Rheem 160L Electric Hot Water System
The Rheem 160L Electric Hot Water System is a reliable electric storage water heater designed for smaller families, townhouses, units, granny flats, rental properties and replacement applications requiring dependable mains-pressure hot water.
Installed Today offers the Rheem 160L as a supply-only electric hot water system, with supply and installation options available across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.
Key features include 160L hot water delivery, a slim 480 mm diameter, Rheem Ultranamel® cylinder protection, dual-handed inlet and outlet fittings, concessional or off-peak tariff suitability where available and both single-element and twin-element model options.
What Does the Rheem 160L Electric Water Heater Do?
The Rheem 160L stores and electrically heats domestic hot water for showers, basins, kitchens, laundry and other household hot water requirements.
It is part of Rheem's 491 / 492 Series electric storage range and is designed to provide mains-pressure hot water for homes needing more capacity than a compact 125L system without moving to a larger 250L storage tank.
Who Is the Rheem 160L Best For?
Smaller Families
Rheem lists the 160L model as suitable for up to 5 people under its stated usage assumptions. Actual suitability depends on shower duration, flow rates, tariff setup, climate and household habits.
Units, Townhouses & Granny Flats
The slim 480 mm diameter can make the Rheem 160L useful in selected compact installations where a wider 250L or 315L cylinder may not suit the available space.
Electric Storage Replacement
The Rheem 160L can suit homes replacing an older smaller-to-medium electric storage system where the existing location, plumbing and electrical setup are compatible.
What Problems Can the Rheem 160L Help Solve?
125L System Too Small
The 160L hot water delivery provides more stored capacity than a 125L system and may suit households that have outgrown a smaller storage cylinder.
Compact Installation Space
The 480 mm cylinder diameter makes the system relatively slim, which can help in selected restricted-width installation locations.
Need for Additional Recovery
A twin-element 492160 model is available where faster heating or extra daytime hot water support is required and the electrical setup is suitable.
Rheem 160L Key Details
*Based on Rheem's stated usage assumptions. **Subject to Rheem warranty terms, conditions and exclusions.
Is the Rheem 160L Right for My Home?
A Good Choice If...
You want a 160L electric storage system, need more stored hot water than a 125L unit, want a relatively slim cylinder or are replacing an existing smaller-to-medium electric water heater.
Consider Another Option If...
Your household has significantly higher hot water demand, regularly needs more capacity than 160L provides, or a larger 250L or 315L storage system better suits the application.
Check Before Ordering
Confirm access, installation space, base condition, plumbing connections, valve requirements, electrical supply and whether the single or twin-element version is appropriate.
What Size Home Does the Rheem 160L Suit?
How Many People Does the Rheem 160L Suit?
Rheem lists the 160L electric water heater as suitable for up to 5 people, based on 7-minute showers at 42°C mixed water temperature in a moderate climate on a time-of-use tariff.
Actual suitability varies with shower length, household routines, fixture flow rates, climate and tariff setup.
When Is 160L a Useful Size?
A 160L system can suit smaller family homes, units, townhouses and granny flats where a 125L system may be too small but the larger capacity and footprint of a 250L system is not required.
How Does the Rheem 160L Work?
1. Cold Water Enters
Cold water enters the storage cylinder through the plumbing connections and is held ready for heating.
2. Electric Element Heats
An electric element heats the stored water. Rheem lists 1.8 kW, 2.4 kW and 3.6 kW element options within the range.
3. Mains-Pressure Hot Water
The heated water remains stored until required and is delivered at mains pressure to connected household fixtures.
Key Features of the Rheem 160L
160L Hot Water Delivery
The storage size is designed for smaller families and households with moderate daily hot water demand.
Slim 480 mm Diameter
The narrow cylinder can help where available installation width is restricted compared with larger storage models.
Rheem Ultranamel®
The cylinder uses Rheem Ultranamel® coating to help protect the internal cylinder surface and support long-term performance.
Dual-Handed Connections
Dual-handed inlet and outlet fittings provide additional plumbing flexibility during selected replacement installations.
Off-Peak Compatible
The range is designed to suit concessional or off-peak tariff connection where available and appropriate.
Twin-Element Option
The 492160 twin-element model can provide additional heating recovery and daytime hot water support where the electrical installation allows.
