Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 270L Heat Pump Hot Water System
Buy the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 (571D270) through Hot Water Outlet as a supply-only 270L heat-pump water heater. Designed to draw energy from outdoor air, the HDc270 combines R513a refrigerant, wraparound microchannel heating, electronic control and a 2.4kW backup element for households replacing conventional electric storage. Selected metropolitan delivery options are available subject to address and order confirmation.
What Is the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270?
The Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 is a 270-litre integrated air-source heat pump water heater, model family 571D270. It uses an electric-powered refrigeration system to collect heat from surrounding air and transfer it into water held in the cylinder. This can use considerably less energy than direct-resistance electric storage heating under suitable conditions, while keeping a built-in electric backup element for additional support.
Rheem positions the system for approximately two to six household members, depending on daily consumption and climate. It is designed for outdoor installation and does not rely on direct sunlight or roof-mounted solar-thermal collectors. It is not a plug-and-play replacement: a licensed installer must assess location, electrical supply, safe clearances, drainage, water pressure and household demand.
Key Features of the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270
270L family-sized storage
A substantial hot-water reserve for suitably sized households, with Rheem guidance for around 2–6 people depending on use.
Ambient-air efficiency
Moves heat from surrounding air into stored water rather than relying solely on a resistance element.
Wraparound microchannel design
Heat-transfer technology developed to heat stored water efficiently, with performance influenced by conditions.
R513a refrigerant
The HDc270 / 571D270R5 variant uses R513a; do not confuse this unit with Rheem’s R290 AmbiPower models.
2.4kW emergency backup
Electric element supports heating when ambient conditions or operating needs require additional assistance.
Sunlight not required
Operates using ambient heat; unlike solar thermal collectors, it does not need direct sunshine.
LCD touchscreen controls
Built-in display and operating modes, including standard, vacation and emergency heating.
Model-specific cylinder warranty
Up to 10 years of cylinder cover for eligible single-family domestic installations, with separate labour terms.
Why Consider a 270L Heat Pump?
Lower electrical energy use
The heat pump absorbs heat from outdoor air instead of depending exclusively on a resistance element. Rheem reports up to 73% energy savings in Zone 3 compared with a similar-sized electric storage heater in specified government-approved modelling. Actual electricity consumption and bill savings depend on demand, tariff, climate, installation and heating mode.
At 19°C ambient air in Rheem's December 2025 laboratory conditions, the average heat-pump COP is 4.4; this is a test-condition efficiency measurement, not an all-weather guarantee.
Daily hot-water availability
The cylinder contains 270L of stored water. Rheem separately lists a 195L boost capacity, describing the portion that can be heated by the electric booster—not additional storage. The built-in 2.4kW element can support water heating when ambient conditions or an emergency mode require it.
Hot-water adequacy will depend on household consumption, inlet temperature, target temperature, element operation and available recovery time.
Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 Technical Specifications
The table uses Rheem’s December 2025 revision of the 571D270 installation instructions where it differs from older marketing material. Figures are for the listed 571D270 series, not other Rheem heat-pump families.
