RINNAI HOTFLO COMPACT ELECTRIC STORAGE HOT WATER
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Electric Hot Water System – HFE50
The Rinnai Hotflo 50L Electric Hot Water System is a compact mains-pressure storage water heater designed for small homes, under-bench locations, cupboards and other applications where installation space and hot-water demand are limited.
The current HFE50 provides 50 litres of rated hot-water delivery from a manufacturer-listed 55 litre storage capacity. Hardwired versions are available with 1.8kW, 2.4kW and 3.6kW elements, while Rinnai also offers a 2.4kW plug-in configuration.
Installed Today offers the Rinnai Hotflo 50L as a supply-only water heater or with supply and installation across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.
Rinnai Hotflo 50L at a glance: an ultra-compact electric storage water heater with 55L actual storage, 50L rated hot-water delivery, a 694mm × 415mm cylinder, single-element operation, dual-handed Rp 3/4 plumbing connections, vitreous-enamel tank protection, sacrificial anode, IPX4 rating and a 7-year domestic cylinder-parts warranty under Rinnai's applicable terms.
ABOUT THE SYSTEM
About the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Electric Water Heater
The Hotflo 50L is part of Rinnai's compact electric storage range. It stores electrically heated water in a vitreous-enamel-lined steel cylinder and supplies it directly to the property's hot-water pipework.
Rinnai specifically describes the 50L as an ultra-compact system suited to under-bench applications and other locations where a larger storage cylinder would be unnecessary or difficult to accommodate.
The system uses a single heating element, thermostat, over-temperature safety cut-out, supplied pressure and temperature relief valve and sacrificial anode protection.
IMPORTANT CAPACITY DETAIL
Does the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Actually Store 50 Litres?
Rinnai's current product information distinguishes between storage capacity and hot-water delivery.
55L Storage Capacity
Rinnai currently lists the physical storage capacity of the Hotflo 50L as 55 litres.
50L Hot-Water Delivery
The rated hot-water delivery remains 50 litres, which is why the product is marketed as the Hotflo 50L.
WHO IT SUITS
Who Is the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Best For?
Small Homes & Low Demand
The current Rinnai product page describes the 50L as suitable for approximately 1–2 people, subject to actual hot-water usage.
Under-Bench Applications
Its compact 694mm height and 415mm diameter make it particularly relevant where a small storage heater needs to fit beneath a bench or within a suitable cupboard space.
Compact Replacements
Dual-handed plumbing connections and standardised dimensions can make the HFE50 practical when replacing another small electric storage water heater.
HOUSEHOLD SIZING
How Many People Is the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Suitable For?
Rinnai's current product page markets the Hotflo 50L for approximately 1–2 people. Rinnai's detailed tariff sizing table is more conservative and lists the 50L for one person during peak-period operation in warm or cool climates.
The detailed sizing guide does not recommend the 50L for off-peak household sizing. This is because an off-peak system may only have power available for a restricted heating period, while a small 50L-delivery cylinder can be depleted comparatively quickly.
Actual suitability depends on shower duration, fixture flow rates, appliance use, incoming water temperature and how frequently the system can reheat.
PRODUCT AT A GLANCE
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Key Details
50L
Hot Water Delivery
55L
Storage Capacity
694mm
Overall Height
7 Years
Domestic Cylinder Parts*
*Rinnai's current warranty provides 7 years cylinder-parts coverage and 3 years cylinder-labour coverage for qualifying domestic use of the 25L and 50L Hotflo models. Other components receive 1 year parts and labour. Full warranty conditions apply.
ELEMENT OPTIONS
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Heating Options
1.8kW Hardwired
A lower-output hardwired element configuration with lower electrical demand and slower recovery than the higher-powered options.
2.4kW
Available in hardwired form and as Rinnai's plug-in configuration, subject to the selected product variant and site electrical requirements.
3.6kW Hardwired
The highest-output option in the HFE50 range, providing faster reheating where the existing electrical circuit can support it.
Rinnai specifies 1.8kW, 2.4kW and 3.6kW element options for 50L models without a plug. The plug-in 50L configuration is 2.4kW.
