Rinnai RU160iN Condensing Tankless Hot Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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If you are looking for rinnai ru160in condensing tankless hot alternatives, this guide compares 6 similar models. The original Rinnai RU160iN delivers 9 GPM of hot water using natural gas. It is designed for indoor installation with condensing venting. This unit supports up to six appliances running simultaneously. Its compact dimensions of 31.3 by 11.5 by 18.5 inches fit standard spaces. The 0.97 Uniform Energy Factor highlights its efficiency. You might consider other options if you need a different flow rate, a smaller footprint, or a different brand. Some homes require lower capacity, while others need higher volume for large families.
The alternatives listed here share key specifications with the RU160iN. All selected models use natural gas and support indoor condensing venting. This ensures similar installation requirements and energy efficiency profiles. The list includes options ranging from 5.1 GPM to 11 GPM. You can choose a smaller unit for modest needs or a larger one for high demand. Each product was selected because its core specs overlap with the original. This allows you to compare capacity, size, and features directly. The rankings reflect how well each model matches specific household requirements. You can find a suitable replacement by reviewing these detailed comparisons.
Our top pick: Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Heater.
Comparing alternative tankless heaters
VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater
The VancEpic model offers a 5.1 GPM flow rate, which is lower than the Rinnai RU160iN’s 9 GPM. This makes it better for small homes with limited hot water demand. It is significantly more compact, measuring 14.2 inches wide and 6.57 inches tall, compared to the Rinnai’s larger footprint. Both units use natural gas and condensing venting for indoor installation. The VancEpic weighs only 27 pounds, making it easier to handle than the 72.5-pound Rinnai. Choose this if space is tight and you do not need high-volume flow for multiple appliances simultaneously.
Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Condensing Water Heater
The Rheem Prestige provides an 11 GPM flow rate, exceeding the Rinnai RU160iN’s 9 GPM capacity. This higher output suits busy households running several fixtures at once. Like the Rinnai, it uses natural gas and condensing venting for indoor use. However, it is slightly narrower at 17.3 inches wide but shorter in height at 28.7 inches. The Rheem focuses on high capacity and efficiency. Select this model if you need extra hot water volume for large families or high-demand scenarios where the standard 9 GPM might fall short during peak usage times.
EZ Tankless Ultra HE Natural Gas Water Heater
The EZ Tankless Ultra HE features a digital display, a detail not explicitly listed for the Rinnai RU160iN. It is designed for whole-house use with natural gas and condensing venting. Its dimensions are 14.5 inches wide and 27 inches tall, offering a different profile than the Rinnai. This unit is intended for small households with low to moderate hot water needs. Its lower flow rate makes it unsuitable for large families. Pick this alternative if you prioritize compact efficiency and digital controls for a smaller home with less simultaneous hot water demand.
Rinnai Commercial 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Water Heater
The Rinnai CU160iN is a commercial-grade unit with the same 9 GPM flow rate as the residential RU160iN. It uses natural gas and condensing venting for indoor installation. The commercial model is taller at 33.9 inches and wider at 22.1 inches, making it larger than the standard residential unit. It is built for businesses requiring reliable high-volume hot water. This option fits commercial spaces or heavy-duty applications where durability and consistent performance are critical. Choose this if you need commercial-grade construction rather than residential features.
Noritz 6.6 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
The Noritz NRC66DVNG offers a 6.6 GPM flow rate, which is lower than the Rinnai RU160iN’s 9 GPM. It is designed for small to medium households prioritizing efficient indoor venting. The unit is smaller, measuring 13.8 inches wide and 23.6 inches tall, and weighs 38 pounds. It uses natural gas and condensing technology. This model suits buyers who need moderate hot water volume and value compact size over high flow rates. Select this if your household has lower demand and you prefer a lighter, more compact indoor heating solution.
Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater
The Rinnai RUR160iN delivers the same 9 GPM flow rate and uses natural gas with condensing venting for indoor installation. It is very similar to the RU160iN but has a different weight of 82.5 pounds and slightly different dimensions. This model is noted as discontinued, which may affect long-term parts availability. It offers integrated recirculation for high flow needs. Choose this alternative only if you find it available and need a similar Rinnai performance, keeping in mind the potential limitations due to its discontinued status.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Heater
Best for: Whole-home hot water with indoor venting
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 31.3 x 11.5 x 18.5 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 72.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Heater Affiliate link
The Rinnai RU160iN is an indoor, condensing natural gas tankless water heater delivering 9 GPM. It supports up to six simultaneous appliances. The unit measures 31.3 by 11.5 by 18.5 inches and weighs 72.5 pounds. It features Circ-Logic for recirculation control. This model carries a 15-year heat exchanger warranty and holds ENERGY STAR qualification.