| Specification | Rheem HDc270 / 571D270 details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Rheem Australia |
| Product family | Ambiheat HDc-270 / 571D270 series |
| Standard magnesium-anode product code | 571D270R5 |
| Alternative blue-aluminium-anode product code | 571D270R5/B; suitability must be confirmed for the local water supply |
| System category | Air-source, integrated storage heat-pump water heater |
| Storage capacity | 270 L |
| Boost capacity | 195 L (the zone heated by the backup element; not additional tank storage) |
| Suggested household size | 2–6 people, depending on use and climate |
| Refrigerant | R513a |
| Refrigerant charge | 990 g (December 2025 manual) |
| IP rating | IP24 (December 2025 manual) |
| Operating ambient temperature | Heat-pump operation approximately −5°C to 43°C; outside the range, backup heating can operate as designed |
| Rated heat-pump electrical input | 985 W at 240 V |
| Electric backup element | 2,400 W at 240 V |
| Maximum electrical power input | 3,600 W at 240 V |
| Electrical circuit | 15 A; connection by a licensed electrician to the current installation instructions |
| COP at 19°C ambient | 4.4, average, under December 2025 manual test conditions (8°C–60°C water heating) |
| Average heat-pump heating capacity at 19°C | 4.0 kW under specified test conditions |
| Heat-pump recovery at 19°C | 77 L/h at a 45°C water temperature rise (62% relative humidity) |
| Sound level | 48 dB(A), LA90 at 1 m in December 2025 manual; installed conditions may vary |
| Overall unit height | 1,825 mm |
| Unit width | 690 mm |
| Unit depth | 720 mm body / 725 mm dimension indicated on manufacturer drawing |
| Cartoned unit weight | 145 kg in December 2025 manual (older brochures give 135 kg) |
| Full operating weight | 405 kg in December 2025 manual |
| Water inlet / outlet | Rp 3/4 |
| TPR valve setting | 1,000 kPa |
| Expansion control valve setting | 850 kPa where fitted; confirm local requirements |
| Maximum supply pressure with ECV | 680 kPa |
| Maximum supply pressure without ECV | 800 kPa |
| Mounting / placement | Outdoor only; upright on a stable supporting base |
| Air inlet clearance | At least 350 mm on left for single-unit installation per December 2025 manual |
| Air outlet clearance | At least 600 mm on right for single-unit installation per December 2025 manual |
| Back-wall clearance | At least 25 mm |
| Preferred service clearance | 600 mm left, right and front; 650 mm above, where possible |
| Cylinder warranty | Up to 10 years for eligible single-family domestic installations; years 4–10 replacement cylinder supply only |
| Cylinder labour | Years 1–3 for eligible single-family domestic installations |
| Sealed refrigerant system warranty | Years 1–3 parts and labour for eligible single-family domestic installations |
| Other component warranty | Year 1 parts and labour under standard manufacturer warranty |
| Special incentive-based warranty | Conditional five-year whole-of-product cover for qualifying Solar Victoria / VEEC / ESC arrangements; check guide |
Product data may change with production revision. Confirm the actual rating plate, exact product code and latest manufacturer instructions before committing to site dimensions or electrical work.
Heat Pump Performance at Different Temperatures
Heat pump performance changes with outdoor temperature, humidity and water temperature. Rheem's December 2025 guide provides these tested average figures for the 571D270 at a 45°C water temperature rise:
| Air temperature | Relative humidity | Heat output | Recovery rate | Average COP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7°C | 81% | 3.3 kW | 62 L/h | 3.9 |
| 19°C | 62% | 4.0 kW | 77 L/h | 4.4 |
| 34°C | 36% | 5.1 kW | 98 L/h | 5.1 |
| 35°C | 52% | 5.3 kW | 101 L/h | 5.3 |
Figures are measured under specified laboratory conditions. The backup element is rated at 2.4kW and the guide separately lists element-only recovery of 69 L/h at a 30°C rise, 52 L/h at 40°C and 41 L/h at 50°C.
Outdoor Placement, Airflow and Installation Planning
Rheem's current instructions state that this heat pump is for outdoor installation only. The heating module needs free airflow and accessible working space; a physical fit within a narrow recess is not enough if air cannot circulate or maintenance cannot be performed.
Minimum airflow clearances
- Behind: 25mm to the wall.
- Air inlet side (left): 350mm to the obstruction.
- Air outlet side (right): 600mm to the obstruction.
These apply to the single-unit layout described in the December 2025 installation guide. Different layouts must follow the manufacturer instructions.
Preferred service access
- Both sides: preferably 600mm.
- Front: preferably 600mm.
- Above: preferably 650mm.
- Base: stable, level and designed for the filled unit weight of approximately 405kg.
Consider bedroom windows, neighbouring homes, condensate drainage, the pressure-and-temperature relief discharge, access and electrical connection.
Earlier Rheem marketing diagrams show different preferred clearances. Use the current installation instructions, not a promotional diagram, to determine the final location.
Supply-Only Purchase from Hot Water Outlet
Hot Water Outlet sells the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 270L Heat Pump as a product-only purchase. It is suitable for customers who have their own licensed plumber and electrician, or who will organise independent installation after delivery. The listed unit price should be treated as equipment supply only, unless a separate item or offer expressly specifies otherwise.
What supply only means
- The ordered hot-water unit in its specified manufacturer configuration.
- Any factory-supplied components included with that exact SKU.