KEY FEATURES
Key Features of the Rinnai Hotflo 50L
Ultra-Compact Design
A 694mm-high, 415mm-diameter cylinder makes the Hotflo 50L practical for selected space-constrained installations.
Under-Bench Suitable
Rinnai specifically identifies under-bench applications as a use case for its compact 50L electric storage model.
Vitreous Enamel Tank
The steel storage cylinder uses a vitreous-enamel lining to help protect the internal tank surface.
Sacrificial Anode Protection
An internal sacrificial anode gradually wears in preference to the cylinder and forms part of the tank's corrosion-protection system.
Dual-Handed Connections
The 25L and 50L Hotflo models have duplicated hot, cold and PTR connection positions for installation flexibility.
Lead-Free Compliance
Rinnai's current operation and installation manual states that the Hotflo electric range complies with the lead-free requirements of the National Construction Code Volume 3.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Specifications
| Specification |
Rinnai Hotflo 50L |
| Brand |
Rinnai |
| Range |
Hotflo Electric Storage |
| Product Code |
HFE50 |
| Nominal Product Size |
50L |
| Storage Capacity |
55L |
| Hot Water Delivery |
50L |
| Current Product Page Guide |
Approximately 1–2 people |
| Detailed Peak-Period Sizing |
1 person |
| Off-Peak Sizing |
Not recommended in Rinnai's detailed sizing table |
| Element Configuration |
Single element |
| Hardwired Element Options |
1.8kW / 2.4kW / 3.6kW |
| Plug-In Configuration |
2.4kW |
| Electrical Supply |
240V AC / 50Hz |
| PTR Valve |
1000 kPa |
| Expansion Control Valve |
850 kPa |
| Maximum Inlet Pressure With ECV |
680 kPa |
| Maximum Inlet Pressure Without ECV |
800 kPa |
| Recommended PLV Setting |
500 kPa where applicable |
| Minimum Supply Pressure for True Mains-Pressure Performance |
Greater than approximately 350 kPa |
| Maximum Thermostat Setting |
70°C |
| Water Connections |
Rp 3/4 / 20mm |
| Ingress Protection Rating |
IPX4 |
| Installation |
Internal or external, subject to compliant site and electrical installation |
| Tank Construction |
Vitreous-enamel-lined steel |
| Tank Colour |
White |
| Packaged Weight |
29kg |
| Domestic Cylinder Parts Warranty |
7 years |
| Domestic Cylinder Labour Warranty |
3 years |
| Other Components |
1 year parts and labour for qualifying domestic use |
DIMENSIONS
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Dimensions
694mm
Overall Height
415mm
Tank Diameter
490mm
Width incl. PTR Valve
29kg
Packaged Weight
| Dimension |
Measurement |
| Overall Height |
694mm |
| Tank Diameter |
415mm |
| Width Including PTR Valve |
490mm |
| Hot Water Outlet Height |
524mm |
| Cold Water Inlet Height |
158mm |
| Electrical Entry Height |
80mm in current operation manual |
| Packaged Weight |
29kg |
Allow additional clearance for the PTR valve, plumbing, drain lines, electrical connection and future servicing. Under-bench and cupboard installations still need sufficient service access.
UNDER-BENCH INSTALLATION
Can the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Be Installed Under a Bench?
Yes. Rinnai specifically promotes the Hotflo 50L as suitable for under-bench applications.
The water heater must still remain in a vertically upright, free-standing position on a level and stable base. The installation must allow access to the PTR valve, isolating valves, thermostat, element cover, rating plate and sacrificial anode.
A cupboard or bench cavity should therefore be checked for both physical dimensions and future service access rather than relying on the tank dimensions alone.
INSTALLATION LOCATION
Can the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Be Installed Indoors or Outdoors?
Rinnai's current Hotflo manual specifies an IPX4 ingress-protection rating for the electric storage range and states that it is suitable for internal or external installation.
The location must still provide a stable base, suitable drainage, compliant electrical provision and service access. Electrical components and connections must be installed appropriately for the environment.
Where an indoor leak could cause property damage, Rinnai requires a compliant safe tray and drain.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
What Is Required to Install the Rinnai Hotflo 50L?
