Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 Review: High-Efficiency LP Tankless Water Heater for Endless Hot Showers

Overview: Diving into the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 Tankless Water Heater

Hey everyone! You know how much our community loves finding those game-changing home improvement products, right? Well, a lot of people in our group have been asking about tankless water heaters, especially with energy costs on the rise. I’ve been doing some digging and, after seeing some buzz, I decided to take a closer look at a popular option: the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Indoor Tankless Liquid Propane Water Heater. It’s quite a mouthful, but let’s break down what this unit brings to the table.

Moving away from traditional tank water heaters is a big decision for many, and for good reason. The promise of endless hot water, space savings, and potential energy efficiency is incredibly appealing. But is this specific Rheem model the right fit for your home? I’ve put together an honest, in-depth review to help you decide, just like I’d share with a friend over coffee.

This unit is designed for indoor installation and runs on liquid propane (LP), making it a specific solution for homes without natural gas access or those preferring LP. With a robust 7.0 GPM (gallons per minute) and 160,000 BTUs, it’s built to handle significant hot water demand. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty!

Key Features & Specs: What Makes This Rheem Unit Tick?

When our community talks about tankless heaters, the core questions are always about performance and efficiency. The Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 has some solid numbers that address these concerns:

• 7.0 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) Flow Rate: This is a crucial spec. A 7.0 GPM unit means it can deliver 7 gallons of hot water per minute. For many households, this is enough to run two hot water applications simultaneously, like a shower and a dishwasher, or two showers at once, without a noticeable drop in temperature. It’s fantastic for families who constantly juggle morning routines!
• 160,000 BTUs: The British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating indicates the heating power. 160,000 BTUs is a significant amount of power for a tankless unit, ensuring that it can quickly heat water to your desired temperature, even in colder climates where incoming water temperatures are lower. This power is what allows it to achieve that impressive 7.0 GPM flow.
• Liquid Propane (LP) Fuel Type: This unit specifically uses liquid propane. This is important to note for installation and ongoing costs. If you don’t have natural gas lines, or prefer the flexibility of LP, this is a great option. It’s designed to be a dedicated LP unit, so no conversion kits needed.
• High Efficiency: The ‘High Efficiency’ in its name isn’t just marketing fluff. Tankless heaters are inherently more efficient than traditional tank models because they only heat water on demand. This means no energy is wasted keeping a large tank of water hot 24/7. While specific energy factor numbers aren’t provided, Rheem’s high-efficiency models generally boast excellent ratings, translating to lower utility bills over time.
• Non-Condensing Indoor Design: This tells us two things. First, it’s designed for indoor installation, meaning it needs proper ventilation to the outside. Second, ‘non-condensing’ refers to the technology used to vent exhaust gases. Non-condensing units are typically simpler to install in terms of venting compared to condensing units, often using standard B-vent or Category III stainless steel venting. They recover less heat from the exhaust than condensing models, but are often more affordable upfront.
• Compact, Space-Saving Design: One of the biggest wins for tankless water heaters is how little space they take up. Unlike bulky tanks, this unit can be mounted on a wall, freeing up valuable floor space in utility closets, garages, or basements. This is a huge plus, especially for smaller homes or anyone looking to declutter their utility area.

Pros & Cons: The Good, The Bad, and The Reality

No product is perfect for everyone, and the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 is no exception. After looking at its features and considering community feedback on tankless systems, here’s a balanced look:

The Pros: Why You’ll Love It

• Endless Hot Water: This is the dream, right? No more cold showers because someone else used all the hot water. With 7.0 GPM, this Rheem unit can keep up with most household demands, providing continuous hot water for as long as you need it. Our community members with tankless systems often rave about this freedom.
• Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings: By only heating water when you need it, you eliminate standby heat loss – that constant energy drain from a tank keeping water hot. Over the lifespan of the unit, this can lead to significant savings on your LP bill. It’s a smart investment for the long run.
• Space-Saving Footprint: Ditch the bulky tank! This unit mounts on the wall, instantly freeing up precious floor space. This is a huge benefit for smaller homes, apartments, or anyone wanting to maximize their utility area.
• Longer Lifespan: Tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan (15-20 years) compared to traditional tank heaters (10-15 years). This means fewer replacements and potentially less hassle over the years.
• Precise Temperature Control: Many tankless units allow you to set the exact desired water temperature, offering greater comfort and preventing scalding. While not explicitly detailed for this model, it’s a common benefit of modern tankless technology.
• Environmentally Friendly: Using less energy means a smaller carbon footprint. If you’re conscious about your environmental impact, an efficient tankless system like this is a step in the right direction.

