What you need to know about buying the best tankless gas water heater

A nice, long, hot shower at the end of a hard day could be just the thing to ease aching muscles and get you in the mood for a sound sleep. Or even as a great pick-me-up first thing in the morning. Yet the cost of heated water increases with every rise in utility bills. But you may not have to worry about those heating bills rising if you buy the best tankless gas water heater you can afford. The most amazing part of these water heaters is that they are usually compatible with a handheld shower head as well as a rain shower head! That has to be a plus point, right?

Before looking at these heaters in more detail, let’s first take a look at some of the best tankless gas water heaters around.

Tankless Gas Water Heater Reviews

Below are reviews of some of the best gas tankless water heaters. We hope they help you in your search for the best gas tankless water heater for your buck.

On the lookout for the best propane tankless water heater? Here are a few to take a look at.

1.  RL75iP Luxury 7.5 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater by Rinnai

Incredibly efficient, this non-condensing unit gives you the convenience of a space-saving, modern design that satisfies the demand of most larger homers.

Although customers found the need to install propane lines a little bit inconvenient, they found it well worth the effort, as the tankless water heater, according to them, made it well worth the effort. The small size of this unit makes it almost unnoticeable, according to them, while it works very efficiently and was installed without hassles.

The best features of this product include:

If you are thinking of going the way of natural gas, here are a few more to try out for size.

2.  Rinnai 9.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

This Rinnai model has a strong 9.8 GPM gas use when you heat up your home. Perfectly made for residential buildings and homes, it uses an Energy Factor of 0.82, allowing it to have a strong maximum output. As for BTU, it dispenses 199,000 of heat.

Another great thing about it is its compact size which allows you to save space since it doesn’t require that much installation. With performance and good spacial capacity, it’s a great tankless water heater for any house.

Due to its compact size, most customers stated that it’s extremely easy to install and even use. With that, many customers commented that it’s an ideal tankless water heater for small houses and even for condominium units.

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3.  Propane Tankless Water Heater RL75eP

While the RL75iP model is for indoor usage, the RL75eP is more compatible for outdoor usage. As outdoor usage wears out water heaters more, this one comes with convenience features that make it very easy to maintain. Some of these features include the circ-logic technology and isolation valves.

These two features give it its long shelf life with little need for a lot of maintenance. The other specs are pretty much the same such as the 7.5 GPM, 180,000 BTU, and the Energy Factor of 0.82. However, you’ll want this one if ever you need to have a tankless water heater for the outdoors.

Most of the customers loved how easy it was for them to install this one outdoors. Since it is a mount type, there is hardly any installation that needs to be done. As compared to other water heaters, this one works really fast too. Customers have claimed that they don’t need to wait so long for the hot water to come into their showers like with other water heaters.

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4.  RL94iP 9.8 GPM Residential Interior Tankless Water Heater

If you’re looking for something that is both powerful and easy to use, this model is actually great for you. The RL94iP uses 9.8 GPM of propane gas, allowing the machine to emit up to 199,000 BTU of heat to your water tank. Unlike a lot of other heaters which only have 82% thermal efficiency, this one delivers up to 83% thermal efficiency for both residential and commercial structures.

Other than that, it’s also got a nice gas saving mechanism allowing you to save up to 40% gas compared to other brands.

If you look at most reviews, you’ll see that customers do regard this model as one of the best tankless gas water heater products that they’ll ever find in the market. They comment on this heater’s energy saving ability (up to 40%) without compromising on power. That’s why most customers would say this is worth the money that they paid for.

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5.  RUS75EN Ultra Series White Water Heater

If you’re looking for an outdoor water heater that has low NOx, then this is a good choice. This one has a temperature range of 120 to 140 degrees with pre-set temperatures. The great thing about this is that this one has very low NOx emissions and an easy outdoor mount installation.

Other than that, it’s still quite strong with 7.5 GPM and a heat capacity of 160,000 BTU. What makes it great is that it has an energy factor of 0.93 which is the highest out of all the models in this list.

While this model doesn’t have as many reviews and ratings as the previously mentioned models, this one does have its own market to deal with. Most customers stated that this product is a great 7.5 GPM outdoor water heater that is also pretty eco-friendly.  They also liked the built-in status monitor which makes it easy for them to monitor and control temperature.

