8 Best Rinnai Propane Tankless Water Heaters, Compared
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Finding the best Rinnai propane tankless water heaters requires matching flow capacity and installation location to your household demand. We compared 8 models strictly using the specifications published on their listings.
The Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater leads because its 6.6 GPM flow rate and exterior wall-mount profile deliver steady multi-fixture output without using indoor utility space. This guide helps you choose the right flow rate, venting configuration, and cabinet size for your home.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want an outdoor propane heater for multiple fixtures Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater This exterior-mount unit delivers a 6.6 GPM flow rate with non-condensing operation.
- You want a lightweight outdoor propane heater for moderate demand Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater At 33 pounds, it is the lightest model listed and outputs 5.3 GPM.
- You want indoor propane heating with built-in recirculation Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater This indoor model features built-in recirculation and delivers a 6.6 GPM flow rate.
- You need maximum indoor flow for multiple fixtures Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater This indoor condensing model offers the highest flow rate on the list at 11 GPM.
Our 8 picks
Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater
Best for: outdoor propane setups running multiple fixtures
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 6.1 GPM
- BTU
- 160k BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 in
- Venting Type
- Non-Condensing
This Rinnai RE160eP outdoor propane tankless water heater delivers up to 6.1 GPM to supply up to five fixtures at once. It uses a non-condensing design measuring 24.6 by 14.1 by 10.8 inches and weighing 49.2 pounds. An integrated LED screen displays diagnostic error codes and maintenance reminders. If you need whole-home propane hot water and prefer an exterior wall installation to save interior utility space, this unit fits your setup.
Pros
- Delivers up to 6.1 GPM flow rate for up to five simultaneous fixtures
- Outdoor mounting eliminates indoor exhaust venting requirements
- Built-in LED screen displays error codes and maintenance reminders
- Compact casing measuring 24.6 by 14.1 by 10.8 inches
Cons
- Requires an optional Controlr module for WiFi connectivity
- Outdoor-only design cannot be installed indoors
- Labor warranty drops from five years to one year without registration within 90 days
Good fit if
- You have outdoor wall space and run your home on liquid propane.
- You need to run up to five plumbing fixtures concurrently.
Skip if
- You require an indoor tankless water heater installation.
- You want built-in WiFi connectivity without purchasing additional modules.
Verdict: Rinnai RE160eP Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater delivers steady propane heating with a 6.1 GPM output suitable for multi-fixture demand. Its exterior wall-mount profile saves indoor utility space while providing straightforward status tracking through an integrated LED screen.
Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: moderate-demand outdoor propane installations
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 5.3 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 30 x 13 x 13 in
- Weight
- 33 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
This Rinnai propane tankless water heater delivers up to 5.3 GPM of hot water on demand and mounts entirely outdoors. At 33 pounds with a 30 by 13 by 13-inch frame, it saves interior wall space. It features built-in scale detection and runs on dedicated propane setups. It suits you if you need moderate outdoor capacity for household fixtures without indoor venting.
Pros
- Flow rate of 5.3 GPM delivers on-demand hot water
- Outdoor installation requires no indoor venting
- Compact 30 x 13 x 13-inch dimensions weighing 33 pounds
- Integrated scale detection features
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- Lower flow rate than 6.5 GPM alternatives
- Labor warranty defaults to 1 year if not registered within 90 days
Good fit if
- You need an outdoor propane tankless heater with a 5.3 GPM flow rate.
- You want a compact 33-pound unit to save indoor wall space.
- You plan to register within 90 days to receive full residential warranty coverage.
Skip if
- You require an indoor water heater installation.
- You need flow rates higher than 5.3 GPM for simultaneous high-demand appliances.
Verdict: Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater provides reliable outdoor water heating with built-in scale detection and a 5.3 GPM capacity. It serves as a dependable choice when you want a dedicated propane unit that frees up indoor utility space.
Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: outdoor installations needing 7.5 GPM flow
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 7.5 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 35 x 14.5 x 22 inches
- Weight
- 63 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
This Rinnai outdoor tankless water heater runs on propane and delivers a flow rate of up to 7.5 GPM, which can supply up to six appliances at once. Designed for exterior mounting, it measures 35 by 14.5 by 22 inches and weighs 63 pounds. If you need steady propane water heating without taking up indoor utility space, this unit provides solid multi-fixture capacity.
Pros
- Flow rate of up to 7.5 GPM serves up to 6 appliances at once
- Outdoor installation frees up indoor utility and living space
- Supports PVC and CPVC venting with a Ubbink adapter
- 12-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, and 1-year labor residential warranties
Cons
- Configured specifically for outdoor mounting rather than indoor placement
- Cabinet stands 35 inches tall and weighs 63 pounds
Good fit if
- You want an exterior-mounted propane unit that saves indoor space.