- Delivery only where a delivery service and charge have been confirmed.
Confirm product code, accessory inclusions and freight before checkout.
What is not included
- Plumbing and electrical installation labour.
- New valve kits, pipework, electrical circuits, switches or compliance upgrades.
- Condensate discharge, drainage, base construction or access works.
- Existing heater disconnection, removal and disposal.
- Government rebate processing or guaranteed STC discounts.
Ordering and Delivery in Selected Metro Areas
Customers may enquire about delivery of the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 to Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne and other eligible Australian metropolitan destinations. Coverage varies by postcode, freight partner, product handling arrangements and availability; delivery to every address is not guaranteed.
Confirm the exact model
Check that 571D270R5 or the specified anode option is appropriate for the property and water supply.
Confirm access and freight
Check service area, delivery access, handling of a heavy unit and any location-specific freight charge.
Engage licensed trades
Arrange plumbing and electrical work independently, or enquire about quote assistance where HWO facilitates it.
This is a supply-only product page, not a statement that HWO performs plumbing, installation, removal or commissioning.
Is the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 Right for Your Home?
The Ambiheat HDc270 may suit a home replacing a conventional electric storage system when the available outdoor area supports heat-pump airflow and the storage/recovery characteristics suit household demand.
Often worth considering for
- Families seeking a 270L hot-water storage size.
- Houses replacing a suitable 250–315L-class electric hot-water unit.
- Homes without a suitable roof for solar-thermal collectors.
- Properties where a 15A circuit can be appropriately provided.
- Customers who prefer arranging installation with their own licensed tradespeople.
Check carefully before purchase
- Household shower patterns and time available for hot-water recovery.
- Outdoor airflow, noise location, service access and drainage.
- Stable base and load-bearing capacity for the filled system.
- Water pressure, anode selection and water quality.
- Tariff suitability and any limitations of timers or solar-diversion arrangements.
Rheem Warranty — What Is Covered?
Rheem's December 2025 owner’s and installation guide identifies different warranty periods according to the component and whether the heater is installed in a single-family domestic dwelling. These are manufacturer terms, separate from any rights under Australian Consumer Law.
| Component or circumstances | Manufacturer warranty outline |
|---|---|
| All components, first year | Repair or replacement of an eligible faulty component, including labour. |
| Sealed refrigerant system, single-family domestic use | Years 2–3: eligible parts and labour; year one is covered through the all-components provision. |
| Cylinder, single-family domestic use | Years 2–3: cylinder repair/replacement including labour; years 4–10: replacement cylinder supply only, owner pays labour. |
| Cylinder, other installations | Years 2–3: replacement cylinder supply only with owner paying labour; first-year all-components terms apply. |
| Conditional five-year whole-product program coverage | May apply with qualifying Solar Victoria rebate / VEEC / ESC creation under the specified dates and documentation requirements; not automatic. |
| Consumables, noncompliance, water quality and servicing | Exclusions and maintenance requirements apply under the manufacturer's warranty document. |
A full manufacturer's warranty claim is assessed by Rheem. Rheem lists a fifth-year major-service requirement relevant to some warranty assessments and restrictions involving non-compliant installation, water chemistry, unauthorised work and third-party solar diverters. Always read the actual warranty booklet for the supplied unit.
STCs, VEECs, ESCs and Energy Incentives
Rheem markets the model as potentially eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and certain state energy-efficiency certificate schemes. However, eligibility is not established by buying the equipment alone. The exact approved model, installed location, date, old system, accredited installation provider and current scheme rules affect whether an incentive can be claimed.
Some Victorian and NSW certificate-linked installations may also qualify for Rheem’s special five-year whole-of-product warranty conditions. Check the scheme and warranty documentary requirements before choosing the installation pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about purchasing, model details, installation requirements and manufacturer warranty for the 571D270 series.
Can I purchase the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 supply only?
Yes. Hot Water Outlet sells the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 as a supply-only hot-water unit. Installation, valves, site works and removal of an existing heater are not part of the standard unit-only price.
Does Hot Water Outlet install the Ambiheat HDc270?
No. Hot Water Outlet does not directly install hot-water systems. In selected metro regions, customers may request assistance obtaining quotes from independent licensed installers after purchase.
