Nothing beats the joy of having an endless supply of hot water, especially in the winter. But, to enjoy it, you need a reliable water heater to cater to all your hot water needs.
If you are in the market for a new tankless water heater or want to replace your old one, then you should seriously consider getting yourself a Rinnai tankless water heater.
Rinnai is one of the most reliable tankless water heaters manufacturers out there, with a wide variety of models. All their tankless heater models boast an impressive level of reliability and durability.
In this article, we’re going to dive deep into what makes Rinnai tankless water heaters exceptional. We’re also going to give you some Rinnai tankless water heater reviews, featuring some of their best models. And to make sure you get the complete package, we’ll also throw in a few pointers on things that you should look out for when shopping for a Rinnai water heater.
We leverage expert input, customer reviews, analysis and other important factors when choosing the Rinnai water heaters in this review. We get all our information straight from the manufacturer to ensure we do not mislead any potential buyers.
Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Reviews
- Rinnai V65iN Tankless Water Heater – Best Overall
- Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater – Runner-Up
- Rinnai RUC80iN Ultra Series Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater – Best Gas Tankless Water Heater
- Rinnai C199EN Commercial Condensing Tankless Water Heater – Best for Commercial Applications
What are Rinnai products known for?
Since it was founded in 1920, Rinnai has produced some of the most flawless and durable appliances in the market.
The company is known for its innovative ideas and the application of top-notch technologies in its appliances. Here are a few notable factors that make it stand out from its rivals.
Energy Efficiency and eco-friendliness
Rinnai is a stout believer in protecting the environment. They also appreciate the fact that their customers want products that won’t damage our precious ecosystem. For that reason, Rinnai products come equipped with unique features that increase their energy efficiency while reducing their CO2 emissions.
Most of Rinnai’s tankless water heaters have an energy star seal. This is a clear indication of the fact that Rinnai products surpass the industry standard for energy efficiency. According to Rinnai, their products reduce energy consumption by up to 40% while reducing CO2 emissions. So, if you are an environmentalist looking to reduce your carbon footprint, Rinnai’s got you covered!
Space-saving
Space is a precious commodity, especially if you live in a small house or an apartment. Rinnai appreciates that you need a water heater that won’t take up much of your space.
For that reason, Rinnai produces compact, wall-mounted tankless water heaters that give you all the benefits of a large water heater for a fraction of the space.
Rinnai tankless water heaters are not much larger than a small suitcase. This makes them especially suitable for small homes. They also come with an added advantage in that you can install them in more creative spaces like small attics and crawl spaces.
Impressive warranty coverage
All Rinnai water heaters are backed by some very impressive warranties. The extended warranties are a clear indication of the companies’ faith in their products. With a Rinnai appliance, you can have peace of mind knowing that you don’t have to worry about future unplanned expenditures in replacements.
Replaceable parts
A water heater is only as durable as its weakest part. Most water heater manufacturers out there require you to replace the whole unit when a part breaks. Rinnai, on the other hand, produces models with replaceable parts that are very easy to reinstall.
When a component in your unit breaks, you don’t need to spend lots of money getting a new unit. With Rinnai, all you need to do is shop for the particular component, reinstall it, and you’re done.
Recirculating feature
With Rinnai tankless water heaters, you don’t have to wait for hot water whenever you want to wash the dishes or take a shower. They come equipped with a recirculating system that pushes water through your plumbing system, making it available wherever needed, without delay.
Rinnai tankless water heaters have a dedicated return line insulation that enables them to push water around the recirculating system through the line and back to the heater. This means that Rinnai systems can be installed with any existing plumbing configuration.
Quality Control Checks During Assembly
Rinnai maintains a keen focus on quality and durability across all its products. All Rinnai tankless water heaters are designed and engineered with at most precision. They are then tested under extreme stress before being put into the market.
