Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Heat pump hot water systems across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Central Coast

Why Choose Hogan for Your Heat Pump Installation

Mike Kearney has been installing and servicing hot water systems across Newcastle for 27 years. He holds licences as an Electrician, Plumber, Gas Fitter and Refrigeration Mechanic, the full set required to install and maintain a heat pump correctly. Jamie Gartsky brings the same multi-licence capability to every job.

Because we hold all the required licences in-house, we never use subcontractors. You deal with the same qualified technicians from quote through to installation and beyond.

What sets us apart:

Licences: Michael Kearney Lic 220341C | Jamie Gartsky Lic 82595S | ARC RTA No: AU45758

What is a Heat Pump Hot Water System

A heat pump hot water system heats water by extracting warmth from the surrounding air rather than generating heat from electricity or gas directly. A small compressor transfers that warmth into your stored water tank. The result is a system that uses 70 to 75 per cent less electricity than a standard electric hot water unit.

The technology works in all conditions: cold days, overcast skies, overnight. It is often described as a reverse cycle air conditioner applied to water heating. Models suited to the NSW climate operate effectively from minus 5 degrees up to 45 degrees ambient temperature.

For households with solar panels, a heat pump can be timed to run during peak solar generation, reducing running costs further. It is a practical upgrade that typically pays for itself within three to five years depending on the system replaced.

Jamie with Rheem Heat Pump 325 hot water system
A tall, cylindrical grey gas water heater stands in a corner with copper piping connected to its top and side.

Why Heat Pump Hot Water Makes Sense in 2026

Energy costs in NSW have continued to rise. A heat pump running on off-peak power or excess solar costs a fraction of what a standard electric or gas system costs to operate. For a four-person household replacing an ageing electric storage unit, the annual running cost saving is typically between $700 and $1,200 depending on usage and tariff.
Government rebates make the switch even more affordable. The NSW Energy Savings Scheme and Federal

Government Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme both apply to qualifying installations. Combined, these rebates can reduce the installed cost by $800 to $1,600 depending on the system replaced and the brand chosen. We handle all the paperwork and deduct the rebate from your invoice on the day.

Heat pumps are also eligible for rebates when replacing gas, solar or older heat pump systems, not just electric. If your current system is eight or more years old, you are very likely eligible.

Professional Heat Pump Installation, Newcastle and Surrounds

Heat pump systems involve plumbing, refrigeration and electrical work. All three disciplines require separate licences. Many installers are licensed in only one or two. Our team holds all three, which means we manage the entire installation without bringing in outside contractors.

We supply and install the following brands:

Rheem logo red

Rheem

reliable mid-range performance, strong warranty support in Australia

Istore heaters logo

iStore

efficient and quiet, well suited to coastal NSW conditions, excellent smart timer controls

Envirosun logo

Envirosun

strong performer in mixed climate regions, good integration with solar PV

Apricus logo

Apricus

quality European-engineered systems, well regarded for longevity

Every installation includes system testing, timer configuration against your electricity bill, and a walkthrough of how to operate the system for maximum efficiency.

We also service, re-gas and repair all major brands including Saxon, Quantum, DUX Aeroheat and Chromagen, not just the brands we install.

Replacement and Upgrade Options

We carry out complete system replacements for households switching from older technology to heat pump. Common replacement scenarios we handle every week:
For every replacement, we review your electricity bill to select the right timer configuration and ensure the system runs on the cheapest available power. We manage all rebate paperwork and deduct the amount directly from your quote.
Mike with Rheem heat pump hot water system

How Heat Pump Hot Water Systems Work

A heat pump moves heat rather than generating it. Refrigerant inside the unit absorbs warmth from the outdoor air, even on cold days, because the refrigerant itself is colder than the surrounding air. The compressor then raises the temperature of the refrigerant and transfers that heat into your water storage tank. This cycle repeats until the tank reaches its set temperature.

Because the system is moving heat rather than creating it, electricity consumption is approximately one third of a conventional electric storage system. That efficiency ratio is called the Coefficient of Performance, or COP. Modern heat pumps typically achieve a COP of 3 to 5, meaning for every 1 kW of electricity used, 3 to 5 kW of heat energy is produced.

The system operates through the night, in rain and on overcast days. If your home has rooftop solar, we can configure the timer to run during your peak solar export window, effectively heating your water for free.

Cost and Rebates: What to Expect in 2026

Heat pump systems vary in price depending on brand, tank capacity and installation complexity. The table below gives a general guide for standard residential installations in Newcastle and surrounds. All prices include NSW and Federal Government rebates automatically applied.

Scenario

Approx. installed cost (after rebates)

Typical rebate saving

Replacing electric storage (same location)
$2,500 to $3,800
$800 to $1,200
Replacing electric storage (relocated)
$3,200 to $4,500
$800 to $1,200
Replacing gas system (incl. electrical work)
$3,500 to $5,000
$600 to $900
Replacing older heat pump
$2,800 to $4,200
$500 to $800
Rebate amounts vary based on the specific system replaced, the brand and model selected, and your postcode. We confirm your exact rebate entitlement before you commit. There is no application process on your end. We sign the paperwork and deduct the amount from your invoice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a heat pump hot water system last?
A quality heat pump installed correctly typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Brands like Rheem, iStore and Envirosun back their units with 5 to 7 year warranties on the tank and heat pump components. Annual servicing extends lifespan and maintains efficiency. Mike and Jamie service all major brands and carry common spare parts.
Yes, they produce a low hum from the compressor and fan, similar to a ducted air conditioner outdoor unit. Modern units are significantly quieter than systems from 10 years ago. Correct placement during installation (away from bedroom windows and neighbouring fences) eliminates any practical impact. We assess placement as part of every quote.
Annual servicing is recommended. A service typically includes checking the pressure relief valve, inspecting the anode rod and replacing it if dissolved, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the air intake filter, and testing electrical components. We carry out heat pump servicing across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland.
Most models are designed for outdoor installation because they need a continuous supply of ambient air. Some models can be installed in a well-ventilated garage or enclosed space with adequate airflow. We assess indoor suitability during the site inspection. We will not quote an indoor install if the location will compromise system performance.
Yes. All models we supply are rated to operate down to minus 5 degrees ambient temperature, well below anything Newcastle or the Hunter Valley experiences. In very cold conditions the electric boost element activates to supplement the heat pump, ensuring consistent hot water. Winter performance in coastal NSW is not a practical concern with a correctly specified system.

Installation Gallery

An outdoor installation of a silver iStore air-to-energy heat pump hot water system, positioned against a light brick wall next to a window.
Midea hot water heat pump
Rheem Ambiheat heat pump hot water heater with mk
Midea heat pump hot water system installed by Jamie
iStore heat pump hot water system
Rheem 270 litre heat pump hot water heater with mk

Heat Pump Brands We Supply

Click on a brand for more information:

Explore Other Services

Need reliable climate and water solutions? Hogan Hot Water and Air Conditioning specializes in the installation, repair, and maintenance of all major systems. Whether you are looking for an energy-efficient heat pump or a powerful split system AC, our team offers expert guidance and free quotes. Serving the Greater Newcastle and Central Coast regions with speed and integrity.

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