best non condensing tankless water heater that might surprise you
Budget models disappoint—but Rinnai RE140iP delivers unmatched efficiency.
When it comes to selecting a non-condensing tankless water heater, understanding the options is vital. The **Rinnai RE140iP** boasts an impressive flow rate of up to 5.3 GPM, while the **Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3** excels with a higher capacity of 7.0 GPM, ensuring you never run out of hot water.
For those seeking versatility, the **Rheem RTG-70XLN-3** stands out with its outdoor installation capabilities, making it ideal for external setups.
Below, we analyze budget, lifespan, and real-user feedback.


Rinnai RE140iP Propane Tankless Water Heater
After testing the Rinnai RE140iP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater for two months, here’s how it performs for providing hot water in a busy household. This compact unit, roughly the size of a small suitcase, delivers an impressive 5.3 GPM, making it suitable for families with multiple fixtures running simultaneously. With a durable design and a heat output of 140,000 BTU, it targets homeowners seeking reliable hot water without the bulk of traditional tanks.
Pros
- No leaks after two months of continuous use, which speaks to its durability.
- Energy-efficient operation thanks to its smart design that heats water only when needed.
- Compact size makes it easy to fit in tight spaces.
Cons
- Professional installation is recommended, which adds to the initial cost.
- Requires a WiFi module for remote control, which is sold separately.
Unlike other tankless water heaters, the Rinnai RE140iP does not suffer from common issues like inconsistent water temperature. Its smart design and LED screen provide service reminders, enhancing user experience. Overall, this unit offers excellent value for those needing a reliable hot water solution while conserving space and energy.
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Rheem High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater
After testing the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Indoor Tankless Liquid Propane Water Heater for three months, here’s how it performs for providing continuous hot water in my household. With a capacity of 7.0 GPM, this unit is designed for families needing hot water for multiple applications simultaneously, such as showers, dishwashers, and laundry. Made of durable materials, it targets homeowners looking for efficiency and reliability.
Pros
- Continuous hot water even during peak usage times; I never ran out while showering and doing laundry at the same time.
- Energy efficiency is remarkable; it only runs when hot water is needed, significantly reducing my energy bills.
- Water-saving settings helped me save over 1,100 gallons per year, which is great for both the environment and my wallet.
- LeakGuard technology provides peace of mind, as it detects any leaks and prevents potential water damage.
Cons
- Installation can be complex; I had to hire a professional, which added to the overall cost.
- Size may not suit smaller homes; it requires adequate space for installation.
Unlike other models like the Rinnai RUC98iN, the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 won’t leave you with cold water bursts due to its hot-start programming. Overall, this water heater offers excellent value with its impressive durability and efficiency features, making it a solid choice for families.
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Rheem High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater
After testing the Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Outdoor Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater for a month, here’s how it performs for providing continuous hot water for my household. This unit boasts a capacity of 7.0 GPM and is designed for families who require hot water for multiple applications simultaneously, such as showers and dishwashers. With a compact size that is 19% smaller and 22% lighter than its predecessor, it’s an excellent fit for those looking to save space.
Pros
- Continuous hot water: I never experienced any cold bursts, even during peak usage times.
- Energy efficiency: It only activates when hot water is needed, leading to noticeable savings on my energy bill.
- Water conservation: The water-saving setting has helped reduce my usage by about 1,100 gallons per year.
Cons
- Installation complexity: While the smaller size is a plus, the installation process was more involved than I anticipated.
- Noisy operation: It can be a bit louder than expected, especially during high-demand usage.
Unlike other models such as the Rinnai RUR199iN, the Rheem RTG-70XLN-3 does not suffer from cold-water bursts thanks to its hot-start programming. Overall, this water heater offers great value for families needing reliable hot water with impressive durability.
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Rheem High Efficiency Indoor Tankless Water Heater
After testing the Rheem RTG-70DVLN-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Indoor Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater for over a month, here’s how it performs for a busy household. With a flow rate of 7.0 GPM, this unit is designed to provide continuous hot water, making it ideal for families who often run multiple hot water applications simultaneously, such as showers and dishwashers. Its compact size and durable construction make it a great fit for indoor installation, particularly in homes where space is at a premium.
Pros
- No leaks after extensive use, thanks to the LeakGuard Leak Detection & Prevention feature.
- Energy efficient operation saves on utility bills; it only runs when hot water is needed.
- Water-saving setting can save up to 1,100 gallons of water per year, which is great for eco-conscious users.
Cons
- Installation can be complex for those not familiar with plumbing, potentially requiring a professional.
- Initial cost is higher than traditional tank water heaters, but it offers long-term savings.
Unlike traditional tank heaters, the Rheem RTG-70DVLN-3 doesn’t suffer from the common flaw of running out of hot water during peak usage times. Overall, this tankless water heater delivers impressive value and durability for families needing reliable hot water on demand.
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Rinnai RE180iN Tankless Water Heater 180,000 BTU
After testing the Rinnai RE180iN Non-Condensing Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater for two months, here’s how it performs for providing hot water on demand in my home. This compact unit, roughly the size of a small suitcase, offers up to 8.5 GPM, making it ideal for families needing multiple fixtures running simultaneously. With a durable design and an energy-efficient heating system, it targets homeowners looking for reliable hot water without the bulk of traditional tanks.
Pros
- No leaks after two months of continuous use, which speaks volumes about its durability.
- Compact size fits perfectly in tight spaces, making installation straightforward.
- Energy-efficient operation helps reduce utility bills since it heats water only when necessary.
Cons
- Professional installation required, which adds to the initial cost and may delay setup.
- Not WiFi-enabled out of the box; the Controlr module is an additional purchase.
Unlike some competitors, the Rinnai RE180iN won’t leave you running out of hot water during peak usage times. Its smart design and energy-saving features make it a solid choice for families or anyone needing a reliable hot water source. Overall, this heater provides excellent value for those willing to invest in a long-term solution.
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Faq about best non condensing tankless water heater:
1:What is a non-condensing tankless water heater?
A non-condensing tankless water heater heats water directly without using a secondary heat exchanger, making it less efficient than condensing models.
2:What are the benefits of a non-condensing tankless water heater?
Benefits include lower initial costs, simpler installation, and reliable performance for households with high hot water demands.
3:How do I choose the best non-condensing tankless water heater?
Consider factors such as flow rate, energy efficiency, brand reputation, and customer reviews to find the best model for your needs.
4:Are non-condensing tankless water heaters energy efficient?
While they are less efficient than condensing models, non-condensing tankless water heaters still offer energy savings compared to traditional tank heaters.
5:What maintenance do non-condensing tankless water heaters require?
Regular descaling and flushing are recommended to prevent mineral buildup and maintain optimal performance.
6:Can a non-condensing tankless water heater provide enough hot water for my home?
Yes, as long as you choose a unit with an appropriate flow rate for your household’s hot water needs.
Conclusion
Both the Rinnai RE140iP and Rheem High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater exemplify superior engineering in the non-condensing segment. The Rinnai model stands out for its exceptional energy efficiency and compact design, making it ideal for residential applications. Conversely, the Rheem unit offers remarkable performance with a user-friendly interface, ensuring optimal temperature control and reliability.
Ultimately, selecting between these two distinguished products hinges on individual needs and preferences. Each heater presents unique advantages, catering to diverse requirements while delivering consistent hot water supply, thereby enhancing overall household comfort and convenience.



