Heat pumps are the fastest-growing hot water choice in Perth, and for good reason: they deliver the lowest running costs of any system type, they work day and night regardless of sunshine, and Perth's climate is close to ideal for them. For homes without gas — which includes many newer northern estates — a heat pump is usually the smartest long-term upgrade from an old electric system.
How a heat pump works (in plain English)
A heat pump doesn't "make" heat with an element — it moves heat. Like an air conditioner running in reverse, it extracts warmth from the surrounding air and uses it to heat your water. Because moving heat takes far less energy than creating it, a heat pump delivers the same hot water using up to 70–80% less electricity than a standard electric system.
WA rebates: what you actually get
Heat pump (and solar) hot water systems attract federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). In practice this means several hundred dollars off your installed price, applied at the point of sale — not a claim you chase later. The exact number of certificates depends on the system model and your postcode zone.
- We confirm the exact rebate for your address and chosen system
- We handle the STC paperwork — the discount appears directly in your quote
- Combined with the electricity savings, most Perth households recover the price gap over a standard electric system within a few years
What do heat pumps cost in Perth?
Installed prices typically run $3,500–$5,000 before rebates (see our 2026 Perth cost guide), depending on capacity and model. Popular systems we install include:
| Model type | Suits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iStore 180L / 270L | Small homes → families | Popular all-rounder, strong value |
| Emerald 270L / 320L | Families of 4–6 | Quiet operation, good warranty |
| Reclaim CO₂ heat pumps | Premium efficiency seekers | Top-tier performance, higher upfront cost |
Is a heat pump right for your home? The honest checklist
- No gas connection? A heat pump is usually the best-value efficient option — common situation in Alkimos, Eglinton, Yanchep and other newer estates
- Have rooftop solar? Pair a heat pump with a timer to heat water during solar production and your hot water approaches free to run
- Space & noise: units need outdoor airflow and produce a low hum (~40–50 dB) — we site them away from bedrooms and neighbours
- Replacing an old electric system? The upgrade path is usually straightforward, and we quote the full changeover upfront
Heat pump vs solar hot water
Both are low-running-cost options. Solar needs suitable roof space, north-ish orientation and carries panels on your roof; heat pumps sit at ground level like an air-con unit and work regardless of sun. For most northern-suburbs homes we find heat pumps the more flexible choice — but if your roof is ideal for solar, we'll tell you.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a heat pump cost in Perth?
Typically $3,500–$5,000 installed before rebates; STC rebates usually cut several hundred dollars off that.
What rebates apply in WA?
Federal STCs apply to heat pump and solar systems at installation — we confirm the exact value for your postcode and model in your quote.
Do heat pumps work well in Perth?
Yes — Perth's mild climate is close to ideal. They work day and night, even on cool nights, by extracting warmth from the air.
Are they noisy?
Modern units hum at roughly air-conditioner level (40–50 dB). Sensible siting — away from bedroom windows and boundary fences — keeps it a non-issue.