Rinnai Infinity 26L Review: Natural Gas, LPG, Sizing and Installation Checks

Nov 5, 2024

The Rinnai Infinity 26L is one of the most commonly compared instant gas hot water systems for Australian homes that need continuous flow hot water without a large storage tank. It is designed to heat water as it flows through the unit, which makes it different from electric storage, gas storage, heat pump and solar hot water systems.

A 26L instant gas hot water system can be a strong fit for some family homes, but it is not automatically the right choice for every property. The correct gas type, gas pipe sizing, water pressure, outdoor installation location, number of bathrooms and shower habits all need to be checked before ordering.

Installed Today makes it easy to compare Rinnai hot water systems, instant gas hot water systems, 26L instant gas hot water systems and broader gas hot water systems online. Supply-only ordering is available across major Australian metro areas, with selected supplied-and-installed options available on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.

Quick Answer: Who Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L Best For?

The Rinnai Infinity 26L is best suited to homes that want instant gas hot water and have the right gas and water supply conditions to support a 26L unit.

It may suit:

Homes already using natural gas or LPG
Some family homes with higher hot water demand
Some one-to-two bathroom homes, depending on usage
Homes replacing an existing 26L instant gas system
Homes wanting a compact outdoor wall-mounted unit
Properties with suitable gas pipe sizing
Properties with suitable water pressure
Customers who want continuous flow gas hot water instead of a storage tank

It may not suit:

Homes without gas
Homes with undersized gas pipework
Homes with poor water pressure
Homes needing an indoor unit unless the specific model is approved for internal flued installation
Households that would be better suited to heat pump or electric storage hot water
Customers who have not confirmed gas type, water pressure and installation conditions

Before ordering supply only, confirm the selected model, gas type, pipe sizing, water pressure, clearances and installation requirements with a licensed gas fitter or installer.

What Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L?

The Rinnai Infinity 26L is an instant gas hot water system. It heats water on demand instead of storing heated water in a tank.

When someone turns on a hot tap or shower, the unit detects water flow, activates the gas burner and heats water as it passes through the heat exchanger. When hot water demand stops, the unit stops heating.

This makes it different from a storage hot water system, which keeps a full tank of hot water ready for use.

Relevant Installed Today product options include:

The correct gas type must be selected before ordering.

Rinnai Infinity 26L Natural Gas vs LPG

Rinnai Infinity 26L systems are available in natural gas and LPG variants. These are not interchangeable.

Natural Gas Rinnai Infinity 26L

The natural gas model is for properties connected to a natural gas mains supply.

Compare:

Rinnai Infinity B26 Natural Gas Hot Water System

LPG Rinnai Infinity 26L

The LPG model is for properties using LPG bottles or cylinders.

Compare:

Rinnai Infinity B26 LPG Gas Hot Water System

Before choosing either model, confirm:

Whether the home uses natural gas or LPG
Whether the selected product matches the gas type
Whether the existing gas line can support a 26L unit
Whether other gas appliances share the same supply
Whether a licensed gas fitter has confirmed suitability

Ordering the wrong gas type can make the product unsuitable for the home.

What Does 26L Mean?

The 26L rating refers to the litre-per-minute flow category of the unit under specified conditions. It helps compare instant gas systems by size, but it does not guarantee that every home will receive the same performance at every outlet.

Real-world performance depends on:

Incoming water temperature
Gas pipe sizing
Gas supply
Water pressure
Pipework distance
Number of outlets running
Shower flow rates
Temperature rise needed
Installation setup

A 26L system is larger than common 16L and 20L instant gas options, but the home must be able to support it.

Rinnai Infinity 26L vs 16L and 20L Instant Gas Systems

Rinnai instant gas hot water systems are commonly compared in 16L, 20L and 26L sizes.

System Size	May Suit	Main Checks
16L instant gas	Smaller homes, one-bathroom homes, lower hot water demand	Gas type, water pressure, fixture use
20L instant gas	Small-to-medium homes with moderate demand	Gas type, water pressure, shower habits
26L instant gas	Some family homes and higher-demand homes	Gas pipe sizing, water pressure, simultaneous use

Relevant options include:

Bigger is not always better. The right size depends on the household and site conditions.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L Good for Two Bathrooms?

A Rinnai Infinity 26L may suit some two-bathroom homes, but this depends on how the bathrooms are used.