Rheem 160L Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Rheem |
| Range | Rheem 491 / 492 Series Electric |
| Single-Element Model | 491160 |
| Twin-Element Model | 492160 |
| System Type | Electric storage hot water system |
| Hot Water Delivery | 160L |
| Water Delivery | Mains pressure |
| Household Guide | Up to 5 people under Rheem's stated usage assumptions |
| Element Options | 1.8 kW, 2.4 kW and 3.6 kW |
| Twin-Element Option | Available |
| Installation | Indoor or outdoor where suitable |
| Water Connections | Rp 3/4 |
| Relief Valve Pressure | 1400 kPa |
| Expansion Control Valve Setting | 1200 kPa |
| Maximum Water Supply Pressure With ECV | 960 kPa |
| Maximum Water Supply Pressure Without ECV | 1120 kPa |
| Diameter | 480 mm |
| Approximate Height | 1610 mm |
| Approximate Width / Depth | 515 mm |
| Approximate Packaged Weight | 60 kg |
| Cylinder Protection | Rheem Ultranamel® cylinder coating |
| Cylinder Warranty | 12 years, subject to Rheem warranty terms |
| Cylinder Labour Warranty | 1 year, subject to Rheem warranty terms |
| Other Domestic Parts & Labour Warranty | 1 year, subject to Rheem warranty terms |
Rheem 491160 vs Rheem 492160
The Rheem 491160 is the single-element 160L model, while the Rheem 492160 is the twin-element version.
A twin-element system can provide additional heating recovery and daytime hot water support where household demand, electrical supply and tariff arrangements make that configuration appropriate.
The correct version should be selected before ordering because the electrical requirements and installation scope can differ.
Rheem Ultranamel® Cylinder Protection
The Rheem 160L uses Rheem Ultranamel® cylinder coating, a tough internal coating designed to help protect the cylinder and support long-term performance.
Water quality, correct installation, valve setup, servicing and operating conditions can all affect the lifespan and performance of an electric storage water heater.
Can the Rheem 160L Run on an Off-Peak Tariff?
Yes. Rheem lists the 160L electric storage range as suitable for connection to concessional or off-peak tariffs where available and appropriate.
The best tariff arrangement depends on the selected model, household hot water demand, electricity provider and electrical installation.
What Is Required to Install the Rheem 160L?
Installation requirements depend on whether the unit is replacing an existing electric storage system or being installed in a new or relocated position.
- Suitable compliant installation position
- Level and structurally adequate base
- Access for a unit approximately 1610 mm high and 480 mm diameter
- Compatible hot and cold water connections
- Correct valve arrangement
- Suitable incoming water pressure
- Compliant pressure-relief discharge
- Suitable electrical supply for the selected element configuration
- Appropriate tariff connection where off-peak operation is required
- Suitable indoor or outdoor installation location
- Adequate service access
- Any required tray, drainage, base or insulation provisions
Rheem 160L Water Pressure Requirements
The supplied specifications list a 1400 kPa relief valve pressure and a 1200 kPa expansion control valve setting.
The listed maximum water supply pressure is 960 kPa when an ECV is fitted and 1120 kPa without an ECV.
Incoming water pressure and the existing valve arrangement should be checked during installation planning. Replacement or additional valves may be required depending on the property.
Can the Rheem 160L Replace My Existing Hot Water System?
The Rheem 160L can be a practical replacement for selected smaller-to-medium electric storage water heaters where the existing location, plumbing, electrical supply and access are compatible.
Its dual-handed connections and relatively slim cylinder can help with selected replacement installations, although every site should still be checked before assuming the changeover is like-for-like.
Replacing a 125L System
The Rheem 160L provides more stored hot water than a 125L unit and may suit households that have outgrown a smaller system.
Relocating the System
Moving the new water heater away from the existing position can require additional pipework, drainage, electrical work, base preparation and labour.
What's Included With the Rheem 160L?
Supply Only
Choose supply only if you already have appropriately licensed trades arranged. The product price covers the Rheem 160L unit and applicable manufacturer-supplied components.
Supplied & Installed
Where available, choose an Installed Today supply and installation package covering the unit plus the selected standard installation scope.
Possible Additional Work
Valve kits, old-system removal, disposal, electrical alterations, pipework changes, relocation, drainage, base work, restricted access and compliance upgrades may require additional charges.
