Set among the rolling hills of the Coffs Harbour hinterland, Friday Creek Retreat is a boutique eco-stay offering luxury cottages with sustainability at its heart.

In line with its environmental ethos, the Retreat has replaced outdated gas hot water systems with energy-efficient Reclaim Energy CO2 and Apricus All-in-One heat pump hot water systems – enhancing guest comfort, cutting emissions, and advancing the property’s long-term sustainability goals.

The Challenge

• Outdated Infrastructure: Legacy gas systems were energy-intensive, high-maintenance, and no longer aligned with the Retreat’s eco values.
• Zero Guest Disruption: Upgrades needed to occur seamlessly, ensuring guests continued to enjoy uninterrupted comfort.
• Sustainability & Longevity: The new systems had to deliver superior efficiency, low emissions, and long-term performance while reducing environmental impact.

The Solution

Partnering with local experts North Coast Power & Water, KAP Plumbing, and LBE Solar & Electrical, the team delivered a full-site upgrade designed around sustainable performance and minimal disruption:

• Installed 10 heat pump hot water systems (Reclaim Energy CO₂ Wi-Fi and Apricus All-in-One models), tailored to each cottage’s specific usage profile
• Integrated Wi-Fi monitoring for real-time diagnostics, energy tracking, and efficient operation – ensuring smarter energy management
• Supported government rebate applications, reducing upfront costs and increasing long-term return on investment

The Results

• 🌿 Lower Energy Use: Major reduction in energy consumption and running costs through heat pump efficiency – using up to 80% less energy than conventional systems
• 🌏 Reduced Carbon Footprint: Transition from gas to renewable-ready electric hot water dramatically lowers greenhouse gas emissions and supports net-zero goals
• 💧 Sustainable Comfort: Guests enjoy reliable, consistent hot water powered by technology that’s kind to the planet
• ⚙️ Low Maintenance: Smart “set-and-forget” operation designed for long-term reliability and minimal environmental impact

Why It Matters

By switching to Reclaim Energy and Apricus heat pump systems, Friday Creek Retreat is now harnessing clean technology that aligns with its vision of sustainable luxury and responsible tourism.
Every shower now uses energy more efficiently – reducing carbon emissions and helping protect Australia’s natural environment for future generations.

Industry Feedback

“This project is a great example of how Reclaim Energy heat pumps combine high efficiency, low environmental impact, and reliable performance – ideal for eco-conscious accommodation providers. The result is sustainable comfort with measurable reductions in carbon footprint.”
– Chris, Director, Reclaim Energy

“It was a smooth install, and awesome to see the finished result supporting both the guest experience and the Retreat’s long-term sustainability vision.”
– Anthony, North Coast Power & Water

“Working with North Coast Power & Water to deliver this solution was a pleasure. Combining Reclaim and Apricus heat pumps allowed us to modernise the site’s infrastructure with minimal disruption and maximum efficiency — a smart move toward sustainable living.”
– Kurt Atchison, Director, KAP Plumbing