Efficient Home Heating: The Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System Review

Are you considering the Rheem 5 Star 130L gas storage gas hot water system for your medium-sized home and want to ensure it’s the top choice? This model is not just compact and space-efficient but comes with a 5-star energy rating for optimum efficiency. We’ll guide you through its features, costs, and how it measures up against competing models, helping you make an informed decision without the sales fluff.

Key Takeaways

The Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System is an eco-friendly, high-efficiency water heater with a 5-star energy rating, designed for medium-sized households and provides a rapid hot water recovery rate of 200L/hour.

The system is priced at $1,699, offering money saving potential cost savings on gas expenditure and comes with environmental benefits such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with Federal Government incentives potentially reducing installation costs.

While Rheem recommends professional installation and provides a detailed guide, the system requires regular maintenance every five years for efficient operation, and troubleshooting guidance is available for common issues like temperature fluctuations and water leaks.

Rheem’s 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System features:

• High-efficiency water heater

• Designed to deliver consistent hot water for medium-sized households

• Compact unit

• 5-star energy rating

• Powered by natural gas

• Eco-friendly choice for your home’s heating needs.

The exceptional hot water recovery rate of this system ensures a consistent hot water supply, a feature that families will find particularly beneficial. So, whether you’re filling up the bathtub or doing a load of laundry, rest assured, your hot water needs will be met.

Despite not being a solar hot water system, the Rheem 5 Star 130L has the following features:

• Dimensions of 1600mm in height and 590mm in width, making it compact and suitable for installations where space is limited

• A 5-star energy efficiency rating

• A hot water recovery rate of 200L/hour

Moreover, Rheem backs this model with a 10-year factory warranty, so you can invest in this system with confidence.

Key Features

Designed to reduce energy consumption, the Rheem 5 Star 130L gas hot water system has a specific volume of 130 liters. This system ensures you get hot water fast, reducing waiting times between uses. This capacity makes it a suitable choice for medium-sized households where the demand for hot water is high.

This system offers:

• A thermostat for temperature regulation, ensuring consistent water heating

• Automatic safety controls for enhanced protection and to reduce the system’s carbon footprint

• High-efficiency technology for effective heating without incurring additional costs

• A 5-star energy efficiency rating

Benefits for Homeowners

The potential cost savings stand out as a primary advantage of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System. Although it's not a continuous flow system, it can help homeowners save on gas expenditures by efficiently meeting high hot water demands.

Another benefit of this system is its contribution to environmental sustainability. It offers the following advantages:

• 5-star efficiency rating, minimizing energy consumption

• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions

• Eco-friendly choice

• Helps homeowners reduce their carbon footprint.

The system's compact design also offers significant space advantages, making it an excellent choice for homes with limited space. Plus, with its high recovery rate, it ensures a rapid and uninterrupted supply of hot water, making it well-suited for homes with a growing family and substantial hot water usage.

Comparing Rheem 5 Star 130L with Other Models

Within the water heater market, the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System competes favorably against other popular models. It offers a 5-star energy efficiency rating, a rapid 200 L/hour hot water recovery rate, and comes with a significant 10-year factory warranty. These performance characteristics make it a viable contender in the market.

The fully installed cost of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System is from $1699. When evaluating it against other systems for purchase, this price point emerges as a significant consideration.

The energy efficiency of this system is on par with other top models. It shares a similar 5-star efficiency rating with the likes of Rheem Stellar 330 and Aquamax G270SS. However, the retail price for the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, which stands at $1,699, and the delivery cost may vary depending on the location.

Performance Comparison

With an energy efficiency rating of 5 stars, the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System is one of the more energy-efficient models available in the market. Its high capacity makes it suitable for households with many showers, ensuring a continuous supply of hot water. In comparison, the Rinnai Hotflo 130L has a slightly lower energy rating at 4.8 stars.

This system’s remarkable features include:

• Heating capacity of 200L/hour, showcasing its ability to efficiently heat a significant amount of water in just hours

• Energy rating, indicating energy efficiency

• Compliance with Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for gas heaters

These factors highlight the system’s efficiency and compliance with industry standards.

In terms of reliability, the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System has received mixed reports from users. However, several users have expressed satisfaction with its performance, indicating that its reliability is generally acceptable when compared to other models available in the market.

Efficiency Comparison

The energy efficiency of gas hot water systems is assessed through a Gas Energy Rating, where a higher star rating signifies greater efficiency. The Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System boasts a 5 star rating, placing it among the most energy-efficient models available.

In terms of energy efficiency, both the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System and the Bosch Highflow 26e demonstrate high ratings. The Rheem 850330NO is a premium 5 Star energy efficient water heater, while the Bosch Highflow 26e boasts an impressive 5.53 star energy rating.

