At a Glance: Rheem AmbiPower MDc-180 (551D180)
Scores 2.5 Out of 5
Scoring is based on our heat pump scorecard, which is consistently applied to each brand and heat pump model available on the Australian market.
$$ Price: The AmbiPower MDc-180 is positioned in the lower cost category of the Australian heat pump market, with typical retail pricing between $2500–$3300 price category (excluding installation and rebates) on the Solar Choice Scorecard.
- Company Backing and Trustworthiness: Rheem is a long-established and diversified Australian manufacturer with over 85 years of operations. The company has a large number of staff, extensive local offices, and product diversification beyond heat pumps.
Score: 5/5 Points - Warranty Offer: The system includes a 7-year warranty on the cylinder, 3 years on the sealed refrigeration system (including labour), and 1 year on all other components and labour. This warranty exceeds standard expectations but includes some exclusions and shorter labour cover on smaller parts.
Score: 2/5 Points - Customer Reviews: As of now, there are no verified customer reviews available (551D180) on Solar Choice’s independent review platform.
Score: 0/5 Points - Functionality: The unit offers strong heating performance with a heating power of approximately 18W per litre, a 48 dB(A) noise level, and a built-in LCD touchscreen. However, it lacks support for multiple programmable heating cycles, which limits its score.
Score: 3/5 Points
Company Background
Rheem has a long history in Australia dating back to 1936 when the US parent company launched Rheem Manufacturing Co (Australia) Proprietary Ltd as an overseas subsidiary. The company focused on the manufacturing and distribution of water heaters.
BHP acquired a 50% stake in 1939 and later acquired the remaining 50% in 1973. Rheem Australia was acquired twice since then. First by Southcorp Limited in 1988 and later in 2001 the current owners Paloma Co Ltd acquired a controlling interest in the company.
Many of Rheem’s water heaters are still manufactured in Australia in their facilities in Sydney and Melbourne. With a local workforce of around 700 employees, Rheem operates from its headquarters in Rydalmere, New South Wales, and offers a wide range of residential and commercial water heating solutions.
Rheem Hot Water Heat Pump Available Range
Want to see how the Rheem AmbiPower stacks up against other systems? Compare all reviewed heat pumps or explore our expert picks in the best heat pumps in Australia comparison. To estimate your potential energy savings, use our heat pump savings calculator.
Here’s how the current models stack up for Australian homes:
| Model Name | Tank Size | Household Size | Noise | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
AmbiPower 280 (551E282) | 280L | 3–5 people | 47 dB(A) | R513a refrigerant, one on/off timer, rebate-optimised mid-size |
AmbiPower MDc-180 (551D180) | 178L | 2–4 people | 48 dB(A) | R513a refrigerant, one on/off timer, Rheems latest release with cold climate performance |
Ambiheat HDc-270 (551270 / 571D270) | 270L | 4–6 people | 47 dB(A) | R513a refrigerant, dual programmable timers, fast recovery |
MPi-325 Series II (551325) | 325L | 4–5 people | 52 dB(A) | R134a refrigerant, one on/off timer, legacy model with high capacity and lower efficie |
Notes:
- Noise Matters: If the unit is installed near bedrooms or living areas, we recommend models rated ≤45 dB(A)—none of Rheems models meet this quiet operation scoring threshold.
- Heating Efficiency: Systems with 10+ W/L heat more water per kilowatt. Great for fast hot water recovery times and energy savings long term.
- Timers: We could only see that the Ambiheat HDc-270 offering multiple programmable schedules. Others have a single on/off daily cycle.
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Rheem Heat Pump Warranty Terms and Conditions
Rheem offers solid warranty coverage across its heat pump hot water system range, though terms vary slightly between models. Below is a summary of typical warranty durations based on current product data sheets and official documents.
| Part | AmbiPower / Ambiheat | MPi-325 Series |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Water Tank | 7 years (parts only) | 5 years (parts only) |
| Compressor (Sealed Unit) | 3 years (includes labour) | 2 years (includes labour) |
| Other Parts & Components | 1 year (includes labour) | 1 year (includes labour) |
| Labour on Tank | 3 years | 3 years |
Key Warranty Notes
- No Extended Warranty Plans:
- Rheem does not currently offer optional warranty extensions for residential models.