Rinnai puts all their products under five different stages of quality control tests to ensure that each product is manufactured and assembled correctly. This way, Rinnai only sends out their highest quality products.
On top of that, Rinnai also has CSA-accredited lab technicians who test their products further for certification, application, development, and reliability. They have two labs. One is dedicated to testing their products’ energy efficiency, while the other puts their products through commercial-grade application testing.
By putting all their products through rigorous testing, they ensure that all the products meet strict set standards, including those set by AMNI (American National Standards Institute).
Unique Qualities associated with Rinnai Water Heaters
Cric Logic
If your home has a hot water recirculation system with a dedicated return line, then you’re going to love Rinnai’s Cric Logic (RCL).
RCL offers you enhanced convenience and energy savings by controlling the on/off sequence and operational cycles of your recirculation pump through your tankless water heater control board’s programming.
RCL is designed to provide you with the ability to customize your recirculation system based on critical variables such as piping insulation, home size, length of the recirculation loop, and your comfort and efficiency preferences.
Wireless Module
When it comes to innovative technology, nobody does it better than Rinnai. Rinnai allows you to monitor and control your tankless water heater from the palm of your hands through smart wireless technology.
Rinnai’s Wi-Fi module for tankless water heaters connects to your home’s Wi-Fi, so you can be able to manage schedules, monitor alerts, register your unit, and much more.
Motion Sensor
The Rinnai Control-R motion sensor works in conjunction with the wireless module to provide added convenience by controlling the recirculation system. It is mounted near the point of use, such as the bathroom sink or kitchen faucet. Its primary function is to detect full-body movement within 30 feet.
Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Product Lines
All Rinnai tankless water heaters are categorized according to their efficiency. They include:
- High efficiency
- High efficiency plus
- Super high efficiency
- Super high-efficiency plus
High Efficiency
Their high-efficiency range is labeled as the V model catalog. These models have a GPM ranging from 5.3 to 9.5 GPM on varying models.
Models in the V model catalog are either gas or propane-fueled and have a UEF of around 0.81. They are also Wi-Fi enabled.
High-Efficiency Plus
The high-efficiency plus category comprises the RL and RLX models. All RL and RLX models are recirculation and Wi-Fi-enabled, with a UEF of around 0.81. They come as either propane or gas-fueled devices and have a GPM ranging from 7.5 to 9.8.
Super High-Efficiency
The super high-efficiency category features the RUCS and RUS model catalogs. These models have an energy star seal, with a UEF rating of up to 0.90. They are also Wi-Fi enabled and have a GPM rating of between 6.5 and 7.5.
Super High-Efficiency Plus
The supper high-efficiency plus category features the RUC, RUR, and RU models. These models have a UEF rating of up to 0.93 and are energy-star recognized. They are also recirculation-enabled and are available as both gas and propane-powered models, with a GPM rating of between 9.8 and 11.
Drawbacks to Rinnai Products
Although Rinnai tries to go the extra mile to deliver their customers’ high-quality products, their prices are pretty extravagant compared to similar models by their competitors.
 Not only are their water heaters expensive, but they are also pretty hard to install. This means that in order to establish a Rinnai tankless water heater, you’ll need to hire a professional, which results in a significant finishing total.
Some customers also complain of limescale buildup in their tankless water heaters. This results in additional maintenance costs.
Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Reviews
1. Rinnai V65iN Tankless Water Heater
If you are looking for a compact tankless water heater that doesn’t sacrifice efficiency and performance, then this might be the product for you.
The Rinnai V65IN Tankless Water Heater comes in a very compact design and is made of high-quality materials for optimum durability.
With a 6.5 GPM and a temperature range of between 120 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit, this water heater will offer you all the convenience and flexibility you need.
This propane-powered water heater is compatible with 1.2″ gas lines and is Wi-Fi enabled. It also comes with an impressive 10-year residential heat exchanger warranty, with a one-year warranty on labor and a 5-year warranty on parts.
