Rinnai Infinity 26 Review: Is This 26L Instant Gas Hot Water System Worth It?

Apr 24, 2023

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is one of Australia’s most recognised instant gas hot water systems. It is commonly compared by homeowners who want continuous flow hot water, a compact outdoor unit and a practical replacement for an older gas hot water system.

Unlike a storage tank, the Rinnai Infinity 26 heats water as it passes through the unit. This means it does not store a large tank of hot water. Instead, it provides hot water on demand when a hot tap or shower is opened.

That can make it a strong option for many small to medium homes, but it is not the right system for every property. Before choosing a Rinnai Infinity 26, you need to check gas type, gas pipe sizing, water pressure, number of bathrooms, shower habits, installation location, outdoor clearances, electrical requirements and whether a 26L flow rate is suitable for your household.

You can compare Rinnai Hot Water Systems, Instant Gas Hot Water Systems, Gas Hot Water Systems and all Hot Water Systems online with Installed Today.

Quick answer: is the Rinnai Infinity 26 worth considering?

The Rinnai Infinity 26 can be worth considering if your home already has natural gas or LPG, the gas supply is suitable, and you want a compact continuous flow gas hot water system.

It may suit:

Small to medium households
One to two bathroom homes
Homes replacing an existing 26L instant gas unit
Properties already set up for natural gas or LPG
Customers wanting a compact outdoor wall-mounted hot water system
Homes where storage tank space is limited
Households wanting hot water on demand
Supply-only customers with their own licensed gas fitter arranged
Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers where supplied-and-installed options are available

It may not suit homes without gas, homes with undersized gas pipework, properties with weak water pressure, or households that regularly run multiple high-flow showers at the same time.

What is the Rinnai Infinity 26?

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is a continuous flow gas hot water system. The “26” refers to a 26 litre-per-minute flow-rate class under suitable conditions.

It heats water only when a hot tap is opened. Water passes through the unit, the gas burner ignites, and the heat exchanger transfers heat into the water before it travels to the tap or shower.

This makes it different from gas storage or electric storage hot water systems, which keep a tank of hot water ready for use.

A Rinnai Infinity 26 may suit customers wanting:

Instant gas hot water
A compact wall-mounted unit
No large storage tank
Gas hot water on demand
A common replacement size
A recognised hot water brand
Natural gas or LPG options depending on model
A practical option for one to two bathroom homes

The key is confirming the home can support the unit properly.

Rinnai Infinity 26 pros

The Rinnai Infinity 26 can offer several advantages when correctly selected and installed.

Potential benefits include:

Compact outdoor wall-mounted design
No large storage tank
Continuous flow hot water
Common 26L size for small to medium homes
Natural gas and LPG options depending on model
Suitable for many one to two bathroom homes
Strong brand recognition
Good option for replacing an older instant gas system
Can free up space compared with a storage tank
Supply-only ordering available where you have your own licensed installer
Supplied-and-installed options may be available on selected products in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast areas

For many homes already using gas continuous flow, replacing like-for-like with a suitable Rinnai model can be a practical pathway.

Rinnai Infinity 26 cons

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is not automatically the best option for every property.

Potential drawbacks include:

Requires suitable natural gas or LPG supply
Gas pipe sizing must be checked
Water pressure must be suitable
Many units require electrical power
Outdoor clearances must be compliant
Long pipe runs can still delay hot water at the tap
Simultaneous shower performance depends on flow and pressure
A 26L unit may not suit very high-demand homes
Installation must be completed by a licensed gas fitter
Changing from electric storage to gas can add cost and complexity
It may not be the best choice for customers moving away from gas

The biggest risk is assuming a 26L unit will solve every hot water issue without checking the property’s gas and water supply.

How the Rinnai Infinity 26 works

The Rinnai Infinity 26 heats water on demand.

A simple version of the process is:

A hot tap or shower is turned on
Water flows through the unit
The system detects water flow
Gas ignition starts
Water passes through the heat exchanger
The unit adjusts heating to maintain the set temperature
Hot water travels through the pipework to the outlet

Because the unit only heats water when there is demand, it does not need to keep a storage tank hot all day.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26 energy efficient?

