Aquatech Heat Pump: Independent Review

Note: Solar Choice is not associated with Aquatech or any heat pump brand and has no financial or other incentives to promote any product brand over another.

At a Glance: Aquatech Rapid X6 Solar Choice Heat Pumps Score Card

$$ Price: The Aquatech Rapid X6 heat pump is listed on their website with an RRP of $2,295, making it a competitively priced option in the lower cost category. This affordability positions it as an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.

• Efficiency: The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is reported at 5.43 at 20°C ambient temperature with 15°C inlet water temperature and target temperature of 55°C. For comparison purposes we estimate COP ranges based on a 20°C ambient water temperature, an inlet water temp of 15°C and target output temperature of 60°C. Thus we estimate their COP would be 4.5 to 5 in these conditions. We give Aquatech a good score of 4 points on efficiency.
• Warranty Offer: The warranty offered on the Aquatech Rapid X6 and the Dynamic X8 models offers 5 years for parts/replacement on most of the components and 2 years for any associated labour costs. This is clearly set out in their user manual. Given the shorter duration for the coverage of labour costs we score this warranty 2 points out of 5. 
• Customer Reviews: Reviews of the Rapid X6 suggest strong customer satisfaction, with an average score of 4.7  indicating that most users appreciate its reliability and efficiency. This robust feedback earns it 5 points.
• Functionality: The Rapid X6 features wifi-compatibility, a built-in timer, quiet operation 42 dB(A) and various operating modes (Eco and Hybrid), and a non-sacrificial maintenance anode for enhanced durability in both soft and hard water conditions. However, the tank is not stainless steel and they lack some of the more advanced technological integrations seen in higher-end models scoring 4  points

Uncover essential details in the comprehensive guide below and find out what you need to know before you buy.

Aquatech Company Background

Aquatech Solar Technologies Pty Ltd (Aquatech) was founded in 2009 and is a designer and distributor of energy efficient heat pump solutions. With over 10 years in the heat pump market, Aquatech have a longer history in heat pump hot water systems than many of their competitors. 

The company distributes heat pumps that are manufactured in China under a third party manufacturing agreement. These heat pumps are branded either Aquatech or under their sub-brand Hydrotherm. This review focuses on the Aquatech branded solutions. 

Aquatech have a local office based in Burleigh on the Gold Coast of Australia.

Aquatech Heat Pump Models

Aquatech have two models available in the Australian market named the Rapid X6 and the larger-capacity Dynamic X8 model. 

Aquatech Rapid X6 Heat Pump

The Rapid X6 is Aquatech’s smaller heat pump model with a 210 litre tank capacity. Our general guidelines is that each person will use around 50 litres of hot water per day and the water tank should be sized to 1.5x daily requirements to ensure that the heat pump can cater all year round. Under these guidelines the heat pump hot water solution could service households with up to 2-3 people. 

It is good to see that Aquatech’s heat pumps can be managed with either an LCD screen attached to the unit or remotely through their wifi-enabled app.

The Rapid X6 is an all-in-one unit with the heat pump attached above the water tank in a tall cylindrical solution. The unit measures almost 1.6m tall by 62cm in diameter. 

The Rapid X6 has a relatively quiet noise rating of 42 decibels and uses R290 refrigerant which has a much lower global warming impact than some of the alternatives. 

Aquatech Dynamic X8 Heat Pump

The dynamic X8 model is similar in appearance and performance to the Rapid X6 model, except it has a slightly larger water tank with a 260 litre capacity. Using our same guidelines, we would consider this able to cater to households with 3-4 persons depending on hot water usage and preferences.

As a result of the larger tank capacity, the unit is around 22cm taller measuring 1.8m by height and has the same diameter of 62cm.

The Dynamic X8 model has a louder noise rating for 49 decibels, so we would recommend installing this system away from entertaining areas or open windows. 

Aquatech Heat Pump Specs: Rapid X6 vs Dynamic X8 Compared

*Under test conditions at 20°C ambient temperature with 15°C inlet water temp and target temperature of 55°C 

How Much Does an Aquatech Heat Pump Cost?

The below prices are listed on Aquatech’s website as the recommended retail price. Please note that these prices do not include freight charges, installation or the STC rebate and any applicable state rebate in your area.

These prices position Aquatech slightly below the average price in the market for a heat pump hot water system. 

Please note that the final price in your circumstances will vary depending on the applicable rebates and what is required to install the heat pump. 

Aquatech Heat Pump Warranty Terms

Aquatech offers a 5 year warranty on all the major components of their heat pump system including the heat pump, the water tank and the electronics. Any labour costs associated with warranty claims are only covered for the first 2 years. This shorter labour warranty means their warranty offer stacks up towards the lower end of what’s offered on the market.

It should be noted that Aquatech offers a 6 year parts and labour warranty for the Dynamic X8 model under their separate brand-name Hydrotherm. This is only available to select plumbing partners. 

The valves which are supplied by third party manufacturers only come with a 1 year warranty for parts and labour. 

Aquatech do have a local support team at their head office on the Gold Coast in Queensland. They can be contacted on 1300 769 904 for technical support and warranty claims.

See full warranty details here

Aquatech Heat Pump: Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Efficiency: Aquatech heat pumps disclose a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 5.43 at 20 degrees ambient temperature. After facturing in testing conditions this compares well against many models in the market which typically offer COPs around 3.0 to 4.5.
2. Noise Level: With a noise level of 42 dB(A) for the Rapid X6 model, it is among the quieter heat pumps available, beneficial for installations near living areas.
3. Environmental Impact: Uses R290 refrigerant, which has a significantly lower global warming potential than traditional refrigerants used in many other heat pumps.

Cons:

1. Warranty Labour Inclusions: The warranty offer covers a reasonable length of 5 years for all major parts. The labour costs however are only included for 2 years which is lower than some of the mid-range priced heat pump solutions. 
2. No large solution: For bigger households of 5 or more, the water tank capacity of the 2 options offered by Aquatech may be too small for your requirements. 

Verdict: Are Aquatech Heat Pumps Worth It?

There are some trade-offs to consider with the Aquatech heat pumps in terms of the pros and cons, which is the case with all competitively priced solutions on the market. Notably the Aquatech heat pumps perform well in terms of their energy efficiency and the overall functionality including the wifi controller and quiet operation at 42 decibels (Rapid X6 model).

While there are some concerns around the short length in the warranty terms covering labour costs, this is countered by the overall positive feedback that can be seen from customers. With a score of 4.7 from over 500 reviews, the evidence suggests that the Aquatech heat pumps have performed well over the last 15 years they have been available on the Australian market.

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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James Shand

Marketing Manager at Solar Choice

With half a decade experience in the solar energy industry, specialising in business strategy and marketing for solar companies. He has worked with top solar distributors in Canada and now collaborates with solar manufacturers and installers across Australia via Solar Choice, Australia's leading solar comparison platform. With degrees in business technology, science, and marketing, James combines in-depth market insights with technical knowledge, positioning him as a trusted authority in renewable energy.

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