Quick answer:The Rheem Optima 180L is an outdoor mains pressure electric hot water cylinder — $4,399 incl GST fully installed across Auckland by Water & Gas Worx. Price includes the unit, removal of your old cylinder, plumbing connections, mains pressure valve pack, electrical reconnection, safe tray, seismic restraints, and Rheem warranty registration. 10-year cylinder warranty. Installed by Peter — licensed plumber. Call 0800 322 322.
About the Rheem Optima 180L
The Rheem Optima 180L is Auckland's most popular outdoor mains pressure cylinder. Its weatherproof jacket is rated for permanent external installation — on a side wall, under a deck, or in an enclosure — making it the right call when the cupboard that used to hold your old cylinder has been converted to storage or isn't big enough for a modern unit. At 180 litres and 3.6 kW, it delivers strong recovery for a household of three to four people.
Vitreous enamel lining and a sacrificial anode give the Optima corrosion resistance that suits Auckland's coastal and high-humidity environments. The 10-year cylinder warranty backs this up with real manufacturer confidence. If you are replacing an old cylinder that lives on an external wall, the Optima is almost always the like-for-like replacement we reach for — same footprint category, same connections, minimum disruption.
We install Rheem Optima cylinders across Auckland — from North Shore and West Auckland to Howick, Papakura, and everywhere between. Installation takes three to five hours for a direct swap. We handle disconnection and removal of the old unit, connect the new cylinder to your existing plumbing and electrics, and register the warranty before we leave.
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 180 litres |
| Type | Mains pressure, outdoor-rated |
| Element | 3.6 kW |
| Material | Vitreous enamel |
| Warranty | 10-year cylinder, 2-year parts |
| Dimensions (H × dia) | 1,120 mm × 520 mm |
| Weight (empty) | 58 kg |
| Recovery rate | ~135 L/hr at 40°C rise |
| Suitable for | 3–4 people |
Why This Unit for Auckland?
- — Installed across Auckland since 2009 — we know these units and the conditions they run in
- — Fixed pricing with no surprises — what we quote is what you pay
- — Licensed plumber and gasfitter — all certification included
- — Same-week installation available in most Auckland suburbs
- — Old unit disconnected, removed, and disposed of — nothing left for you to deal with
Frequently Asked Questions — Rheem Optima 180L
What is the Rheem Optima 180L installed price in Auckland?
The Rheem Optima 180L is $4,399 incl GST fully installed. This includes the unit, removal and disposal of the old cylinder, plumbing connections, mains pressure valve pack, electrical reconnection, and warranty registration.
Is the Rheem Optima 180L suitable for outdoor installation?
Yes. The Optima is specifically designed for outdoor mounting. Its weatherproof jacket handles Auckland's rain and humidity. It can be wall-mounted or ground-mounted on a stand, and is suitable for both sheltered and exposed external positions.
What is the difference between the Rheem Optima 180L and the Rheem Mains Pressure 180L?
The Rheem Mains Pressure 180L is designed for indoor installation (inside a cupboard or laundry). The Optima 180L has a weatherproof outdoor jacket and is designed for external wall mounting. Both are vitreous enamel mains pressure cylinders — the key difference is where they can be installed.
How long does the Rheem Optima last?
The Rheem Optima carries a 10-year cylinder warranty. In practice, with a healthy anode and normal Auckland water quality, these units regularly last 15 years or more. We check the anode condition on every service visit.
Can I replace my old outdoor cylinder with a Rheem Optima 180L?
In most cases, yes. If your existing cylinder is an outdoor or external wall unit, the Optima is a direct swap. We assess the existing plumbing connections and modify pipework if needed — minor adjustments are covered in the install price.
Does the Rheem Optima 180L need a tempering valve?
Yes. All mains pressure hot water systems in New Zealand require a tempering valve set to 55°C to prevent scalding at the tap. We install or verify the tempering valve as part of every Optima installation.
How big is the Rheem Optima 180L?
The Optima 180L measures 1,120 mm high by 520 mm in diameter. It weighs 58 kg empty and around 238 kg full. For wall mounting, the surface must support this load — we check structural suitability before installation.