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6.  Rinnai V65iN 6.6 GPM Low NOx Water Heater

This one is another indoor tankless water heater that has low NOx emissions. Just like the rest, this one has an energy factor of 0.82. As for its BTU’s, the max is 150,000 and the GPM is 6.6. What makes this a pretty attractive tankless water heater is its lightweight build.

In fact, this is one of the most lightweight water heaters offered by Rinnai. Because of the size and weight, it’s extremely easy to carry it around and even install it indoors.

Most of the customers don’t know much about the installation of water heaters. That is why they love this model a lot. It is so easy to set up inside the house. It’s also not bulky and heavy so they don’t need to have a hard time lugging it around.

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Read more: Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters for Your Heating Needs

7.  40 Gal Tank Replacement 6.2 GPM Natural Gas Indoor Tankless Heater

This NRC663 model from Noritz was the first water heater with tankless technology to reach the market. The water heater is specifically designed to replace 30 to 40 gallons tank water heaters and convert them into the tankless type. The hot and cold water connections are top-mounted for flexibility.

The product offers a decent water flow rate of 6.6 GPM, which is adequate to ensure a constant supply of hot water for regular use like bathing and dishwashing. Small households will undoubtedly appreciate its hot water offering.

Something that really stands out about this product is that it uses condensing highly efficient technology. Hence, users can make use of the available venting as a conduit and foundations for flexible PVC vent pipes. This makes the EZTR40 model easy and quick to install when compared to other tankless gas heater units.

In addition, the package includes extras like isolation valves and vent kits to help you install the heater with ease. For this reason, you don’t have to be intimidated by the long and tiring installation process that is seen in the traditional models. The heater has 120, 000 BTUH requirements, and it can be installed in half an inch gas line.

One common issue that most homeowners have with natural gas tankless heaters is the level of noise. However, a good number of customers are pleased with this unit’s quiet operation. The unit works effectively without causing clicking relays, allowing you to enjoy a serene environment.

Most reviewers also note that the model has no fluctuations or leakages as is the case with other models. This delivers smooth and trouble-free operation.

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8.  1 GPM Natural Gas Indoor Direct Vent Recirculating Tankless Heater

This is another best tankless gas water heater that has an incredible water flow rate of 10.1 GPM. A unique spec of the heater is the built-in recirculation pump that is designed to supply preheated water with a dedicated return line. The internal pump has to modes: the internal mode and the external mode.

If you are concerned about harmful environmental emissions, you will be glad to know NRCP98-DV-NG that a gas and water leakage detection is integrated. This way, you will be at peace knowing that your family is safe and no damage will occur to the product.

This Noritz product has a uniform energy factor of 0.94 and temperature settings of 100 degrees to 140 degrees F. It uses a high efficiency condensing technology and features a built-in weatherproof remote controller to help you customize the hot water.

An impressive feature is that this heater can be converted for outdoor use. This is despite the fact that it is specially designed for indoor use. One can also use it outdoors with the help of VCK-NRCP- 1 kit, which is sold separately

A feature that stands out is the crossover valve functionality that makes external circulation possible without needing a return line. You can also customize the temperature settings with ease, thanks to the remote thermostat included. According to customer Noritz tankless water heater reviews, it is evident that users love its smart heating technology.

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Read more: Top Noritz Tankless Water Heater of the Year – Consumer Reports

9.  RheemPerformance Plus 8.4 GPM Liquid Propane Mid Efficiency Outdoor Tankless Water Heater

A great option for two to three bathroom homes, the Rheem 8.4 GPM tankless water heater can provide up to 8.4 GPM of warm water at a 35-degree temperature rise. It has a remote digital thermostat that can be installed in just about any convenient location in your home.

Customers thought this was an awesome water heater and mentioned the ease of installation. The only drawback, as far as we could tell, was that the exhaust piping is not included in the sale.

The best features of this product include:

10.  5 GPM Indoor Platinum Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

According to some Rheem performance platinum gas water heater reviews, you could save a lot from energy costs by using this indoor water heater. You can save an estimated amount of $1,100 in 12 years. Furthermore, it has an Energy Star rating. With a 0.93 Uniform Energy Factor, you can avail of the incentives and rebates. The water-saving setting feature could save you over a thousand gallons of water each year.