Choose How You Want to Order the Rheem 160L
Supply Only
Choose supply only when you already have appropriately licensed trades arranged and simply need the Rheem 160L supplied.
Brisbane Installation
Supplied and installed options are available across eligible Brisbane service areas, subject to access, site conditions and installation availability.
Gold Coast Installation
Supplied and installed options are available across eligible Gold Coast service areas, subject to site suitability and installation availability.
Buy the Rheem 160L From Installed Today
Installed Today offers supply-only ordering for customers who already have licensed trades arranged. Delivery availability and freight requirements depend on the destination and order.
Eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast customers can also select supply and installation options where available.
Rheem 160L Supply & Installation Brisbane
Brisbane customers can order the Rheem 160L with an eligible supply and installation package. The 160L system may suit smaller family homes, townhouses, units, granny flats, rentals and compact replacement applications.
Before installation, the property should be checked for access, base condition, plumbing connections, valve requirements and electrical suitability for the selected single or twin-element configuration.
Rheem 160L Supply & Installation Gold Coast
Eligible Gold Coast customers can select the Rheem 160L as a supplied and installed electric hot water package.
This may suit homeowners, landlords, unit owners, renovators and property managers wanting the product and installation organised together. Final installation scope depends on the existing plumbing, electrical setup, access, valves and whether additional removal or upgrade work is required.
Rheem 160L vs 125L and 250L Electric Storage
| Feature | 125L | 160L | 250L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relative Capacity | Smaller | 160L | Larger |
| Typical Application | Lower-demand households | Smaller families and moderate demand | Family homes and moderate to higher demand |
| Main Reason to Consider | More compact storage | Balance of capacity and slim cylinder | Greater stored hot water capacity |
Rheem 125L vs 160L
The Rheem 160L provides more stored hot water than a 125L system and may better suit smaller families or households with stronger daily hot water demand.
Rheem 160L vs 250L
The Rheem 250L provides substantially more stored hot water and may suit larger families or households with higher demand. The 160L remains the more compact option where 250L of storage is not required.
Questions About the Rheem 160L
Can I buy the Rheem 160L supply only?
Yes. The Rheem 160L can be purchased as a supply-only product if you already have appropriately licensed trades arranged.
Can Installed Today install the Rheem 160L?
Supply and installation options are available across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas, subject to site suitability and installation availability.
Is installation included in the product price?
No. The main product price is for the unit unless an installed option is selected. Installation, valves, electrical work, old-system removal, disposal and other site-specific requirements are separate unless expressly included.
What does the installed-from price include?
The installed-from price is based on the Rheem 160L unit plus the matching standard installation option. Final pricing can vary depending on valves, removal or disposal, plumbing, electrical work, access and compliance requirements.
Do I need a valve kit?
Many electric hot water replacements require compatible valves to meet installation and compliance requirements. The existing installation should be checked before ordering.
What is the standard Rheem 160L model number?
The standard single-element Rheem 160L model is 491160.
What is the twin-element Rheem 160L model number?
The twin-element Rheem 160L model is 492160.
How much hot water does the Rheem 160L deliver?
The Rheem 160L has a listed hot water delivery of 160 litres.
How many people does the Rheem 160L suit?
Rheem lists the 160L electric water heater as suitable for up to 5 people, based on 7-minute showers at 42°C mixed water temperature in a moderate climate on a time-of-use tariff.
Can the Rheem 160L be installed outside?
Yes. The supplied product information lists the Rheem 160L for indoor or outdoor installation where the location and installation are compliant and suitable.
What element ratings are available?
The supplied specifications list 1.8 kW, 2.4 kW and 3.6 kW element options across the range.
Is a twin-element model available?
Yes. The Rheem 492160 twin-element model is available where additional heating recovery is required and the electrical installation and tariff arrangement are suitable.
What are the approximate dimensions?
The supplied specifications list an approximate height of 1610 mm, a 480 mm diameter and approximate width/depth of 515 mm.
What is the approximate packaged weight?
The listed packaged weight is approximately 60 kg.
What is the relief valve pressure?
The listed relief valve pressure is 1400 kPa.
What is the expansion control valve setting?
The listed expansion control valve setting is 1200 kPa.
What is the maximum water supply pressure?