Pros
- 9 GPM flow rate for multiple appliances
- 15-year heat exchanger warranty
- ENERGY STAR qualified with 0.97 UEF
- Circ-Logic recirculation compatibility
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Controlr module sold separately
- Requires professional installation
Good fit if
- You need high flow for whole-home use
- You have indoor venting space
- You want long-term warranty coverage
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation
- You need propane fuel type
- You want built-in WiFi control
Verdict: Rinnai RU160iN 9 GPM Indoor Natural Gas suits homes needing reliable high-volume hot water with indoor condensing venting. It fits households prioritizing warranty length and energy efficiency over plug-and-play smart features.
VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: Small homes needing compact indoor heating
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 5.1 GPM
- BTU
- 120,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- 95°F to 149°F
- Dimensions
- 14.2 x 14.2 x 6.57 in
View on Amazon: VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
This VancEpic unit delivers 5.1 GPM of hot water using 120,000 BTU of natural gas power. Its compact 14.2-inch square design fits indoor spaces efficiently. The digital display lets you set temperatures between 95°F and 149°F. It includes an anti-freeze function and safety alarms. This model suits small homes or apartments where space is limited and moderate flow rates are sufficient.
Pros
- 5.1 GPM flow rate for simultaneous fixture use
- Compact 14.2 x 14.2 x 6.57 inch footprint
- Digital control with 95°F to 149°F range
- Integrated anti-freeze protection for sub-zero temps
Cons
- Lower 5.1 GPM flow rate compared to 9 GPM competitors
- Only a 2-year limited warranty on parts
- Indoor installation only requires professional setup
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for tight indoor spaces
- You want digital temperature precision between 95°F and 149°F
- You live in an area with freezing temperatures
Skip if
- You require a high flow rate above 6 GPM
- You need an outdoor-rated unit
- You prefer a longer warranty than 2 years
Verdict: VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Gas Heater is a space-saving option for small households. It fits buyers who prioritize compact dimensions and digital controls over high-volume hot water delivery.
Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Condensing Water Heater
Best for: High-demand households with indoor space
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 11.0 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 28.7 x 17.3 x 14.8 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Condensing Water Heater Affiliate link
This Rheem Prestige unit delivers 11.0 GPM of hot water using natural gas. It features condensing technology for high efficiency and includes built-in recirculation to reduce wait times. The auto-learn programming tracks your usage patterns to optimize performance. Its compact indoor design saves space. This model suits households with high simultaneous hot water demands who want energy savings and smart temperature management.
Pros
- 11.0 GPM flow rate for high demand
- Built-in recirculation reduces water waste
- Auto-learn programming optimizes usage
- Condensing technology for efficiency
- Water and gas leak detection
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Larger footprint than standard units
- No outdoor weatherproofing
Good fit if
- You need high flow rates for multiple bathrooms
- You want energy-efficient condensing technology
- You have indoor space for a larger unit
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation
- You need a compact unit for tight spaces
- You prefer propane fuel type
Verdict: Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Indoor Condensing Heater offers high capacity and smart features for busy homes. It fits users who prioritize efficiency and recirculation over compact size.
EZ Tankless Ultra HE Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: small households with low hot water demand
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 3.4 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 27 x 14.5 x 6.5 inches
- Use
- Whole House
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: EZ Tankless Ultra HE Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
The EZ Ultra HE is an indoor condensing tankless water heater designed for whole-home use. It delivers up to 3.4 GPM with a 45°F temperature rise. The unit features a digital display and uses exhaust gas to preheat incoming water for improved efficiency. It measures 27 x 14.5 x 6.5 inches and vents horizontally or vertically with included PVC piping. This model suits small households with moderate hot water demands.
