Rheem RTG Series 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater vs Rheem RTGH Series 6.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
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This comparison examines the rheem rtg series 9 5 gpm natural gas tankless water heater vs rtgh models. Both units are indoor, natural gas heaters with digital LED controls and CSA safety certification. They share similar warranty terms and freeze protection. The main difference lies in their efficiency and capacity. The RTG offers higher flow and WiFi connectivity, while the RTGH provides superior condensing efficiency. You need to weigh flow rate against energy savings.
Key differences
| Aspect | Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater | Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 9.5 GPM | 6.8 GPM |
| BTU Output | 199,900 BTU/hr | 120,000 BTU/hr |
| UEF Efficiency | 0.82 | 0.93 |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | Condensing |
| WiFi Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | 24.2 x 13.5 x 10.3 inches | 23.7 x 17.7 x 9.8 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater if
- You need hot water for 3-4 simultaneous showers.
- You want remote monitoring via WiFi.
- You have a larger home with higher demand.
Choose Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater if
- You prioritize maximum energy efficiency.
- You require condensing technology for lower emissions.
- You need hot water for 2-3 simultaneous showers.
Verdict: Choose the RTG if you need higher flow rates and smart home features for larger households. Select the RTGH if you want the highest efficiency rating and condensing technology for smaller to medium homes. Both models provide reliable indoor heating with professional installation required.
RTG vs RTGH Spec Breakdown
Flow capacity
The Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater delivers 9.5 gallons per minute at a 35°F temperature rise. This higher output supports 3 to 4 simultaneous showers, making it suitable for large families or multi-bathroom homes. The Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater provides 6.8 GPM under the same conditions. This capacity is ideal for 2 to 3 simultaneous showers. If your household runs multiple water points at once, the RTG offers significantly more volume. You will not have to wait for the other units to finish if you choose the higher flow model.
Power output
Heating capacity is measured in BTUs. The RTG series unit generates 199,900 BTUs per hour. This high output drives its superior flow rate. The RTGH series unit generates 120,000 BTUs per hour. This lower output aligns with its reduced flow capacity. Both units use natural gas as their fuel source. The RTG provides nearly 80,000 more BTUs of power. This extra power allows the RTG to heat water faster and maintain higher flow rates during cold inlet conditions. If you need maximum heating power, the RTG is the stronger choice.
Energy efficiency
Efficiency is rated by the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). The RTG series has a UEF of 0.82. It uses non-condensing technology. The RTGH series has a higher UEF of 0.93. It uses super high-efficiency condensing technology. The RTGH saves more energy by capturing heat from exhaust gases. Both units claim savings of up to 34% compared to standard 50-gallon electric tank heaters. If lowering gas consumption is your priority, the RTGH is the more efficient option. Its condensing design extracts more heat from the same amount of gas.
Smart connectivity
Connectivity options differ between the two models. The RTG 9.5 GPM model is WiFi enabled. It includes a digital LED control panel for precise temperature adjustments. The RTGH 6.8 GPM model is listed as having no WiFi in its size specification. It still features a digital LED temperature control with ±1°F precision. If you want to monitor or adjust settings remotely from your phone, the RTG is the only option. The RTGH requires manual adjustment at the unit itself. For remote management, the RTG has the clear advantage.
Physical dimensions
Size matters for installation space. The RTG measures 24.2 inches in height, 13.5 inches in width, and 10.3 inches in length. It weighs 46.5 pounds. The RTGH measures 23.7 inches in height, 17.7 inches in width, and 9.8 inches in length. It weighs 59.9 pounds. The RTG is taller but narrower. The RTGH is shorter but wider and heavier. If you have a narrow vertical space, the RTG might fit better. If you have a wider shelf or platform, the RTGH is more compact in height. Check your available footprint carefully.
Which Rheem Tankless Model Fits You
Large family needing high flow
You need 9.5 GPM to run 3 to 4 showers at once. The 199,900 BTU output ensures consistent hot water for busy households. This model handles simultaneous demand better than lower flow options, making it ideal for multi-bathroom homes with high usage needs.
Buyer prioritizing energy efficiency
This unit features condensing technology with a 0.93 UEF rating. It uses up to 34% less energy than standard tank heaters. The super high efficiency design lowers gas bills while maintaining safety with CSA certification and low NOx emissions for eco-conscious indoor installation.
Small household or apartment user
With 6.8 GPM capacity, this heater supports 2 to 3 simultaneous showers. It is sufficient for smaller families or apartments. The compact indoor design fits well in limited spaces. You get precise temperature control and freeze protection without needing excessive flow capacity.
