Rinnai RE160eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater or Rinnai RUS75eP Tankless Hot Water? Which Rinnai Model to Buy
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The comparison of the rinnai re160ep non condensing propane tankless water heater vs rus75ep helps you choose the right outdoor unit. Both are propane models designed for outdoor installation. They share the same fuel source and placement requirements. The main difference lies in their capacity and physical size. The RE160eP offers a lower flow rate in a compact frame, while the RUS75eP provides higher output in a larger chassis. Your choice depends on your hot water demands and available space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater | Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 6.6 GPM | 7.5 GPM |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 in | 35 x 14.5 x 22 in |
| Weight | 49.2 pounds | 63 pounds |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | not listed |
| Heat Exchanger Warranty | 15 years | 12 years |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater if
- You need a compact unit that fits in tight outdoor spaces.
- You prefer a longer heat exchanger warranty period.
- You want a lighter unit that is easier to handle during installation.
Choose Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater if
- You require a higher flow rate to serve up to six fixtures simultaneously.
- You have ample space for a larger, taller installation footprint.
- You prioritize maximum hot water volume over compact dimensions.
Verdict: Choose the RE160eP if space is limited and you value a longer warranty on the heat exchanger. Select the RUS75eP if you need higher flow capacity to support more simultaneous fixtures. Both units deliver endless hot water using propane for outdoor use.
Rinnai RE160eP vs RUS75eP Comparison
Flow rate capacity
The Rinnai RE160eP delivers up to 6.1 GPM, serving five fixtures simultaneously. This model provides consistent hot water for most standard households. The Rinnai RUS75eP offers a higher flow rate of 7.5 GPM. It can support up to six appliances at once. This extra capacity handles higher demand scenarios better. If you need more simultaneous hot water, the RUS75eP is the stronger choice. The RE160eP remains sufficient for typical daily use but has less headroom.
Physical dimensions
Size matters for outdoor placement. The Rinnai RE160eP measures 24.6 inches in height, 14.1 inches in width, and 10.8 inches in depth. It is compact and fits easily in tight spaces. The Rinnai RUS75eP is larger, standing 35 inches tall. Its width is 14.5 inches and depth is 22 inches. The RUS75eP requires more vertical and horizontal clearance. You must check your installation area carefully. The RE160eP is more space-efficient for constrained outdoor spots.
Weight
Weight affects installation ease and structural support needs. The Rinnai RE160eP weighs 49.2 pounds. This lighter weight makes it easier to handle during mounting. The Rinnai RUS75eP weighs 63 pounds. It is significantly heavier due to its larger build. You may need additional assistance or hardware for the RUS75eP. The lighter RE160eP is simpler to manage. Consider your mounting surface strength and your ability to lift the unit safely.
Warranty coverage
Warranty terms protect your investment. The Rinnai RE160eP includes a 15-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger. It also provides a 5-year warranty on parts and labor, provided registration occurs within 90 days. The Rinnai RUS75eP offers a 12-year warranty on the heat exchanger. It includes a 5-year warranty on parts and labor. The RE160eP provides three additional years of heat exchanger protection. This longer coverage offers better long-term security for the buyer.
Venting type
Venting determines where you can place the unit. The Rinnai RE160eP is a non-condensing model. It requires specific venting materials suitable for higher exhaust temperatures. The Rinnai RUS75eP also supports outdoor installation. It offers multiple venting options, including PVC or CPVC with an adaptor. This flexibility allows for different piping configurations. The RUS75eP provides more versatility in venting choices. The RE160eP is restricted to non-condensing venting standards.
Choose the right Rinnai for you
You need high flow for multiple bathrooms
The Rinnai RUS75eP delivers 7.5 GPM. This higher flow rate supports up to six appliances at once. It provides a powerful, constant stream of hot water. If your home has multiple bathrooms or high-demand fixtures, this model ensures you never run out of hot water during peak usage times.
You want a compact unit for small spaces
The Rinnai RE160eP measures 24.6 by 14.1 by 10.8 inches. It weighs only 49.2 pounds. This compact footprint fits easily in tight outdoor areas. It serves five fixtures simultaneously with 6.1 GPM. Choose this model if space is limited or you prefer a smaller, suitcase-sized unit for your installation spot.
You prioritize longer heat exchanger warranty
The Rinnai RE160eP includes a 15-year residential guarantee on the heat exchanger. The RUS75eP offers a 12-year guarantee for the same component. If long-term durability and coverage are your top priorities, the RE160eP provides an additional three years of protection for the core heating element.
The products compared
Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater
Best for: outdoor propane homes needing high flow
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- 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
View on Amazon: Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rinnai RE160eP is a non-condensing propane tankless water heater designed for outdoor installation. It delivers a flow rate of 6.6 GPM, providing hot water for up to six fixtures simultaneously. The unit measures 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 inches and weighs 49.2 pounds. Its compact suitcase-sized design simplifies installation. You should consider this model if you need a reliable outdoor propane solution with a durable heat exchanger.
