Rinnai RL94iP Propane Tankless Water Heater
Established in 1920, the Rinnai brand quickly grew to become one of the most trusted names in home appliances. However, it wasn’t until 1930 that the label began to branch out into the design and production of gas and propane powered appliances. In 1964, Rinnai produced their first water heater and, as they say, the rest is history. Today, the company has over 20 international branches, six production facilities, and 86 sales offices in 30 different countries. The one thing that has not changed in all this time is their commitment to quality.
The Rinnai RL94iP Propane Tankless Water Heater is the newest addition to the storied Rinnai product line. This model is powered by propane gas, and it is the counterpart to the Rinnai RL94iN, which is powered by natural gas. Like its cousin, the RL94iP can produce an impressive maximum hot water output of 9.4 gallons per minute. In a residential application, it can supply enough hot water to power 3 to 5 bathrooms at one time, but its versatile design also allows it to be installed and used in commercial applications without any issues.
Key Features
- The design of the Rinnai RL94iP Propane Tankless Water Heater also includes MC-91-1US Digital Controller with Error Code Indicator.
- To ensure its longevity, the Webstone Isolator service valves are constructed from forged, heavy duty brass.
- It has a thermal efficiency rating of 83%.
- Hot water settings for residential use range from 98 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- The Rinnai RL94iP is Energy Star qualified and certified.
- Rinnai offers a 12 year warranty on the heat exchanger and a 5 year warranty on its other components.
- The box is made from treated metal to protect its interior components and features an attractive chrome finish.
Cons
- It has an expensive price tag.
- Professional installation can be expensive.
Product Review
On the whole, the Rinnai RL94iP Propane Tankless Water Heater has enjoyed solid reviews. At the time of this writing, 79% of reviewers online that we found have rated it four stars or higher (out of five). The primary complaint against this model has been its high price tag and the cost of installation. On average, buyers seem to spend around $2,000.00 on professional water heater installation, which includes the cost of revamping existing venting. However, as these prices are on par with what one would spend for a comparable model, they are acceptable.
One of the advantages of owning a tankless water is that they are not subject to standby heat losses. Because water is heated only when it is needed, energy efficiency is achieved. The Rinnai RL94iP has a thermal efficiency rating of 83%. This model has a max gas input of 190,000 BTU per hour. Since the model does have an oversized heat burner, it requires a larger gas supply line. On this model, the gas connection is a 3/4″ MNPT.
Unlike a traditional tank storage water heater, the Rinnai RL94iP is not equipped with a standing pilot. Rather, it employs a technique called direct spark electronic ignition. In residential settings, its hot water temperature range starts at 98 degrees F and runs up to 140 degrees F. In commercial settings, it can reach a maximum high temperature of 185 degrees F, but this does require the separate purchase of a commercial controller because this controller is not included in the basic package. The control panel is integrated into the front panel of the model.
One unique aspect of the Rinnai RL94iP is that it is certified safe to be used in conjunction with mobile homes. Although it is designed to (and should be) installed indoors, it is also equipped with a freeze protection system. According to Rinnai, the protective heating elements that are built into the unit will prevent indoor models from freezing even if the outdoor temperatures drop to below -22 degrees F. Although this claim has yet to be tested, many reviewers have agreed that the Rinnai RL94iP does work well in cold, frigid climates and temperatures.
As with all their products, Rinnai offers an excellent warranty on the RL94iP. The heat exchanger is covered by a 12 year warranty, and additional components are protected by a 5 year warranty. Rinnai also provides, in residential applications, a one year warranty on parts and labor. However, it should be noted that this unit needs to be installed by a licensed plumber for Rinnai to honor these warranties.
Thank You For Reading
The Rinnai RL94iP Propane Tankless Water Heater has won rave review from users. Almost all believe that the cost of this unit is well worth the power and capacity it provides. From a compact design that minimizes space to rugged, durable connector valves, a lot of thought and care has gone into the design and production of the Rinnai RL94iP. If you are looking for an efficient, gas powered tankless water heater that can provide hot water to multiple applications at once, this could be exactly what you are looking for.