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is commonly chosen because continuous flow gas systems only heat water when needed. This can reduce standby heat loss compared with storage hot water systems.

However, real-world running costs depend on:

Natural gas or LPG pricing
Number of people in the home
Number of bathrooms
Shower length
Shower flow rates
Temperature settings
Incoming water temperature
Pipe run length
Maintenance
Gas supply
Existing hot water system type
Whether the unit is correctly sized

Do not choose based only on a star rating or broad savings claim. Compare how the system will actually be used in your home.

Rinnai Infinity 26 flow rate: who does 26L suit?

A 26L instant gas unit is commonly compared for homes with moderate hot water demand.

It may suit:

One to two bathroom homes
Small to medium families
Townhouses
Homes replacing an existing 26L unit
Households with regular shower use
Homes where two showers may occasionally run close together
Properties with suitable gas pipe sizing
Homes with suitable water pressure

It may not suit:

Large homes with three or more bathrooms
Homes with multiple high-flow showers running at once
Properties with weak water pressure
Homes with undersized gas pipework
Customers expecting instant hot water at every outlet regardless of pipe length

A 26L system can be a strong choice, but it still needs the right installation setup.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for one-bathroom homes

For a one-bathroom home, the Rinnai Infinity 26 may offer more capacity than some households need, but it can still be suitable where the existing gas system and demand justify it.

It may suit:

Homes replacing an older 26L system
One-bathroom homes with higher shower demand
Small families
Homes with regular back-to-back showers
Properties already set up for gas continuous flow

If the household is small and hot water demand is modest, a smaller instant gas option may also be worth comparing.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for two-bathroom homes

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is often compared for two-bathroom homes.

Before choosing it, check:

Whether both showers may run at the same time
Shower rose flow rates
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Distance from unit to bathrooms
Temperature controller requirements
Existing hot water system type
Natural gas or LPG
Outdoor clearances
Electrical power availability

If two showers are likely to run together often, a licensed gas fitter should confirm whether the Infinity 26 is enough or whether another setup is more suitable.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for family homes

A Rinnai Infinity 26 may suit many family homes when the gas and water setup is right.

For family homes, check:

Number of people
Number of bathrooms
Shower habits
Back-to-back showers
Bath use
Laundry use
Morning and evening peaks
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Existing system performance

A family home should not choose a system based only on the number of litres per minute. Usage pattern matters.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for rental properties

The Rinnai Infinity 26 can suit rental properties where the home already has gas and the unit is correctly selected.

For rentals, consider:

Number of bedrooms
Number of bathrooms
Likely tenant occupancy
Ease of use
Temperature controller setup
Maintenance access
Warranty documentation
Outdoor unit location
Gas type
Installation cost

A rental property should be sized for likely tenant demand, not only the current occupant.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for Airbnb and short-stay homes

Short-stay homes can have unpredictable hot water use. Guests may take long showers, run back-to-back showers and use laundry between bookings.

Before choosing a Rinnai Infinity 26 for Airbnb or short-stay accommodation, check:

Maximum guest count
Number of showers
Bath use
Laundry demand
Back-to-back shower use
Gas supply
Water pressure
Maintenance access
Guest simplicity
Temperature controller settings

For short-stay homes, guest comfort should come before the lowest upfront cost.

Rinnai Infinity 26 for renovations

A renovation is a good time to plan hot water properly.

Before choosing the Rinnai Infinity 26 for a renovation, confirm:

Final bathroom count
Final fixture locations
Gas meter location
Gas pipe sizing
Unit location
Pipe run lengths
Outdoor clearances
Power point location
Temperature controller wiring
Water pressure
Whether gas, electric or heat pump suits the long-term plan

Do not leave hot water selection until after the bathroom and kitchen layout is finalised. Pipe runs and gas supply can affect performance.

Natural gas vs LPG Rinnai Infinity 26

Natural gas and LPG are not interchangeable.

Before ordering any Rinnai gas hot water system, confirm:

Whether your property uses natural gas or LPG
Whether there is a natural gas meter
Whether the property uses LPG bottles
Whether the existing unit label confirms gas type
Whether the new model matches the gas type
Whether your licensed gas fitter has confirmed suitability

Choosing the wrong gas type can delay installation and create extra cost.

