STIEBEL ELTRON has launched its new WPL-A trend hydronic heat pump range in Australia, with Hunt Heating appointed exclusive distributor. The range includes four models with heating outputs of 10–17 kW and uses R290 refrigerant.
The Australian launch took place at ARBS 2026, the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration exhibition held in Melbourne. Architecture & Design reported the distribution agreement on 20 October 2026, confirming that Hunt Heating will supply the range nationally.
You may also want to read: What Are The Best Home Energy Saver Loan Upgrades To Make?
What Is New About the WPL-A Heat Pumps?
The WPL-A trend range uses air-to-water heat pump technology. Rather than heating indoor air directly like a split-system air conditioner, it heats water for circulation through a hydronic system, such as radiators or underfloor pipes.
STIEBEL ELTRON says the new range uses R290 refrigerant and is designed for high efficiency. The refrigerant has a much lower global warming potential than many commonly used synthetic alternatives, although its flammability means the equipment must meet the relevant safety requirements.
The systems are designed for new builds and renovation projects, with heating, domestic hot water and cooling functions listed by the manufacturer. The company also says the range can connect to solar PV and compatible energy management systems.
That could help households use more of their own solar electricity, although the savings will depend on the home’s heating needs, system design and when the heat pump operates.
You may want to read: Battery Projects Push Australia’s Energy Connection Pipeline to Record 80.9 GW
Why STIEBEL ELTRON Chose Hunt Heating
Hunt Heating has supplied heating and cooling products in Australia since 1982. The exclusive agreement gives the Melbourne-based company responsibility for distributing the new range across the country.
Nick Shepherd, Managing Director of STIEBEL ELTRON Australia, said the company was pleased to extend its existing relationship with Hunt Heating.
“We’re thrilled to team up with Hunt Heating, who have been a strong partner of ours in the past and now will be the perfect exclusive distributor for our new heat pump range,” Shepherd said.
He said the technology was designed to offer high efficiency and use a refrigerant suited to the industry’s move towards lower-impact alternatives.
“Our new Hydronic Heat Pump range is designed to have industry-leading efficiencies, a future-proof refrigerant, and it boasts countless other innovations that truly excite us,” Shepherd said.
Chris Marshall, Hunt Heating’s Chief Commercial Officer, said the agreement would build on the companies’ existing partnership.
“We are equally excited and privileged to expand on our successful partnership with STIEBEL ELTRON by signing this exclusive distribution agreement,” Marshall said.
He added that the new range would complement the company’s existing heating products.
“The new Hydronic Heat Pump range is a very welcome addition to our luxury heating portfolio and aligns perfectly with our reputation of promoting best-in-class products from the world’s leading renewable technology manufacturers,” Marshall said.
Which Homes Could Suit the New Heat Pumps?
The WPL-A range is aimed at properties that use, or are being designed for, hydronic heating. That includes homes with radiators or underfloor heating, where the heat pump warms circulating water rather than blowing heated air into rooms.
This distinction matters when comparing heating options. A hydronic system may suit a new build or a major renovation, but installing one in a home without water-based heating can require additional pipework and other equipment.
Buyers should also check the output required for their property, electrical supply, installation costs and model availability. Although the range covers four models according to the launch announcement, STIEBEL ELTRON’s product page currently lists the WPL-A 10.2 and 13.2 as upcoming models, with the larger 17.2 listed for a later release. Availability should therefore be confirmed with Hunt Heating before making a purchase decision.
Our other latest news you may find interesting: Snowy 2.0 Cost Estimate Hits $22.2 Billion as Completion Slips to 2029
CleanSwitch Takeaway
The WPL-A Trend launch adds another option for Australian homes and buildings designed around hydronic heating. Its R290 refrigerant and compatibility with solar PV may appeal to buyers planning an electric heating system, but it isn’t a direct substitute for every gas heater or split-system air conditioner.
The practical question is whether hydronic heating suits the property and whether the installation cost makes sense for the household.
CleanSwitch will continue tracking heat pump launches and other home electrification developments as more options reach the Australian market and you updated.