- Coverage Varies by Series:
- AmbiPower & Ambiheat models: 7 years on tank, 3 years on compressor, and 3 years labour (on tank).
- MPi-325 Series II: 5 years on tank, 2 years on compressor, 1 year on other parts.
- No Extended Warranty Plans:
- Rheem does not currently offer optional warranty extensions for residential models.
Rheem Ambipower MDc-180 Hot Water Warranty Terms and Condition
Rheem Heat Pumps Pros and Cons
The AmbiPower MDc-180 is Rheem’s newest compact heat pump hot water system, designed for smaller households and colder climates. Backed by Rheem’s extensive support network and built for Australian conditions, this model offers excellent value for energy-conscious buyers in 2025.
Pros
- Cold climate performance
Rated to operate in ambient temperatures as low as -7°C, making it well-suited for homes in southern and inland regions. - Strong energy efficiency
Delivers an estimated heating output of 18 watts per litre—well above industry benchmarks—helping to reduce energy use and bills. - Eco-friendly refrigerant
Uses R513a, a low Global Warming Potential refrigerant that’s more sustainable and future-proof than older alternatives like R134a. - Backed by a trusted Australian brand
Manufactured and supported by Rheem, with over 85 years of experience and a national service network.
Cons
- Single timer only
Only includes a basic daily on/off schedule—no dual timers or flexible scheduling for time-of-use tariffs or solar optimisation. - No Wi-Fi or smart features
All controls are managed on the unit itself; there’s no app connectivity or remote access. - Limited labour warranty on parts
Labour coverage is 3 years for the tank, but only 1 year for electrical and refrigeration components. - Few independent reviews
As a newer model, there is limited public customer feedback available through independent platforms like Solar Choice.
How Much Do Rheem Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Cost?
Rheem offers a broad range of heat pump systems designed for Australian homes of all sizes and budgets. Prices vary based on model, tank size, refrigerant type, and features such as climate suitability and energy efficiency.
The table below shows estimated equipment-only prices (excluding installation and rebates), along with each model’s pricing tier according to the Solar Choice Heat Pump Scorecard.
| Model | Tank Size | Estimated Price Range | Scorecard Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| AmbiPower 180 (551180) | 178 litres | $2,800 – $3,300 | $$ Lower Cost |
| AmbiPower 280 (551E282) | 280 litres | $3,000 – $3,500 | $$$ Mid-Range |
| AmbiPower MDc-180 (551D180) | 178 litres | $2,700 – $3,200 | $$ Lower Cost |
| Ambiheat HDc-270 (551270/571D270) | 270 litres | $3,600 – $4,200 | $$$ Mid-Range |
| MPi-325 Series II (551325) | 325 litres | $4,200 – $5,000 | $$$$ Higher Cost |
Notes on Pricing:
- Prices are indicative and may vary depending on supplier, location, and promotional offers.
- Installation, freight, and government rebates are not included in the listed prices.
- Most Rheem models qualify for STCs and additional state rebates (especially in VIC and NSW), which can substantially lower the installed price.
- Price tiers reflect Solar Choice’s scorecard system, used to help homeowners compare value for money across brands.
Is the Rheem AmbiPower MDc-180 Worth It?
If you’re a homeowner looking for a compact, efficient, and cold-climate-compatible heat pump, the Rheem AmbiPower MDc-180 is a solid options in its price range.
It’s backed by a long-standing Australian brand, and is designed to perform well even in colder weather — down to -7°C. Its energy efficiency is well above average, which can help reduce your power bills over time. The unit also qualifies for government rebates, which can bring the net cost down significantly.
That said, it’s not without limitations. It offers only a single daily timer (no dual schedules), has no Wi-Fi or smart controls, and provides just one year of labour coverage on smaller parts.
Looking into heat pump hot water systems? Our comprehensive guide makes it easy, covering potential rebates, the real costs of hot water heat pumps, and the truth about ‘free’ upgrades. Learn about energy savings and understand the benefits and drawbacks with clear expert advice. For all you need to know before making a decision, check out our Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Buyers Guide.
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Reviews from Australians who have installed Rheem Heat Pumps
Very tidy unit and menu system to control daytime timer
Easy to use. Very quiet. Heats q9uickly
very happy with Rheem, quality product.