Rinnai requires the Hotflo electric storage water heater to be installed, commissioned and serviced by an authorised person in accordance with applicable plumbing and electrical requirements.
- Level and stable supporting base
- Vertical upright installation
- Rp 3/4 / 20mm compatible hot and cold water pipework
- Correct 1000 kPa PTR valve installation
- Suitable isolation and non-return valve arrangement
- 850 kPa ECV where required
- Pressure limiting where incoming pressure exceeds permitted limits
- Compliant copper relief-valve drain line
- Safe tray and drainage where required indoors
- Temperature-limiting device where required
- 240V AC / 50Hz electrical supply
- Electrical supply matched to the selected element rating
- Correct installation for hardwired or plug-equipped configuration
- Access to thermostat, element, valves and sacrificial anode
- Installation in accordance with AS/NZS 3500
- Electrical work in accordance with AS/NZS 3000
WATER PRESSURE
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Water Pressure Requirements
Rinnai specifies a 1000 kPa Pressure & Temperature Relief valve for the HFE50.
Where an expansion-control valve is installed, the manufacturer specifies an 850 kPa ECV and a maximum inlet pressure of 680 kPa.
Without an ECV, the maximum published inlet pressure is 800 kPa. Rinnai recommends a 500 kPa pressure-limiting valve and requires pressure control where the incoming mains pressure exceeds the manufacturer's limits.
MAINS PRESSURE
Mains-Pressure Hot Water
The Hotflo 50L connects directly to the mains water supply and operates as a mains-pressure electric storage water heater.
Rinnai states that incoming pressure should be greater than approximately 350 kPa for true mains-pressure operational performance.
Actual flow at the fixture also depends on pipe sizing, valves, incoming pressure and the rest of the property's plumbing system.
PLUG OR HARDWIRED
Should You Choose a Plug-In or Hardwired Hotflo 50L?
Plug-In 2.4kW
Rinnai offers the 50L with a 2.4kW plug configuration. The installation still needs a suitable electrical outlet, circuit and compliant plumbing installation.
Hardwired
Hardwired HFE50 variants are available with 1.8kW, 2.4kW or 3.6kW elements. Rinnai requires fixed electrical connection by an authorised person.
A factory plug does not make the water-heater installation a DIY plumbing job. Rinnai requires the appliance to be installed by an authorised person.
THERMOSTAT & SCALD PROTECTION
Stored Water Temperature
Rinnai states that stored water must not be set below 60°C to meet regulatory requirements.
The thermostat is factory preset to approximately 70°C and can be adjusted between 60°C and 70°C by an electrician or another suitably qualified tradesperson.
Because water at these temperatures can cause serious scalding, suitable temperature-limiting equipment may be required for bathrooms and other personal-hygiene outlets.
ANODE & WATER QUALITY
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Anode Protection
The HFE50 contains a sacrificial anode designed to gradually dissipate while helping protect the steel storage cylinder.
Rinnai recommends having the anode inspected at least every 5 years and replaced where required.
The factory-fitted magnesium-based anode is designed for supplies with Total Dissolved Solids up to 600 mg/L. Rinnai specifies an aluminium-based anode where TDS exceeds 600 mg/L but remains within the manufacturer's warranty water-quality limits.
MAINTENANCE
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Maintenance
Regular valve and anode checks form an important part of maintaining the Hotflo electric storage system.
- Operate the PTR valve easing gear every 6 months
- Operate the ECV easing gear every 6 months where fitted
- Check any overflow tray and drain periodically for blockages
- Have the PTR valve checked or replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years
- Have the ECV checked or replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years where fitted
- Inspect the sacrificial anode at least every 5 years
- Service valves more frequently in scaling-water areas where required
WHAT'S INCLUDED
What's Supplied With the Rinnai Hotflo 50L?
Hotflo HFE50 Water Heater
The selected 50L-delivery storage water heater with vitreous-enamel cylinder, single heating element and thermostat.
PTR Valve
Rinnai identifies the correctly rated Pressure & Temperature Relief valve as a supplied component.
Site-Specific Installation Parts
ECV, PLV, isolation valves, non-return valves, drainage, tempering equipment and other installation components depend on site conditions and are not universally included.
