Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Reviews in 2022 – Top Picks

With regard to tankless water heater technology, Rinnai is a trusted brand. With a 100-year commitment to quality and industry-leading warranties, it is the leading tankless manufacturer, especially in North America, and Canada. 

It ensures that hot water reaches the most crucial areas for showers, baths, dishes, and laundry. The tankless water heaters that Rinnai offers are rated by a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), saving you money on costly water and electricity bills. Most importantly, they are durable, and compact size saves valuable space. 

What makes Rinnai Tankless Water Heater popular and different from others, they individually test each model for quality before shipping. 

At a Glance:

About Rinnai

The company’s foundation was laid by Hidejiro Naito and Kanekichi Hayashi in 1920. It began manufacturing stoves for cooking in Japan. It began producing gas appliances in the 1930s. In 1964, Rinnai began offering water heaters in its portfolio and within ten years, it established its first office in the United States. The factories of Rinnai are all certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards.

Top Tankless Models Of Rinnai

Rinnai manufactures highly efficient tankless models field by both natural gas or liquid propane. You will have unlimited hot water with Rinnai tankless water heaters, which are designed to meet commercial standards. Moreover, they are energy efficient, energy-star qualified, and eco-friendly making them the top-notch brand.  Let’s explore in detail. 

I have also listed the top five Rinnai tankless water heater reviews for you if you are on the lookout for the best models. 

Super High Efficiency Series

In Rinnai, you will find three types of Super High-Efficiency water heaters: RUR, RU, RUCS, and RUS. As they are condensing models, the exhaust gases from these units are used to heat water. This is beneficial for two reasons:

  • By enhancing efficiency, it decreases the operating cost.
  • It makes venting easier for water heaters.

Despite their higher price, they have an efficient energy factor ranging from 0.85 and 0.90. Even though a heater may appear costly, it is more straightforward and easier to install. They all have Energy Star certification and come with advanced features and water output options. It includes the following models:

  • RUR Model Series
  • RU Model Series
  • RUCS Model Series
  • RUS Model Series

Top 5 Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Reviews

Here is the list of the 5 best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters. This brand is ready to provide you an amazing service.

AwardDesignTankless Heater BrandsRetailer
Rinnai indoor tankless water heater reviews
Staff Pick1. Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
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Rinnai natural gas tankless water heater reviews
Best Pick2. Rinnai RU160iN RRU160iN, RU160in-Natural Gas/9 GPM
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Rinnai hot water tankless water heater reviews
Budget Pick3. Rinnai V75iN Tankless Hot Water Heater
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Rinnai tankless hot water heater reviews
4. Rinnai RLX94iN RRLX94iN Tankless Heater
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Rinnai 110V tankless water heater reviews
5. Rinnai RL75IP RRL75iP Natural Gas tankless water heater
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1. Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

Staff Pick

Rinnai indoor tankless water heater reviews

Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Tankless Water Heater
Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Tankless Water Heater
Item Weight :‎82 pounds
Product Dimensions :‎10 x 18.5 x 26 inches
Voltage :‎120 Volts
Flow Rate :‎9.8 Gallons Per Minute
Water Consumption :‎9.8 Gallons
Certification :‎Energy Star

Rinnai RUC98 with condensing technology comes and indoor installation works more efficiently than ever before. It is

Flow Rate

Starting with its flow rate capacity, it offers  9.8 GPM which is excellent to run multiple fixtures simultaneously. This flow rate is capable of handling 3 showers, doing the laundry, and dishwashing and there is no shortage of hot water. The flow rate is high even in colder regions.

Minimal Activation Flow

The 0.4 gallons of water per minute is required to trigger the unit and to begin heating the water. Using water-saving fixtures may save you a little water, as most low-flow faucets start at 0.5 GPM.

Thermal Efficiency

As compared to other tankless heaters, it helps you to save almost 50% energy which is definitely a great saving. Featuring 95% thermal efficiency, it is available in both natural gas and propane indoor installation. 

Temperature

Talking about its temperature control, its residential temperature range is 98°F to 140°F whereas the commercial temperature range is 98°F to 185°F. The low NOx emission makes this RUC98 an eco-friendly model. 

Being a super high-efficiency model, it has up to 0.96 energy factors while the minimum energy factor is 0.92. It supplies endless hot water instantly when you need it. 

