Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel vs Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane: Spec Comparison
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We compare the Rinnai RX199iN and the RUR160ep in this rinnai 11 1 gpm condensing dual fuel vs 9 gpm outdoor propane guide. Both units use condensing technology and offer high flow rates for whole-home hot water. The main difference lies in flexibility. The RX199iN supports both propane and natural gas and works indoors or outdoors. The RUR160ep is strictly for outdoor propane use. You should check your fuel source and installation space before deciding.
Key differences
| Aspect | Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater | Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 11.1 GPM | 9 GPM |
| Fuel Type | Propane or Natural Gas | Propane |
| Installation Location | Indoor/Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Dimensions | 30.1 x 18.5 x 30.1 inches | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches |
| Weight | 55 pounds | 80.9 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater if
- You need hot water for up to seven fixtures simultaneously
- You want the flexibility to use natural gas or propane
- You plan to install the unit inside your home
Choose Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater if
- You have a dedicated outdoor space for installation
- You only use propane as your fuel source
- You prefer a unit with a built-in recirculation pump
Verdict: The RX199iN offers higher capacity and dual-fuel flexibility, making it suitable for larger homes or mixed fuel situations. The RUR160ep is a specialized outdoor unit with recirculation features for propane-only setups. Choose the model that matches your fuel type and installation constraints.
Rinnai 11.1 vs 9 GPM Comparison
Flow Rate Capacity
The Rinnai RX199iN delivers a maximum flow rate of 11.1 gallons per minute. This higher output supports up to seven fixtures running simultaneously. The Rinnai RUR160ep provides 9 gallons per minute. This capacity is sufficient for most standard homes. You get less total volume with the smaller unit. If you have a large household with multiple bathrooms, the RX199iN handles the demand better. The RUR160ep is adequate for smaller families or apartments. Choose the higher flow rate if you need more simultaneous hot water access.
Fuel Flexibility
The RX199iN features a Smart Sense gas control system. It runs on either propane or natural gas. This dual-fuel capability offers installation flexibility. You can switch fuel sources based on local availability or cost. The RUR160ep is designed for propane only. It does not support natural gas. If your home already has a natural gas line, the RX199iN is the better choice. The RUR160ep restricts you to propane tanks or a dedicated propane line. Fuel flexibility is a key advantage for the RX199iN.
Installation Location
The RX199iN is versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. It installs indoors or outdoors with the appropriate vent cap. The RUR160ep is built for outdoor installation only. It is not rated for indoor environments. If you need to place the unit inside a garage or utility room, you must choose the RX199iN. The RUR160ep is strictly for exterior mounting. This limits where you can place the unit. Location flexibility favors the RX199iN significantly for most residential setups.
Recirculation Technology
The RUR160ep includes ThermaCirc360 technology. This system features a built-in recirculation pump, timer, and thermal bypass valve. It provides faster hot water delivery without a dedicated return line. The RX199iN data does not list a built-in recirculation pump. You may need to add external controls or pumps for similar functionality. If you want instant hot water at the tap without waiting, the RUR160ep has a clear advantage. This feature reduces water waste and wait time.
Physical Dimensions
The RX199iN measures 30.1 inches in height and width, with a depth of 18.5 inches. It weighs 55 pounds. The RUR160ep is taller at 33.9 inches and narrower at 14.8 inches wide. It weighs 80.9 pounds. The RX199iN is lighter and more compact in width. The RUR160ep is heavier and taller. Space constraints matter for both units. The RX199iN fits better in tighter horizontal spaces. The RUR160ep requires more vertical clearance. Dimensions affect mounting options and structural support needs.
Which Rinnai tankless water heater suits you
You need high flow and flexible placement
The RX199iN offers 11.1 GPM capacity, supporting up to seven fixtures at once. It runs on propane or natural gas and works indoors or outdoors. This dual-fuel flexibility and higher flow rate make it ideal for large households needing versatile installation options and maximum hot water output.
You want built-in recirculation for faster hot water
The RUR160ep includes ThermaCirc360 technology with a built-in recirculation pump. This feature delivers faster hot water without requiring a dedicated return line. It is designed for outdoor propane use and provides a steady 9 GPM flow. This setup reduces wait times and conserves energy in homes without existing return plumbing.
You prefer a lighter unit for easier mounting
The RUR160ep weighs 80.9 pounds, which is heavier than the RX199iN at 55 pounds. However, its narrower profile at 14.8 inches wide fits tighter spaces. If you are installing outdoors and prioritize a compact footprint over maximum flow rate, this outdoor-specific model provides reliable 9 GPM performance in a smaller visual package.
You want smart control and easy maintenance
The RX199iN features a Quick Flush feature for simplified maintenance and an easy-to-use interface. You can add WiFi control via the separate Controlr module. Its compact suitcase size and high UEF of .98 make it efficient. This model suits buyers who value modern smart features and straightforward servicing routines.