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11.  Rheem 11 GPM Indoor Platinum Natural Gas Recirculation Tankless Water Heater

Because of its built-in recirculation system, this water heater has received many Rheem gas tankless water heater reviews. It sends hot water to faucets fast and continues to do so if you need hot water. It is also efficient and energy-saving. Thus, you can save a lot. It is a model with an Energy Star certified rating. Therefore, you could also save more money. You save more from installation-related expenses, space, water, and time.

Rebates are also possible for more savings. You could also take note that this is compatible with PVC vents.

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12.  5 GPM Indoor Rheem Performance Platinum Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

Aside from having 9.5 gallons per minute, this indoor natural tankless water heater can provide hot water at 35 degrees temperature rise.

It also has 199,900 British Thermal Units. This makes it possible to have hot water on demand. Even for people using 3 bathrooms at once, it is great.

This small heater is more than qualified for most utility rebates. Furthermore, the package also has remote digital temperature control. You can install it at any convenient part of your house. You can also purchase a separate direct venting for this heater. It requires stainless steel vents.

You can check a guide from Rheem. It will help you in purchasing the right water heater and accessories for you.

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13.  Rheem 5 GPM Indoor Commercial Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

This commercial water heater is ideal for restaurants, offices, hotels, and many other commercial establishments. It is effective in energy saving. This is because of the high thermal efficiency of 96%. Furthermore, Rheem designed this to produce hot water when you need it.

Therefore, many contractors prefer this. You can save a lot on installation because of its great features. You also get a 5-year heat exchanger warranty and 1 year for the labor warranty. If you have any problems, you can contact the support team of Rheem. They understand that supply of hot water is important to keep the business running.

The water temperature can go as high as 185 degrees F. You can also add another tank with fewer units to ensure that there is hot water all the time.

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Read more: Rheem Tankless Water Heater Reviews: Everything You Need to Know and More

14.  VEVOR 16L Natural Gas Hot Water Heater 4.3GPM 32KW Tankless 

This natural gas hot water heater has a wonderful, thin design that takes up very little space. It works well for smaller homes.

Customers tend to agree that this is a great option for a smaller home and that it is pretty easy to install depending on the type of exhaust used. Please note, however, that the manufacturers advise you use a qualified person to do the installation for you.

The best features of this product include:

15.  EZ Ultra HE Natural Gas Condensing Tankless Water Heater by EZ Tankless

The UZ Ultra HE gives you the option of choosing either vertical or horizontal venting. This model gives up to 3.4 gallons of warm water a minute at a 45 degrees Fahrenheit rise of constant hot water.

Customers were very impressed with this product. A particular point of interest mentioned was the choice of a vertical flue and the ease of installation was praised.

The best features of this product include:

16.  i12-LP Indoor 3 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater

This product sports a new, revolutionary design that features a new, sleek acrylic black casing with fully automatic temperature controls and touch screen and LCD temperature display.

Clients were impressed by the functionality of this product. Other comments referred to the ease of installation and the fact that heated water is available almost instantly.

The best features of this product include:

17.  EZ Supreme Tankless Water Heater, 6.4 GPM, Direct Vent Exhaust Included

This tankless water heater has the capacity of providing enough water for a four-bathroom home. It was, in fact, designed specifically to meet the needs of most larger homes across the U.S. and delivers up to 6.4 gallons of hot water per minute. This makes it an ideal replacement for up to a 100-gallon storage tank water heater.

Customers commented on the ease with which they were able to install this tankless water heater themselves – besides the propane hookup for which the appropriate people were needed, of course. They were also impressed with the water temperature quality.

The best features of this product include:

18.  45HI-NG Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater See by Eccotemp Systems LLC

This tankless water heater is designed to supply hot water to any standard three bedrooms, two bathrooms home. It is designed for use with natural indoor gas only.

Although most customers say this product works well, the fact that it only works with a metal exhaust system seems to be a little off-putting.

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19.  Takagi TK-u310-e

Takagi TK 310 is a gas-fired, non-condensing water heater. It can produce hot water for up to 3 baths. This makes it fit for small homes.

