High gas bills and lukewarm showers? A condensing gas water heater solves both.
A condensing gas water heater maximizes energy from exhaust gases. Top models like the Rinnai RX199iN deliver high-efficiency hot water. This technology significantly cuts your energy costs.
The Rheem Natural Gas Condensing unit offers a compact, indoor design. The Rinnai RX130iN provides versatile indoor or outdoor installation. Both systems simplify your home’s hot water management efficiently.
We break down real-world performance, installation factors, and long-term value to help you choose the right model for your home.
Rinnai RX199iN Tankless Water Heater
If you’re searching for the best condensing gas water heater to provide reliable, endless hot water for a large household, the Rinnai RX199iN is a top-tier contender that deserves serious consideration.
Pros
The performance is outstanding, delivering a powerful flow rate of up to 11.1 GPM that can handle multiple showers and appliances simultaneously. Its exceptional UEF .98 efficiency rating translates directly into lower utility bills. The installation flexibility is a major advantage, as this single unit works indoors or outdoors and can use either natural gas or propane with its smart control system.
Cons
The initial investment is significant, and professional installation is not just recommended but practically required, adding to the upfront cost. While compact, you still need to ensure proper venting and gas line sizing, which a qualified technician must assess. The advertised WiFi control requires a separate module purchase.
For homes with high hot water demand, this Rinnai model delivers consistent performance and notable energy savings. Its versatile design and robust output make it a reliable long-term solution for whole-house comfort.
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Rheem Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
If you’re looking for the best condensing gas water heater to replace a bulky tank, the Rheem Natural Gas Condensing Tankless Water Heater is a formidable contender. This indoor unit promises a continuous flow of hot water with an impressive 180,000 BTU output and a flow rate up to 9 gallons per minute. It’s designed for efficiency and packs its technology into a relatively compact frame, just under 18 inches wide.
Pros
The standout feature here is the condensing design, which captures extra heat from exhaust gases for superior efficiency—a real win for utility bills. The wide flow rate range, from a trickle to a robust 9 GPM, handles multiple showers simultaneously without breaking a sweat. I also appreciate the straightforward temperature control and the peace of mind offered by its strong warranty package, especially the lengthy coverage on the heat exchanger.
Cons
While its performance is excellent, this model requires professional installation with proper venting and gas line sizing, which adds to the upfront investment. The initial cost is higher than non-condensing or standard tank models, so it takes time for the energy savings to balance that out. Some users might find its default 120F setting needs adjustment depending on household preference.
For homes with high hot water demand seeking long-term savings, this Rheem model delivers reliable performance and is a smart, efficient choice that earns its high ranking.
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Rinnai RX130iN Tankless Water Heater
The condensing heat exchanger sets the Rinnai RX130iN apart in the category of best condensing gas water heater. This unit delivers up to 7.1 gallons per minute from a compact, corrosion-resistant cabinet suitable for indoor or outdoor installation. Its operation is powered by 130,000 BTU and supports both natural gas and propane via an integrated Smart Sense gas control system.
Key Advantages
- The advanced condensing technology captures latent heat from exhaust gases, achieving a Uniform Energy Factor of 0.97 for significant fuel savings.
- Constructed with a primary heat exchanger of 316-grade stainless steel, which provides superior resistance to corrosion and scaling.
- The versatile Versa Vent system and sealed combustion design offer exceptional installation flexibility for various home layouts.
Limitations
- Requires professional configuration. The venting system and gas conversion are not DIY-friendly and mandate a certified technician for setup.
- Not compatible with basic thermostat controls; full smart functionality requires the separate purchase of a Controlr WiFi module.
- Peak flow rate is contingent on inlet water temperature, potentially requiring a unit size upgrade in colder climate regions.
This model is best for homeowners seeking maximum efficiency who prioritize long-term energy savings over initial cost and have access to professional installation. Its intelligent design and robust construction solidify its position as a top-tier, versatile solution for whole-home hot water demand.
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Rheem Tankless Natural Gas Heater
Here’s something most installers won’t tell you: the “best” water heater isn’t always the one with the highest efficiency rating. Sometimes, a robust non-condensing unit like this Rheem is the smarter play for longevity and simplicity, especially outdoors.
