Reclaim vs iStore vs Thermann: which heat pump is right for your house?
Honest comparison of the three brands we actually install, with sizing advice for 2 / 3 / 5-person households.
We install about 400 heat pumps a year across Pakenham, Berwick, Cranbourne and Officer. Three brands dominate that mix: Reclaim, iStore and Thermann. Here's the honest comparison, pros, cons, price and who each one suits.
Reclaim (Australian made)
Reclaim is our premium pick. Made in Australia. Two ranges: the R290 all-in-one (plug-in, tank and compressor in one unit) at 200 L and 300 L, and the CO₂ split system where the compressor sits separately from the tank.
The split is where Reclaim earns its money, the CO₂ refrigerant runs 37 dB (about as loud as a whisper), pushes water above 60°C easily on cold Pakenham mornings, and the stainless steel tank option carries a 15-year warranty. The R290 all-in-one is a great mid-range option too, with plug-in install if there's a power point within 50cm of the current tank.
Fully installed: R290 300L from $2,610 inc GST after all rebates. CO₂ split 315L glass-lined Wi-Fi from $5,340. CO₂ split 400L stainless steel Wi-Fi $6,745.
Thermann (Australian made)
Thermann is the best-value Australian option. 285 L all-in-one R290 unit, similar footprint to the Reclaim R290, similar performance. Australian made so it qualifies for the $400 Aus-made rebate. Best for 3-4 person households wanting a proven unit at a fair price.
Fully installed: $2,610 inc GST after all rebates.
iStore (Chinese-made, Australian designed)
iStore is designed here but built in China, which means it doesn't qualify for the $400 Australian Made rebate. Solid mid-range unit though, smart Wi-Fi control comes built in, 6-year tank warranty, popular with solar-paired households because the app makes off-peak scheduling easy.
Fully installed: $2,910 inc GST after rebates (the missing Aus-made bonus is why it's $300 more than Reclaim/Thermann).
Which one for your house?
2-person household, budget-conscious: Thermann 200 L or Reclaim R290 200 L. Same price, both plug-in, both Aus-made.
3-4 person household (most Pakenham families): Reclaim R290 300 L or Thermann 285 L at $2,610 fully installed. Best value in the range.
5+ person household, or you want the quietest premium unit: Reclaim CO₂ split 315 L or 400 L. Costs more up front but the split design and stainless tank last longer and run quieter.
Solar-paired household wanting app scheduling: iStore 275 L. The Wi-Fi is worth the $300 premium if you'll actually use it to time the daytime charge on your solar.
Not sure? Book a free site check, we'll size it properly and quote you all three so you can pick.
Fixed-price, no obligation, VEU rebate applied at the quote.
We usually reply within 12 hours. Free 20-minute site check for bigger jobs.
