Looking Beyond the Rinnai RE160eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Rinnai RE160eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater delivers 6.1 to 6.6 GPM in a compact outdoor footprint. Its non-condensing design and propane fuel type suit many homes, yet specific needs may vary. Some buyers require higher flow rates for larger households. Others prefer indoor installations or natural gas fuel sources. The Rinnai unit also lacks built-in WiFi, which some users want for remote monitoring.
This list covers 6 alternatives that share key specs with the original product. We selected these models because their attributes overlap with the Rinnai RE160eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater. You will find options with higher GPM outputs, indoor placement capabilities, or natural gas compatibility. Each alternative addresses a different priority, such as precise temperature control or compact sizing. Review the specifications below to find the unit that matches your exact requirements.
Our top pick: Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater.
How Each Alternative Compares
Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor
The Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM offers a higher flow rate of 7.0 GPM compared to the Rinnai’s 6.6 GPM. It is slightly more compact at 20.8 inches tall and weighs less at 39.3 pounds. This model includes WiFi features for remote monitoring, which the Rinnai requires a separate module to support. You get precise temperature control and a smaller footprint. If you need more hot water capacity and smart connectivity without adding extra hardware, this unit is a strong alternative. It retains the outdoor propane and non-condensing setup for similar installation needs.
A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
The A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM matches the Rinnai’s flow rate but uses copper construction for the heat exchanger. It is wider at 13.9 inches and slightly taller than the Rinnai. This unit is designed for steady heat output in outdoor propane settings. You do not get the same LED service reminders or the extensive warranty coverage found in the Rinnai model. However, the copper build may appeal to those prioritizing material durability over digital features. It is a solid choice if you need reliable outdoor propane heating with a standard flow rate and do not require smart home integration.
Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater
The Westinghouse 8.1 GPM provides a significantly higher flow rate than the Rinnai’s 6.6 GPM. It is larger, measuring 26.8 inches tall and 17.1 inches wide. This unit is built for outdoor propane use and offers strong performance for households with higher hot water demands. You gain capacity for multiple fixtures running simultaneously. The trade-off is a bulkier footprint that requires more installation space. If your home needs more than 6.6 GPM and you have the room for a larger unit, this model delivers the stability and flow rate that the Rinnai cannot match.
Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
The Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM switches from propane to natural gas fuel. It offers a much higher flow rate of 8.4 GPM compared to the Rinnai’s 6.6 GPM. This unit includes WiFi capabilities for remote control. It is designed for outdoor installation and non-condensing venting. You get robust performance suitable for large households with high water usage. The main difference is the fuel type, which requires a natural gas line instead of propane. If you have natural gas available and need maximum flow capacity with smart features, this model outperforms the Rinnai in volume and connectivity.
Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai RUS75eP 7.5 GPM is another propane option from the same brand but with higher capacity. It delivers 7.5 GPM, which is 0.9 GPM more than the RE160eP. This unit is significantly larger, standing 35 inches tall and weighing 63 pounds. It is designed for outdoor installation and offers flexible venting options. You gain substantial flow rate for larger homes but sacrifice the compact size of the RE160eP. If you need more hot water volume and have the space for a taller unit, this model provides the same brand reliability with increased performance.
Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Propane Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Indoor unit is designed for indoor installation, unlike the outdoor-only Rinnai RE160eP. It offers 7.0 GPM, which is higher than the Rinnai’s 6.6 GPM. This model includes WiFi features and non-condensing venting. It is slightly wider and taller than the Rinnai but weighs less. You gain indoor versatility and precise digital temperature control. The trade-off is the need for indoor venting infrastructure. If you require an indoor propane solution with higher flow and smart connectivity, this unit provides a functional alternative to the outdoor-focused Rinnai model.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater
Best for: compact outdoor propane installations
- 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
This Rinnai unit is a non-condensing propane tankless water heater designed for outdoor installation. It delivers up to 6.1 GPM of hot water, supporting five fixtures simultaneously. The compact footprint measures 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 inches. You get a 15-year heat exchanger warranty and an LED screen for error codes. It suits homes needing reliable outdoor propane heating without condensing complexity.
