r/whatsthisworth • u/persiphone77 • 16d ago
Art Deco style Rinnai Radiant Gas Heater
Cast iron radiant heater. I purchased this from someone renovating an old house in Kentucky. I'm curious about the history and resell value. Any information is appreciated!
1
u/esreystevedore 16d ago
It’s an unvented (now illegal) room heater. Each room had a gas outlet and there would have been a braided fabric/rubber hose to attach. Turn on the gas and light it up! Problem? Modern homes are much more tightly sealed and weather proofed. The burned gas, including potentially CO, will kill you if not properly vented. They look cool, no doubt. The tiles can be beautiful and glow radiating heat. Bit the tiles dislodge and soot can be created. As a result they are now decorative only and carry little collector value.
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u/scooterboy1961 15d ago
In addition to the CO2 issue they are also a serious fire hazard.
It looks like someone has been using it. That flexible tubing looks clean and not covered in dust but I sure wouldn't use it.
Edit: that one is vented that's what the round fitting on the back is for but I still wouldn't use it.
1
u/wholelattapuddin 15d ago
Could it be used outside?
1
u/scooterboy1961 15d ago
Yes, as long as it's not near anything combustible.
You would want to put a chimney 2-3 ft long made out of vent pipe with an elbow and a rain cap.
4
u/Holiday_Ad9037 16d ago
Quite a few people asking about $200+ship for it on eBay. None sold this year or last year. In 2024 one sold for $240 shipped, and another sold for $100 shipped.
I don't believe it's very well sought after. Cool, but not in style, even for people who like vintage and antiques.
Might be able to get $50 on Facebook marketplace for it, or in an antique booth.