Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel or Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater? Which Rinnai Model to Buy
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The comparison of the rinnai 11 1 gpm condensing dual fuel vs indoor propane condensing models highlights two distinct approaches to tankless hot water. Both units are compact, condensing water heaters from Rinnai designed for residential use. They share a focus on high efficiency and professional installation requirements. The primary difference lies in their flexibility and capacity. One model offers dual-fuel capability and indoor or outdoor placement, while the other is a dedicated indoor propane unit with integrated recirculation technology.
Key differences
| Aspect | Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater | Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 11.1 GPM | Up to 9 GPM |
| Fuel Type | Propane or Natural Gas | Propane |
| Installation Location | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor |
| Recirculation | Not listed | Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater if
- You need the highest possible flow rate for multiple simultaneous fixtures.
- You want the flexibility to use either propane or natural gas.
- You plan to install the unit in an outdoor location.
Choose Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater if
- You are strictly using propane as your fuel source.
- You want built-in recirculation to reduce wait times for hot water.
- You have a dedicated indoor space and do not need outdoor versatility.
Verdict: Choose the RX199iN if you need maximum flow capacity and dual-fuel flexibility for indoor or outdoor use. Select the RSC160iP if you are set on propane and value the convenience of intelligent recirculation for reduced hot water wait times.
Rinnai Dual-Fuel vs Propane Comparison
Fuel flexibility
The Rinnai RX199iN offers dual-fuel capability, running on either propane or natural gas thanks to its Smart Sense gas control system. This versatility allows you to choose the most available or cost-effective fuel source for your home. In contrast, the Rinnai RSC160iP is designed exclusively for propane. If your home already has a natural gas line or if you prefer the flexibility to switch fuels without modifying the unit, the RX199iN provides a clear advantage. The RSC160iP is locked to propane, limiting its compatibility with homes that do not have a propane tank or supply.
Flow rate capacity
When it comes to delivering hot water, the Rinnai RX199iN leads with a maximum flow rate of 11.1 GPM. This higher output supports up to seven fixtures running simultaneously, making it suitable for larger households with heavy hot water demand. The Rinnai RSC160iP provides up to 9 GPM, which supports six fixtures at once. While both units are compact, the RX199iN’s superior flow rate ensures better performance during peak usage times. If you frequently run multiple showers or appliances at the same time, the RX199iN’s higher capacity reduces the risk of temperature drops or insufficient flow.
Installation location
The Rinnai RX199iN is versatile regarding placement, as it can be installed either indoors or outdoors. For outdoor installation, you simply need to add the RX-OVC vent cap. This flexibility allows you to mount the unit in various locations, such as a garage, basement, or exterior wall. The Rinnai RSC160iP, however, is strictly for indoor installation. If your home requires an outdoor unit to save interior space or if you are in a region with extreme temperatures where outdoor placement is preferred, the RX199iN is the only option. The RSC160iP is limited to indoor environments only.
Recirculation technology
The Rinnai RSC160iP features Smart-Circ intelligent recirculation technology, which learns your water usage patterns and schedules the pump and recirculation accordingly. This feature aims to provide superior energy efficiency and convenience by delivering hot water on demand without wasting water. The Rinnai RX199iN data does not list Smart-Circ technology. While the RX199iN includes a Quick Flush feature for simplified maintenance, it lacks the automated recirculation learning capabilities found in the RSC160iP. If you want a system that automatically manages hot water delivery based on your habits, the RSC160iP offers a distinct functional advantage.
Energy efficiency
Both units are condensing water heaters designed for high efficiency. The Rinnai RX199iN boasts a super-high energy efficiency factor (UEF) of .98. This rating indicates excellent performance in converting fuel into hot water with minimal waste. The Rinnai RSC160iP is ENERGY STAR qualified with a Uniform Energy Factor of 0.110. Note that the RSC160iP’s listed UEF of 0.110 appears inconsistent with typical condensing unit ratings and may be a data error, as condensing units usually exceed 0.90. However, based strictly on the provided data, the RX199iN’s explicit UEF of .98 suggests higher verified efficiency. The RX199iN is the safer choice for maximizing energy savings based on the available specifications.
Choose the Right Rinnai Model
Large households needing high flow
The RX199iN delivers 11.1 GPM, supporting up to seven fixtures simultaneously. Its dual-fuel Smart Sense system lets you switch between propane and natural gas. This flexibility ensures reliable hot water for busy homes with multiple bathrooms and appliances running at once.
Users wanting smart recirculation
The RSC160iP features Smart-Circ technology that learns your usage patterns. It automatically schedules recirculation for energy efficiency and convenience. This model provides up to 9 GPM, making it ideal for homes that prioritize automated hot water delivery without manual intervention.
