Looking Beyond the Rinnai RU160eN 9 GPM Outdoor? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are looking for rinnai ru160en 9 gpm outdoor alternatives, you likely want to compare specifications before buying. The Rinnai RU160eN delivers a steady 9 GPM flow rate and fits outdoor spaces with its 14.8-inch width. Its condensing design and natural gas fuel type make it efficient for whole-home use. However, you might need a different flow rate, a smaller footprint, or a distinct brand reputation. Some buyers prefer propane options or indoor installations that this specific model does not offer. We selected alternatives because their core specs overlap with the original, ensuring they fit similar outdoor natural gas setups. The list includes units ranging from 6.8 to 10 GPM, allowing you to match your exact hot water demand. You can choose based on dimensions, efficiency ratings, or specific features like remote controls. Each option here shares the outdoor installation and natural gas attributes of the Rinnai unit. This guide helps you find a heater that aligns with your household’s simultaneous usage needs. We focus on practical differences in size and capacity to help you decide. The following 6 models provide viable options for various home sizes and flow requirements.
Our top pick: Rinnai RU160eN 9 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas.
How each alternative compares
A. O. Smith 10 GPM Outdoor Condensing Tankless Heater
The A. O. Smith model steps up to a 10 GPM flow rate, offering one full gallon per minute more than the Rinnai RU160eN. This extra capacity suits larger households running multiple showers simultaneously. It shares the outdoor condensing natural gas design, ensuring similar efficiency standards. However, its dimensions differ, measuring 17.8 inches wide and 23.6 inches tall, which may affect your mounting space. The 199,000 BTU input supports the higher flow demand. If your primary need is maximum volume rather than the specific Rinnai footprint, this unit provides a robust upgrade for whole-home supply.
Takagi Outdoor 8 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater
The Takagi T-H3S-OS-N reduces the flow rate to 8 GPM, giving up one gallon per minute compared to the Rinnai. This makes it better suited for homes with moderate simultaneous usage. It maintains the outdoor condensing natural gas configuration, keeping installation requirements familiar. Its physical profile is distinct, measuring 17.8 inches wide and 24.9 inches tall, with a narrower 11.3-inch depth. This compact depth can be advantageous if you have limited clearance behind the unit. Choose this alternative if you prioritize a smaller footprint and do not require the full 9 GPM output of the Rinnai model for your household needs.
Rheem 6.8 GPM Outdoor Condensing Water Heater
The Rheem RTGH-68XLN-2 lowers the flow rate to 6.8 GPM, significantly less than the Rinnai RU160eN. This reduction makes it ideal for smaller households or those who do not need high-volume simultaneous flow. It retains the outdoor condensing natural gas design, ensuring consistent efficiency. The unit is notably wider at 27.5 inches but narrower in depth at 9.75 inches, offering a different spatial fit. It weighs 77 pounds, slightly heavier than the Rinnai. If you value leak detection and freeze protection features over maximum flow capacity, this model provides a practical, efficient solution for moderate hot water demands.
Takagi T-H3M Outdoor Natural Gas Heater
The Takagi T-H3M offers a compact form factor, measuring 13.1 inches wide and 29.5 inches tall. While specific flow rate data is not listed, its smaller size suggests it targets users prioritizing space savings over high volume. It shares the outdoor condensing natural gas attributes with the Rinnai, ensuring similar installation and efficiency profiles. Weighing only 44 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the Rinnai RU160eN. This makes it easier to handle during installation. If you have limited outdoor space or need a smaller unit that still provides reliable natural gas heating, this compact Takagi model is a suitable alternative to the larger Rinnai.
Ranein 8.5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater
The Ranein RHO19K-NG presents an 8.5 GPM flow rate, falling slightly short of the Rinnai RU160eN’s 9 GPM. It maintains the outdoor natural gas installation type, keeping compatibility with existing setups. Its dimensions are 15.1 inches wide and 24.3 inches tall, offering a similar profile to the Rinnai. Weighing 44 pounds, it is lighter than the Rinnai unit. The product data also lists a 5.0 GPM attribute, which may refer to a specific operational mode or minimum flow. If you need near-Rinnai performance with a slightly lower flow rate and a lighter unit, this Ranein model serves as a viable outdoor alternative.