Cost Comparison

The Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, priced at $1,699, is competitively positioned within the price range of comparable gas hot water systems, which typically range from $1100 to $2500 for instant systems and $1500 to $2400 for storage systems.

Choosing the Right Gas Hot Water System

When it comes to selecting a gas hot water system, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Factors to Consider

1. Hot Water Recovery: Look for a system with a high hot water recovery rate, which measures how quickly the system can heat water. A higher recovery rate means you’ll have a consistent supply of hot water, even during peak usage times.

2. Energy Efficiency: Consider a system with superior energy efficiency, such as a 5-star energy rating, to help reduce your gas bills and minimize your environmental impact.

3. Capacity: Choose a system with a suitable capacity for your household’s hot water needs. A larger capacity may be necessary for large families or households with multiple showers.

4. Mains Pressure: If you want to be able to use multiple taps at the same time, look for a system with mains pressure delivery.

5. Natural Gas Models: If you have access to natural gas, consider a system that uses this fuel source, as it can be more cost-effective and efficient.

6. Warranty: Check the length and coverage of the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as well as any additional support or maintenance requirements.

7. Price: Compare prices from different manufacturers and suppliers to find the best value for your money.

Why Choose Rheem?

Rheem is a well-established and reputable brand in the gas hot water system market, offering a range of models with advanced features and benefits. Here are some reasons why you might choose Rheem:

1. Superior Energy Efficiency: Rheem’s gas hot water systems are designed to provide superior energy efficiency, helping you save money on your gas bills and reduce your environmental impact.

2. High-Quality Materials: Rheem’s systems are built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

3. Intuitive Controls: Rheem’s systems feature intuitive controls, making it easy to operate and maintain your gas hot water system.

4. Wide Range of Models: Rheem offers a wide range of gas hot water systems, including models with different capacities, energy efficiency ratings, and features.

5. Price Match Guarantee: Rheem offers a price match guarantee, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Installation Process and Tips

After covering the features, benefits, and cost comparisons of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, the next focus is the installation process. While the installation guide provided by Rheem offers comprehensive instructions, we'll cover some of the critical procedures you should consider when preparing for the installation of this system.

The Rheem installation guide offers a detailed list of the necessary equipment and tools. Before starting the installation, it's important to isolate the water heater and disconnect it safely to remove the old hot water system.

Correct and safe installation necessitates the expertise of licensed professionals. Adherence to safety guidelines outlined in the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System Installation Guide is equally imperative during installation.

Preparing for Installation

The installation of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System necessitates a space of 1600mm in height and 590mm in width. This compact size makes it an ideal choice for homes with limited space.

When installing this system, it's recommended to position it perpendicular to the wall with the electrical connection at the front. Adequate ventilation is also crucial for the system's safe and effective operation. Detailed guidelines for installation can be found in the 44-page installation guide provided by Rheem.

Professional Installation

Professional installation is recommended for the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System due to the complexity and safety considerations involved in installing a gas hot water system. A licensed gas fitter is necessary to ensure the correct and safe installation of the system. This is particularly crucial for the high-efficiency Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, as precise installation is essential to optimize its performance and energy efficiency.

Self-installing the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System may entail compliance risks concerning system warranty, building codes, and legal requirements. Engaging a professional for installation is advised.

In order to find a certified installer for the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System in your local area, you can reach out to JR Gas and Water or Installed Today. Additionally, Rheem typically offers a directory of certified installers on their website or through customer service.

Post-Installation Checks

After the system is installed, it's essential to verify its proper functioning. This includes checking the gas supply, inspecting the pilot light assembly, confirming the thermocouple's operation, and attempting manual reignition if required. It's also important to be vigilant for any abnormal indications such as noisy operation, temperature inconsistencies, tank leaks, fluctuating water pressure, and unusual sounds. Additionally, it's crucial to test the safety valves, particularly the T&P valve, to ensure their correct operation.

When dealing with the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, it's crucial to verify the calibration and maintenance of the thermostat to guarantee it is sustaining the appropriate maximum temperature of 50°C. The recommended approach for verifying the gas pressure on a Rheem 5 Star 130L system post-installation is to refer to the installation guide provided by Rheem. This guide contains the necessary specifications for the appropriate gas pressure settings.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

As with any appliance, regular maintenance is key to the efficient operation of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System. The system should undergo servicing every five years to maintain efficient operation.