Does HWO deliver the HDc270 Australia wide?
Selected metro delivery areas may include Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney and Melbourne. Availability, freight charges and delivery arrangements depend on address, supplier arrangements and product availability and should be confirmed before ordering.
What is the model number for the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270?
The model family is 571D270. Rheem’s December 2025 guide identifies 571D270R5 with a magnesium anode and 571D270R5/B with an aluminium anode. Confirm the specific product code on the order.
How much hot water does the Ambiheat HDc270 store?
It has 270L of storage. The 195L boost capacity is a heated volume associated with the backup element, not an additional 195L tank.
How many people is the HDc270 suitable for?
Rheem markets the model for approximately 2–6 occupants, depending on household water usage, shower duration, recovery time, tariff and local climate.
What refrigerant does the HDc270 use?
Model 571D270R5 uses R513a. This should not be confused with Rheem AmbiPower R290 heat-pump models.
What is the energy-saving potential?
Rheem advertises up to 73% water-heating energy savings in Zone 3 compared with a similar electric resistance water heater in manufacturer modelling. It is not a guaranteed bill reduction.
What is its COP?
The December 2025 manufacturer installation guide states a tested average COP of 4.4 at 19°C ambient while heating water from 8°C to 60°C. An earlier promotional datasheet states 4.5 under its stated conditions.
What element is used for backup heating?
The built-in backup element is 2.4kW at 240V. It supports emergency heating and heat-pump operation under unfavourable conditions.
Is a 15A electrical circuit required?
Rheem specifies a 15A circuit for model 571D270. A licensed electrician must check the actual circuit, protection and connection arrangements before installation.
Can the Ambiheat HDc270 be installed inside?
No. Rheem’s current installation manual specifies outdoor installation only, with suitable clearances, condensate drainage, stable support and safe service access.
How large is the unit?
The manufacturer’s installation drawing shows 1825mm height, 690mm width and around 720–725mm depth. Extra clearance is required for airflow, service and valves.
How much does the heat pump weigh?
The December 2025 guide lists 145kg cartoned and 405kg full of water. The older datasheet lists 135kg cartoned, so handling should be planned against the latest guide and actual product label.
How noisy is the Rheem Ambiheat HDc270?
The latest guide lists 48 dB(A) LA90 measured one metre from the unit under test conditions. Installed noise can be higher or lower due to walls, positioning and acoustics.
Can it run in cold weather?
Rheem markets heat-pump operation from around −5°C to 43°C. The system has backup electric heating when heating is required outside its heat-pump operating range; performance and consumption vary.
Can it use solar panels?
It does not require solar panels. A licensed installer can assess tariff schedules and permitted operating arrangements with a home’s solar PV; do not assume built-in solar-diverter compatibility. Rheem warns that third-party diverters may affect warranty claims.
Is it eligible for STCs or state incentives?
Eligibility may exist for STCs and some state-based certificate schemes, depending on the exact approved model, location, install date, registered installer and program criteria. Supply-only purchase itself does not guarantee a rebate.
What is the cylinder warranty?
For an eligible single-family domestic dwelling, Rheem’s December 2025 warranty provides first-year coverage, then cylinder parts and labour in years 2–3; years 4–10 cover replacement cylinder supply only. Other use cases have shorter coverage.
Is there a five-year whole-of-product warranty?
The December 2025 guide includes special five-year whole-of-product coverage for installations linked to specified Solar Victoria, VEEC or ESC schemes, with effective dates and proof conditions. This is not a blanket five-year warranty for every sale.
Is the heat pump suitable for harsh water?
Rheem promotes harsh-water suitability, and the series offers different anode variants. The correct anode and warranty suitability depend on local water chemistry and manufacturer water-quality limits; confirm before choosing the product code.
Is the HDc270 a good replacement for a conventional electric hot-water tank?
It can be, where 270L capacity, recovery speed, electrical setup, site access, airflow, condensate management and household usage fit. A licensed installer should assess conversion requirements.
Do I need additional valves or plumbing components?
Potentially. The 850kPa expansion control setting and 1000kPa PTR specification do not mean every valve or fitting is included in HWO’s supply-only price. The licensed installer determines compliant items needed.
What is the difference between the HDc270 and AmbiPower 280e?
