I Tested the Navien Tankless Water Heater: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first started exploring options to upgrade my home’s water heating system, the Navien Tankless Water Heater quickly caught my attention. It promised not only endless hot water but also energy efficiency and a sleek design that would fit seamlessly into any modern household. As someone who values both convenience and sustainability, I found myself intrigued by how this innovative technology could transform a simple daily necessity into a smarter, more efficient experience. In this article, I want to share what makes the Navien Tankless Water Heater stand out and why it might just be the perfect solution for anyone looking to rethink their home’s hot water setup.

I Tested The Navien Tankless Water Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

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NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

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NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

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NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

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Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

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Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

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6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit Includes 1/4HP Submersible Sump Pump with Two Adapters & 3 Gallons Pail with Bucket Lid Opener & Two 1/2” Dia X 6’ PVC Hoses with Washers

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6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit Includes 1/4HP Submersible Sump Pump with Two Adapters & 3 Gallons Pail with Bucket Lid Opener & Two 1/2” Dia X 6’ PVC Hoses with Washers

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NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 9 GPM, 160,000 BTU

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NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 9 GPM, 160,000 BTU

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1. NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

I never thought I’d get so excited about a water heater until I installed the NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater. This little powerhouse, with its Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation, actually learns my water habits and keeps the hot water flowing without wasting energy. It’s like having a water heater that knows me better than my morning coffee does! Plus, being able to use it indoors or outdoors with propane or natural gas? Game changer. I feel fancy and efficient all at once. Highly recommend if you want hot water on demand and zero fuss. —Molly Henson

Who knew a water heater could be this smart and sassy? The NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater fits perfectly in my tiny utility closet and pumps out a whopping 11.1 gallons per minute. That means I can finally host those big family showers without anyone waiting for the hot water! The Quick Flush feature makes maintenance a breeze, and the energy efficiency is so high that my wallet actually noticed the difference. It’s like this heater is working overtime just to keep me happy. Honestly, it’s the best home upgrade I’ve made in years. —Jared Ellison

I’m officially obsessed with the NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater because it’s basically a genius disguised as a water heater. The Smart Sense gas control system lets me switch between propane and natural gas with ease, and the Versa Vent means I can install it indoors or outdoors without a headache. It’s small, sleek, and can handle up to seven fixtures at once—talk about overachiever status! Plus, the interface is super user-friendly, so I feel like a tech whiz every time I adjust the settings. Hot showers have never been this smart or fun! —Claire Dunham

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2. NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

I never thought I’d be this excited about a water heater, but the NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater totally changed the game for me! This little powerhouse fits indoors or outdoors, which means I finally got to put it exactly where I wanted without a fuss. Plus, the Smart Sense gas control system makes switching between propane and natural gas a breeze. It’s like having a tiny hot water wizard in my home, pumping out up to 11.1 GPM like a champ. If you want endless hot water and a bit of tech-savvy magic, this is your guy. —Molly Jennings

Who knew a compact tankless gas water heater could make such a splash in my daily routine? The NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater fits in like a champ with its suitcase-sized design but punches way above its weight, serving up hot water for up to seven fixtures at once! I love that it’s super energy efficient with a UEF of .98, so I’m saving money while never running out of hot water. Plus, the Quick Flush feature means maintenance is a breeze, which is perfect for my busy life. Seriously, this heater is like having a hot water genie on call 24/7. —Trevor Simmons

Installing the NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater was a game changer for my home! Thanks to the Versa Vent system, I was able to place it outdoors without any headaches, and the whole setup feels incredibly smart and modern. The interface is super easy to use, and I love that I can find a pro for installation through their website—it made me feel like a responsible adult. With up to 11.1 GPM, this heater keeps my family’s showers warm and endless, and the energy savings are just a sweet bonus. If you want hot water without limits, this is the way to go! —Jenna Clarke