In terms of potential challenges, users might encounter issues such as:

• faulty thermocouple

• gas valve problems

• loose connections

• thermostat malfunctions

• inconsistent water temperature

• insufficient hot water

• pressure relief valve complications

• leaks

Addressing these challenges necessitates accurate diagnosis and typically entails replacement or repair of the affected components.

Although homeowners can handle some basic maintenance tasks, professional servicing is recommended for the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System to ensure safety and accuracy.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Annual inspections, temperature and pressure relief valve testing, and anode rod checks are crucial for maintaining the efficient operation of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure proper operation of the system and to prolong its lifespan.

Although the system should undergo a major service every five years, regular checks and minor maintenance tasks can help prevent major issues and ensure the system continues to function efficiently.

Common Issues and Solutions

Common issues with the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System include:

• Fluctuations in temperature

• Insufficient hot water

• Problems with the pressure relief valve

• Water leakage

• Thermostat malfunction

• Lower than anticipated water temperature

• Defective thermocouple

• Gas valve issues

• Loose connections

• Error codes signaling high thermistor or room temperature.

The system's high recovery rate ensures there are no long waits for hot water between uses.

To troubleshoot a system that is not heating, it’s recommended to consult the Rheem troubleshooting guide for detailed instructions. For leaks, it’s advisable to refer to the Owner Guide for troubleshooting steps. One common cause of leaks is a faulty relief valve, and replacing it may resolve the issue.

To reset the system, it’s important to check and reset circuit breakers or fuses, examine the power cord, assess water pressure, and verify thermostat settings. If the pilot light keeps extinguishing, it could be due to issues with the gas supply, problems with the pilot light assembly, a faulty thermocouple, or the need for manual reignition.

Customer Testimonials and Experiences

Customer experiences and testimonials provide valuable insights into the real-world performance of a product. For the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, customers have communicated both favorable experiences and constructive criticisms, which provide a well-rounded view of the system's performance.

Positive Experiences

Numerous customers have voiced satisfaction with the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, including:

• Its performance

• The prompt customer service

• Its high-performance standards

• The exceptional user experience it provides

The system's good value, eco-friendly nature, and ability to provide fast hot water have been frequently mentioned in positive reviews. Additionally, homeowners have rated the energy efficiency of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System positively, further solidifying its standing as an efficient heating solution.

Constructive Feedback

Conversely, some customers have provided constructive feedback on the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, which functions as a hot water heater. These include concerns such as:

• inconsistent temperature

• insufficient hot water

• pressure relief valve issues

• water leaks

• unusually high water consumption

• thermostat failure

• error codes signaling high thermistor or room temperature

It's important to note, however, that these issues might stem from defective heating elements and can typically be resolved through troubleshooting.

Summary

In conclusion, the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System offers a compelling mix of performance, efficiency, and affordability. Its notable features such as its high hot water recovery rate, 5-star energy efficiency rating, and compact design make it a suitable choice for medium-sized households. While the system is not without its challenges, with regular maintenance and professional installation, it can be a reliable heating solution for many homes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gas hot water system can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors outlined above and choosing a reputable brand like Rheem, you can ensure you get a system that meets your needs and provides reliable, efficient, and cost-effective hot water. With Rheem’s range of models and advanced features, you can enjoy superior energy efficiency, high-quality materials, and intuitive controls, making it easy to manage your hot water needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the life expectancy of a Rheem gas water heater?

The life expectancy of a Rheem gas water heater is typically between 5 and 15 years, but regular servicing can help prolong its lifespan.

Is Rheem gas water heater a good brand?

Yes, Rheem gas water heaters are a good brand, offering a variety of units to suit different household sizes and providing a minimum 5-year warranty for the entire range.

How long should a gas hot water system last?

A gas hot water system should last approximately 10-15 years, according to the typical lifespan for such systems.

What are the key features of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System?

The key features of the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System include a 5-star energy efficiency rating, 130-liter capacity, temperature-regulating thermostat, and high hot water recovery rate, making it suitable for medium-sized households.

How does the Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System compare to other models in terms of cost?

The Rheem 5 Star 130L Gas Hot Water System, priced at $1,698, is competitively positioned within the price range of comparable gas hot water systems, making it a cost-effective option for consumers.

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Brand - Rheem
Model Number - 850265
Volume - 130/135L
Width - 490mm
Height - 1600mm
Manufactured In - Australia
Cylinder/ Heat Exchange Material - Steel
Cylinder/Heat-Exchange Warranty - 10 Years
Noise Level - NAdBa
Dry Weight - 80kg
Energy Source - Natural Gas
Wifi Controller Built in or Compatible - No
Built In Timer - No
LED/LCD Status Indicator - No
Coefficient of Performance (COP) -

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