And if that’s not enough, the Rinnai V65IN Tankless Water heater offers 6.5 GPM of hot water with 150,000 BTU, making it suitable for medium household, single-family applications.
You’ll also love the fact that this water heater is energy star-certified, with a UEF rating of 0.81. It also has very low N2O emissions, making it among the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly water heaters on the market.
In terms of safety, this tankless water heater comes equipped with a leak detection feature that automatically turns off the water in case of leakage to prevent property damage. It also comes equipped with anti-frost protection to prevent freezing during winter.
Specs:
- Warranty – Ten year warranty on parts, five years Parts and Components, one-year labor warranty.
- Capacity – Medium household
- Energy Star Rating – Yes
- Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) – 0.81
- Water Temp – 120 to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Flow rate – 6.5 GPM
- Power Supply – Natural Gas
- Series Name – High Efficiency
2. Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
When it comes to reliability and energy efficiency, nothing does it better than the Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater. With a maximum BTU of 199,000 and an energy star rating of 0.92, this is one of the most efficient tankless water heaters out there.
Let’s talk about its design. It is pretty compact and is constructed from high-quality materials that are guaranteed to last a long time. It has a quiet operation and offers two venting options, including twin pipe and concentric PVC for added convenience.
This gas-powered tankless water heater has a maximum flow rate of up to 9.8 GPM, making it perfect for larger applications. Despite its high flow rate and solid construction, this water heater is very compact and can fit in pretty tight spaces.
In terms of efficiency, this water heater has a UEF rating of 0.92 and, therefore, has an energy star seal. It also has low carbon and NOx emissions, so you’re sure to reduce your carbon footprint with this eco-friendly water heater.
Like all Rinnai water heaters, this tankless water heater comes with a very impressive warranty. It has a 12-year warranty on the heat exchanger, a 5-year warranty on parts, and a 1-year warranty in labor.
Specs:
- Warranty – Twelve year warranty on heat exchanger, five year warranty on parts, and a one year labor warranty.
- Capacity – large household
- Energy Star Rating – Yes
- Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) – 0.92
- Water Temp – 98 to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Flow rate – 9.8 GPM
- Power Supply – Natural Gas
- Series Name – Super High Efficiency
3. Rinnai RUC80iN Ultra Series Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
When it comes to tankless water heaters, nothing says ‘buy me’ better than a compact size and top-notch features, and the Rinnai RUC80iN Ultra Series Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater offers just that.
This tankless water heater from Rinnai comes in a very compact design, but it’s packed with lots of cool features for added efficiency and convenience.
It offers two venting options: concentric PVC and twin-pipe installation, making it super convenient. It also features a built-in recirculation system that ensures you get hot water whenever you want it.
And that’s not all; it also features a very user-friendly design accentuated by the LED display that gives you all the relevant information on the system’s performance.
Like our previous pick, this water heater has very low NOx emissions, is Wi-Fi compatible, and boasts a very attractive warranty of 12-years on the heat exchanger and five years on parts.
With a maximum BTU of 156,000, a GPM of 8, and a UEF rating of 0.96, this tankless water heater is suitable for medium to large household applications.
Specs:Â
- Warranty – Twelve year warranty on heat exchanger, five year warranty on parts, and a one year labor warranty.
- Capacity – large household
- Energy Star Rating – Yes
- Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) – 0.96
- Water Temp – 98 to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Flow rate – 8 GPM
- Power Supply – Natural Gas
- Series Name – Super High Efficiency
4. Rinnai C199EN Commercial Outdoor Condensing Tankless Water Heater
If you are looking for a new tankless water heater for your commercial building that will offer you and your customers the convenience they need, then you’d better check out the Rinnai C199EN.
This tankless water heater offers unmatched installation flexibility due to its compact design, not to mention that it can be installed indoors and outdoors. Like all Rinnai tankless water heaters, this model is constructed from highly durable materials that are sure to last long.
