Best Rinnai RX199iN Tankless Water Heaters

Hot water is a necessity for everyday life, but many homeowners find themselves frustrated by traditional tank water heaters. These units can run out of hot water during peak usage, forcing you to wait for the tank to refill. This leads to discomfort and inconvenience, especially in larger households where multiple showers, dishwashers, and laundry machines are running simultaneously. Thankfully, tankless water heaters offer a solution, providing endless hot water on demand.

Choosing the right tankless water heater involves understanding your specific needs, such as the size of your home, the number of fixtures you need to run at once, and whether you prefer natural gas or propane. Additionally, energy efficiency, installation requirements, and ease of use play critical roles in making the best choice. Rinnai’s RX199iN line of tankless water heaters is designed to meet various requirements, providing efficient performance and reliable hot water for homes of all sizes.

This article reviews five of the best Rinnai RX199iN tankless water heaters, evaluating their features, strengths, and ideal use cases. Whether you need a compact unit for a smaller home or a robust model for a larger household, this roundup will help you find the right fit for your needs.

Here’s a quick comparison of our top picks:

Features	Rinnai RX199iN	Rinnai RXP199iN	Rinnai CX199iN	Rinnai RE199iN	Rinnai RX160iN
Installation Type	Indoor/Outdoor	Indoor/Outdoor	Indoor/Outdoor	Indoor	Indoor/Outdoor
Max Output (GPM)	11.1	11.1	11.1	9.8	9
Energy Efficiency	UEF.98	UEF.98	UEF.98	Energy Efficient	UEF.97
Smart Features	WiFi Control	Smart-Circ Recirculation	WiFi Control	WiFi Compatible	WiFi Control
Warranty	12 years	12 years	8 years	15 years	15 years

Rinnai RX199iN Condensing…

The Rinnai RX199iN is a versatile tankless water heater suitable for various home settings. It’s ideal for families needing consistent hot water without interruptions, as it can handle up to 11.1 gallons per minute (GPM), supporting multiple fixtures simultaneously. This makes it particularly beneficial for larger households or homes with high hot water demand.

What sets the RX199iN apart is its Smart Sense gas control system, allowing for efficient energy use whether connected to natural gas or propane. Its compact design, comparable to a small suitcase, makes it easy to install in various locations, indoors or outdoors. Users appreciate the efficient performance and the ease of flushing for maintenance, which helps ensure longevity.

However, installation can be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with plumbing and gas connections. It’s advisable to hire a professional installer to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. Additionally, while the unit has high energy efficiency, the cost of initial installation might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

• Max Output: 11.1 GPM
• Energy Factor: UEF.98
• Smart Sense Control
• Compact Size
• Indoor/Outdoor Installation

Best for: Families needing reliable, consistent hot water for multiple fixtures.

Rinnai RXP199iN Condensin…

The Rinnai RXP199iN offers advanced features ideal for modern homes. This unit not only provides endless hot water but also includes Smart-Circ technology. This feature learns your hot water usage patterns and adjusts the recirculation accordingly, ensuring instant hot water whenever you need it. It’s perfect for homeowners who value convenience and efficiency.

This model also supports both natural gas and propane, making it flexible for different home setups. With a maximum output of 11.1 GPM, the RXP199iN can easily handle multiple showers or appliances running at once. Its compact design allows for versatile installation options, enhancing usability in tight spaces.

On the downside, the RXP199iN requires professional installation, which can add to the overall cost. While the advanced recirculation system is beneficial, some may find the initial setup process complex. Additionally, the need for a WiFi control module (sold separately) for remote monitoring could be seen as an inconvenience.

• Max Output: 11.1 GPM
• Smart-Circ Recirculation
• Energy Factor: UEF.98
• Indoor/Outdoor Installation
• Compact Size

Best for: Homeowners wanting a smart, efficient water heater with recirculation capabilities.

Rinnai CX199iN SENSEI CX…

The Rinnai CX199iN SENSEI CX is designed for commercial applications, but it also performs admirably in residential settings. With a robust output of 11.1 GPM, this model can meet the hot water demands of larger families or multiple fixtures without delay. It’s a solid choice for those needing high performance for various domestic tasks.

Its energy efficiency rating (UEF.98) and compact design make it a suitable option for those who need to save space without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, the modern interface allows for easy operation, and the Quick Flush feature simplifies routine maintenance, extending the unit’s lifespan.