Pros
- Condensing technology preheats water using exhaust gas
- Includes back-draft prevention device and stainless steel vent pipe
- Flexible horizontal or vertical venting with 2-inch PVC/CPVC
- Digital display for easy operation
Cons
- 3.4 GPM flow rate is lower than competitors offering 6-9 GPM
- Single temperature rise specification limits high-demand usage
- No remote control or smart app connectivity listed
Good fit if
- You need a compact indoor unit for a small household
- You prefer horizontal or vertical venting flexibility
- You want condensing efficiency for natural gas heating
Skip if
- You require a flow rate above 3.4 GPM
- You need outdoor installation capabilities
- You want smart home integration or remote control
Verdict: EZ Ultra HE Natural Gas Indoor is a compact, efficient choice for small homes with low to moderate hot water needs. Its lower flow rate makes it unsuitable for large families or high-demand applications.
Rinnai Commercial 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Water Heater
Best for: commercial indoor natural gas hot water
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches
- Use
- Commercial
- Venting Type
- Condensing
View on Amazon: Rinnai Commercial 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rinnai CU160iN is a commercial-grade unit designed for indoor natural gas installation. It delivers a robust 9 GPM flow rate, ensuring consistent hot water for business needs. Its condensing technology offers energy efficiency, while Circ-Logic technology manages recirculation patterns. Weighing 72.3 pounds, this unit requires professional installation. It suits commercial settings where high-volume hot water is essential.
Pros
- 9 GPM flow rate for high-demand commercial use
- Circ-Logic technology for efficient recirculation patterns
- Wi-Fi monitoring for remote system oversight
- Condensing design for indoor energy efficiency
Cons
- Commercial warranty covers labor for only 1 year
- Requires professional installation; DIY is not recommended
- Indoor installation only; no outdoor option listed
Good fit if
- You need a 9 GPM flow rate for business operations
- You require indoor commercial natural gas heating
- You want Wi-Fi monitoring for system management
Skip if
- You need an outdoor installation unit
- You prefer a longer labor warranty
- You are installing in a residential setting
Verdict: Rinnai CU160iN Commercial 9 GPM Heater is built for commercial spaces needing reliable high-volume hot water. It fits businesses requiring indoor natural gas heating with Wi-Fi monitoring capabilities.
Noritz 6.6 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
Best for: Indoor homes needing 6.6 GPM efficiency
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 6.6 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Dimensions
- 6.7 × 13.8 × 23.6 inches
- Weight
- 38 pounds
View on Amazon: Noritz 6.6 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater Affiliate link
The Noritz NRC66DVNG is an indoor condensing tankless water heater running on natural gas. It delivers 6.6 GPM of hot water. The unit measures 13.8 by 23.6 by 10 inches and weighs 38 pounds. It includes a remote thermostat and a 6-foot power cord. You can vent it with standard Schedule 40 PVC pipe. This model suits homes needing moderate flow rates with efficient condensing technology.
Pros
- 6.6 GPM flow rate
- Condensing efficiency for natural gas
- Includes remote thermostat and 6-foot power cord
- Vents with Schedule 40 PVC pipe
Cons
- Lower 6.6 GPM flow rate compared to 9 GPM competitors
- Heavier 38-pound build
- Indoor installation only
Good fit if
- You need a compact indoor unit
- You want to use PVC venting
- You prefer a 6.6 GPM output
Skip if
- You need more than 6.6 GPM
- You require outdoor installation
- You want a lighter unit
Verdict: Noritz NRC66DVNG 6.6 GPM Indoor Heater fits small to medium households that prioritize efficient indoor venting and remote control over higher flow rates.
Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: Indoor homes needing 9 GPM recirculation
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 9 GPM
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Dimensions
- 31.3 x 18.5 x 11.4 inches
- Venting Type
- Condensing
- Weight
- 82.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rinnai RUR160iN delivers 9 GPM of hot water using natural gas. It features ThermaCirc360 technology with a built-in recirculation pump, timer, and thermal bypass valve. This setup works well for homes without a dedicated return line. The unit measures 31.3 x 18.5 x 11.4 inches and weighs 82.5 pounds. It is designed for indoor installation only. Note that this specific model is discontinued.