Does the Rinnai Infinity 26 need electricity?

Many continuous flow gas hot water systems require electricity for ignition, controls and safety features.

Before ordering, check:

Whether a power point is needed
Whether the existing unit already has power
Whether electrical work is required
Whether the power point location is weather-protected and compliant
Whether the system will operate during a power outage
Whether controller wiring is required

If you specifically want a no-power gas hot water option, compare models carefully and confirm with your licensed installer.

Outdoor installation requirements

The Rinnai Infinity 26 is commonly used as an external gas continuous flow unit. Internal installation should only be considered where the exact model is manufacturer-approved for internal or flued use.

Outdoor installation needs compliant clearances around:

Windows
Doors
Eaves
Vents
Air intakes
Gas meters
Electrical equipment
Boundaries
Walkways
Outdoor living areas

A licensed gas fitter should confirm the selected location before installation.

Will hot water be instant at the tap?

“Instant gas” means the unit heats water on demand. It does not mean hot water appears instantly at every tap.

Hot water delay can still be caused by:

Distance from unit to outlet
Pipe length
Pipe size
Existing plumbing layout
Water sitting cold in the pipe
Fixture flow rate
Temperature settings

A new continuous flow unit will not remove pipework delay by itself.

Temperature stability: what affects it?

A Rinnai Infinity 26 can provide stable hot water when installed correctly, but temperature issues can still occur.

Possible causes include:

Low water pressure
Low fixture flow
Multiple outlets running
Undersized gas pipework
Incorrect gas type
Gas pressure issues
Blocked filters
Scale build-up
Temperature controller settings
Tempering valve problems
Plumbing cross-connections
Poor installation

If the hot water temperature fluctuates, the cause should be diagnosed before assuming the unit is faulty.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs smaller instant gas systems

A smaller instant gas system may suit lower-demand homes.

The Rinnai Infinity 26 may be better where:

The home has higher hot water use
There are one to two bathrooms
The property is replacing an existing 26L unit
Multiple occupants use hot water daily
The gas and water supply can support it

A smaller unit may be more practical where:

The home has one bathroom
Demand is modest
Budget is tighter
Gas supply is limited
Simultaneous outlet use is rare

Bigger is not always better. The right flow rate depends on the home.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs Rinnai 32 Enviro

The Rinnai Infinity 26 and Rinnai 32 Enviro suit different buyers.

A Rinnai Infinity 26 may suit:

Small to medium homes
One to two bathroom properties
Customers wanting a common 26L instant gas replacement
Homes where 32L capacity is not needed
Lower upfront cost compared with premium high-flow options

A Rinnai 32 Enviro may suit:

Larger homes
Higher hot water demand
Customers wanting premium condensing gas technology
Homes with suitable gas pipe sizing
Properties with condensate drainage available
Customers comparing high-efficiency gas options

A 32L condensing unit may be overkill for some homes. A 26L unit may be more practical where demand is moderate.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs gas storage

Rinnai Infinity 26 and gas storage systems both use gas, but they work differently.

System type	How it works	Best suited to
Rinnai Infinity 26	Heats water continuously as it flows	Compact homes wanting continuous flow gas
Gas storage	Stores heated water in a tank	Homes wanting stored volume and fast recovery
Electric storage	Stores water heated by electric element	Homes without gas or simple electric replacement
Heat pump	Stores water heated using heat pump technology	Efficient electric upgrades with suitable outdoor space

Gas storage may suit homes where stored volume and recovery are priorities. Instant gas may suit homes wanting compact wall-mounted hot water.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs heat pump hot water

The Rinnai Infinity 26 uses gas. A heat pump uses electricity to draw heat from air and heat stored water.