The products compared
Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: Large homes needing high flow rates
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 9.5 GPM
- BTU
- 199,900 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
This Rheem RTG unit delivers 9.5 GPM at a 35°F rise, powered by 199,900 BTUs. It is a non-condensing natural gas heater designed for indoor installation. The device features WiFi connectivity and digital LED controls with ±1°F precision. It suits large families needing simultaneous hot water for three to four showers. Its wall-mount design saves floor space compared to traditional tank heaters.
Pros
- 9.5 GPM flow rate supports 3-4 simultaneous showers
- 199,900 BTU/hr high efficiency output
- WiFi enabled for remote monitoring
- Digital LED control with ±1°F precision
- Non-condensing design for indoor use
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- Heavier at 46.5 pounds
- Indoor installation only
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple bathrooms
- You want WiFi connectivity for monitoring
- You are replacing an indoor tank heater
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation
- You prefer a lighter unit under 40 pounds
- You need a condensing model
Verdict: Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas is a high-output indoor heater for large households. It fits homes needing simultaneous hot water for multiple showers with digital control.
Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
Best for: indoor small household hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- BTU
- 120,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This Rheem RTGH unit delivers 6.8 GPM at a 35°F rise, powered by 120,000 BTU/hr. It features a compact 23.7 x 17.7 x 9.8 inch footprint designed for indoor direct-vent installation. The 0.93 UEF rating ensures high efficiency. It suits small to medium households needing reliable hot water for two to three simultaneous showers without requiring outdoor space.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 35°F rise
- 0.93 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF)
- Compact 23.7 x 17.7 x 9.8 inch dimensions
- Digital LED temperature control with ±1°F precision
Cons
- Indoor installation only requires direct venting
- Lower flow rate than the 9.5 GPM competitor
- Heavier at 59.9 pounds than standard tankless units
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for indoor closets
- You want high efficiency with a 0.93 UEF
- You have a small to medium household
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation capability
- You need higher flow than 6.8 GPM
- You prefer lighter units under 50 pounds
Verdict: Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas fits homes with limited indoor space. It provides steady hot water for small families. It is not ideal for large households needing higher flow.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater | Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 9.5 GPM | 6.8 GPM |
| BTU | 199,900 BTU/hr | 120,000 BTU/hr |
| Installation Location | Indoor | Indoor |
| Temperature Control | ±1°F | ±1°F |
| Certification | CSA | CSA |
| Dimensions | 24.2 x 13.5 x 10.3 inches | 23.7 x 17.7 x 9.8 inches |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | not stated |
| Features | WiFi | WiFi |
| Weight | 46.5 pounds | 59.9 pounds |
| Size | 9.5 GPM (WiFi) | 6.8 GPM (No WiFi) |
| Color | Gray | Gray |
| Model | RTG-95DVELN-3 | RTGH-68DVLN-3 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM heater be installed outdoors?
No, this unit is designed for indoor installation only. The specifications list the installation location as indoor. You must place it in a protected area like a garage or utility room. Outdoor installation could damage the non-condensing venting system and void the product integrity.
Does the Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM model include WiFi connectivity?
No, the RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater does not include WiFi. The specs explicitly state it has no WiFi. If remote monitoring is important to you, the RTG 9.5 GPM model is the better choice as it features built-in WiFi for digital control.
How much space does the Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM heater take up?
The Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater measures 13.5 inches in width, 24.2 inches in height, and 10.3 inches in length. It weighs 46.5 pounds. These dimensions allow it to fit in standard utility closets. Check your available space against these measurements before purchasing.
Is the Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM heater suitable for large families?
It is not ideal for large households needing high flow rates. The RTGH 6.8 GPM model provides 6.8 gallons per minute. This output supports small families with limited simultaneous hot water needs. Large households requiring multiple showers at once will likely find the flow rate insufficient for their demands.
What type of venting does the Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM use?
The Rheem RTG 9.5 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater uses non-condensing venting. This affects how you install the exhaust pipes. You must follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for non-condensing gas venting. This setup is standard for indoor natural gas installations in most residential settings.
Which Rheem model is heavier, the RTG or the RTGH?
The Rheem RTGH 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater is heavier. It weighs 59.9 pounds, while the RTG 9.5 GPM model weighs 46.5 pounds. The RTGH is also slightly wider at 17.7 inches compared to the RTG’s 13.5 inches. Ensure your mounting surface can support the weight.
Can both heaters run on propane instead of natural gas?
The provided specifications only list Natural Gas as the fuel type for both models. There is no data indicating they can run on propane. You must use natural gas for these specific units. Check the nameplate on the actual unit or consult Rheem directly if you need propane compatibility.