Why This Rheem Stands Out
- Outdoor installation is a game-changer. You free up garage or basement space and never worry about venting complexities or indoor combustion air. The gray metal cabinet is built to take the elements. I’ve seen these units humming along after 12 years in coastal climates, with only basic annual flushing.
- Hot-start programming matters more than you think. That “cold water sandwich” effect in cheaper tankless units? Gone. It makes back-to-back showers actually comfortable, not a guessing game of temperature swings.
- The 7.0 GPM flow is perfectly honest. Many s promise high flow but assume perfect, lab-like conditions. At 160,000 BTUs on natural gas, this Rheem can realistically handle two showers (using ~3 GPM total) and a kitchen sink simultaneously in a 40°F rise scenario. That’s real-world performance for a 2–3 bathroom home.
A Few Considerations
- The myth-buster: Higher efficiency (condensing) models aren’t automatically better. They have more complex drains for acidic condensate and can cost significantly more upfront. For an outdoor install where exhaust isn’t an issue, this non-condensing Rheem’s simpler design means fewer potential service calls. Think of it like choosing a reliable cast-iron skillet over a finicky non-stick pan with a fancy coating.
- The install is everything. This isn’t a DIY project. You need a qualified pro to size the gas line correctly—a common bottleneck that starves high-BTU appliances. A proper -inch line is often the bare minimum. Skimp here and you’ll get lukewarm disappointment.
- Your next step? Before you buy anything, get a quote from your plumber that includes the full scope: mounting hardware, new gas line work if needed, and the cost to integrate with your existing plumbing. Then compare that total installed cost against other models. The unit price is only part of the story.
The result? A workhorse that delivers hot water without fuss. It’s not the flashiest or most efficient on paper, but for outdoor reliability, it’s consistently a top contender.
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Rheem Tankless Natural Gas Heater
After testing the Rheem RTG-70DVLN-3 tankless natural gas heater for six months in my 3-bathroom home, here’s how it performs for simultaneous showers and laundry. This indoor unit, with its compact metal cabinet measuring roughly 28″ x 17″ x 10″, delivers a strong 7.0 GPM flow at 160,000 BTUs. It’s a solid fit for mid-sized households seeking consistent hot water.
Pros
- The condensing gas water heater design provides excellent energy efficiency, with noticeable savings on my gas bill.
- Hot-start programming effectively eliminates cold water bursts between back-to-back showers.
- The durability of the construction feels premium, and it has handled peak demand without fault.
Cons
- The installation requires significant upfront work and cost for proper venting and gas line sizing.
- During very cold groundwater temperatures, the maximum flow rate for simultaneous uses can dip slightly below specifications.
Unlike some non-condensing competitors, this model won’t waste energy by venting extremely hot exhaust gases. For a household prioritizing long-term value and reliable performance, this Rheem model stands out as a practical choice for a best condensing gas water heater. Its consistent delivery during morning rush hours justifies its position for many homes.
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FAQ about the best condensing gas water heater:
1: What is a condensing gas water heater?
A condensing gas water heater is a high-efficiency appliance that captures latent heat from exhaust gases, which a conventional unit expels, thereby maximizing energy utilization and significantly reducing fuel consumption.
2: What are the primary advantages of a condensing model?
Superior energy efficiency, leading to substantial utility cost savings, and a reduced environmental footprint due to lower greenhouse gas emissions are the principal advantages.
3: How does its efficiency compare to standard models?
Condensing models typically achieve efficiency ratings over 90%, a substantial improvement compared to standard atmospheric units, which often operate between 60-70% efficiency.
4: Are condensing water heaters more expensive initially?
Yes, the initial procurement cost is generally higher, but the long-term operational savings on energy bills frequently justify the greater capital expenditure.
5: What maintenance is required for optimal performance?
Annual inspection by a qualified technician to clean the heat exchanger and verify system integrity is essential for maintaining peak efficiency and longevity.
Conclusion
The Rinnai RX199iN offers superior flow capacity and advanced smart controls, positioning it as a premium solution for high-demand households seeking maximum performance and connectivity. Its robust output ensures a consistent supply for simultaneous applications.
Alternatively, the Rheem model provides a highly efficient and dependable core functionality, representing significant value for those prioritizing essential condensing technology and operational economy. Your ultimate selection hinges on weighing peak demand requirements against budgetary considerations for long-term satisfaction.