It may be suitable where:

Not every shower runs at the same time
Shower flow rates are moderate
Gas pipe sizing is suitable
Water pressure is suitable
Pipework is not overly restrictive
The unit is positioned well for the home layout
The household’s peak demand is realistic for a 26L system

It may struggle if:

Multiple showers and taps run at the same time
Water pressure is poor
Gas supply is restricted
Pipework is undersized
The home has long pipe runs
Fixtures have high flow rates
The property demand is above the unit’s practical capacity

A licensed gas fitter or installer should confirm whether a 26L system suits the home.

Main Benefits of the Rinnai Infinity 26L

Continuous Flow Hot Water

The Rinnai Infinity 26L heats water as needed. It does not run out in the same way a storage tank can, but it can still be limited by flow rate, gas supply and water pressure.

Compact Outdoor Design

Instant gas units are generally compact and wall-mounted outdoors. This can free up space compared with larger storage tanks.

Natural Gas and LPG Options

The Rinnai Infinity 26L range includes natural gas and LPG variants, making it suitable for different properties where the correct model is selected.

Suitable for Some Higher-Demand Homes

A 26L instant gas system can suit some homes with stronger hot water demand, provided the gas and water supply can support it.

No Large Storage Tank

Because it heats water as it flows through the unit, there is no large stored volume of hot water waiting in a tank.

Practical Replacement for Existing Instant Gas

If your current home already has an instant gas system and the setup has worked well, replacing like-for-like with the correct model may be a practical pathway.

Limitations to Consider

The Rinnai Infinity 26L is not the best fit for every property.

Possible limitations include:

Requires natural gas or LPG
Natural gas and LPG models are different
Gas pipe sizing must be checked
Water pressure must be suitable
Gas work requires a licensed gas fitter
External gas units are designed for outdoor installation
Some setups may need electrical work
Temperature controllers may be extra
Installation may require valve or pipework upgrades
Long pipe runs may create a hot water delay
Multiple outlets can still exceed system capacity

A 26L instant gas system is only a good choice if the home can support it.

Rinnai Infinity 26L vs Electric Storage Hot Water

Electric hot water systems use an electric element to heat water stored in a tank.

Electric storage may suit:

Homes without gas
Simple like-for-like electric replacements
Rental properties
Homes with suitable tank space
Customers wanting a familiar storage-style system

The Rinnai Infinity 26L may suit:

Homes with natural gas or LPG
Homes wanting instant gas hot water
Homes with suitable gas pipe sizing
Homes with suitable water pressure
Homes with suitable outdoor wall space

If the home does not have gas, electric storage or heat pump hot water may be more practical.

Popular electric storage categories include:

Rinnai Infinity 26L vs Gas Storage Hot Water

Gas storage systems use natural gas or LPG to heat water stored in a tank. Instant gas systems heat water as it flows through the unit.

Option	How It Works	May Suit
Rinnai Infinity 26L	Heats water on demand	Homes wanting continuous flow gas hot water
Gas storage	Stores heated water in a tank	Homes wanting tank-style gas hot water

Gas storage may suit homes replacing an existing gas storage unit. Instant gas may suit homes wanting a compact wall-mounted unit where gas and water conditions support the selected model.

Relevant gas storage categories include:

Rinnai Infinity 26L vs Heat Pump Hot Water

A heat pump hot water system is an electric-style storage system that uses heat from the surrounding air to help heat water.

Heat pump hot water may suit:

Homes replacing older electric storage
Homes wanting to reduce hot water electricity use
Homes with suitable outdoor space
Homes with clear airflow around the unit
Homes that can manage condensate drainage
Homes with suitable electrical supply
Homes where noise placement is suitable
Homes with rooftop solar where timer operation may suit

The Rinnai Infinity 26L may suit:

Homes already using natural gas or LPG
Homes wanting continuous flow gas hot water
Homes with suitable gas pipe sizing
Homes with suitable water pressure
Homes with outdoor wall space

Neither option is automatically better. The best choice depends on the home.

Rinnai Infinity 26L vs Other 26L Instant Gas Systems

When comparing the Rinnai Infinity 26L with other 26L systems, check more than the brand name.

Compare:

Gas type
Flow rate
Energy performance
Dimensions
Outdoor or internal-flued suitability
Controller options
Warranty terms
Required clearances
Electrical requirements
Installation complexity
Availability
Product price
Included items
Installer familiarity

Other 26L systems to compare include:

The right system is the one that suits the home’s gas supply, water pressure and installation location.