Pros
- High flow rate of 6.6 GPM for multiple fixtures
- Compact outdoor design fits in small spaces
- 15-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger
- LED screen displays error codes and service reminders
Cons
- Limited to outdoor installation only
- WiFi control module sold separately
- Labor warranty drops to one year if not registered within 90 days
Good fit if
- You need a propane heater for an outdoor location
- You require a high flow rate for multiple bathrooms
- You want a compact unit with a long heat exchanger warranty
Skip if
- You need an indoor installation model
- You prefer natural gas over propane
- You want built-in WiFi connectivity without buying extra parts
Verdict: Rinnai RE160eP Propane Outdoor Heater is a robust choice for outdoor propane setups requiring high flow. It suits households needing hot water for multiple fixtures at once.
Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: High-flow outdoor propane installations
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- 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 Affiliate link
The Rinnai RUS75eP delivers up to 7.5 GPM of endless hot water using propane. This outdoor unit measures 35 by 14.5 by 22 inches and weighs 63 pounds. It features multiple venting options and serves up to six appliances simultaneously. The compact design conserves energy by heating water only when needed. It includes a 12-year heat exchanger warranty for long-term reliability.
Pros
- 7.5 GPM flow rate for up to six appliances
- Compact outdoor dimensions of 35 by 14.5 by 22 inches
- 12-year residential warranty on the heat exchanger
- Flexible venting options including PVC/CPVC
Cons
- Requires outdoor installation only
- Uses propane fuel instead of natural gas
- Professional installation is required
Good fit if
- You need a high-flow outdoor propane unit
- You want to serve multiple appliances at once
- You prefer flexible venting configurations
Skip if
- You require indoor installation
- You use natural gas instead of propane
- You need a smaller 6.5 GPM model
Verdict: Rinnai RUS75eP Propane Outdoor Heater provides robust 7.5 GPM performance for outdoor propane setups. It suits households needing high-volume hot water for multiple simultaneous uses.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater | Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 6.1 GPM | 7.5 GPM |
| BTU | 160k BTU | not stated |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 in | 35 x 14.5 x 22 inches |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | not stated |
| Weight | 49.2 pounds | 63 pounds |
| Size | 6.6 GPM | 7.5 GPM |
| Color | Silver | Outdoor Installation |
| Model | REU-VE2125WD-US-P | RUS Series |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference in flow rate between these two Rinnai models?
The Rinnai RUS75eP delivers a higher flow rate of 7.5 GPM compared to the RE160eP's 6.6 GPM. This means the RUS75eP can support more simultaneous fixtures. You get a stronger, more consistent stream of hot water with the higher-capacity unit. This makes the RUS75eP better for larger households with multiple bathrooms.
Are both units suitable for outdoor installation?
Yes, both the Rinnai RE160eP and the RUS75eP are designed for outdoor installation. They are built to withstand outdoor conditions. You do not need to worry about indoor venting requirements. Both models use non-condensing venting, which is standard for outdoor propane setups. This simplifies your installation process significantly.
How much space does each water heater require?
The RUS75eP is larger, measuring 35 inches in height and 22 inches in length. It weighs 63 pounds. The RE160eP is more compact at 24.6 inches high and 10.8 inches long. It weighs 49.2 pounds. If you have limited wall space, the RE160eP fits into tighter areas more easily.
Do these heaters run on propane?
Yes, both models operate on propane fuel. They are designed for outdoor propane setups. You will need a propane supply line for either unit. Both units provide reliable hot water using this fuel source. They are not compatible with natural gas without specific conversion kits, which are not included.
Which model is better for a home with multiple bathrooms?
The Rinnai RUS75eP is the better choice for homes with multiple bathrooms. It offers a 7.5 GPM flow rate, which supports up to six appliances at once. The RE160eP provides 6.6 GPM, which is sufficient for fewer fixtures. If you run showers and sinks simultaneously, the higher flow of the RUS75eP prevents temperature drops.
Is the RE160eP non-condensing?
Yes, the Rinnai RE160eP is a non-condensing unit. This affects how you vent it outdoors. Non-condensing units require specific venting materials that can handle higher exhaust temperatures. The RUS75eP also uses non-condensing venting. You must follow the manufacturer's venting guidelines for both models to ensure safe and efficient operation.
What is the physical size difference between the two units?
The RUS75eP is significantly taller and deeper than the RE160eP. The RUS75eP stands 35 inches high and is 22 inches deep. The RE160eP is 24.6 inches high and 10.8 inches deep. Both are about 14 inches wide. The size difference matters if you are mounting them side-by-side or in tight utility spaces.