Pros
- 6.1 GPM flow rate for multiple fixtures
- Compact 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 inch size
- 15-year heat exchanger warranty
- LED screen displays error codes
Cons
- Lower flow rate than 8.4 GPM competitors
- WiFi control module sold separately
- Propane only, no natural gas option
Good fit if
- You need a compact outdoor propane heater
- You want a 15-year heat exchanger warranty
- You have a single bathroom or kitchen
Skip if
- You need higher than 6.1 GPM flow
- You require natural gas fuel type
- You want built-in WiFi connectivity
Verdict: Rinnai RE160eP Propane Outdoor Unit fits small households needing reliable outdoor propane heating. Its compact size and long warranty make it ideal for tight spaces.
Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor
Best for: Outdoor propane homes needing precise temp control
- Fuel Type
- Liquid Propane
- Flow Rate
- 7.0 GPM
- BTU
- 160,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor Affiliate link
This Rheem unit delivers 7.0 GPM at 35°F rise with 160,000 BTUs. It features a non-condensing design for outdoor installation and includes ±1°F digital temperature control. The compact 20.8 x 13.5 x 9.4-inch frame suits wall mounting. It is ideal for whole-house residential use in homes with propane fuel sources.
Pros
- 7.0 GPM flow rate for 2-3 simultaneous showers
- 160,000 BTU/hr high efficiency output
- ±1°F precision digital temperature control
- Non-condensing outdoor design eliminates venting
Cons
- Lower 7.0 GPM flow rate compared to 8.4 GPM competitors
- Outdoor installation only, not suitable for indoor use
- Requires professional installation for gas connection
Good fit if
- You need a propane tankless heater for outdoor installation
- You want precise ±1°F temperature control
- You require 7.0 GPM for a standard whole-house setup
Skip if
- You need indoor installation capability
- You require a flow rate above 7.0 GPM
- You prefer natural gas over propane
Verdict: Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor offers precise temperature control and compact outdoor design. It fits homes needing reliable propane heating with moderate flow demands.
A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: outdoor propane installations needing steady heat
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- Up to 6.6 GPM
- BTU
- 120,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Dimensions
- 13.9 × 13.9 × 22.9 inches
View on Amazon: A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The A.O. Smith ATO-140H delivers 6.6 GPM of hot water using 120,000 BTU of propane power. It uses a condensing design with a copper primary heat exchanger for fast temperature stabilization. The unit measures 22.9 by 13.9 by 13.9 inches and weighs 52 pounds. It is built for outdoor wall-mount installation. This model suits users who want efficient heat transfer and flexible venting options for their propane setup.
Pros
- 6.6 GPM continuous flow rate
- 120,000 BTU/hr input capacity
- Primary copper heat exchanger for rapid heat transfer
- Vents with 3-inch PVC up to 70 feet
- 15-year limited warranty on heat exchanger
Cons
- Lower flow rate of 6.6 GPM compared to 8.4 GPM competitors
- Heavier build at 52 pounds
- Condensing design requires specific venting considerations
Good fit if
- You need a propane heater for outdoor use
- You value copper heat exchanger durability
- You have space for a 22.9-inch tall unit
Skip if
- You require a flow rate above 7 GPM
- You are installing indoors without condensing venting
- You prefer a lighter unit under 50 pounds
Verdict: A.O. Smith 6.6 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater offers solid efficiency and copper construction for outdoor propane users who do not need high-flow capacity.
Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater
Best for: Outdoor homes needing high flow and stability
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 8.1 GPM
- BTU
- 180,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Voltage
- 120 V AC
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
View on Amazon: Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater Affiliate link
This Westinghouse outdoor unit delivers 8.1 GPM and 180,000 BTU on propane. It maintains temperature within ±1°F using intelligent self-modulating technology. The compact 26.8-inch height fits standard wall spaces. It includes a wired digital controller for precise adjustments. This model suits homes needing high flow for multiple fixtures outdoors.