Pros
- 9 GPM flow rate for constant hot water
- Built-in recirculation pump and thermal bypass valve
- ThermaCirc360 technology for faster hot water delivery
- 15-year heat exchanger warranty
Cons
- Model is discontinued
- Indoor installation only
- Heavier at 82.5 pounds
Good fit if
- You need 9 GPM capacity
- You want built-in recirculation without extra piping
- You have indoor space for a 31.3-inch unit
Skip if
- You need outdoor installation
- You require propane fuel
- You want a currently manufactured model
Verdict: Rinnai 9 GPM Natural Gas Indoor Heater offers reliable performance with integrated recirculation. It fits households needing high flow and indoor placement, though the discontinued status limits long-term parts availability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Heater | VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater | Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Condensing Water Heater | EZ Tankless Ultra HE Natural Gas Water Heater | Rinnai Commercial 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Water Heater | Noritz 6.6 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater | Rinnai 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 9 GPM | 5.1 GPM | 11.0 GPM | 3.4 GPM | 9 GPM | 6.6 GPM | 9 GPM |
| BTU | not stated | 120,000 BTU/hr | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Installation Location | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor | Indoor |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 95°F to 149°F | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 31.3 x 11.5 x 18.5 inches | 14.2 x 14.2 x 6.57 in | 28.7 x 17.3 x 14.8 inches | 27 x 14.5 x 6.5 inches | 33.9 x 14.8 x 22.1 inches | not stated | 31.3 x 18.5 x 11.4 inches |
| Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | Whole House | Commercial | not stated | not stated |
| Venting Type | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing | Condensing |
| Features | not stated | not stated | not stated | Digital Display | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Weight | 72.5 pounds | 27 pounds | not stated | not stated | 72.3 pounds | 38 pounds | 82.5 pounds |
| Size | 9 GPM | 5.1GPM, 120,000BTU, NG | 11 GPM | not stated | not stated | 13.8 inches (W) x 23.6 inches (H) x 10 inches (D) | 9 GPM |
| Color | Silver | Condensing | Gray | White | CU160in - Natural Gas/9 GPM | White | Silver |
| Model | RU160in | RH12KG-C-NG | RTGH-RH11DVLN | EZ Ultra HE | CU160iN | NRC661-DV-NG | RUR160iN |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the highest flow rate?
The Rheem Prestige 11 GPM Condensing Water Heater provides the highest flow rate among these options. At 11 GPM, it handles high-demand households better than the Rinnai RU160iN’s 9 GPM. This model is designed for indoor installation with condensing venting. It prioritizes efficiency and recirculation features over compact size, making it ideal for busy homes needing consistent hot water.
What is the most compact indoor option available?
The VancEpic 5.1 GPM Condensing Natural Gas Water Heater is the most compact choice. It measures only 14.2 inches wide and 6.57 inches high. Weighing 27 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the Rinnai RU160iN. This unit suits small homes where space is limited. It delivers 5.1 GPM with 120,000 BTU, focusing on space-saving design rather than high-volume delivery.
Is there a commercial-grade alternative in this list?
Yes, the Rinnai CU160iN Commercial 9 GPM Indoor Condensing Water Heater is built for commercial spaces. It matches the RU160iN’s 9 GPM flow rate but is designed for business use. It supports indoor natural gas heating with Wi-Fi monitoring capabilities. The unit measures 14.8 inches wide and weighs 72.3 pounds. It fits businesses requiring reliable high-volume hot water.
Which model includes a digital display?
The EZ Tankless Ultra HE Natural Gas Water Heater features a digital display. This compact unit is designed for small households with low to moderate hot water needs. It measures 14.5 inches wide and 27 inches long. Its lower flow rate makes it unsuitable for large families. The digital interface allows for easy monitoring of operation status.
Does any alternative support remote control?
The Noritz NRC66DVNG 6.6 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater supports remote control. It delivers 6.6 GPM, which is lower than the RU160iN. This model fits small to medium households prioritizing efficient indoor venting. It measures 13.8 inches wide and 23.6 inches high. Remote control functionality adds convenience for managing hot water settings from a distance.
What is the weight difference between the top picks?
The Rinnai RU160iN weighs 72.5 pounds, while the VancEpic 5.1 GPM model weighs only 27 pounds. This significant difference highlights the trade-off between capacity and portability. The Rinnai CU160iN weighs 72.3 pounds, similar to the RU160iN. The Noritz model weighs 38 pounds. Heavier units typically indicate more robust internal components for higher flow rates.
Are all these units condensing venting types?
Yes, all listed alternatives use condensing venting. This includes the Rinnai, VancEpic, Rheem, EZ Tankless, Noritz, and Rinnai Commercial models. Condensing venting allows for indoor installation by recycling heat from exhaust gases. This technology improves energy efficiency compared to non-condensing units. It is a standard feature across these specific indoor natural gas heaters.