Installation Checks Before Ordering

Before choosing the Rinnai Infinity 26L, check:

Current hot water system type
Current unit size
Natural gas or LPG supply
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Outdoor wall location
Required clearances
Access for installation
Access for servicing
Distance to bathrooms
Pipework route
Electrical requirements
Whether temperature controllers are required
Whether the existing system is being relocated
Whether new valves are needed
Whether compliance upgrades may be required

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

Outdoor Location and Clearances

Most external instant gas hot water systems are designed for outdoor installation.

Before ordering, confirm:

Wall mounting location
Clearance from windows and doors
Clearance from openings
Clearance from meters or services
Ventilation requirements
Weather exposure
Access for future servicing
Gas pipe route
Water pipe route
Electrical connection where required
Drainage and overflow where relevant

Do not install an external gas hot water unit indoors unless the specific model is approved for internal flued installation.

Gas Pipe Sizing Matters

A 26L instant gas system needs enough gas supply to operate correctly. If the pipework is undersized, the system may not perform properly.

A licensed gas fitter may check:

Gas meter or LPG supply
Existing gas pipe size
Distance from gas supply to the unit
Other gas appliances
Total gas load
Whether pipe upgrades are required
Whether the selected unit suits the home

Do not assume an existing gas connection can support a 26L instant gas system.

Water Pressure Matters

Instant gas hot water systems need suitable water pressure and flow.

Before ordering, check:

Existing water pressure
Hot water flow rate
Cold water supply condition
Pipe size
Number of fixtures
Shower flow rates
Existing pressure limiting valve
Existing tempering valve setup where relevant
Distance from unit to fixtures

Poor water pressure can affect hot water delivery, especially when more than one outlet is being used.

Temperature Controllers

Some Rinnai instant gas hot water systems can be used with temperature controllers depending on the model and installation setup.

Temperature controllers may help with:

Set temperature control
Bathroom convenience
Kitchen convenience
Managing hot water temperature
Easier household operation

Before ordering, confirm:

Whether the selected model supports controllers
Whether controllers are included or extra
How many controllers can be installed
Whether wiring is required
Whether the controller location is suitable

Do not assume temperature controllers are included unless the product page clearly states this.

What Is Not Included in Supply-Only Rinnai Infinity 26L Pricing?

For supply-only products, the listed product price generally covers the product only.

It does not usually include:

Installation labour
Licensed gas fitting
Electrical work
New valves
Pipework changes
Gas pipe upgrades
Drainage changes
Tempering valve upgrades
Pressure limiting valve upgrades
Expansion control valves
Old unit removal
Disposal
Compliance upgrades
Flue kits unless listed
Temperature controllers unless listed
Gas type conversion
Relocation of the system
Site assessment

Always check the product page and confirm full site requirements with your licensed installer before ordering supply only.

Supply-Only vs Supplied-and-Installed

Installed Today offers supply-only ordering across major Australian metro areas. This can suit customers who already have a licensed installer organised and want to order the product online.

Supply-only may suit you if:

Your installer has confirmed the correct Rinnai model
The correct gas type has been selected
Gas pipe sizing has been checked
Water pressure has been checked
Outdoor location and clearances are suitable
Access and drainage are suitable
You understand what is not included in the product price

Selected supplied-and-installed options are available on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Availability depends on the product, address and installation requirements.

Before choosing a supplied-and-installed option, check exactly what is included and what may be extra.

Brisbane and Gold Coast Considerations

For Brisbane and Gold Coast homes, the Rinnai Infinity 26L is often compared when replacing older instant gas systems or upgrading from a smaller instant gas unit.

Common local checks include:

Natural gas vs LPG availability
Outdoor wall location
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Clearances near windows and doors
Side access
Existing valve condition
Electrical connection for ignition or controls
Old unit removal
Disposal
Whether the product is eligible for supplied-and-installed options

Installed Today offers selected supplied-and-installed options on eligible products in Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, with supply-only ordering available across major Australian metro areas.

Maintenance for a Rinnai Infinity 26L

Instant gas hot water systems need maintenance according to manufacturer instructions and installation conditions.