SUPPLY ONLY
Buy the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Supply Only
Choose supply only if you require the Rinnai Hotflo 50L and already have appropriately licensed installation arrangements in place.
The supply-only price covers the selected water heater itself. Installation, valves, electrical alterations, plumbing modifications, safe trays, drainage work, cupboard modifications, old-system removal and disposal are separate unless specifically included in the order.
Before ordering, confirm whether you require a 1.8kW, 2.4kW or 3.6kW hardwired configuration or the 2.4kW plug-in version.
SUPPLY & INSTALL
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Supplied & Installed
Supply Only
Order the selected HFE50 where suitable licensed plumbing and electrical installation are already arranged.
Brisbane Installation
Eligible Brisbane customers can check available supply-and-install options for replacement or installation of a compatible compact electric storage system.
Gold Coast Installation
Eligible Gold Coast customers can also check installation options and any additional plumbing, electrical, access or compliance requirements.
AUSTRALIA-WIDE SUPPLY
Buy the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Across Australia
Installed Today offers supply-only ordering across supported Australian delivery areas, with local supply-and-install options available in eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast locations.
Customers elsewhere can order the required HFE50 configuration for delivery where available and arrange compliant installation with appropriately licensed local trades.
Brisbane
Gold Coast
Sydney
Melbourne
Adelaide
Perth
BRISBANE INSTALLATION
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Installation Brisbane
Eligible Brisbane customers can order the Rinnai Hotflo 50L with an installation option where available. Its compact footprint can suit apartments, cupboards, under-bench locations, laundries and smaller service areas where a larger storage cylinder is unnecessary.
The unit is approximately 694mm high × 415mm diameter, with an installation envelope of approximately 490mm including the PTR valve.
Additional work may be required for valve replacement, electrical changes, extra pipework, drainage, cupboard alterations, relocation or difficult access.
GOLD COAST INSTALLATION
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Installation Gold Coast
Eligible Gold Coast customers can also check supplied-and-installed options for the Rinnai Hotflo 50L.
Before installation, confirm the required element rating, whether a plug or hardwired version is appropriate, available cupboard or under-bench space, water pressure, valves, drainage and electrical supply.
WHAT MAY REQUIRE EXTRA WORK
Check These Items Before Ordering Installation
- Relocating the water heater to a new position
- Old, missing or non-compliant valves
- Additional hot or cold pipework
- PTR, ECV or safe-tray drainage alterations
- Electrical circuit or power-outlet work
- Changing between plug-in and hardwired configurations
- Changing element rating
- Restricted under-bench or cupboard access
- New supporting base requirements
- Safe tray installation where required indoors
- Temperature-limiting or tempering upgrades
- Removal and disposal of the existing water heater
WARRANTY
Rinnai Hotflo 50L Warranty
Rinnai provides different warranty periods for domestic and commercial applications.
| Coverage |
Domestic Use |
Commercial Use |
| Cylinder Parts |
7 years |
1 year |
| Cylinder Labour |
3 years |
1 year |
| Other Components – Parts |
1 year |
1 year |
| Other Components – Labour |
1 year |
1 year |
Rinnai's definition of domestic use and commercial use is detailed in its warranty booklet. Warranty eligibility also depends on correct installation, water quality, maintenance and the manufacturer's complete terms.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions About the Rinnai Hotflo 50L
What is the Rinnai Hotflo 50L product code?
Rinnai identifies the current 50L Hotflo electric storage model as HFE50.
Does the Rinnai Hotflo 50L actually store 50 litres?
Rinnai's current product information lists 55 litres of storage capacity and 50 litres of rated hot-water delivery.
How many people is the Hotflo 50L suitable for?
Rinnai's current product page describes it as suitable for approximately 1–2 people. Its detailed peak/off-peak sizing table gives the 50L a one-person peak-period rating and does not recommend it for off-peak sizing.
Can the Rinnai Hotflo 50L be installed under a bench?
Yes. Rinnai specifically identifies under-bench applications as suitable for the compact 50L model, provided adequate installation and servicing space is available.
Can it be installed in a cupboard?