However, its commercial-grade capabilities may be more than some households require, leading to a higher price tag compared to residential models. Additionally, while it has a solid warranty, the unit’s professional installation requirement can add to upfront costs.

• Max Output: 11.1 GPM
• Energy Factor: UEF.98
• Quick Flush Feature
• Indoor/Outdoor Installation
• Commercial Grade

Best for: Larger homes or commercial settings needing high-performance hot water solutions.

Rinnai RE199iN Non-Conden…

The Rinnai RE199iN is a non-condensing tankless water heater that excels in delivering reliable hot water for whole-house applications. With a maximum output of 9.8 GPM, it’s suitable for homes that don’t require the highest output but still need consistent hot water across multiple fixtures. This model is perfect for mid-sized families or homes.

This unit stands out for its energy-efficient design, which heats water on demand, reducing energy waste. It features a compact design for easy installation and includes an LED display for maintenance reminders, making it user-friendly. The warranty is also impressive, offering a 15-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger, ensuring durability.

However, the 9.8 GPM output might fall short for larger households during peak usage times. Additionally, being an indoor model, it requires proper venting, which could complicate installation. While it’s a solid performer, those with high hot water demands might need to consider more powerful alternatives.

• Max Output: 9.8 GPM
• Energy Efficient Operation
• LED Maintenance Display
• Indoor Installation
• 15-Year Heat Exchanger Warranty

Best for: Mid-sized families needing consistent hot water for everyday tasks.

Rinnai RX160iN Condensing…

The Rinnai RX160iN is another compact option that delivers reliable hot water. With a maximum output of 9 GPM, it serves smaller households effectively. It’s ideal for those looking to save space while still enjoying the benefits of a tankless system.

This model maintains a high energy efficiency factor (UEF.97) and features a smart design that facilitates easy installation and maintenance. Users appreciate its compact size and ease of use, which makes it suitable for various indoor and outdoor settings. The Quick Flush feature also aids in maintenance, ensuring longevity.

However, the 9 GPM output could limit its effectiveness during busy times, especially in homes with multiple fixtures in use. Additionally, while the compact design is a benefit, it may not be suitable for larger households needing higher output. Buyers should weigh these factors when considering this model.

• Max Output: 9 GPM
• Energy Factor: UEF.97
• Compact Design
• Indoor/Outdoor Installation
• Quick Flush Maintenance

Best for: Smaller households needing an effective and space-saving hot water solution.

How We Chose These Products

Our selection of the top Rinnai RX199iN tankless water heaters was based on extensive research into their specifications, user reviews, and performance metrics. We prioritized factors such as hot water output, energy efficiency, and unique features that enhance usability. Each model was evaluated for its suitability for different household sizes and hot water needs.

We also considered installation requirements, warranty terms, and customer support options. This thorough evaluation ensures that we recommend models that not only meet performance expectations but also fit well within budgetary constraints and installation capabilities.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

When selecting a tankless water heater, consider the maximum hot water output, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). This figure indicates how many fixtures can be used simultaneously without running out of hot water. For larger families or homes with high hot water demands, look for models with higher GPM ratings.

Energy efficiency is another critical aspect. Look for models with a high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating, as this indicates better energy savings over time. Additionally, consider the installation requirements and whether you need a unit compatible with natural gas or propane. Professional installation is often recommended to ensure proper setup and adherence to safety standards.

Our Top Recommendation

The Rinnai RX199iN stands out as the top choice due to its exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and flexibility for installation. Its ability to provide 11.1 GPM makes it perfect for larger households needing consistent hot water. For those needing a smart option with recirculation, the Rinnai RXP199iN is an excellent alternative. For smaller needs, the Rinnai RE199iN and RX160iN models offer reliable performance without overwhelming space requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a tankless water heater myself? Installing a tankless water heater requires plumbing and gas line expertise. It’s recommended to hire a professional to ensure safe and compliant installation.

How long does a tankless water heater last? With proper maintenance, a Rinnai tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, significantly longer than traditional tank models.

Does a tankless water heater save money? Yes, tankless water heaters typically reduce energy costs since they heat water on demand rather than maintaining a reservoir of hot water.

What size tankless water heater do I need? The size depends on your household’s hot water needs. Calculate your maximum simultaneous usage to determine the GPM requirement for your home.