- You run up to six appliances simultaneously and need a 7.5 GPM flow rate.
Skip if
- You need an indoor-mounted tankless water heater.
- You require a flow rate higher than 7.5 GPM for peak hot water demand.
Verdict: Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater provides reliable exterior-mounted water heating capable of supporting up to six appliances at once.
Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: indoor homes needing automated hot water recirculation
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 6.6 GPM
- BTU
- 160k BTU
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 27.3 x 14.1 x 10.8 in
- Weight
- 51 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater
This indoor propane tankless water heater delivers up to 6.1 GPM to run up to 5 fixtures at once. It features built-in Smart-Circ technology that learns your hot water habits and runs an integrated recirculation pump automatically. At 51 pounds and measuring 27.3 by 14.1 by 10.8 inches, it mounts inside your home. It suits you if you want scheduled recirculation without installing a separate external pump.
Pros
- Built-in recirculation pump with Smart-Circ usage tracking
- Supplies up to 6.1 GPM for up to 5 fixtures at once
- 15-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger
- Compact 27.3 by 14.1 by 10.8-inch indoor profile
Cons
- Requires a separate Controlr module for WiFi connectivity
- Indoor installation only
- Labor warranty defaults to 1 year unless registered within 90 days
Good fit if
- You want an indoor propane heater with an integrated recirculation pump.
- You need to run up to 5 fixtures at the same time.
Skip if
- You plan to install your water heater outdoors.
- You require factory-included WiFi controls out of the box.
Verdict: Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater integrates intelligent recirculation into a compact indoor chassis that supplies up to 5 fixtures. It provides dependable multi-fixture flow if you do not mind buying a separate module for WiFi access.
Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater
Best for: outdoor installations needing built-in recirculation
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 80.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater
This condensing unit runs on propane and installs outdoors, freeing indoor square footage. It provides up to 9 GPM of hot water flow, making it capable of handling multiple fixtures at once. A built-in recirculation pump with ThermaCirc360 technology circulates hot water without a dedicated return line. You also get Wi-Fi monitoring support. It suits households that want outdoor propane heating with integrated recirculation hardware.
Pros
- Delivers up to 9 GPM hot water flow rate
- Built-in recirculation pump with timer and thermal bypass valve
- Condensing design engineered for outdoor propane setups
- Includes Wi-Fi monitoring support
Cons
- Discontinued model replaced by RSC160eP
- Outdoor installation only
- Unit weighs 80.9 pounds
Good fit if
- You need an outdoor propane heater delivering up to 9 GPM.
- You want built-in recirculation without running a dedicated return line.
- You want Wi-Fi monitoring on a condensing outdoor system.
Skip if
- You require an indoor water heater.
- You prefer an active production model rather than a discontinued unit.
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Heater delivers high-capacity flow and integrated recirculation for outdoor propane configurations. It serves as an effective condensing option if you locate stock despite its discontinued status.
Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater
Best for: indoor setups requiring scheduled recirculation
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- Up to 9 GPM
- BTU
- 160,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 9 x 9 x 9 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater
This Rinnai indoor condensing unit runs on propane and delivers up to 9 GPM, supporting up to six fixtures at once with a 160,000 BTU heat rating. It includes built-in Smart-Circ recirculation that tracks your routine to schedule pump cycles. If you have an indoor installation space and need multi-bath propane capacity with automated scheduled recirculation, this unit suits your home.
Pros
- Delivers up to 9 GPM to run up to 6 fixtures at once
- Smart-Circ technology automatically schedules recirculation based on usage patterns
- Indoor condensing design supports multiple venting options
- Residential warranty covers 15 years on the heat exchanger and 5 years on labor
Cons
- WiFi control requires an additional Controlr module not included in the box
- Engineered exclusively for indoor mounting
- Parts warranty coverage is limited to 1 year
Good fit if
- You need up to 9 GPM to supply multiple indoor fixtures at once
- You want automatic recirculation scheduling without setting manual timers
- You plan to vent a propane condensing heater indoors
Skip if
- You require an outdoor-mounted propane water heater
- You want built-in WiFi connectivity without purchasing additional hardware
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Condensing Propane Water Heater delivers high-capacity indoor hot water with built-in intelligent recirculation scheduling. It is an effective condensing propane option if you want to support up to six fixtures without manual pump management.
Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: large households needing high indoor propane flow
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 11 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 31.3 x 11.5 x 18.5 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 64 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
This Rinnai indoor condensing water heater runs on propane and delivers up to 11 GPM of hot water. That capacity supports up to seven fixtures at the same time, making it suitable for large households with heavy water demands. It includes Circ-Logic technology to manage scheduled or on-demand recirculation with an external pump. If you need whole-home indoor hot water capacity from propane, this high-flow condensing unit matches your setup.
Pros
- High flow rate of up to 11 GPM
- Supports up to 7 appliances at once
- Circ-Logic technology for external pump recirculation
- 15-year residential heat exchanger warranty
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Controlr Wi-Fi module is not included
- Requires an external pump to utilize recirculation
Good fit if
- You need up to 11 GPM to run up to seven appliances at once.
- You plan to install your propane water heater indoors.
- You want Circ-Logic control for an external recirculation pump.
Skip if
- You need an outdoor installation setup.
- You want built-in Wi-Fi without purchasing an optional module.
- You prefer an internal recirculation pump rather than adding an external unit.
Verdict: Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater delivers substantial hot water volume for multi-appliance indoor setups. Its high 11 GPM capacity and Circ-Logic support make it a reliable choice when your household runs several fixtures at once.
Rinnai Commercial Outdoor 9 GPM Propane Tankless Heater
Best for: commercial properties needing outdoor propane water heating
- Fuel Type
- Propane (what this guide is about)
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches
- Use
- Commercial
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: Rinnai Commercial Outdoor 9 GPM Propane Tankless Heater
This Rinnai commercial tankless heater runs on propane and delivers up to 9 GPM for business hot water demands. Designed for outdoor installation, it features condensing technology, Wi-Fi monitoring, and Circ-Logic recirculation controls. If you operate a commercial property requiring high continuous output without occupying interior square footage, this outdoor unit fits your setup while backed by dedicated commercial warranties.
Pros
- Commercial-grade 9 GPM maximum hot water flow rate
- Condensing design with built-in Wi-Fi monitoring
- Circ-Logic technology for programmed recirculation cycles
- Commercial warranty with 8-year heat exchanger and 5-year parts coverage
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- Heavy unit weight at 70.8 pounds
- Requires professional technician installation
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity 9 GPM commercial propane water heater.
- You plan to mount your heating system outdoors to save interior space.
- You want Wi-Fi monitoring and Circ-Logic recirculation scheduling.
Skip if
- You need an indoor-mounted water heater.
- You require a lightweight unit for single-person handling.
Verdict: Rinnai Commercial Outdoor 9 GPM Propane Tankless Heater delivers robust 9 GPM capacity with condensing efficiency and Wi-Fi monitoring for business applications. It provides high-volume exterior water heating without using internal building space.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater | Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater | Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater | Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater | Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater | Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater | Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater | Rinnai Commercial Outdoor 9 GPM Propane Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Propane | Propane | Propane | Propane | Propane | Propane | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 6.1 GPM | 5.3 GPM | 7.5 GPM | 6.6 GPM | 9 GPM | Up to 9 GPM | 11 GPM | 9 GPM |
| BTU | 160k BTU | not specified | not specified | 160k BTU | not specified | 160,000 BTU | not specified | not specified |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Indoor | Outdoor | Indoor | Indoor | Outdoor |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 in | 30 x 13 x 13 in | 35 x 14.5 x 22 inches | 27.3 x 14.1 x 10.8 in | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches | 9 x 9 x 9 inches | 31.3 x 11.5 x 18.5 inches | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches |
| Use | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Commercial |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | not specified | not specified | not specified | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing |
| Weight | 49.2 pounds | 33 pounds | 63 pounds | 51 pounds | 80.9 pounds | 78 pounds | 64 pounds | 70.8 pounds |
| Size | 6.6 GPM | 5.3 GPM | 7.5 GPM | 6.6 GPM | 9 GPM | not specified | 11 GPM | not specified |
| Color | Silver | V53DeP - Propane/5.3 GPM | Outdoor Installation | Silver | Outdoor Installation | Gray | Silver | CU160ep - Propane/9 GPM |
| Model | REU-VE2125WD-US-P | V53DeP | RUS Series | REU-VEP2125FFD-US-P | RUR160ep | RSC160iP | RU199ip | CU160ep |
If you heat an outdoor space with fuel, specifications for the best propane patio heaters compare heat output and coverage.
How to choose the right Rinnai propane heater
-
Match flow to fixture count
Your simultaneous fixture usage dictates the necessary flow rate. The Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater provides a 6.6 GPM output, which suits multi-fixture demand. If you only need moderate capacity, the V53DeP offers 5.3 GPM. Larger households may require the 11 GPM RU199ip or the 9 GPM RUR160ep. Check the GPM specification to ensure the unit can handle your peak water usage without pressure drops.
