What Makes Australia’s Best Hot Water System Brands The Best?

When you’re investing in a hot water system, and all you really want is reliable hot water when you need it for a reasonable price, the brand you choose really does matter. Never forget that not all water heater brands are created equal – and in our country’s unique climate and for our great unique people and households, only a handful of names have truly earned the trust of homeowners and plumbers alike. So let’s take a dive into Australia’s best hot water system brands – and explore what makes them the best.

Unlike the run-of-the-mill hot water systems reviews, we’re not going to review each brand in isolation – because that doesn’t really give you a like-for-like comparison that’s easy to understand. Instead, let’s break down what actually makes the best hot water system brands stand out – and why here at Fix-It Right Plumbing we think Thermann, Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Bosch and Aquamax consistently top the list no matter where you look.

1. Proven performance in Australian conditions

Australia’s climate ranges from freezing alpine zones to scorching outback regions – and not all systems handle the extremes. Brands like Rheem, Thermann, and Rinnai design and test their units specifically for Australian households and conditions.

Rheem is perhaps the most recognised name in the country. With over 80 years of local manufacturing, Rheem systems are built tough – and designed with Aussie conditions in mind.

Thermann, available exclusively through Reece Plumbing, offers models that are manufactured in Japan, Germany, and Australia to suit different needs. Their rapid rise in popularity is due to consistent reliability and local support.

Rinnai is well known for its Japanese-engineered systems that deliver precise temperature control – an essential feature in Australia’s fluctuating weather.

This performance consistency is one of the biggest reasons these are considered the best hot water system brands in Australia.

2. Diverse range of options

The best hot water system brands don’t just make one good unit – they offer a full range to suit different homes, fuel sources, and family sizes.

Dux is a great example. Its range includes electric tank storage, gas storage, solar, and continuous flow models. A Dux vs Rheem match-up often comes down to whether you prefer energy efficiency or a bit more up-front affordability.

Bosch specialise in some of the best instant hot water system technology out there, offering compact and efficient gas continuous flow units perfect for inner-city homes or units with limited space.

Aquamax is known for both electric and gas storage systems that are highly efficient – especially popular in Victoria, where gas continues to be a common choice.

If you’re trying to figure out the best gas hot water system vs electric, the flexibility offered by these brands makes them standout performers in hot water systems reviews.

3. Energy efficiency & environmental considerations

With energy costs soaring across Australia, choosing an efficient system is more important than ever. Some water heater brands have built their reputations around low running costs and sustainable technology.

Rheem and Aquamax both produce 5-star energy rated gas storage models and solar-compatible options.

Rinnai and Bosch lead the charge when it comes to continuous flow systems that only heat water when you need it – reducing waste and keeping bills low.

Thermann offers high-efficiency heat pump systems and solar units as part of its latest sustainability push.

It’s this commitment to energy savings that helps define the best hot water system Australia wide – because performance means little if your bills keep skyrocketing.

4. Warranty & support

It’s one thing to install a new hot water unit – it’s another to know the manufacturer will back it up and stand behind it. The top hot water brands offer long, generous warranties and local support when something goes wrong. How can they do it? With confidence in their great products.

Rheem provides up to 12-year cylinder warranties on many systems and has one of the widest service networks in the country.

Dux offers 10-year warranties and manufactures locally in New South Wales.

Thermann vs Rheem comparisons often favour Thermann for affordability and Reece’s nationwide support, but Rheem usually wins on long-term coverage.

A good warranty isn’t just peace of mind – it’s a sign of a company that backs its products for the long haul.

5. Availability & trusted installation

Even the best hot water system brands won’t help if parts are hard to find or installers don’t trust them. That’s why wide availability through trusted wholesalers – and local plumber confidence – really matters.

Did you know Thermann is Reece-exclusive? That ensures consistent stock and high standards during installation.

Bosch, Rinnai, and Rheem systems are widely available across major plumbing supply chains and hardware stores.

Dux vs Rheem debates often come down to which brand a plumber personally prefers – but both are household names with excellent installer training and product knowledge.

Fix-It Right Plumbing’s specialist hot water plumbers are experienced in working with all six of these hot water brands (and more). We are available now for:

So whichever you choose, you’ll know it’s installed right the first time.

6. Innovation & smart technology

Modern homeowners are increasingly looking for smart systems – ones that provide:

Real-time usage data
App-based control
And adaptive temperature technology.

Rinnai is leading the charge here with SmartStart pre-heating and Bluetooth control.

Bosch has launched models compatible with hydraulic start systems, requiring no power connection – ideal for off-grid properties.

Thermann vs Rinnai often comes down to price vs features – Thermann offering solid reliability at a lower cost, while Rinnai brings advanced functionality.

Innovation is the future of hot water system brands, and these manufacturers are leading the pack.

Which brand should you choose?

At the end of the day, the right hot water brand for your home actually depends on plenty of things, including:

Your home
Your home’s water usage
Your home’s energy source
And your budget.

No single brand is right for every home – but here’s a quick guide anyway:

Best Gas Hot Water System: Rheem Stellar or Dux Prodigy (for storage); Bosch or Rinnai (for instant).

Best Electric Hot Water System: Aquamax or Thermann electric storage.

Best Instant Hot Water System: Rinnai Infinity or Bosch Condensing series.

Having trouble deciding between Thermann vs Rheem, Dux vs Rheem, or Thermann vs Rinnai? Talk to a fully-licensed plumber who understands the technical differences – and your home’s specific needs.

Need help choosing the right hot water system?

Here at Fix-It Right Plumbing, we don’t just install any system – we help you select the right one first. We’ve worked with all the top water heater brands and can recommend the best solution based on your home’s size, layout, and energy source.

If you’re looking for expert guidance backed by real experience and hundreds upon hundreds of happy customers across Australia, get in touch with Fix-It Right Plumbing today. When you’re standing under your millionth reliably hot shower, you’ll be thankful we have a plumber near you!