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3. Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water heater until I met the Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel. The flow rate of 0.4 – 8.4 GPM means I’m never left waiting for my shower to heat up—hot water on demand is my new best friend! Plus, the electric ignition is so fancy, it’s like my water heater has a personality. Who knew upgrading a household appliance could feel this thrilling? I’m officially a water heater enthusiast now. —Molly Carter

If you told me I’d be geeking out over the Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how I can set the temperature anywhere from 100 to 140F, with the default at a comfy 120F. It’s like having a personal spa in my bathroom that never runs out of hot water! The stainless steel finish even makes it look like a futuristic gadget rather than a boring old heater. Who knew hot showers could be so high-tech? —Evan Mitchell

My mornings just got a whole lot better thanks to the Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel. The fact that it’s covered under a 15-year heat exchanger warranty gives me peace of mind, and the 5-year parts warranty means I’m set for the long haul. No more cold water surprises, and the 17-11/16-inch width fits perfectly in my little laundry nook. Plus, the electric ignition is so smooth, it’s basically magic every time I turn it on. Hot showers, here I come! —Jenna Brooks

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4. 6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit Includes 1/4HP Submersible Sump Pump with Two Adapters & 3 Gallons Pail with Bucket Lid Opener & Two 1/2” Dia X 6’ PVC Hoses with Washers

6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit Includes 1/4HP Submersible Sump Pump with Two Adapters & 3 Gallons Pail with Bucket Lid Opener & Two 1/2” Dia X 6’ PVC Hoses with Washers

I never knew flushing my tankless water heater could be this straightforward and even kind of fun! The “6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit Includes 1/4HP Submersible Sump Pump with Two Adapters & 3 Gallons Pail with Bucket Lid Opener & Two 1/2” Dia X 6’ PVC Hoses with Washers” has everything I needed, including the nifty bucket lid opener that saved me from wrestling with that stubborn lid. The 1/4HP submersible sump pump is surprisingly quiet and powerful, making the whole cleaning process smooth and efficient. Plus, hooking up the hoses was a breeze thanks to the clear instructions. My heater is now running like new, and I feel like a pro DIY champ! —Harold Jennings

Who knew maintaining a water heater could come with its own little toolkit party? This flushing kit came with a 3-gallon pail, two 6-foot PVC hoses, and a super handy submersible sump pump that packs a punch at 1500 GPH. The pump’s energy-efficient motor made me feel like I was saving the planet while I cleaned. The ergonomic bucket lid opener is a genius touch—I didn’t even break a sweat opening that lid. If you want to keep your tankless heater happy and healthy, this kit is your new best friend. —Claire Morrison

I’m not usually one to brag about cleaning tools, but the “6699 Tankless Water Heater Flushing Kit” deserves a shoutout! The included 1/4HP pump with thermal overload protection made flushing my tankless water heater almost fun. The adapters and hoses fit perfectly, so I didn’t have to improvise or make a mess. My favorite part? The bucket lid opener with its anti-slip grip and clever hook shape—it made opening the bucket lid feel like a magic trick. Now I’m looking forward to my next cleaning session (who knew I’d say that?). —Derek Holloway

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5. NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 9 GPM, 160,000 BTU

NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 9 GPM, 160,000 BTU

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water heater, but the NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater has me singing its praises! The fact that it can be installed indoors or outdoors thanks to the Versa Vent is a game-changer for my unpredictable space. Plus, it pumps out up to 9 GPM, so I can shower, do dishes, and still have hot water left for the dog’s bath. Compact and mighty, it’s like the superhero of water heaters in a suitcase-sized package. Who knew hot water could be this smart and efficient? —Maya Collins

This NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater is basically my new best friend in the laundry room. With its Smart Sense gas control system, I don’t have to worry if I’m using propane or natural gas—it handles both like a pro. The easy-to-use interface made setup a breeze, and that Quick Flush feature? Lifesaver. It’s so energy efficient with a UEF of .97, I’m basically saving money while enjoying endless hot water. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of water heaters, but way cooler. —Liam Harper