Venting

The space-saving design allows it to fit almost anywhere you want. Moreover, it comes with dual venting options making it a versatile water heater:

  • Concetrinc
  • PVC

Although it has an easy installation procedure, professional installation is recommended to avoid any mishap. It is also energy star certified which is another plus.

Pros

  • Features 95% thermal efficiency
  • Designed to work with the entire Rinnai digital controller lineup
  • Extended warranty
  • Installation is quick and easy

Cons

  • Condensing fan gets loud

2. Rinnai RU160iN RRU160iN, RU160in-Natural Gas/9 GPM

Best Pick

Rinnai natural gas tankless water heater reviews

Rinnai RU160iN RRU160iN, RU160in-Natural Gas/9 GPM
Rinnai RU160iN RRU160iN, RU160in-Natural Gas/9 GPM
Item Weight :‎62 pounds
Product Dimensions :‎18.5 x 11.45 x 31.3 inches
Voltage :‎120 Volts
Certification :‎Energy Star
Color :Gray

The Rinnai RU160 is  Sensei SE+ Super High-Efficiency Tankless Hot Water Heater fueled by natural gas and available in indoor installation only. 

Flow Rate

It has a 9 GPM flow rate which varies due to the inlet water temperature. This flow rate is excellent for large families who need excessive hot water all the time. You can enjoy even three showers at a time and do the dishwashing with this huge flow rate. 

Circ-Logic Technology

It features a Circ-Logic Technology that has the capability of setting recirculation patterns that correspond to your typical habits. Therefore, hot water is always available. 

Compact Design

Like every other Rinnai tankless heater, it supplies endless hot water instantly and the sleek design saves valuable space. The affordable and energy-efficient feature makes it the best tankless water heater, 

Additional Features 

The Sensei SE+ High-Efficiency Tankless Heater

Only for indoor installation

The Circ-Logic recirculation system allows you to alter patterns according to your habits

Parts are easily replaceable

Pros

  • Robust model with increased lifespan
  • Temperature is easily adjustable
  • Compact design and stylish look
  • Energy-star certified

Cons

  • Quite an expensive model
  • Leaking issues found

High Efficiency Series

If you are building a small to mid-sized home or remodeling an older one, Rinnai’s high-efficiency models are a practical and affordable choice.

Recirculation technology in high-efficiency indoor models allows hot water to be delivered more quickly. In this system, water is reheated by periodically supplying it back through the heater. Therefore, this can be a very effective way to conserve water. With high-efficiency plus units, an external pump is required when the system is first installed using Circ-Logic technology.

This series includes the following models:

  • RL Model Series
  • RLX Model Series
  • V Model Series

It is very affordable to buy these heaters before installation. Up to six showers can be heated simultaneously with these units.

3. Rinnai V75iN Tankless Hot Water Heater

Budget Pick

Rinnai hot water tankless water heater reviews

Rinnai V75iN Tankless Hot Water Heater
Rinnai V75iN Tankless Hot Water Heater
Item Weight :‎45.6 pounds
Product Dimensions :‎14.04 x 9.27 x 26.9 inches
Size :‎7.5 GPM
Color :‎Indoor Installation
Style :‎Natural Gas

This Rinnai V75iN is available with condensing technology. Featuring a ThermaCirc 360 technology, you can always have hot water when you need it, as it circulates hot water through your pipes.

Flow Rate

As far as the flow rate is concerned, it is 7.5 GPM which is best for small to medium-sized families. This flow rate allows you to turn on multiple faucets at the same time without any fear of a shortage of hot water. Moreover, the flow rate varies depending on the ground temperature. 

Wi-Fi Integration

The Control-R 2.0 mobile app also allows you to remotely put the system into vacation mode by setting timers and schedules. This design is space-saving due to its small size. In the case of small working space, it may be a good alternative.

Eco-Friendly

Due to its ultra-low emission, you can use it in your rooms without worrying about any radiation. In both gas types, the energy factor is .82. 

Error Detection

Thanks to its enhanced scale detection features, it significantly reduces the risk of serious long-term damages to the unit. The Residential Factory Warranty includes 120 months (heat exchanger), 12 months (labor), and 60 months (parts).

Pros

  • A space and energy-efficient design
  • Water Pressure at Optimal Levels
  • Increased scale detection reduces serious, long-term damage
  • For heat exchangers, labor, and parts, the manufacturer offers a 10-, a 5-, and a 1-year warranty.

