The best concentric vent kit choices for tankless water heaters emphasize safer venting, easier installation, and durable materials. This guide highlights five top products and explains who they’re best for, plus practical buying tips. Ideal buyers include homeowners replacing old venting, contractors seeking quick installs, and mid-to-high efficiency systems required to meet code standards. A quick comparison table below helps identify primary differences.
- Rheem Concentric Vent Kit – 2 in.
- Rheem ProTech Vertical Vent Termination Kit RTG20282
- Diversitech CVENT-3 3-Inch Concentric Kit
- Rheem ProTech 90 Degree Elbow RTG20271
- Rheem ProTech Concentric Vertical Termination Kit RTG20275
| Product | Size / Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concentric Vent Kit – 2 in. (Rheem) | 2″ concentric | Simple renovations or replacements | OEM genuine factory part for compatibility |
| Rheem ProTech Vertical Vent RTG20282 | 3″ x 5″ concentric | New installations with vertical termination | Includes flashing, caps, storm collar |
| Diversitech CVENT-3 | 3″ concentric kit | High-efficiency furnaces or tankless units | Low profile design with dual-pipe configuration |
| Rheem ProTech 90° Elbow RTG20271 | 90° elbow | Specific vent routing | Leak-proof gasket and easy 1-step connection |
| Rheem ProTech RTG20275 Vertical Termination | Concentric vertical termination | Vertical layouts with robust build | Stainless steel construction and quick install |
Concentric Vent Kit – 2 in. (Rheem)
Best for: Homeowners replacing old venting with a compact, OEM-approved option. Features emphasize ease of installation and compatibility with Rheem systems. This 2-inch concentric kit is designed to simplify retrofits where space is limited and direct compatibility with OEM parts is valued. Limitation: Availability may be restricted by regional venting approvals, such as certain states requiring alternative configurations.
Rheem ProTech Vertical Vent RTG20282
Best for: New installations needing a vertical termination with a complete kit. Features include a 3″ x 5″ concentric vent and included flashing, caps, and storm collar for weather sealing. The kit is finished in galvanized and stainless steel options for durability. Limitation: Requires proper sizing to ensure clearance and wall thickness compatibility in the install area.
Diversitech CVENT-3 3-Inch Concentric Kit
Best for: High-efficiency furnace or tankless heater installations that require a neat, dual-pipe vent arrangement. Benefits include a low-profile design to conceal intake and exhaust neatly. Limitation: While designed for versatile use, ensure compatibility with your specific heater model and local code requirements.
Rheem ProTech 90 Degree Elbow RTG20271
Best for: Vent routing that needs a precise 90-degree turn without compromising seal integrity. Features include fast installation and a leak-proof gasket. Choose this if your run requires a tight bend, but be mindful of potential space constraints leading to a longer total run that may affect performance.
Rheem ProTech Concentric Vertical Termination Kit RTG20275
Best for: Vertical terminations on Rheem tankless non-condensing heaters that require fast, easy installation. Benefits include a stainless steel construction and a complete wall plate assembly for secure mounting. Limitation: As a vertical termination kit, ensure adequate clearance and vent height to comply with local exhaust requirements.
Buying Guide
What size should you choose?
Concentric vent kits come in multiple sizes, typically 2-inch or 3-inch configurations. Match the kit to your heater’s vent outlet and the exterior venting requirements. A kit that’s too small can impede exhaust flow, while an oversized kit may be unnecessary and costlier.
Material and durability considerations
Stainless steel constructions offer superior corrosion resistance and longer service life in harsh venting environments. Galvanized finishes are common and adequate for many installations but may require more maintenance in coastal or humid climates.
Installation complexity
Look for kits marketed as easy or fast installation with features like step connections and pre-formed gaskets. If you’re a DIY buyer, choose a kit with comprehensive installation instructions and included components like wall plates, flashing, or storm collars.
Code compliance and regional restrictions
Some regions prohibit certain vent configurations or require specific venting dimensions. Verify local building and energy codes before purchasing. If you’re in a state with venting restrictions, select a kit explicitly approved for those jurisdictions or consult a professional installer.
Compatibility with tankless gas non-condensing systems
All listed products target tankless gas non-condensing units, but confirm model compatibility with your exact heater. Using the wrong adapter or diameter may require additional fittings or may void warranties.
Performance considerations
Concentric systems reduce external wall penetrations and can improve safety by combining intake and exhaust. Consider the overall run length, number of elbows, and clearance to combustibles to ensure optimal performance and safe venting.
FAQ
- What is a concentric vent kit? A concentric vent kit combines intake and exhaust in a single, two-pipe assembly to vent tankless gas heaters compactly and efficiently.
- Who should buy a vertical termination kit? Builders and homeowners planning external vent termination on upper walls or rooftops, seeking a neat finish with weatherproofing components.
- Are all concentric kits the same size? No. Sizes vary (commonly 2″ and 3″) and must match your heater’s vent outlet and the exterior venting requirements.
- Can I mix brands for my venting system? It’s generally best to use components from the same brand when possible to ensure compatibility and warranty considerations.
- Do these kits require professional installation? Some can be installed by confident DIYers, but many installations benefit from professional oversight to ensure code compliance and proper venting.
- What fixes a venting sag or wobble? A vent elbow or compatible gasket designed for a specific kit helps prevent sag and wobble and maintains a sealed path for exhaust and intake.