The Rinnai Infinity 26 may suit:

Homes already using natural gas or LPG
Customers wanting compact continuous flow gas
Properties replacing existing instant gas
Homes with suitable gas pipework
Customers wanting no large storage tank

A heat pump may suit:

Homes replacing electric storage
Homes with rooftop solar
Customers wanting an efficient electric option
Properties with suitable outdoor airflow
Homes with suitable condensate drainage and electrical setup
Customers moving away from gas

If long-term energy direction matters, compare Heat Pump Hot Water Systems before deciding.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs Rheem instant gas

Rinnai and Rheem are both commonly compared for instant gas hot water.

When comparing Rinnai Hot Water Systems with Rheem Hot Water Systems, check:

Flow rate
Natural gas or LPG model
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure requirements
Minimum operating flow
Temperature controller options
Warranty terms
Product dimensions
Outdoor clearances
Installation cost
Total replacement cost

The better choice depends on the exact model and the home’s conditions.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs Bosch instant gas

Bosch and Rinnai are both considered by customers comparing gas hot water systems.

When comparing Rinnai with Bosch Hot Water Systems, check:

Flow rate
Natural gas or LPG compatibility
Ignition method
Power requirements
Minimum water flow
Water pressure
Warranty terms
Outdoor clearances
Service requirements
Installation cost

The best choice depends on the existing services, water pressure and hot water demand.

Rinnai Infinity 26 vs Dux gas hot water

Rinnai and Dux may both be compared by customers looking at gas hot water or broader replacement options.

When comparing Rinnai with Dux Hot Water Systems, check:

Instant gas vs storage preference
Flow rate or storage capacity
Gas type
Product warranty
Installation location
Water pressure
Gas pipe sizing
Product price
Total replacement cost

Do not choose by brand alone. Choose the system that suits the property.

Installation requirements

The Rinnai Infinity 26 should be installed by a licensed gas fitter.

Installation checks may include:

Existing system type
Natural gas or LPG
Gas pipe sizing
Gas pressure
Water pressure
Outdoor location
Clearances
Power point
Temperature controller wiring
Pipework changes
Valves
Drainage and discharge
Compliance requirements
Old unit removal
Disposal

A like-for-like replacement may be straightforward in one home and more complex in another.

Supply-only Rinnai Infinity 26

Supply-only ordering can suit customers who already have their own licensed gas fitter arranged.

Supply only may suit:

Builders
Renovators
Landlords
Property managers
Trade customers
Customers managing their own installation
Customers outside installed service areas

Supply-only product pricing generally does not include installation, gas work, electrical work, valves, pipework changes, old unit removal, disposal, drainage, access upgrades, temperature controllers or compliance upgrades unless clearly selected or included.

Before ordering supply only, your licensed gas fitter should confirm that the Rinnai Infinity 26 suits the property.

Supplied-and-installed Rinnai instant gas systems

Supplied-and-installed options may be available on selected products in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas where shown.

This can suit customers who want the product and installation pathway arranged together.

Before ordering supplied and installed, check:

Service area eligibility
Existing system type
Natural gas or LPG
Installation inclusions
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Electrical requirements
Old unit removal
Disposal
Pipework changes
Access
Temperature controller options
Compliance upgrades

Do not assume every possible site requirement is included. Check the product page and selected options carefully.

Maintenance and servicing

Instant gas hot water systems need periodic servicing to support performance, safety and reliability.

Maintenance may include:

Burner checks
Heat exchanger inspection
Water filter cleaning
Gas pressure checks
Flue and ventilation checks
Error code diagnosis
Scale checks
Water pressure checks
Temperature controller checks
General safety inspection

Homes with hard water, high use or water quality issues may need closer attention.

Warranty considerations

Before choosing the Rinnai Infinity 26, check the current warranty terms on the product page and manufacturer documentation.

Review:

Heat exchanger warranty
Parts warranty
Labour coverage
Installation requirements
Maintenance requirements
Licensed gas fitter requirements
Water quality exclusions
Gas type requirements
Proof of purchase
What is and is not covered

Warranty coverage does not mean every issue is automatically covered. Incorrect installation, gas supply problems, water quality issues or missing documentation can affect claims.

Common mistake: choosing the wrong gas type

Natural gas and LPG are different.

Always confirm the property’s gas type before ordering a Rinnai gas hot water system.