Flexible indoor or outdoor install
You can install the RX199iN indoors or outdoors thanks to Versa Vent compatibility. It accepts both propane and natural gas. This dual capability offers greater placement options and fuel flexibility, whereas the RSC160iP is strictly for indoor propane installation.
The products compared
Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater
Best for: High-demand households needing flexible fuel options
- 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
This Rinnai unit delivers 11.1 GPM of hot water for up to seven fixtures. It uses a condensing design with a .98 UEF for high efficiency. The Smart Sense system allows it to run on propane or natural gas. You can install it indoors or outdoors. It measures 30.1 x 18.5 x 30.1 inches and weighs 55 pounds. Professional installation is required for proper setup.
Pros
- 11.1 GPM flow rate supports seven simultaneous fixtures
- Dual-fuel capability for propane or natural gas
- Condensing technology achieves .98 UEF efficiency
- Versa Vent allows indoor or outdoor placement
Cons
- WiFi control requires a separate Controlr module
- Labor warranty drops to one year if not registered within 90 days
- Outdoor installation needs a specific RX-OVC vent cap
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple bathrooms
- You want flexibility in fuel type
- You have space for a 55-pound unit
Skip if
- You prefer a self-installing unit
- You lack the specific vent cap for outdoor use
- You want built-in WiFi without extra parts
Verdict: Rinnai 11.1 GPM Dual-Fuel Condensing offers high efficiency and flexible installation for homes needing substantial hot water. It fits users who value dual-fuel options and professional setup over plug-and-play simplicity.
Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Compact indoor propane installations
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- 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 Affiliate link
This Rinnai indoor tankless water heater runs on propane and delivers up to 9 GPM of hot water. It measures 9 x 9 x 9 inches and weighs 78 pounds. The unit features Smart-Circ technology to learn your usage patterns and schedule recirculation. It is ENERGY STAR qualified with a Uniform Energy Factor of 0.110. The compact design fits in small spaces. It includes a 15-year heat exchanger guarantee.
Pros
- Delivers up to 9 GPM flow rate
- Smart-Circ technology learns usage patterns
- Compact 9 x 9 x 9 inch size
- ENERGY STAR qualified with 0.110 UEF
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Propane fuel type limits outdoor use
- WiFi control module sold separately
Good fit if
- You need a compact indoor unit
- You use propane as your fuel source
- You want smart recirculation scheduling
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation
- You need natural gas compatibility
- You want built-in WiFi control
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Propane Indoor Condensing Heater fits homes with propane fuel and limited indoor space. It suits users who value compact dimensions and smart recirculation scheduling.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 11.1 GPM Condensing Dual-Fuel Water Heater | Rinnai Indoor Propane Condensing Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas or Propane | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 11.1 GPM | Up to 9 GPM |
| BTU | 199k BTU | 160,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor |
| Dimensions | not stated | 9 x 9 x 9 inches |
| Venting Type | Condensing | Condensing |
| Weight | 55 pounds | 78 pounds |
| Size | 11.1 GPM | not stated |
| Color | Silver | Gray |
| Model | RX199iN | RSC160iP |
Frequently asked questions
Which Rinnai model is better for a large family with high hot water demand?
The Rinnai RX199iN is the better choice for large households. It delivers 11.1 GPM, supporting up to seven fixtures simultaneously. This high flow rate ensures consistent hot water for busy homes with multiple bathrooms and appliances running at the same time.
Can the RX199iN run on both propane and natural gas?
Yes, the Rinnai RX199iN features dual-fuel capability. It uses a Smart Sense gas control system to switch between propane and natural gas. This flexibility allows you to choose the most available or cost-effective fuel source for your specific installation needs.
Is the Rinnai RSC160iP suitable for small indoor spaces?
Yes, the Rinnai RSC160iP is designed for compact indoor installations. It measures 9 inches in width, height, and length. Its small footprint makes it ideal for homes with limited space where a larger unit would not fit comfortably.
Do both units use condensing technology for efficiency?
Yes, both the RX199iN and the RSC160iP are condensing water heaters. This technology captures heat from exhaust gases to preheat incoming water. It results in higher energy efficiency compared to non-condensing models, lowering your overall energy consumption.
Which unit weighs more, the dual-fuel or the propane model?
The Rinnai RSC160iP weighs more at 78 pounds. The RX199iN weighs 55 pounds. You should check your installation surface to ensure it can support the heavier unit if you choose the propane model for your home.
What is the maximum flow rate of the Rinnai RX199iN?
The Rinnai RX199iN has a maximum flow rate of 11.1 GPM. This specification allows it to serve multiple high-demand fixtures at once. It is suitable for homes requiring substantial hot water volume for showers, laundry, and kitchen sinks.
Does the propane model require outdoor venting?
No, the Rinnai RSC160iP is designed for indoor installation. It uses condensing venting technology, which allows it to be vented through a wall or roof from inside the home. This makes it versatile for various indoor layouts.