Who makes AquaMAX
AquaMAX says it began in 1988 and is "Proudly owned and manufactured by Rheem." Its about page says every AquaMAX product is made by Rheem in Rheem owned and operated factories.
It calls itself "the stainless steel cylinder experts in the hot water industry", and its gas range uses stainless steel cylinders. The electric range uses vitreous enamel tanks.
Same again, or time to change?
If you already have an AquaMAX, replacing it with the same type is the simplest swap. Check two things before you order.
First, where you live. Solar Victoria says existing Victorian homes must move from gas to an efficient electric alternative, like a heat pump, as gas systems reach end of life from 1 March 2027. A working gas heater can stay, and it can still be repaired. Rules can change, so check them before you buy.
Second, whether an electric alternative is worth pricing anyway. AquaMAX doesn't list a heat pump, so that quote would be another brand.
Questions to ask the plumber
- Is this the same AquaMAX model as my old one, and will it fit the same spot and connections?
- What does the cylinder warranty depend on, and where are the conditions written?
- Gas or electric: which suits my house, and what changes if I switch?
- Where's the nearest AquaMAX stockist if a part is needed?
- Is it the tank that's failed, or a part you can replace?
Warranty and parts
The AquaMAX gas range page lists a cylinder warranty against some models, marked with an asterisk, but the conditions aren't on that page. Ask for the warranty document for the model on your quote.
For parts, AquaMAX points you to a stockist finder on its website.
What we would do
If your AquaMAX has died in Victoria and it runs on gas, stop before you reorder the same: the 2027 rule may decide for you. Everywhere else, get one quote for a like-for-like swap and one for an electric alternative, then compare them side by side. A plumber who specialises in hot water can write both.