General maintenance considerations include:

Keeping the area around the unit clear
Checking for visible leaks
Watching for rust or corrosion
Monitoring hot water temperature
Checking for unusual noises
Keeping external units clear of debris
Following manufacturer servicing guidance
Using a licensed gas fitter for gas faults or repairs
Checking controllers where installed
Checking error codes if displayed

Do not attempt gas repairs yourself.

Signs Your Instant Gas System Needs Attention

A Rinnai instant gas system may need inspection if you notice:

No hot water
Hot water cutting in and out
Inconsistent temperature
Error codes
Ignition issues
Unusual noises
Rust or corrosion
Water leaks
Poor hot water flow
Gas smell
Discoloured hot water
Unit shutting down during use

Gas smell or suspected gas leaks should be treated seriously. Turn off gas where safe and contact a licensed gas fitter or the relevant emergency service.

Common Mistakes When Choosing the Rinnai Infinity 26L

Choosing the Wrong Gas Type

Natural gas and LPG models are different. Always choose the correct product.

Assuming 26L Suits Every Family Home

A 26L instant gas system needs suitable gas supply, water pressure and realistic household demand.

Forgetting Gas Pipe Sizing

Gas pipe sizing is one of the most important checks for a 26L system.

Ignoring Water Pressure

Poor water pressure can reduce instant hot water performance.

Assuming Controllers Are Included

Temperature controllers may be optional or separate depending on the model and listing.

Comparing Product Price With Installed Price

Supply-only pricing is not the same as full installed pricing.

Installing an External Unit Indoors

External gas units are outdoor units unless the specific model is approved for internal flued installation.

Before Ordering Checklist

Before ordering a Rinnai Infinity 26L, confirm:

Natural gas or LPG
Current hot water system type
Current system size
Whether the old system performed well
Number of people in the home
Number of bathrooms
Shower habits
Peak hot water demand
Gas pipe sizing
Water pressure
Outdoor installation location
Required clearances
Access for installation and servicing
Whether temperature controllers are required
Whether controllers are included or extra
Whether new valves may be needed
Whether electrical work may be required
Whether old unit removal is included
Whether disposal is included
Whether supply-only or supplied-and-installed is the right option
Installer confirmation before buying supply only

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rinnai Infinity 26L?

The Rinnai Infinity 26L is an instant gas hot water system that heats water as it flows through the unit instead of storing hot water in a tank.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L the same as the Rinnai B26?

The Rinnai B26 is a 26L Rinnai Infinity instant gas hot water model. Product naming can vary, so always check the specific product listing and gas type before ordering.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L suitable for two bathrooms?

It can suit some two-bathroom homes, depending on shower habits, gas pipe sizing, water pressure and simultaneous use.

Does the Rinnai Infinity 26L run out of hot water?

It does not run out like a storage tank, but it can still be limited by flow rate, gas supply, water pressure and the number of outlets used at the same time.

Is the Rinnai Infinity 26L natural gas or LPG?

There are separate natural gas and LPG models. They are not interchangeable.

Can I use an LPG Rinnai 26L on natural gas?

No. LPG and natural gas models are different. Always select the correct gas type.

Does a Rinnai 26L instant gas system need electricity?

Some instant gas systems need electricity for ignition, controls or operation. Check the specific model and installation requirements before ordering.

Can the Rinnai Infinity 26L be installed indoors?

External gas hot water units are designed for outdoor installation unless the specific model is approved for internal flued installation.

Does supply-only pricing include installation?

No. Supply-only generally means product only unless installation is selected or clearly shown. Installation, gas fitting, electrical work, valves, pipework, drainage, removal, disposal and compliance upgrades are usually separate.

Should I choose Rinnai or Rheem 26L instant gas?

Choose based on gas type, water pressure, gas pipe sizing, product specifications, installation suitability, availability, warranty terms and installer advice.

Final Word

The Rinnai Infinity 26L can be a strong instant gas hot water option for homes that need continuous flow hot water and have the right gas and water supply conditions. It may suit some family homes, especially where an existing 26L instant gas system is being replaced like-for-like.

The key checks are gas type, gas pipe sizing, water pressure, outdoor location, clearances, installation access and whether the selected product is supply only or eligible for supplied-and-installed options.

Before ordering through Installed Today, confirm the selected Rinnai model with your licensed installer. If choosing a supplied-and-installed option in an eligible Brisbane or Gold Coast service area, check exactly what is included before placing the order.

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