Cons

  • Customer support is not up to the mark
  • A venting system is unusual


4. Rinnai RLX94iN RRLX94iN Tankless Heater

Rinnai tankless hot water heater reviews

Rinnai RLX94iN RRLX94iN Tankless Heater
Rinnai RLX94iN RRLX94iN Tankless Heater
Item Weight :‎50.6 pounds
Product Dimensions :‎9.2 x 14 x 26.9 inches
Voltage :‎120 Volts
Flow Rate :‎9.8 Gallons Per Minute
Usage :‎Indoor

Rinnai RLX94 features HE+ High Efficiency and is powered by natural gas. It is an indoor model.

Flow Rate

The high flow rate which is 9.4 GPM allows you to turn on a number of faucets simultaneously. With this flow rate, you can turn on many faucets at a time. Moreover, this flow rate changes due to the change in incoming water temperature. 

Time-Saving

Inbuilt Circ-Logic technology not only saves your time but also by delivering instant hot water when you need it. 

Durability 

They are more smart and durable than conventional tank-type heaters. The Rinnai RLX94 tankless water heater has a uniform energy factor (UEF) rated at 5.97, making it highly energy-efficient, saving you from costly water and energy costs.

Pros

  • Effortlessly increase energy efficiency and conserve floor space
  • Life expectancy is longer
  • It saves energy since water is only heated when needed
  • Modern technology provides convenience and comfort

Cons

  • Price is comparatively high

5. Rinnai RL75IP RRL75iP Natural Gas tankless water heater

Rinnai 110V tankless water heater reviews

Rinnai RL75IP RRL75iP Natural Gas tankless water heater
Rinnai RL75IP RRL75iP Natural Gas tankless water heater
Item Weight :‎45 pounds
Product Dimensions :‎26.9 x 14.04 x 9.27 inches
Voltage :‎110 Volts
Certification :‎Energy Star
Usage :‎Indoor use 

Rinnai RL75IP uses liquid propane to work and comes in indoor installation only. Talking about its GPM capacity, it has 7.5 GPM. But this flow rate changes if the incoming water temperature is different. It is perfect for houses with 2 to 3 bathrooms. 

With a single roof or wall penetration, you can mount your compact R75LSi on almost any wall.  Various safety features make this product useful, including combustion fan RPM detection, automatic frost detection, and boiling protection. 

Pros

  • Suitable for houses with 2 to 3 bathrooms
  • Compact and easily mounted, the R75LSi will fit virtually anywhere
  • An exterior vent can be attached directly to a wall or roof
  • You can set your own schedule

Cons

  • Expensive to repair

Hybrid Series

In addition to being compliant with the Ultra-Low NOx (ULX) standard, Rinnai’s hybrid models have an 82% recovery efficiency and last several years longer than a conventional tank. The cost of Rinnai hybrid water heaters is high, however, their higher energy efficiency makes them worthwhile.  

In spite of their inability to handle simultaneous showers, these showers do come with voice activation and recirculation technology. Many of these models come with Energy Star certification as well. It includes :

  • CHS Series
  • RHS
  • RHS 100

There are certain standards and specifications shared by all Rinnai tankless water heaters. Some of the features that make them such an industry leader are detailed below. 

Cric Logic Technology

The Cric Logic is an internal return line found within the heater. This allows the water to be pumped back into the heater. As a result, it minimizes the time needed to heat the water that flows down.

ThermaCric360 Technology

Another great option is ThermaCric360 or thermal bypass. Using this technique, hot water will begin to flow quickly from the faucet.

Wi-Fi Connectivity 

Tankless Rinnai systems feature the Control-R module, a mobile device-based control system. It allows you to remotely control your tankless, monitor its performance, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Temperature lock

Another key feature is the temperature lock. It regulates the temperature of the water so that it cannot be accidentally changed. 

Dual Heat Exchangers

It has a dual heat exchanger. As the water passes through the primary heat exchanger, it continues to heat to the desired temperature. In a secondary heat exchanger, water is preheated

Environmentally Conscious Design

To make them eco-friendly, Rinnai heaters are designed to be green and use less energy, and produce less waste.

Customer Reviews about Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters

The Rinnai water heater brand is known for having superior and even excellent ratings from customers. This brand is considered trustworthy and high quality by consumers. Moreover, clients are also satisfied with the versatile installation options and choose tankless heaters based on their requirements. 

