What Rheem sells
Rheem's home page lists six residential categories: gas storage, electric, solar, gas continuous flow, heat pumps and pool heating. Its heat pumps carry the AmbiPower and Ambiheat names.
The site says "MANUFACTURED IN AUSTRALIA" and traces the brand here back to 1939.
Three other names Rheem makes
If the label on your old heater says AquaMAX, Vulcan or Everhot, Rheem made that too. AquaMAX and Vulcan both describe themselves as "Proudly owned and manufactured by Rheem". Everhot is made by Rheem Manufacturing and sold only through Reece.
Tell the plumber the exact name and model on the label. It helps them find the right replacement and connections.
Picking a Rheem type for your house
Check your energy supply
Gas storage and gas continuous flow need gas at the property. Electric storage and heat pumps run on electricity.
Know the Victorian rule
From 1 March 2027, an existing Victorian home whose gas system reaches end of life must switch to an efficient electric one, like a heat pump. A gas system that still works can stay and be repaired. Check the current rules before you buy.
Look at the space
Ask the plumber to show you exactly where the new unit would sit, and what has to move to fit it.
Get the size right
Ask how the plumber worked out the size. Our guide to hot water sizes explains what goes into it.
Ask before you sign
- Which Rheem category is this, and what's the full model name on the quote?
- Is this particular unit made in Australia?
- Where does the Owner's Guide set out the warranty terms and exclusions for this model?
- If it fails under warranty, does Rheem Service attend, or do you?
- Does the tank have an anode, and when should someone check it?
Warranty and service
Rheem's warranties page doesn't spell out the conditions. It says the terms, the exclusions, who is entitled to claim and how to claim are all in the Owner's Guide for your product. Ask the plumber to leave it with you.
Rheem Service repairs or replaces components "subject to the terms of the Rheem warranty". It also offers preventative maintenance, which sits outside the warranty.
What we would do
Get the quote to name the exact Rheem model, not just the category. Then you can look up the Owner's Guide yourself and read the warranty before the old system comes out. If you're in Victoria with an ageing gas unit, ask for an electric quote as well, so you aren't deciding in a hurry on a cold morning. A plumber who specialises in hot water can price both.