Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade
#3 in GasFull review
A strong value outdoor heater for a natural gas home in a mild climate, with a better warranty than most budget rivals.
Amazon $499$499
The Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade and the Rheem RTG-70DV are evenly matched, rated 4.1 and 4.1. The Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade leads on heating power. The Rheem RTG-70DV wins on warranty. The Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade costs $154.77 less ($499 vs $653.77).
Rheem RTG-70DV
#5 in GasFull review
A budget indoor heater from a major brand for a two bathroom home in a moderate climate.
Amazon $653.77 Amazon $785.13$653.77
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade for heating power (180,000 BTU/h vs 160,000 BTU/h).
- Choose the Rheem RTG-70DV for warranty (15-year heat exchanger warranty vs 10-year heat exchanger warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every gas tankless water heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade | Rheem RTG-70DV |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.1/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Value 35% | 100 $2.77 per 1,000 BTU/h ($499, 180,000 BTU/h) | 98 $4.09 per 1,000 BTU/h ($653.77, 160,000 BTU/h) |
| Heating power 25% | 76 180,000 BTU/h | 51 160,000 BTU/h |
| Efficiency 15% | 50 UEF not published (neutral score used) | 12 0.82 UEF |
| Warranty 25% | 50 10-year heat exchanger warranty | 100 15-year heat exchanger warranty |
Specifications
| Eccotemp 7GB Builder Grade | Rheem RTG-70DV | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Fuel | Gas | Gas |
| Gas type | Natural gas | Natural gas or propane |
| Gas input | 180,000 BTU/h | 11,000 to 160,000 BTU/h |
| Max flow | 7 GPM | 7 GPM |
| UEF | - | 0.82 |
| Condensing | No | No |
| Installation | ||
| Venting | Outdoor | Indoor |
| Vent type | - | 3 in x 5 in concentric Category III stainless |
| Weight | - | 46.5 lb |
| Features | ||
| Built-in recirculation | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Heat exchanger warranty | 10 years | 15 years |
| Parts warranty | 5 years | 5 years |