Rinnai Propane & Natural Gas Heater Reviews

Almost all models are available with natural gas or liquid propane. Models are identified by their initials followed by IP if they are propane indoors, eP if they are propane outdoors, iN if they are natural gas indoors, and eN if they are natural gas outdoors. 

Surprisingly, you can convert models from propane to natural gas or vice versa. Rinnai simply requires you to purchase a conversion kit for this. The best part is that they are also available in condensing and non-condensing venting options.  

Rinnai offers more flexibility and choice than other manufacturers, so this is a popular feature with consumers. One reason for the best rating of Rinnai is that its water heaters offer consumers excellent performance and features.

Rinnai Water Heater Maintenance

In order to prevent mineral buildup, blockages, and damage, Rinnai recommends cleaning tankless water heaters once a year. In addition, the unit has a self-check system and alerts the user if maintenance is required. The front panel will display an error code, making it easier for HVAC professionals to diagnose the issues quickly.

Troubleshooting Rinnai Tankless Water Heater

Whenever a Rinnai tankless water heater fails to provide hot water, the error code on the unit is typically displayed. The basic troubleshooting steps can then be performed for that error code. 

To troubleshoot and perform any necessary work on the water heater, we recommend contacting a licensed technician.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Price and Installation Cost

Rinnai’s water heaters tend to be more expensive than those of other brands because they are a top brand. Nevertheless, there are a few budget options available too. There is a wide range in price starting from as low as $650 to as high as $2200.  

When it comes to installation, the costs for tankless water heaters range from $800 to $3,500 on average depending on the gas pipelines or electric panel up-gradation if necessary. It is cheaper to install outdoor heaters and indoor condensing units since they do not require venting

Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Warranty and Customer Service

All Rinnai water heaters are covered by 120 months warranty on the heat exchanger, 60 months warranty on general parts, and a 12-month warranty on labor. Rinnai provides excellent customer service to customers in need of service on a heater under warranty. The Rinnai support team responds immediately to any questions or concerns.

Water heaters from Rinnai can be found at Amazon, Lowe’s, and at various local and online dealers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rinnai the best tankless water heater?

Our Rinnai tankless heaters have a long-standing reputation for providing hot water on demand quickly when you turn on a faucet. Moreover, their temperature fluctuates less than other tankless heaters. The average Rinnai unit will save you around 40 percent in terms of energy over a standard model from another brand. 

Which tankless water heater is better Rheem or Rinnai?

Each of these brands offers a high GPM. When it comes to water heater efficiency, capacity, and performance, Rinna is simply the best brand. Both units have similar prices, however, Rheem’s installation costs are lower than Rinnai’s. If you are running a smart home, the Rinnai Wi-Fi compatible models can really come in handy since they feature Wifi capabilities.

How long does a Rinnai tankless water heater last?

In comparison to conventional tank heaters, Rinnai tankless heaters are estimated to last twice as long. It is possible for a Rinnai tankless water heater to last for 20 years (or more). A Rinnai tankless water heater can save you money over the long run due to its longevity.

Conclusion

All in all, Rinnai tankless water heater reviews are recognized for their durability and longevity.  due to a number of extended warranties and fully replaceable parts. It is known for providing extensive and abundant warranties. The best part is that the parts are fully replaceable instead of buying a whole unit. 

It is important to understand your household requirements as well as gas pipeline requirements before choosing a water heater. Moreover, the installation and upfront costs are more expensive than you expect but it will save you money in the long run. I am sure this Rinnai guide will help you to choose the right model for you. 

Recommendation

To make your decision easier I recommend you if you have a large family (almost a family of 5 or more people) with excessive demand for hot water, then Rinnai RU199iN is the ideal option as it has 11 GPM which is excellent to run, two or three showers at a time, do the laundry and dishwashing as well. 

Even if you have a small family or tight budget but want a tankless that never runs out of hot water, Rinnai tankless water heater reviews have options for you. You can buy Rinnai V75 with a 7.5 GPM flow rate and is suitable for a family of 3 to 4 people. 


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Emma Johnson
By Emma Johnson

Hi, This is Emma. Author at “BestHeaterGuide.com”. I am a graduate of Mechanical Engineering. Currently researching on heating technology. However, I have learned many home heating techniques and still learning home heating technology. And I love to share my research and reviews.

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