APUS 190,000 BTU Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater
The APUS AP-AWH-W26NG features a 190,000 BTU input, supporting strong performance for outdoor natural gas use. It measures 6.54 inches wide and 22.5 inches tall, offering a very narrow profile compared to the Rinnai RU160eN. This slim design saves significant wall space. It weighs 42.5 pounds, making it the lightest option in this comparison. The unit supports app control, adding smart management capabilities not explicitly detailed for the Rinnai in this data set. If you prioritize a compact footprint and digital control options alongside reliable outdoor hot water supply, this APUS heater provides a modern, space-efficient alternative to the traditional Rinnai design.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Rinnai RU160eN 9 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas
Best for: High-flow outdoor natural gas needs
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 71 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai RU160eN 9 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Affiliate link
The Rinnai RU160eN is a condensing outdoor tankless water heater running on natural gas. It delivers 9 GPM, supporting up to six appliances simultaneously. Its compact 14.8-inch width saves space. The unit is ENERGY STAR qualified with a 0.95 Uniform Energy Factor. Circ-Logic allows scheduled recirculation to reduce wait times. It suits large households needing high flow rates outdoors.
Pros
- 9 GPM flow rate for multiple simultaneous uses
- Condensing design for high efficiency
- Compact 14.8-inch width for tight spaces
- Circ-Logic recirculation compatibility
- ENERGY STAR qualified with 0.95 UEF
Cons
- Requires professional installation
- Wi-Fi module sold separately
- Heavier at 71 pounds
Good fit if
- You need 9 GPM for a large home
- You want an outdoor natural gas unit
- You value high energy efficiency ratings
Skip if
- You prefer propane fuel type
- You need indoor installation only
- You want a built-in smart display
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Heater provides reliable high-volume hot water for large families. It fits best in outdoor settings where space is limited but flow demand is high.
A. O. Smith 10 GPM Outdoor Condensing Tankless Heater
Best for: large homes needing high flow rates
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 10.0 GPM
- BTU
- 199,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 23.6 x 17.8 x 17.8 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: A. O. Smith 10 GPM Outdoor Condensing Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This outdoor unit delivers 10 GPM of hot water using 199,000 BTU of natural gas. It features a condensing design with a .94 UEF rating. The copper heat exchanger offers superior heat transfer. You get a wall-mounted remote controller for easy temperature adjustment. It fits well in homes needing high flow rates for multiple bathrooms.
Pros
- 10.0 GPM continuous flow rate
- Commercial-grade copper heat exchanger
- Includes wall mount temperature remote
- Energy Star certified with .94 UEF
Cons
- Heavier at 59 pounds
- Larger footprint than 6 GPM models
- Requires professional installation
Good fit if
- You need hot water for three or more bathrooms
- You want a high flow rate for outdoor use
- You prefer copper heat exchangers for durability
Skip if
- You only need a single sink or shower
- You are installing in a tight indoor space
- You prefer propane over natural gas
Verdict: A. O. Smith 10 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas suits large households needing reliable, high-volume hot water. Its copper core and remote control make it a practical upgrade for busy homes.
Takagi Outdoor 8 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: outdoor natural gas use with 8 GPM need
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 8 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 24.9 x 17.8 x 11.3 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Capacity
- 8 Gallon
View on Amazon: Takagi Outdoor 8 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
The Takagi T-H3S-OS-N is a condensing outdoor tankless water heater designed for natural gas. It delivers 8 gallons per minute of hot water. The unit measures 24.9 by 17.8 by 11.3 inches. It meets SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 for ultra-low NOx emissions. This model suits you if you need high flow for outdoor use. It offers energy conservation and computerized safety features without a pilot light.
Pros
- 8 GPM flow rate
- Condensing high efficiency
- Ultra-low NOx emissions
- No pilot light required
Cons
- Lower flow rate than the 9 GPM Rinnai RU160eN
- Smaller capacity than the 8.5 GPM Ranein model
- Natural gas only, no propane option listed
Good fit if
- You need 8 GPM for outdoor installation
- You require ultra-low NOx emissions compliance
- You want a condensing unit for efficiency
Skip if
- You need more than 8 GPM flow
- You require propane fuel compatibility
- You prefer a non-condensing venting system
Verdict: Takagi 8 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Heater fits users who need reliable high flow with strict emissions compliance. It is a solid choice for outdoor natural gas setups where 8 GPM is sufficient.
