
The Rheem AmbiPower 280e 551E280 is an Australian-made integrated heat pump hot water system using ultra-low GWP R290 refrigerant, microchannel heating technology, a 2.4kW backup element and a user-friendly LED touchscreen controller.
The AmbiPower 280e extracts heat from surrounding air to heat water efficiently day and night, without relying on direct sunlight.
It is suitable for up to 6 people and can save up to 73.9% on water heating energy consumption compared to a similar electric water heater in Zone 3.

Uses R290 refrigerant with GWP below 3.
High efficiency at 19°C ambient test conditions.
Enamel-lined cylinder helps reduce corrosion risk.
Designed and manufactured for Australian conditions.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rheem |
| Product | AmbiPower 280e Heat Pump |
| Model | 551E280 / 551E280/B |
| Storage Capacity | 280L |
| Boost Capacity | 236L |
| Suitable For | Up to 6 people |
| Rated Heat Pump Power Input | 690W @ 240V |
| Electric Heating Unit | 2400W @ 240V |
| Maximum Rated Power Input | 3100W @ 240V |
| Recommended Electrical Circuit | 15A |
| COP | 5.2 @ 19°C |
| Noise Level | 47dB(A) @ 1m |
| Operating Range | -6°C to +43°C |
| Refrigerant | R290 / 340g max |
| IP Rating | IP24 |
| Tank Height | 1832mm |
| Tank Width | 696mm |
| Tank Depth | 725mm |
| Cartoned Weight | 135kg |
| Full Weight | 402kg |
| Inlet & Outlet | Rp 3/4 |
| TPR Valve Setting | 1000kPa |
| ECV Setting | 850kPa |
| Max Mains Pressure With ECV | 680kPa |
| Max Mains Pressure Without ECV | 800kPa |
| Ambient Temp | Humidity | Heating Capacity | Recovery @45°C Rise | COP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6°C | 87% | 2.1kW | 40L/hr | 3.8 |
| 19°C | 66% | 2.9kW | 56L/hr | 5.2 |
| 33°C | 39% | 3.6kW | 69L/hr | 6.6 |
| 34°C | 57% | 3.7kW | 71L/hr | 6.7 |
| Component | Warranty |
|---|---|
| Cylinder | 7 years supply / 3 years labour |
| Sealed System | 3 years supply including labour |
| All Other Parts | 1 year supply and labour |
Surrounding air is drawn into the system.
R290 refrigerant absorbs heat from the air.
The compressor increases heat temperature.
Microchannel technology transfers heat to water.
Hot water is stored in the 280L tank.
The model is Rheem 551E280.
It uses ultra-low GWP R290 refrigerant.
It is suitable for up to 6 people.
The listed COP is 5.2 at 19°C ambient conditions.
A 15A recommended electrical circuit is listed.
It includes 7 years cylinder supply warranty, 3 years cylinder labour, 3 years sealed system supply including labour, and 1 year on other parts.
Get Australian-made, efficient hot water with ultra-low GWP R290 heat pump technology.