The Cons: Things to Consider

• Higher Upfront Cost: Let’s be real, tankless units, especially high-capacity ones like this Rheem, often have a higher initial purchase price than traditional tank water heaters. You’re paying for advanced technology and efficiency.
• Professional Installation Often Required: While some DIY enthusiasts might tackle it, installing a tankless water heater, particularly an LP non-condensing indoor model, involves gas lines, water lines, and specific venting. This typically requires a licensed plumber and/or gas fitter, adding to the overall cost. Our community always stresses safety first when dealing with gas appliances!
• Venting Requirements: Being a non-condensing indoor unit, it requires proper venting to the outside. This can be more complex than venting a dryer, involving specific pipe materials and runs. Make sure your home can accommodate the necessary venting.
• Potential for ‘Cold Water Sandwich’: This is a common phenomenon with some tankless units. When you turn off the hot water for a moment (e.g., while lathering in the shower) and then turn it back on, you might get a brief burst of cold water before the hot water kicks in again. While not universal for all units or users, it’s something to be aware of.
• LP Specific Considerations: Using liquid propane means you either need an existing LP line or a tank on your property. The cost of LP can fluctuate, and you’ll need to monitor your tank levels if you rely on delivery.
• Flow Rate Limitations (Even at 7 GPM): While 7.0 GPM is excellent, if you have a very large home with multiple simultaneous high-demand hot water fixtures (e.g., three showers, a washing machine, and a dishwasher all running at once), you might still experience a slight drop in temperature or flow. It’s important to match the GPM to your peak household demand.

Who Is It For? Is This Your Next Water Heater?

After testing and reviewing what this Rheem unit offers, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic option for specific types of homeowners:

• Medium to Large Households: Families with 3-5+ people who frequently use hot water for multiple showers, laundry, and dishwashing will greatly appreciate the 7.0 GPM and endless hot water supply.
• Homes with High Hot Water Demand: If you have a spa tub, a large family, or simply love long, hot showers, this unit can keep up without breaking a sweat.
• Homeowners Looking for Energy Savings: If you’re tired of high energy bills and want to invest in a more efficient system that pays for itself over time, this high-efficiency tankless model is a strong contender.
• Those with Limited Space: If your utility closet is cramped or you want to reclaim floor space in your garage or basement, the compact, wall-mounted design is a huge advantage.
• Homes Using Liquid Propane: Obviously, if your home is already set up for LP or you prefer it over natural gas, this unit is a direct fit.
• Environmentally Conscious Individuals: Reducing energy consumption and your carbon footprint is a key benefit of going tankless.

It might not be the best fit for very small households with minimal hot water needs, where the higher upfront cost might outweigh the energy savings. Also, if you don’t have access to LP or prefer natural gas, you’d need to look at a different model.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Our community always has great questions, so I’ve pulled together some of the most common ones about tankless water heaters, especially relevant to this Rheem model:

Q1: What does 7.0 GPM mean for my family?
A: 7.0 GPM (gallons per minute) is a strong flow rate. It generally means this unit can handle 2-3 simultaneous hot water demands in a typical home. For example, two showers running at 2.5 GPM each, plus a sink at 1 GPM, would still be within its capacity. This is great for avoiding cold showers during peak usage times!

Q2: Is LP more expensive than natural gas?
A: Typically, yes, liquid propane can be more expensive per BTU than natural gas, and its price can fluctuate more. However, for homes without access to natural gas, LP is a convenient and efficient alternative. Always compare local LP prices to understand your potential operating costs.

Q3: Can I install this Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 myself?
A: While some very handy individuals might consider it, installing a tankless water heater, especially one involving gas lines and specific venting, is highly recommended to be done by a licensed professional. Improper installation can be dangerous and could void your warranty. Safety is paramount!

Q4: How does ‘non-condensing’ differ from ‘condensing’ tankless water heaters?
A: The main difference lies in how they handle exhaust gases. Non-condensing units (like this Rheem) vent hot exhaust gases directly outside. Condensing units have a secondary heat exchanger that extracts more heat from these exhaust gases, making them even more efficient (often 90%+) but requiring different, often more complex, PVC venting and a condensate drain. Non-condensing units are generally less expensive upfront but slightly less efficient.

Q5: How long do tankless water heaters typically last?
A: With proper installation and regular maintenance (like annual flushing to prevent mineral buildup), tankless water heaters can last significantly longer than traditional tank models, often 15 to 20 years or more. This makes them a great long-term investment for your home.

Final Verdict: Is the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 Worth It?

After thoroughly exploring the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3, I believe it’s a fantastic contender for many homes. The promise of endless hot water, significant energy savings over time, and the space-saving design are huge advantages. The 7.0 GPM and 160,000 BTUs make it a powerful unit capable of meeting the demands of medium to large families, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Yes, the upfront cost and professional installation are considerations, and it’s essential to ensure you have proper LP access and venting. However, for those ready to invest in a modern, efficient, and reliable hot water solution, this Rheem tankless heater stands out. It’s a solid choice that our community would likely appreciate for its performance and long-term benefits.

If you’re in the market for an LP tankless water heater that delivers consistent, on-demand hot water, frees up space, and helps reduce your energy footprint, the Rheem RTG-70DVLP-3 is definitely worth adding to your shortlist.

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