Rheem 6.8 GPM Outdoor Condensing Water Heater
Best for: Moderate usage outdoor installations
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 28.5 x 9.75 x 27.5 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 77 pounds
View on Amazon: Rheem 6.8 GPM Outdoor Condensing Water Heater Affiliate link
This Rheem unit delivers 6.8 GPM of hot water using natural gas. It features condensing technology for high efficiency and includes built-in water and gas leak detection. The compact design measures 28.5 by 9.75 by 27.5 inches and weighs 77 pounds. It is rated for outdoor installation with freeze protection down to -30 degrees. This model suits homes with moderate simultaneous usage needs.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate for steady hot water
- Condensing design for high energy efficiency
- Leak detection shuts down unit automatically
- Freeze protection rated to -30 degrees
Cons
- Lower flow rate than the 9 GPM Rinnai RU160eN
- Heavier at 77 pounds than some competitors
- No remote control or app connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You need a reliable outdoor unit with leak detection
- You have moderate hot water demands
- You want high efficiency with condensing tech
Skip if
- You require 9 GPM or higher flow
- You need smart home integration
- You prefer a lighter installation unit
Verdict: Rheem RTGH-68XLN Outdoor 6.8 GPM offers solid efficiency and safety features for moderate usage. It fits homes that prioritize leak detection and freeze protection over maximum flow capacity.
Takagi T-H3M Outdoor Natural Gas Heater
Best for: compact outdoor natural gas setups
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 29.5 x 13.1 x 17.8 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 44 pounds
View on Amazon: Takagi T-H3M Outdoor Natural Gas Heater Affiliate link
The Takagi T-H3M-OS-N is a condensing outdoor tankless water heater running on natural gas. It weighs 44 pounds and measures 29.5 inches high. This compact unit fits tight spaces while delivering hot water on demand. You get reliable performance in a weather-resistant design. It suits homeowners needing a durable, space-saving solution for outdoor installation.
Pros
- Condensing technology for high efficiency
- Compact 44-pound weight
- Designed for outdoor installation
- Natural gas fuel source
Cons
- Lower flow rate than the 9 GPM Rinnai RU160eN
- No remote control or app mentioned
- Single fuel type limits flexibility
Good fit if
- You need a compact outdoor unit
- You have natural gas available
- You want condensing efficiency
Skip if
- You need more than 6 GPM
- You require indoor installation
- You prefer propane fuel
Verdict: Takagi T-H3M Outdoor Natural Gas Heater offers solid efficiency in a small footprint. It fits well if you prioritize space-saving outdoor performance over high flow rates.
Ranein 8.5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: High-flow outdoor natural gas needs
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 8.5 GPM
- BTU
- 190,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 24.3 x 15.1 x 15.1 in
- Weight
- 44 pounds
View on Amazon: Ranein 8.5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
The Ranein RHO19K-NG delivers 8.5 GPM of hot water using 190,000 BTUs of natural gas. Its compact outdoor design measures 24.3 by 15.1 by 8.1 inches. The unit includes anti-freeze protection and a fan placed underneath for safety. It fits homes with four to six outlets. This model suits you if you need high flow rates for outdoor installation.
Pros
- High 8.5 GPM flow rate
- 190,000 BTU heating capacity
- Built-in anti-freeze protection
- Compact outdoor dimensions
Cons
- Not recommended for altitudes over 2,000 feet
- Weight of 44 pounds requires sturdy mounting
- No app or remote control listed in specs
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple outlets
- You have an outdoor installation spot
- You use natural gas fuel
Skip if
- You live above 2,000 feet elevation
- You require indoor installation only
- You need smart home integration
Verdict: Ranein 8.5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Heater offers strong performance for large households. It fits you if you need reliable hot water for four to six outlets outdoors.
APUS 190,000 BTU Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: outdoor whole-home hot water with app control
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 8.1 GPM
- BTU
- 190,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Voltage
- 120V AC
- Temperature Control
- 95°F–149°F, ±1°F
View on Amazon: APUS 190,000 BTU Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
The APUS 8.1 GPM natural gas heater delivers 190,000 BTU for whole-home hot water. It supports 5-6 simultaneous points with a low 0.79 GPM minimum flow. Smart control via the Tuya app offers ±1°F accuracy. The compact outdoor design fits tight spaces. This unit suits users needing reliable, high-flow performance with digital temperature management.
