rinnai offers a market-leading warranty for 2025 when installed by a Rinnai Accredited Installer:
Cylinder / Tank
Parts - 7 years
Labour - 1 year
Heat Pump Unit
Parts - 5 years
Labour - 1 year
All Other Parts
Parts - 5 years
Labour - 1 year
Note: Standard warranty is 5 years if not installed by a Rinnai Accredited Installer.
The Rinnai Hydraheat is a New Zealand-engineered heat pump that reduces electricity costs by up to 75% using eco-friendly R290 refrigerant. Its unique modular design allows for easy servicing without draining the tank, while its quiet operation and −10°C tolerance make it ideal for local climates. Available in 275L and 340L capacities, it offers a 7-year warranty and smart operating modes, provided there is enough vertical clearance for installation.
