A Simple Guide for HP200 & HP270 Models

Not all homes have the same hot water needs. That’s why æther heat pumps (HP200 and HP270 models) come with three heating modes that let you choose how your water is heated. Whether you’re a family of five or a couple living solo, you can pick the mode that’s right for you without needing any technical knowledge.

This guide explains:

• What each heating mode does 
• What temperature your water will reach 
• How it affects energy usage 
• Why you won’t see 75°C water coming out of your taps 

Standard Mode — Up to 60°C (Most Energy Efficient)

This is the default mode your æther heat pump uses. It’s perfect for everyday use.

How it works:

• The heat pump compressor quietly and efficiently heats the water up to 60°C. 
• It uses minimal energy and is ideal for most households. 
• This is the most energy-saving option and typically all you’ll ever need. 

It’s great for regular daily use. Quiet, reliable, and efficient.

Boost Mode — Up to 75°C (Faster Heating When You Need It)

Need more hot water? Expecting guests? Want to store hotter water in the tank?

Switch to Boost Mode. In this mode, both the heat pump and the built-in electric element work together from the start to heat water more quickly.

What happens:

• The compressor and element work simultaneously to heat your water. 
• The compressor stops at around 61°C, and the element continues heating up to a maximum of 75°C. 

This is ideal for faster recovery or when you want higher storage temperatures, especially handy for larger households or high-demand periods.

E-Heater Mode — Backup Element-Only Heating

This mode is for backup use only, not for everyday operation. In E-Heater Mode:

• Only the electric heating element runs. The compressor does not operate. 
• Water is heated up to 75°C using the element alone. 

Use this mode only when:

• The outdoor temperature is extremely low and the heat pump is not operating efficiently. 
• The compressor is under maintenance or temporarily unavailable. 

This is the least energy-efficient mode and should only be used when necessary.

Why Can’t I Get 75°C Water at the Tap?

Even though your heat pump can heat water up to 75°C, your taps won’t deliver that temperature — and that’s intentional.

In Australia, it is a legal requirement that hot water delivered to bathrooms must not exceed 50°C. This protects your family, especially children and elderly members, from potential burns or scalding.

To meet this requirement, a tempering valve is installed by your plumber. It mixes hot water from the tank with cold water before it reaches your taps.

So whether your tank is at 60°C, 65°C, or 75°C, the water that reaches your bathroom taps will be safely regulated to around 50°C. Kitchen or laundry taps may be allowed to deliver higher temperatures.

Want to Save on Running Costs? Use Timers with Solar or Off-Peak Power

Your æther HP200 or HP270 doesn’t just give you heating flexibility — it also gives you control over when the system runs.

If your household has:

• Time-of-use electricity with cheaper overnight rates 
• Rooftop solar panels generating free electricity during the day 

You can use the built-in timer or the ætherSmart app to schedule your heat pump to run during these cheaper periods.

Smart tip:
Set your system to operate between 10 am and 4 pm to take full advantage of your solar energy.
Alternatively, if you’re on off-peak rates, schedule your heating to occur overnight.

This can significantly reduce your power bills and maximise your energy efficiency without changing your daily routine.