Pros
- 8.1 GPM flow rate for multiple fixtures
- Tuya app control with ±1°F accuracy
- Low 0.79 GPM minimum flow requirement
- Compact 22.48-inch height for outdoor install
Cons
- 2-year warranty is shorter than industry standards
- Requires 120V AC power connection
- No wired controller included in data
Good fit if
- You need high flow for whole-house use
- You want app-based temperature control
- You have limited outdoor installation space
Skip if
- You require a longer warranty period
- You prefer a wired controller interface
- You need higher than 8.1 GPM flow
Verdict: APUS 8.1 GPM Natural Gas Outdoor Heater provides strong flow and smart control for outdoor use. It fits homes needing multiple simultaneous hot water points with app management.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai RU160eN 9 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas | A. O. Smith 10 GPM Outdoor Condensing Tankless Heater | Takagi Outdoor 8 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater | Rheem 6.8 GPM Outdoor Condensing Water Heater | Takagi T-H3M Outdoor Natural Gas Heater | Ranein 8.5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater | APUS 190,000 BTU Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 9 GPM | 10.0 GPM | 8 GPM | 6.8 GPM | not stated | 8.5 GPM | 8.1 GPM |
| BTU | not stated | 199,000 BTU/hr | not stated | not stated | not stated | 190,000 BTU | 190,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor | Outdoor |
| Voltage | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 120V AC |
| Temperature Control | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 95°F–149°F, ±1°F |
| Dimensions | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches | 23.6 x 17.8 x 17.8 inches | 24.9 x 17.8 x 11.3 inches | 28.5 x 9.75 x 27.5 inches | 29.5 x 13.1 x 17.8 inches | 24.3 x 15.1 x 15.1 in | 22.48 × 15.51 × 6.54 in |
| Venting Type | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | not stated | not stated |
| Capacity | not stated | not stated | 8 Gallon | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Weight | 71 pounds | 59 pounds | not stated | 77 pounds | 44 pounds | 44 pounds | 42.5 pounds |
| Size | 9 GPM | not stated | Medium | not stated | not stated | 8.5 GPM Outdoor | not stated |
| Color | Outdoor Installation | White | White | Gray | White | Gray-NG | Gray |
| Model | RU160eN | ATO-540H-N 100 | T-H3S-OS-N | RTGH-68XLN-2 | TH3MOSNG | RHO19K-NG | AP-AWH-W26NG |
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Frequently asked questions
Which outdoor tankless heater has the highest flow rate?
The A. O. Smith ATO-540H-N 100 offers the highest flow rate at 10 GPM. It delivers one more gallon per minute than the Rinnai RU160eN. This extra capacity suits large households running multiple showers at once. It uses natural gas and features a condensing venting type for efficient outdoor installation.
What is the most compact outdoor natural gas water heater?
The APUS AP-AWH-W26NG is the most compact option with a width of only 6.54 inches. Its small footprint makes it ideal for tight outdoor spaces. It provides 8.1 GPM of hot water and includes app control for remote management. This unit is lighter and narrower than most competitors.
Which model is best for moderate outdoor usage?
The Rheem RTGH-68XLN-2 is designed for moderate usage with a 6.8 GPM flow rate. It prioritizes safety features like leak detection and freeze protection over maximum flow. This unit is suitable for homes that do not need high-volume simultaneous hot water. It uses natural gas and condensing venting.
Does any alternative offer remote or app control?
Yes, the A. O. Smith ATO-540H-N 100 includes a remote control. The APUS AP-AWH-W26NG offers app management for smart control. These features allow you to monitor and adjust settings from a distance. Both units are designed for outdoor natural gas use with condensing technology.
Which heater is the lightest for outdoor mounting?
The Takagi TH3MOSNG is the lightest unit at 44 pounds. Its low weight simplifies installation on outdoor walls. It provides a 8 GPM flow rate in a compact white design. This model is ideal if you prioritize easy mounting and space-saving performance over higher flow capacities.
How does the Takagi T-H3S-OS-N compare to the Rinnai?
The Takagi T-H3S-OS-N offers 8 GPM, which is one gallon less than the Rinnai RU160eN. It features a condensing venting type and natural gas fuel. This model is suited for users who need reliable high flow with strict emissions compliance. It is slightly wider but shorter than the Rinnai unit.