Pros
- 8.1 GPM flow rate supports 3–5 fixtures
- 180,000 BTU output for rapid heating
- ±1°F temperature stability for consistent showers
- Wired digital controller included for easy use
- Integrated freeze protection for outdoor reliability
Cons
- 2-year limited warranty is shorter than competitors
- Requires 120V AC power connection
- Wired controller limits placement flexibility
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple outdoor fixtures
- You want precise temperature control without fluctuation
- You have an outdoor wall space for mounting
Skip if
- You require indoor installation only
- You prefer natural gas over propane
- You want a longer than 2-year warranty
Verdict: Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater offers strong performance with precise temperature control. It is ideal for outdoor setups needing high flow and stability.
Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
Best for: Large households needing high outdoor flow
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 8.4 GPM
- BTU
- 180,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This Rheem unit delivers 8.4 GPM at a 180,000 BTU output. It uses natural gas and is designed for outdoor installation. The digital LED panel allows precision temperature adjustments within ±1°F. It features a durable metal cabinet and built-in freeze protection. This model suits large families needing high flow rates for whole-house use.
Pros
- 8.4 GPM flow rate for multiple simultaneous showers
- 180,000 BTU/hr high efficiency output
- Precision ±1°F digital temperature control
- Built-in freeze and flame failure protection
- 15-year heat exchanger warranty
Cons
- Requires natural gas connection, not propane
- No WiFi connectivity in this 8.4 GPM version
- Professional installation is mandatory
Good fit if
- You need high flow for a large family
- You have an outdoor space for installation
- You want precise temperature control
Skip if
- You only have propane fuel available
- You prefer indoor installation only
- You want smart home app control
Verdict: Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Natural Gas offers robust performance for large households with outdoor space. It is best for users prioritizing flow rate and precision over smart features.
Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: High flow outdoor propane needs
- 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 is an outdoor propane tankless water heater delivering up to 7.5 GPM. It heats water only when you need it, saving energy and space. The compact unit measures 35 x 14.5 x 22 inches and weighs 63 pounds. It supports multiple venting options, including PVC, for flexible placement. This model suits homes needing high flow rates for multiple simultaneous appliances.
Pros
- Delivers 7.5 GPM flow rate
- Runs on propane fuel
- Compact outdoor design
- Flexible venting options
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors at 63 pounds
- Outdoor installation only
- Professional installation recommended
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple appliances
- You have outdoor space for installation
- You use propane as fuel
Skip if
- You require indoor installation
- You use natural gas instead of propane
- You prefer a lighter unit
Verdict: Rinnai RUS75eP 7.5 GPM Propane Heater provides strong flow for large households with outdoor propane setups. It fits buyers prioritizing capacity and flexible venting over indoor convenience.
Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Propane Tankless Water Heater
Best for: indoor propane homes needing precise temp control
- Fuel Type
- Liquid Propane
- Flow Rate
- 7.0 GPM
- BTU
- 160,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Propane Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM is a non-condensing propane water heater designed for indoor installation. It delivers 160,000 BTUs with a flow rate of 7.0 GPM. The unit features a digital LED panel with ±1°F precision. Its compact dimensions of 24.2 x 13.5 x 10.3 inches save floor space. This model suits homes needing reliable whole-house hot water with precise temperature control.