With an energy efficiency of up to 96% and a maximum BTU of 199,000, this unit will help you save on gas without sacrificing performance. It also produces minimal carbon emissions, thus making it quite environmentally friendly.
In terms of convenience and usability, you’ll like the fact that this tankless water heater is Wi-Fi-enabled so that you can control and monitor it from the palm of your hands.
When it comes to installation, it doesn’t get any easier than this. This model comes with accessible installation features that make installation a walk in the park. It also comes with a desirable 6-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger, which is a clear depiction of the company’s faith in the model.
Specs:Â
- Warranty – Six year warranty on heat exchanger, five year warranty on parts, and two year warranty on labor
- Capacity – commercial setting
- Energy Star Rating – Yes
- Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) – Not specified
- Water Temp – 98 to 185 Degrees Fahrenheit
- Flow rate – 8.4 GPM
- Power Supply – Natural Gas
- Series Name – Super High Efficiency
Factors to Consider when buying a Rinnai Tankless Water Heater
Size
When it comes to size, there are a few things to consider. First, there is the space factor. It would help if you had a water heater that can fit effortlessly in your space. Second, Tankless water heaters don’t have storage tanks.
So, instead of looking at its capacity, you need to consider its flow rate (GPM), BTU’s and the average temperature rise of your home.
Looking at BTU’s
One BTU is equal to the amount of energy required to heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Basically, the higher the BTU, the faster the heater will warm your water.
Calculating GPM
When calculating GPM, you need to consider the number of devices/faucets that require hot water in your home; then, you need to consider how many of those devices you can use at a time. Once you’ve figured that out, all you need to do is add up the GPM of all those devices.
Calculating temperature rise
Calculating temperature rise is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is measure the water’s average temperature getting into your home, then subtract it from your intended hot water temperature.
Warranty
More extended warranties are a clear depiction of the company’s faith in the product. That is why high-quality tankless water heaters come with extended warranties.
When looking at the warranty duration, you should also consider the nature of water getting into your house. If it’s hard water, then your water heater’s risk of breaking down is significantly higher.
So, if you don’t want to spend tons of money on maintenance and repairs, then you’d better look for a water heater with an extended warranty.
Efficiency
Although tankless water heaters typically outperform standard tank-style water heaters in terms of energy efficiency, the energy efficiency differs across different models. That being said, you should lookout for a tankless water heater with a high energy star rating.
Fuel
Most tankless water heaters are mainly powered by either gas or electricity. The type you choose ultimately depends on where you live and the cost of fuel there. Most Rinnai tankless water heaters are gas/propane-powered, but you can also find an electric-powered model.
Budget
Wherever you go shopping for a tankless water heater, always have your budget in mind. You’ll undoubtedly be faced with tons of choices to pick from.
Keeping your budget in mind enables you to cross out the ones above your budget, leaving you with fewer distractions. It can also help you land an excellent unit at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
Tankless water heaters are rapidly surpassing tank-style water in terms of popularity. This is mainly due to their high energy efficiency, coupled with their relatively compact sizes. Although many companies are manufacturing tankless water heaters, few can match the level of quality offered by Rinnai tankless water heaters.
In the article, we have discussed everything that you should expect from a Rinnai tankless water heater. We have also given you the best Rinnai Tankless water heater reviews, featuring five of their best models in the market.
As our top pick, we chose the Rinnai V65IN Tankless Water Heater. This model has some of the highest energy efficiency and performance ratings on the market. With a UEF rating of 0.81, 150,000 BTU, and a 6.5 GPM, this model is sure to give its competitors a run for their money.
It is Wi-Fi enabled and has a ten-year residential heat exchanger warranty. This makes it suitable for medium and single-family applications.
When you go shopping for a Rinnai tankless water heater, keep in mind the factors discussed in the buying guide section. Doing that will enable you to choose a heater that best suits your needs and preferences.
