315L CO2 Split

Overview

The Thermann 315L CO2 serves large households - 4–6 people - wanting the environmental and efficiency benefits of CO2 refrigerant without paying the full Sanden premium. At $5,800, it saves $400 on the Sanden 315L and costs $300 more than the Reclaim 315L, positioning it mid-market in the CO2 split category.

The same considerations that apply to the 250L model apply here at greater scale: the 2024 ACCC recall is the primary caveat, the 2-year labour warranty creates post-year-2 cost exposure, and the -6°C operating minimum means it is not appropriate for genuine alpine cold climates.

2024 ACCC Recall - PRA 2024/20323

The Thermann X Split range, including this 315L model, was recalled in 2024 due to electric shock risk if the plastic cover was removed to access the outdoor controller board. The recall has been addressed; replacement/repair was offered to affected customers and post-recall units incorporate the design fix.

Before purchasing, confirm with the retailer that the unit is post-recall specification. Any reputable Thermann stockist should be able to provide this confirmation.

The recall is more significant at the 315L price point because the closest alternative - the Reclaim 315L CO2 at $5,500 - is $300 cheaper and carries no recall history. At 250L, Sanden (which is $577 more) was the primary competitor without a recall. At 315L, Reclaim is closer in price and arguably a more compelling alternative once the recall context is factored in.

COP and operating range

COP 5.08 at -6°C to 45°C operating range. The -6°C minimum is adequate for Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and most regional areas. It is not rated for:

• Alpine Victoria (Falls Creek, Mount Buller, Hotham): can reach -10°C to -15°C in winter
• Alpine NSW (Perisher, Thredbo): similar conditions
• Inland Tasmania: occasional -8°C to -12°C

For these locations, Sanden (-10°C rated) or Reclaim (-10°C rated) are the appropriate CO2 choices.

For the rest of Australia - including Canberra, Hobart coastal, and highland NSW outside of alpine zones - -6°C is adequate. Most ACT winter nights reach -5°C to -7°C at most; the backup element would activate briefly on the coldest nights in the ACT, which is acceptable.

315L CO2 three-way comparison

At $5,500, Reclaim undercuts Thermann by $300, offers the same COP, extends to -10°C, and carries no recall history. The Reclaim 315L also offers an optional V2 Wi-Fi controller that extends the compressor warranty to 10 years (parts + labour) - making it substantially better-warranted than the Thermann at a lower price.

The case for Thermann over Reclaim at 315L is less clear than at 250L. If installer preference or Rheem Group service network access is specifically important, Thermann remains valid. On pure specification and price, Reclaim is the stronger choice at 315L.

Installed cost

$5,800 supply + $1,400–$1,900 installation (CO2 RAC-licensed + plumbing) = $7,200–$7,700 all-in.

This is approximately equivalent to Sanden’s installed range and $300–$500 more than Reclaim 315L installed.

Who should buy the Thermann 315L CO2

Best for:

• 4–6 person households wanting CO2 at better than Sanden pricing
• Buyers comfortable with the recall context who want Rheem Group network support
• Moderate climate locations (not alpine) where -6°C minimum is adequate
• Installer-led purchases where Thermann is specifically recommended and serviced by the trade

Skip if:

• The Reclaim 315L ($5,500 AU-made) is available - it’s cheaper, better-warranted, and has no recall history
• Alpine climate performance is needed - Sanden or Reclaim to -10°C are required
• You need the Sanden brand reputation specifically
• Budget directs you to R290 all-in-one - the Emerald 320L at ~$3,800 achieves COP 5.2 in a 320L format