Pros
- 7.0 GPM flow rate supports 2-3 simultaneous showers
- 160,000 BTU/hr output for high performance
- Digital LED control with ±1°F precision
- Built-in freeze and flame failure protection
Cons
- Indoor installation requires direct venting
- No WiFi connectivity in this 7.0 GPM variant
- Professional installation is mandatory
Good fit if
- You need a propane heater for indoor use
- You want precise temperature adjustments
- You have space for wall mounting
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation only
- You need WiFi remote control
- You prefer natural gas fuel
Verdict: Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Indoor is a solid choice for indoor propane users who value precise digital temperature control and high BTU output without the need for smart features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 6.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater | Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor | A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater | Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater | Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater | Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater | Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Propane Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Liquid Propane | Propane | Propane | Natural Gas | Propane | Liquid Propane |
| Flow Rate | 6.1 GPM | 7.0 GPM | Up to 6.6 GPM | 8.1 GPM | 8.4 GPM | 7.5 GPM | 7.0 GPM |
| BTU | 160k BTU | 160,000 BTU/hr | 120,000 BTU | 180,000 BTU | 180,000 BTU/hr | not stated | 160,000 BTU/hr |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Indoor |
| Voltage | not stated | not stated | not stated | 120 V AC | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Temperature Control | not stated | ±1°F | not stated | ±1°F | ±1°F | not stated | ±1°F |
| Certification | not stated | CSA | not stated | CSA | CSA | not stated | CSA |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 14.1 x 10.8 in | 20.8 x 13.5 x 9.4 inches | not stated | 26.8 x 17.1 x 17.1 in | 20.8 x 13.5 x 9.4 inches | 35 x 14.5 x 22 inches | 24.2 x 13.5 x 10.3 inches |
| Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | Whole House | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Venting Type | Non-Condensing | Non-Condensing | Condensing | not stated | Non-Condensing | not stated | Non-Condensing |
| Features | not stated | WiFi | not stated | not stated | WiFi | not stated | WiFi |
| Weight | 49.2 pounds | 39.3 pounds | 52 pounds | 42 pounds | 39.3 pounds | 63 pounds | 46.5 pounds |
| Size | 6.6 GPM | 7.0 GPM (Non-WiFi) | not stated | not stated | 8.4 GPM (No WiFi) | 7.5 GPM | 7.0 GPM (No WiFi) |
| Color | Silver | Gray | White | Grey 81LPO | Gray | Outdoor Installation | Gray |
| Model | REU-VE2125WD-US-P | RTG-70XLP-3 | ATO-140H 101 | HS180A0G-LP | RTG-84XLN-3 | RUS Series | RTG-70DVLP-3 |
If you also need outdoor heating, you can review specifications for the best propane patio heaters.
Frequently asked questions
Which propane tankless water heater offers the highest flow rate for outdoor use?
The Westinghouse 8.1 GPM Propane Outdoor Heater provides the highest flow rate among the listed alternatives. It delivers 8.1 GPM to support multiple simultaneous uses. This model measures 17.1 inches wide and 26.8 inches tall. Its larger footprint accommodates the increased water capacity for high-demand households.
Can I install a propane tankless heater inside my home?
Yes, the Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Tankless Water Heater is designed for indoor installation. It features a non-condensing venting type suitable for enclosed spaces. The unit measures 13.5 inches wide and 24.2 inches tall. It provides precise digital temperature control for consistent indoor heating performance.
Which model is the most compact for tight outdoor spaces?
The Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor is the most compact option listed. It stands 20.8 inches tall and weighs only 39.3 pounds. Its small footprint fits well in constrained areas. The unit also includes WiFi features for remote monitoring and adjustment from your phone.
Is there a premium option with copper construction?
The A. O. Smith 6.6 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater is the premium choice. It features copper construction for durability and steady heat output. The unit measures 13.9 inches wide and 22.9 inches tall. It is ideal for users who prioritize build quality over maximum flow capacity.
What is the best high-flow propane heater for large families?
The Rinnai 7.5 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater offers strong flow for large households. It delivers 7.5 GPM to handle multiple simultaneous demands. The unit is taller at 35 inches and weighs 63 pounds. It supports flexible venting options for robust outdoor propane setups.
Which propane heater includes smart connectivity features?
Both the Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Outdoor and the Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Propane Indoor include WiFi capabilities. These models allow you to monitor and adjust settings remotely. The outdoor version weighs 39.3 pounds, while the indoor unit weighs 46.5 pounds. Both provide precise temperature control via smart features.