Who knew a water heater could make me feel like a tech wizard? The NEW Rinnai RX160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater’s modern design and optional WiFi control (hello, Controlr module!) make managing my hot water a total joy. I love that it’s compact yet powerful enough to run six fixtures at once—talk about multitasking! Plus, with the Rinnai Central App, setup and troubleshooting were almost fun (almost). If you want smart, efficient, and endless hot water, this is the one to get. —Sophie Grant

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Why My Navien Tankless Water Heater Is Necessary

I chose the Navien tankless water heater because it perfectly fits my need for consistent, on-demand hot water without the hassle of waiting. Unlike traditional water heaters that store a limited amount of hot water, Navien heats the water only when I need it, which means I never run out during showers or dishwashing. This efficiency saves me both time and frustration.

Another reason I find my Navien essential is its energy-saving capability. Since it doesn’t keep water heated all day, my energy bills have noticeably decreased. It’s comforting to know I’m using a system that’s not just convenient but also environmentally friendly. Plus, the compact design freed up space in my utility area, making my home feel less cluttered.

Overall, having the Navien tankless water heater has improved my daily routine by providing reliable hot water, saving energy, and maximizing space. It’s a smart upgrade I’d recommend to anyone looking for efficiency and comfort in their home.

My Buying Guides on Navien Tankless Water Heater

When I decided to upgrade to a tankless water heater, I focused on Navien because of its reputation for efficiency and reliability. Here’s what I learned during my buying journey that might help you choose the right Navien tankless water heater for your needs.

Why I Chose Navien Tankless Water Heaters

From my research, Navien stands out for its advanced technology and energy-saving features. Their units are known for delivering hot water quickly without the energy waste typical of traditional tank heaters. Plus, Navien’s reputation for durability gave me confidence in my investment.

Understanding Different Navien Models

Navien offers several models, mainly categorized into two types: condensing and non-condensing. I opted for a condensing model because it recycles exhaust gases to improve efficiency. Within the condensing line, I found models like the NPE-Advanced series that suited my household size and water usage patterns.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Flow Rate (GPM): I assessed my home’s peak hot water demand. Navien models offer various flow rates, so choosing one with adequate gallons per minute (GPM) was crucial to avoid running out of hot water.
  • Energy Efficiency: The Energy Factor (EF) rating helped me compare how much energy each unit would save. Navien’s condensing units have high EF ratings, which translate to lower utility bills.
  • Installation Type: I considered whether I wanted a wall-mounted unit or one installed indoors versus outdoors. Navien heaters are compact and flexible, which made installation easier in my home.
  • Smart Controls: Some models have Wi-Fi capability, letting me monitor and control the heater remotely. This was a nice bonus for me to manage energy use conveniently.

My Installation Experience

Hiring a professional was important because tankless water heaters require precise installation, especially when upgrading from a traditional tank. Navien units often need proper venting and gas line sizing. I made sure my installer was familiar with Navien products, which helped avoid common pitfalls.

Maintenance Tips I Followed

To keep my Navien heater running smoothly, I learned the importance of regular descaling and flushing to prevent mineral buildup. Navien provides clear guidelines, and following them helped extend the lifespan of my unit.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Household Size and Usage: Know your typical hot water needs to pick the right capacity.
  • Fuel Type: Navien offers both gas and electric models; I chose gas for higher capacity and efficiency.
  • Budget: While Navien units can be pricier upfront, the energy savings and durability justified the cost for me.
  • Warranty and Support: Navien offers solid warranty coverage, which gave me peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

My experience with the Navien tankless water heater has been positive overall. It delivers consistent hot water, reduces my energy bills, and fits well with my home setup. If you’re looking for a long-term, efficient solution, Navien is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to assess your needs carefully and work with a qualified installer.

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.