Common mistake: ignoring gas pipe sizing

A 26L instant gas system needs enough gas supply to perform properly.

If gas pipework is undersized, the unit may underperform or fail to deliver expected flow and temperature.

Common mistake: ignoring water pressure

Water pressure and flow matter for continuous flow gas systems.

Poor water pressure can affect ignition, performance and temperature stability.

Common mistake: expecting instant hot water at every tap

Instant gas heats water on demand, but hot water still needs to travel through pipework.

Long pipe runs can still create a wait at showers and taps.

Common mistake: choosing 26L when demand is higher

A 26L unit may suit many homes, but very high-demand households may need a different setup.

If multiple showers run at once, ask your licensed gas fitter to confirm suitability.

Common mistake: choosing by brand alone

Rinnai is a well-known brand, but the model still needs to suit the home.

Compare:

Flow rate
Gas type
Water pressure
Gas pipe sizing
Warranty
Installation cost
Running cost expectations
Outdoor location
Household demand

The right system is the one that fits the property.

Common mistake: DIY gas hot water installation

Gas hot water installation must be completed by a licensed gas fitter.

DIY gas work can create:

Gas leaks
Carbon monoxide risk
Fire risk
Water leaks
Warranty problems
Insurance issues
Non-compliant work
Poor performance
Safety hazards

Use the right licensed professional.

Final verdict: should you buy the Rinnai Infinity 26?

The Rinnai Infinity 26 can be a strong instant gas hot water option for small to medium Australian homes, especially where the property already has natural gas or LPG, suitable gas pipe sizing, adequate water pressure and a compliant outdoor installation location.

It is best suited to customers wanting a compact continuous flow gas unit and a practical replacement for an existing instant gas system.

It may be less suitable for very high-demand homes, properties without gas, homes with weak water pressure, customers expecting instant hot water at every outlet, or households wanting to move away from gas long term.

Before ordering, compare the Rinnai Infinity 26 with broader Instant Gas Hot Water Systems, Gas Hot Water Systems, Rheem Hot Water Systems, Bosch Hot Water Systems, Dux Hot Water Systems and Heat Pump Hot Water Systems.

The right choice is not just the most popular model. It is the system that matches your gas type, water pressure, household demand, installation location and long-term cost expectations.

Long-tail FAQs

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26 good?

The Rinnai Infinity 26 can be a good instant gas hot water system for small to medium homes with suitable gas supply, water pressure and professional installation.

What size home is the Rinnai Infinity 26 suited to?

It is commonly compared for one to two bathroom homes and small to medium households. Suitability depends on shower flow rates, water pressure, gas pipe sizing and simultaneous use.

Can the Rinnai Infinity 26 run two showers?

It may support two showers in suitable conditions, but this depends on shower flow rates, gas supply, water pressure and installation setup. A licensed gas fitter should confirm suitability.

Does the Rinnai Infinity 26 use natural gas or LPG?

Models may be available for natural gas or LPG, but the correct gas type must be selected. Natural gas and LPG are not interchangeable.

Does the Rinnai Infinity 26 need electricity?

Many continuous flow gas systems need electricity for ignition, controls and safety features. Check the selected model requirements before ordering.

Can the Rinnai Infinity 26 be installed indoors?

External instant gas units are generally for outdoor installation. Indoor installation should only be considered where the exact model is manufacturer-approved for internal or flued use.

Why does my instant gas hot water take time to reach the tap?

The unit heats water on demand, but hot water still has to travel through the pipework. Longer pipe runs can create a delay.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26 better than gas storage?

It depends on the home. Rinnai Infinity 26 may suit customers wanting compact continuous flow hot water. Gas storage may suit homes wanting stored volume and fast recovery.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26 better than heat pump hot water?

They suit different homes. Rinnai Infinity 26 suits gas-connected homes wanting continuous flow. Heat pump hot water may suit homes wanting an efficient electric option with suitable outdoor space, airflow and drainage.

Should I compare Rinnai Infinity 26 with Rheem or Bosch?

Yes. Compare Rinnai, Rheem and Bosch by flow rate, gas type, warranty, water pressure requirements, power requirements, installation conditions and total replacement cost.

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