The products compared
Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater
Best for: Large households needing high flow and dual-fuel flexibility
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas or Propane
- Flow Rate
- 11.1 GPM
- BTU
- 199k BTU
- Installation Location
- Indoor/Outdoor
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Dimensions
- 30.1 × 18.5 × 30.1 inches
View on Amazon: Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rinnai RX199iN delivers 11.1 GPM of hot water using either propane or natural gas. Its condensing design achieves a 0.98 UEF for high efficiency. You can install it indoors or outdoors, though outdoor setups require a specific vent cap. The unit measures 30.1 by 18.5 by 30.1 inches and weighs 55 pounds. It suits large households needing simultaneous fixture use.
Pros
- 11.1 GPM flow rate supports up to seven fixtures
- Dual-fuel capability with Smart Sense gas control
- Condensing technology yields a 0.98 energy factor
- Indoor and outdoor installation flexibility
Cons
- WiFi control requires a separate Controlr module
- Outdoor installation needs a specific RX-OVC vent cap
- Labor warranty drops to one year if not registered within 90 days
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple bathrooms
- You want flexible fuel options for your home
- You plan to install the unit outdoors
Skip if
- You want built-in WiFi without extra parts
- You prefer a smaller footprint under 30 inches
- You need a longer standard labor warranty
Verdict: Rinnai RX199iN 11.1 GPM Dual-Fuel Condensing Unit provides top-tier flow and efficiency for homes with high hot water demands. It fits buyers who value dual-fuel flexibility and outdoor installation options.
Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater
Best for: High-demand outdoor propane installations
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- 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 Affiliate link
This Rinnai unit delivers 9 GPM of hot water using propane fuel. It is designed for outdoor installation and features condensing venting technology. The ThermaCirc360 system includes a built-in recirculation pump and thermal bypass valve to reduce wait times. Its compact dimensions measure 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches. This model suits homes needing high flow rates for multiple fixtures simultaneously.
Pros
- 9 GPM flow rate for high-demand usage
- Built-in recirculation pump and thermal bypass valve
- Condensing design for energy efficiency
- 15-year residential heat exchanger warranty
Cons
- Propane fuel only, not dual-fuel capable
- Outdoor installation required, limiting placement options
- Model is discontinued in favor of newer versions
Good fit if
- You need high flow rate for multiple bathrooms
- You have outdoor space for installation
- You prefer propane fuel source
Skip if
- You need indoor installation capability
- You require natural gas compatibility
- You want current production model
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Heater provides strong performance for outdoor setups. It fits homes with high hot water demand and propane access. Buyers seeking indoor or dual-fuel options should look elsewhere.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater | Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Propane Condensing Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas or Propane | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 11.1 GPM | 9 GPM |
| BTU | 199k BTU | not stated |
| Installation Location | Indoor/Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Dimensions | not stated | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches |
| Venting Type | Condensing | Condensing |
| Weight | 55 pounds | 80.9 pounds |
| Size | 11.1 GPM | 9 GPM |
| Color | Silver | Outdoor Installation |
| Model | RX199iN | RUR160ep |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the Rinnai 11.1 GPM unit outdoors?
Yes, you can install the Rinnai RX199iN outdoors. The product verdict explicitly notes that it fits buyers who value outdoor installation options. This flexibility allows you to place the unit outside without compromising its dual-fuel capabilities or condensing performance for your home.
What is the physical size difference between the two models?
The RX199iN is wider but shorter than the RUR160ep. The RX199iN measures 18.5 inches wide, 30.1 inches tall, and 30.1 inches long. The RUR160ep is narrower at 14.8 inches wide, but taller at 33.9 inches and shorter in depth at 22.1 inches. Consider your available space carefully.
Does the 11.1 GPM model use condensing technology?
Yes, the Rinnai RX199iN uses condensing technology. Its attributes list condensing as the venting type. This means it recovers heat from exhaust gases to improve efficiency, similar to the RUR160ep. Both units rely on this method to maximize energy use for your hot water needs.
Which heater is lighter for mounting purposes?
The RX199iN is lighter than the RUR160ep. The RX199iN weighs 55 pounds. The RUR160ep weighs 80.9 pounds. If you need a unit that is easier to handle during installation or mounting, the lighter RX199iN may be more convenient for your specific setup requirements.
Can I use natural gas with the outdoor propane model?
No, the RUR160ep is designed for propane only. Its attributes specify propane as the fuel type. The verdict also states that buyers seeking dual-fuel options should look elsewhere. If you need to switch between propane and natural gas, you must choose the RX199iN instead.
How many fixtures can the 9 GPM model support?
The RUR160ep provides 9 gallons per minute. This capacity is sufficient for high-demand outdoor setups. While it supports fewer simultaneous fixtures than the 11.1 GPM model, it still delivers strong performance for homes with propane access and significant hot water requirements in an outdoor environment.
What color options are available for these Rinnai heaters?
The RX199iN is available in silver. The RUR160ep is listed with an outdoor installation color designation. These finishes are designed to blend with your exterior or interior space. The specific aesthetic details are limited to these descriptions in the provided product data.