They are different Rheem model families. The HDc270 is a 270L R513a model with a 2.4kW booster. AmbiPower 280e is a different 280L R290 range. Specifications and warranty must be checked against the exact ordered model.
Manufacturer Documentation & Verification
Technical specifications, dimensions, warranty wording and model variants have been checked against Rheem Australia's own published information:
- Rheem Ambiheat HDc270 — official product page (571D270R5)
- Rheem 571D270 Owner's Guide & Installation Instructions, December 2025 revision
- Rheem Solar specialist HDc270 product and dimensions page
Published document differences: Older datasheets quote COP 4.5 / 47dB(A) and 135kg cartoned; the December 2025 installation guide lists COP 4.4 / 48dB(A) and 145kg cartoned. This description prioritises the newer manual for those details. Rheem's web pages also differ slightly in the stated numeric GWP for R513a; this page therefore lists the refrigerant designation without asserting a specific GWP.
Tempering Valve and Element Information
*Element size information:
All electric hot water units are supplied as standard with a 3.6kW element unless otherwise stated on the product page, invoice, or order confirmation.
If a different element configuration is requested, such as 1.8kW or 2.4kW, the hot water unit may still arrive with the standard 3.6kW element fitted from the manufacturer. The requested 1.8kW or 2.4kW element will be supplied separately with the order for installation by a suitably licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder.
Any element changeover, electrical connection, disconnection, wiring, testing, or modification must be carried out by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder. Elements must not be changed, connected, modified, or tested by an unlicensed person.
Alternative elements supplied for non-standard configurations may be generic replacement elements and may not be the same brand as the hot water unit unless specifically stated. Generic elements are supplied to suit the requested element size and electrical configuration, but final suitability must be checked by the licensed installer before installation.
1.8kW and 2.4kW elements supplied separately with a hot water unit include a 12-month supply-only parts warranty from the date of purchase, provided the element has been correctly installed by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder and used under normal operating conditions.
This element warranty covers the replacement supply of the element only. It does not include labour, call-out fees, electrical work, plumbing work, fault finding, removal, reinstallation, testing, travel, downtime, damage caused by incorrect installation, or any other associated costs. Warranty may be declined where the element has been incorrectly installed, dry-fired, modified, damaged, connected to incorrect voltage or wiring, affected by power issues, used in unsuitable water conditions, or installed by an unlicensed person.
Proof of purchase, installer details, electrical licence details, photos, and/or return of the faulty element may be required before a warranty claim is approved.
**Tempering valve information:
Where a hot water system is capable of delivering water above 50°C, a compliant tempering valve must be installed to control the temperature delivered to personal hygiene fixtures such as showers, baths, basins, and bathroom outlets. This helps reduce the risk of scalding and assists with meeting plumbing compliance requirements.
A tempering valve blends hot and cold water to deliver a safer controlled outlet temperature to required fixtures. The hot water unit itself may store water at a higher temperature, but the water delivered to personal hygiene outlets must be controlled where required by plumbing regulations.
If your property already has a suitable, compliant tempering valve installed, your licensed plumber can assess whether it is appropriate for use with the new hot water system. Existing valves may not always be suitable due to age, condition, compliance requirements, valve type, location, or system compatibility.
If a compliant tempering valve is not already installed, or if the existing valve is unsuitable, one must be supplied and installed by a licensed plumber as part of the hot water installation.
Tempering valves are not automatically included with every supply-only hot water unit unless specifically selected, listed as included, or purchased as part of a suitable valve kit. If a tempering valve is required, please purchase the appropriate valve kit with your order or arrange for your licensed installer to supply and install the correct tempering valve on site.
It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure the installation is completed by appropriately licensed trades and that all required valves, fittings, electrical work, plumbing work, and compliance requirements are allowed for as part of the installation.
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Important Note
Product suitability can vary by property, existing services, energy source, gas type, available space, connection points, pressure requirements and local compliance requirements. Always check product specifications carefully and confirm the selected hot water system, valves, fittings and accessories are suitable for your property before ordering.
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Delivery timeframes are estimates and may vary by product, stock location, delivery postcode, carrier availability and order timing. Wet weather, storms, flooding or unsafe site access may delay delivery and are additional to any advertised or guaranteed freight timeframes.
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