AmbiPower 280e

Review

Performance & efficiency:

The AmbiPower MDc-180 is the compact entry point to Rheem's heat pump hot water range, with a 178-litre stainless steel tank and a COP of 4.5 tested to AS/NZS5125. At standard NZ electricity rates of ~30c/kWh, this delivers an effective hot water cost of approximately 6.7c per kWh — still a substantial saving of over 70% compared to a conventional electric resistance cylinder.

The MDc-180 uses R134a refrigerant (GWP 1,430), which is the older-generation refrigerant still common across many brands. While not as climate-friendly as the R290 used in the larger 280e, R134a is a proven, reliable refrigerant with a long track record. The 178-litre tank suits smaller households of 1–3 people, or couples with moderate hot water demand.

Operating range is −6°C to 43°C with a 2.4 kW backup element for extreme cold. Like the 280e, it can be installed indoors (minimum 13m³ ventilated space) or outdoors, and is solar PV ready. The smaller tank and lower price point make this the most affordable heat pump option in the Rheem range.

Supply & service network:

Rheem is one of New Zealand’s most trusted hot water cylinder manufacturers. Rheem has manufactured in New Zealand since 1958 and states that over 75% of what it sells here is made locally at its Avondale, Auckland plant, giving it the deepest domestic supply footprint of any brand in this category.

Servicing is backed by a nationwide network of Rheem service centres, an 0800 support line and the "Fix My Rheem" booking tool, so parts and technicians are reachable in most towns — a meaningful advantage over imported brands that service through a single agent.

• Rheem sustainability