The supplied specifications list a maximum water supply pressure of 960 kPa with an ECV and 1120 kPa without an ECV.
Is the Rheem 160L suitable for off-peak tariffs?
Yes. Rheem lists the 160L range as suitable for connection to concessional or off-peak tariffs where available and appropriate.
Does the Rheem 160L have dual-handed connections?
Yes. The Rheem 160L includes dual-handed inlet and outlet fittings to provide additional plumbing flexibility.
Can it replace an old 160L electric water heater?
It may be suitable where the existing installation position, plumbing, electrical setup and access are compatible. The system is positioned as a practical like-for-like replacement option for suitable electric storage installations.
What is the difference between Rheem 491160 and 492160?
The 491160 is the single-element 160L model. The 492160 is the twin-element model, which can provide additional heating recovery and extra hot water support where the electrical installation and tariff arrangement are suitable.
Rheem 160L Warranty and Maintenance
The supplied product information lists a 12-year cylinder warranty, a 1-year labour warranty on the cylinder and a 1-year parts and labour warranty on all other domestic components, subject to Rheem's warranty terms, conditions and exclusions.
Ongoing servicing and maintenance should include the water heater, valves, plumbing and electrical components as required by Rheem and applicable installation requirements.
Why Buy the Rheem 160L From Installed Today?
Installed Today gives customers a straightforward way to purchase the Rheem 160L as a supply-only product or select an eligible supplied-and-installed package in Brisbane or the Gold Coast.
Is the Rheem 160L Right for You?
The Rheem 160L Electric Hot Water System is primarily suited to smaller families and moderate-demand homes wanting reliable mains-pressure electric storage hot water, a slim 480 mm diameter and a choice between single and twin-element models.
Before ordering, confirm that the property can accommodate the unit's approximate 1610 mm height, 480 mm diameter and 60 kg packaged weight, together with the required plumbing, valves and electrical supply. Choose supply only if your licensed trades are already arranged, or select an eligible Brisbane or Gold Coast supply and installation option where available.
Tempering Valve and Element Information
*Element size information:
All electric hot water units are supplied as standard with a 3.6kW element unless otherwise stated on the product page, invoice, or order confirmation.
If a different element configuration is requested, such as 1.8kW or 2.4kW, the hot water unit may still arrive with the standard 3.6kW element fitted from the manufacturer. The requested 1.8kW or 2.4kW element will be supplied separately with the order for installation by a suitably licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder.
Any element changeover, electrical connection, disconnection, wiring, testing, or modification must be carried out by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder. Elements must not be changed, connected, modified, or tested by an unlicensed person.
Alternative elements supplied for non-standard configurations may be generic replacement elements and may not be the same brand as the hot water unit unless specifically stated. Generic elements are supplied to suit the requested element size and electrical configuration, but final suitability must be checked by the licensed installer before installation.
1.8kW and 2.4kW elements supplied separately with a hot water unit include a 12-month supply-only parts warranty from the date of purchase, provided the element has been correctly installed by a licensed electrical contractor or licensed electrical licence holder and used under normal operating conditions.
This element warranty covers the replacement supply of the element only. It does not include labour, call-out fees, electrical work, plumbing work, fault finding, removal, reinstallation, testing, travel, downtime, damage caused by incorrect installation, or any other associated costs. Warranty may be declined where the element has been incorrectly installed, dry-fired, modified, damaged, connected to incorrect voltage or wiring, affected by power issues, used in unsuitable water conditions, or installed by an unlicensed person.
Proof of purchase, installer details, electrical licence details, photos, and/or return of the faulty element may be required before a warranty claim is approved.
**Tempering valve information:
Where a hot water system is capable of delivering water above 50°C, a compliant tempering valve must be installed to control the temperature delivered to personal hygiene fixtures such as showers, baths, basins, and bathroom outlets. This helps reduce the risk of scalding and assists with meeting plumbing compliance requirements.
A tempering valve blends hot and cold water to deliver a safer controlled outlet temperature to required fixtures. The hot water unit itself may store water at a higher temperature, but the water delivered to personal hygiene outlets must be controlled where required by plumbing regulations.
If your property already has a suitable, compliant tempering valve installed, your licensed plumber can assess whether it is appropriate for use with the new hot water system. Existing valves may not always be suitable due to age, condition, compliance requirements, valve type, location, or system compatibility.