Besides, you can use it with recirculating systems and water tanks. The heater can combine domestic and commercial heating use. This make can be used both indoors and outdoors.

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Read more: A review of Takagi tankless water heaters

20.  RUC98iN Rinnai Ultra 9.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

This natural gas tankless water heater boasts a stainless steel finish. PVC pipes can be used for the vents. It uses only natural gas.

The majority of customers seemed very pleased with the style and function of this heater. The water heats up quickly and, most importantly, stays hot.

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21.  Ridgeyard 2GPM Water Heater 12L Digital Display LPG Propane Gas Tankless

This particular water heater has a minimum working water pressure of 0,025MPa and a maximum of 0,8MPa, and an automatic electric ignition that is powered by two qualified D batteries.

Clients were very satisfied with both the product use and the price. They found the latter very reasonable, while the functionality of this tankless heater was found to be very sound.

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22.  Marey 3.1 GPM Liquid Propane Gas Digital Panel Tankless Water Heater

This tankless water heater has a compact design that saves you space. It is easy to install and could potentially save up to sixty percent on your electricity bill for water and heating. A plus factor is that no electrical connection is required.

While this product surpassed most of the customers’ expectations, those in areas that have extremely low temperatures during winter have mentioned the possibility of this cold air entering the vent and freezing the unit.

The best features of this product include:

Read more: A Comprehensive Marey Tankless Water Heaters Review

How Does a tankless gas water heater work?

The moment you open a hot water tap, the sensor in the unit senses it. Your unit is now operating, and the gas burner fires up. The heat exchange warms up the flowing water.

Some of these units have what is known as a secondary heat exchanger that preheats your water. Here, heat is used from exhaust gases.

The quantity of gas entering the burner is controlled by a thermostat. In this way, a pre-set temperature is constantly maintained. The maximum temperature of a gas water heater is usually pre-set in the factory, with fifty degrees Celsius usually being the typical temperature for most homes. You can, however, with some of these units, change your temperature requirements as you deem fit.

Please do take note that this is only a brief description, as the exact working of this type of water heater largely depends on the particular unit’s manufacture design and process.

Choosing a tankless gas water heater

There are, typically, two types of tankless gas water heaters: propane, or natural gas. The type you choose will largely depend on where you stay, as some areas have access to natural gas. Here, the natural gas option would work best as it is freely available.

In areas that do not have access to natural gas, you would probably look at a propane gas solution. Please remember that your propane gas tanks need to be in a safe, secure area, as per your area’s restrictions.

When deciding on a specific type of heater, you would probably need to consider style, and function. What works well for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home may not be suitable for a larger home sporting four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The needs are simply too different. The style of the product would also come into play, plus where you want to install it. In other words, is this heater going to be installed outside, or inside your bathroom, for example. Knowing this would help you limit your choices, thereby making the decision of which particular product to purchase just that much easier.

The Pros and Cons of a Tankless Water Heater

A gas heater is a great option if your home already has a gas line installed.

The pros of a tankless gas water heater:

• Quick heat

These water heaters could potentially heat up water twice as fast as a conventional electric water heater

• Uses less energy

Gas water heaters are not only energy efficient, but your potential operating costs are also drastically slashed, meaning you make up on savings in the long run.

• May work even when the lights are down

Unless your tankless gas water heater operates with an electric ignition, you are assured of a running supply of hot water even when the power is out.

The cons of a tankless gas water heater:

• Initial installation costs may be quite high

The initial, upfront costs of a tankless gas water heater may be quite costly. Most of these heaters, however, pay for themselves in other savings relatively quickly.

• Installation difficulties

This may be quite a complex installation and may need the services of qualified professionals.

• Lifespan issues

Compared to an electric tankless water heater, these water heaters have a slightly shorter lifespan. This difference, however, is only a year or two so the effort is well worth the cost in the long run.

Conclusion

Installing the best tankless gas water heater for your particular needs is important, because up to a quarter of your home’s energy costs usually goes towards heating your water. The water heaters offer you quite a number of benefits, though. Of those we reviewed, our vote goes to the RL75iP Luxury 7.5 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater by Rinnai. We like the fact that this unit caters to larger homes while the modern, space-saving design makes it a great fixture to fit just about any home environment.