-
Select indoor or outdoor placement
Installation location determines your venting requirements and physical footprint. Outdoor models like the REU-VE2125WD-US-P mount on exterior walls, saving indoor utility space. Indoor units such as the REU-VEP2125FFD-US-P require condensing venting systems. Verify your available space and local codes. The RUR160ep is also designed for outdoor use. Choosing the correct location early simplifies the entire installation process and ensures proper ventilation.
-
Check condensing vs non-condensing
Venting type affects efficiency and installation complexity. Non-condensing units like the REU-VE2125WD-US-P use standard venting materials. Condensing models, including the RUR160ep and RSC160iP, offer higher efficiency but require specialized PVC venting. The RSC160iP is a compact indoor condensing option. Your choice depends on your home’s existing infrastructure and local building codes. Condensing units are generally more efficient but may cost more to install.
-
Consider recirculation needs
Hot water recirculation reduces wait times for hot water. The REU-VEP2125FFD-US-P includes intelligent recirculation features for indoor homes. The RUR160ep also offers integrated recirculation for outdoor setups. If you need automated scheduling, these models support up to six fixtures. Some units may require separate modules for WiFi access. Decide if you want immediate hot water or are willing to wait for the water to heat through the pipes.
-
Verify commercial vs residential use
Ensure the unit matches your property type. The CU160ep is rated for commercial outdoor use, providing robust 9 GPM capacity with Wi-Fi monitoring. Residential models like the V53DeP or REU-VE2125WD-US-P are optimized for home use. Using a commercial unit in a home may be overkill, while a residential unit in a business may fail prematurely. Check the Use attribute in the specifications to confirm suitability for your specific application.
-
Review physical dimensions
Size constraints matter for installation. The V53DeP is the lightest at 33 pounds, measuring 13 by 30 inches. The RU199ip weighs 64 pounds and measures 11.5 by 31.3 inches. The RUR160ep is heavier at 80.9 pounds. Measure your intended mounting area carefully. Ensure you have adequate clearance for ventilation and maintenance access. The REU-VE2125WD-US-P offers a compact profile at 14.1 by 24.6 inches for tight spaces.
Frequently asked questions
Which Rinnai propane model is best for outdoor use?
The Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater is the top outdoor choice. It offers a 6.6 GPM flow rate with non-condensing venting. The unit measures 14.1 inches wide and weighs 49.2 pounds. Its outdoor design saves indoor utility space while providing steady heating for multiple fixtures.
What is the highest flow rate available in this list?
The Rinnai 11 GPM Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater provides the highest flow at 11 GPM. This model supports large households running several fixtures simultaneously. It uses condensing venting and measures 11.5 inches wide by 31.3 inches tall. It is designed for indoor installation only.
Are there indoor Rinnai propane heaters with recirculation?
Yes, the Rinnai Smart-Circ Propane Tankless Water Heater features intelligent recirculation. It delivers 6.6 GPM and supports up to five fixtures. This indoor unit measures 14.1 inches wide and 27.3 inches tall. You must purchase a separate module for WiFi access to manage the recirculation schedule.
Which model is the lightest to install?
The Rinnai 5.3 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater is the lightest option at 33 pounds. It provides 5.3 GPM of hot water for moderate demand. The unit measures 13 inches wide and 30 inches tall. Its compact size makes it a reliable choice for dedicated outdoor propane setups.
Does Rinnai offer a commercial propane tankless heater?
The Rinnai Commercial Outdoor 9 GPM Propane Tankless Heater is designed for business applications. It delivers 9 GPM with condensing efficiency and includes WiFi monitoring. The unit measures 14.8 inches wide and weighs 70.8 pounds. It provides high-volume exterior water heating without occupying internal building space.
What is the difference between condensing and non-condensing venting?
Non-condensing models like the REU-VE2125WD-US-P use standard venting and are suitable for outdoor mounts. Condensing models, such as the RUR160ep, recover more heat and require specific venting. Indoor units like the RSC160iP must be condensing. Your installation location dictates which venting type is required for safety and efficiency.
Can I run six fixtures with a Rinnai propane heater?
Yes, the Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater supports up to six appliances. It provides 7.5 GPM for high-demand outdoor installations. The unit measures 14.5 inches wide and weighs 63 pounds. The indoor RSC160iP also supports six fixtures using its 9 GPM condensing capacity.
Which Rinnai propane heater includes built-in recirculation?
The Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater includes integrated recirculation. It delivers high-capacity flow for outdoor propane configurations. The unit measures 14.8 inches wide and weighs 80.9 pounds. It is a discontinued model but remains effective if you can locate stock for your outdoor setup.