Rheem and Rinnai are the two brands we're asked about most — and the honest answer is that both are good. They make different types of systems better than each other, though, and Perth's conditions (mineral-heavy water, warm climate, many no-gas estates) shift the answer depending on your home.
Side-by-side comparison
| Rinnai | Rheem | |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest range | Gas continuous flow | Electric, gas & solar storage |
| Entry installed price (Perth) | from ~$1,500 | from ~$1,400 |
| Standout model | B26 continuous flow — the Perth family favourite | Stellar & standard storage range |
| Expected lifespan | 15+ years (continuous flow) | 8–12 years (storage) |
| Parts & service in WA | Excellent | Excellent |
| Best for | Gas-connected homes, families, endless hot water | Homes without gas, budget installs, solar |
Choose Rinnai if…
- Your home has mains gas — continuous flow is where Rinnai leads
- You're a family with 2+ bathrooms — the B26 handles simultaneous showers without running cold
- You want no tank, more yard space, and lower gas bills
Choose Rheem if…
- You have no gas connection — Rheem's electric storage range is huge and well-priced (common in Alkimos, Yanchep and other newer estates)
- You want solar hot water — Rheem's solar range is among the most proven in Australia
- Budget is the priority and a simple storage swap does the job
What about Dux, Bosch and Vulcan?
Dux is a solid mid-range option across electric and gas storage. Bosch makes dependable compact continuous flow units. Vulcan builds durable storage systems with long warranties — a good "set and forget" choice. We install and service all of them; if one suits your home better than the big two, we'll say so.
Perth-specific advice most guides miss
- Check your gas connection first. Many outer-northern estates have no reticulated gas — that single fact decides the Rinnai-continuous-flow question before it starts.
- Perth water is hard on tanks. Sediment builds faster here than in most Australian cities, so storage systems (either brand) benefit from periodic flushing and timely anode replacement.
- Consider the heat pump option before defaulting to either brand's electric range — WA rebates have changed the maths.
Still not sure? That's what we're for — describe your household and we'll recommend the system, not the brand. See what each option costs →
Frequently asked questions
Is Rheem or Rinnai better?
Both are reliable with excellent WA parts support. Rinnai leads in gas continuous flow (the B26); Rheem has the broader electric and solar storage range. Your gas availability and household size decide it.
Which is cheaper?
Installed prices overlap — both start around $1,400–$1,500 in Perth. Rinnai continuous flow costs slightly more upfront but less to run than electric storage.
How long do they last?
Storage: 8–12 years. Continuous flow: 15+ years. Perth's mineral-heavy water makes periodic servicing worthwhile for both brands.