If a compliant tempering valve is not already installed, or if the existing valve is unsuitable, one must be supplied and installed by a licensed plumber as part of the hot water installation.
Tempering valves are not automatically included with every supply-only hot water unit unless specifically selected, listed as included, or purchased as part of a suitable valve kit. If a tempering valve is required, please purchase the appropriate valve kit with your order or arrange for your licensed installer to supply and install the correct tempering valve on site.
It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure the installation is completed by appropriately licensed trades and that all required valves, fittings, electrical work, plumbing work, and compliance requirements are allowed for as part of the installation.
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Whether you already know exactly what you need or you are still comparing options, Installed Today gives you a clearer way to buy the right product for your home, budget and timing.
Why Customers Choose Installed Today
Supply Only or Optional Installation
Choose the product on its own, or add installation where available on selected products and in eligible service areas. This gives you the flexibility to order the way that suits you best.
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See the product price upfront, then review available installation options and common add-ons before placing your order. You can check the package total before checkout, instead of waiting on basic pricing just to get started.
Product Details That Actually Help
Key specs, sizing details, warranty information, product features and suitability notes are shown clearly, making it easier to compare products properly before you buy.
Common Installation Add-Ons Available
Where relevant, you can add common installation extras such as valve kits, bases, access-related items, removal, electrical options or other site-specific upgrades before checkout.
Built Around Brisbane and Gold Coast Homes
Our product and installation options are selected with common Brisbane and Gold Coast homes in mind, including local water quality, access issues, plumbing layouts, replacement requirements and typical installation conditions.
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Add the product and selected options to cart in one order, instead of trying to organise separate suppliers, installers, parts and payments yourself.
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Choose an optional supplied and installed package where installation is available and you want the product and selected install options organised in one order.
Add common extras before checkout if your job needs additional parts, removal, access support or site-specific options.
It is a simpler way to organise the product, the selected extras and the parts of the job that matter most.
Important Installation Note
Installation availability, inclusions and add-ons vary by product type, service area, site access, existing services, selected options and property requirements.
Some jobs may require additional work, upgrades or checks before installation can proceed. Final suitability may need to be confirmed based on site conditions, plumbing, electrical requirements, valves, drainage, access and compliance requirements.
Supply-only orders do not include installation, old unit removal, disposal, valve kits, electrical work, plumbing alterations or compliance upgrades unless these are clearly selected or included in your order.
Fast Delivery and Install-Aligned Shipping
Installed Today makes delivery simple, whether you are ordering supply-only or choosing an optional install package.
For supply-only orders, you can select from available delivery options at checkout. For eligible orders with installation selected, shipping is included and coordinated to align with your selected installation period where possible.
Delivery Options
Same Day Delivery
Same day delivery may be available for selected hot water systems in Brisbane and Gold Coast metro areas when ordered before 7:00am.
Availability depends on stock, courier capacity, delivery location, product type and safe transport conditions.
Express Delivery
Express delivery is available on selected products and locations, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 1–4 business days.
Standard Delivery
Standard delivery is available on selected products, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 2–8 business days.
Free Shipping with Installation
When you select an eligible installation package, delivery is included as part of the supplied and installed order.
Your product delivery will be organised to align with your selected installation period where possible, helping avoid separate courier timing, storage issues or delays between delivery and installation.
Fast Metro Delivery
Most hot water orders in metro areas are delivered quickly, with many arriving within 1 business day depending on stock, location, order time and courier availability.
Weather and Transport Delays
Hot water systems are large, heavy products and cannot always be transported safely during rain or unsafe handling conditions.
Delivery timeframes may be affected if wet weather impacts loading, unloading, transport access or safe delivery conditions.
Express Delivery Refund
If your express delivery order takes longer than the estimated 1–4 business day express timeframe, your order will move to the standard 2–8 business day delivery timeframe and your express shipping charge will be refunded automatically.
Order Tracking
We will send your delivery details once your order has been dispatched or scheduled.
For supplied and installed orders, delivery timing may be coordinated around your selected installation period rather than sent as a separate courier-only delivery.
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Not sure whether to choose supply-only delivery or an optional install package? Contact our team before ordering and we can help you understand the best option for your product, location and timing.