Yes, where the cupboard provides a stable base, adequate dimensions, drainage where required, compliant electrical provision and access to service components.
Can the Rinnai Hotflo 50L be installed outside?
Rinnai's current Hotflo operation manual lists the IPX4 range as suitable for internal or external installation, subject to a compliant installation location and electrical arrangement.
Is the Hotflo 50L single or twin element?
The 50L uses a single-element configuration.
What element sizes are available?
Hardwired 50L variants are available with 1.8kW, 2.4kW or 3.6kW elements. The plug-in configuration uses a 2.4kW element.
What is the electrical supply?
Rinnai specifies 240V AC at 50Hz.
What are the dimensions?
The current HFE50 is approximately 694mm high × 415mm tank diameter, with approximately 490mm width including the PTR-valve installation envelope.
How much does the Rinnai Hotflo 50L weigh?
Rinnai's current product information and operation manual list an approximate 29kg packaged weight.
What water connections does it use?
Rinnai specifies Rp 3/4 / 20mm hot and cold water connections.
Does it have connections on both sides?
Yes. Rinnai's current manual shows duplicated hot, cold and PTR connections on the 25L and 50L models.
What is the PTR valve setting?
The supplied PTR valve is rated at 1000 kPa.
What is the ECV setting?
Where an ECV is required, Rinnai specifies an 850 kPa expansion-control valve.
What is the maximum water-supply pressure?
Rinnai specifies 680 kPa maximum with an ECV and 800 kPa maximum without an ECV.
What is the IP rating?
The Hotflo electric storage range is rated IPX4.
What is the maximum thermostat setting?
The thermostat is adjustable between 60°C and 70°C by a suitably qualified tradesperson and is factory preset to approximately 70°C.
Does the Hotflo 50L have an anode?
Yes. The tank uses a sacrificial anode as part of the cylinder corrosion-protection system.
How often should the anode be checked?
Rinnai recommends having the sacrificial anode inspected at least every 5 years and replaced where necessary.
How often should the relief valves be checked?
The user should operate the PTR and ECV easing gear every 6 months. Rinnai states that the valves should be professionally checked for performance or replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, with more frequent attention in scaling-water areas.
Does the Rinnai Hotflo 50L require professional installation?
Yes. Rinnai states that the appliance must be installed, commissioned and serviced by an authorised person in accordance with applicable plumbing and electrical requirements.
What is the warranty?
For qualifying domestic use, Rinnai specifies 7 years cylinder-parts coverage, 3 years cylinder-labour coverage and 1 year parts and labour on other components, subject to its complete warranty conditions.
Can I buy the Rinnai Hotflo 50L supply only?
Yes. Installed Today offers a supply-only pathway where appropriately licensed installation is already arranged.
Can Installed Today install the Rinnai Hotflo 50L?
Supply-and-install options are available in selected Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. Final requirements depend on the chosen electrical configuration, installation space, plumbing, valves, drainage, water pressure and site access.
WHY INSTALLED TODAY
Why Order the Rinnai Hotflo 50L From Installed Today?
Supply Only
Unit Ordering
Plug / Hardwired
Configuration Options
Australia Wide
Supported Supply
Brisbane & Gold Coast
Installation Options
Installed Today provides a clear pathway to order the Rinnai Hotflo 50L as a product-only purchase or combine it with an eligible local installation option. Confirm the required element rating, plug or hardwired configuration, installation dimensions, plumbing, drainage, water pressure and electrical requirements before checkout.
FINAL CHECK
Is the Rinnai Hotflo 50L Right for You?
The Rinnai Hotflo HFE50 is suited to compact, lower-demand applications where a larger electric storage cylinder is unnecessary. Its 694mm height, 415mm diameter, 55L actual storage capacity and 50L rated delivery make it particularly relevant to selected small homes, under-bench areas, cupboards and compact replacement locations.
Before ordering, confirm whether the expected hot-water demand suits a 50L-delivery system and choose the correct 1.8kW, 2.4kW or 3.6kW hardwired configuration or 2.4kW plug-in configuration. Choose supply only where compliant installation is already arranged, or check Installed Today's Brisbane and Gold Coast installation options.