Imagine this: you’re getting ready for a long, relaxing shower, but the hot water runs out after just a few minutes. Frustrating, right? For many homeowners, this is a common problem with old water heaters. That’s where tankless water heaters come in, and we’re here to talk specifically about the gas-powered kind – a popular choice for many homes.
Choosing a gas tankless water heater can feel a bit overwhelming. There are so many brands and models, and figuring out what’s best for your family’s needs can be tricky. You want to make sure you get one that’s efficient, reliable, and saves you money on your energy bills. It’s a big decision for your home!
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what makes a great gas tankless water heater. We’ll break down the key features to look for, explain how they work, and help you understand which one might be the perfect fit for your home. Let’s dive in and make this decision a whole lot easier.
Our Top 5 Tankless Water Heater Gas Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Tankless Water Heater Gas Detailed Reviews
1. Ranein Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of lukewarm showers or long waits for hot water? The Ranein Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is here to change that. This indoor unit delivers instant hot water for your home, offering convenience and efficiency.
What We Like:
- It heats water fast, providing up to 4.3 gallons per minute. This means you can run 2-3 faucets or appliances at once without running out of hot water.
- The “Four Seasons Function” automatically adjusts the water temperature, so you get the perfect temperature all year round.
- The “Kitchen Function” sets the water to 100°F, ideal for washing dishes.
- The “Bathtub Function” lets you set how much hot water you want and even reminds you when you’ve reached that amount.
- You’ll never have to wait for the water to heat up again. Enjoy endless hot water as soon as you turn on the tap.
- It saves you money on your energy bills because it only heats water when you need it.
- The vent pipe is included, so you won’t have to buy it separately.
- It fits standard 1/2″ NPT water and gas connections.
What Could Be Improved:
- This heater is not recommended for areas over 2,000 feet in elevation.
- Professional installation by licensed plumbers is strongly advised to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
This Ranein tankless water heater offers a modern, efficient way to get hot water. It’s a smart choice for households looking for continuous hot water and energy savings.
2. Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of waiting for hot water? This Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is your solution! It delivers hot water instantly, so you can enjoy your shower or do chores without delay. With a powerful 95,540BTU input, it provides 14 liters of hot water per minute. This means you get hot water right when you need it, no more waiting for a tank to heat up.
What We Like:
- Instant hot water on demand means no more waiting.
- The 3.7 GPM flow rate supports multiple uses at once.
- It’s built with strong, industrial-grade materials for lasting use.
- The digital display lets you easily see the water temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius.
- Safety features like overheat protection and gas leak detection keep your home safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation requires a professional, which adds to the initial cost.
- It is designed for natural gas only, so it won’t work with other fuel types.
- The vent pipe needs a specific downward slope to work correctly.
This tankless water heater offers convenience and efficiency for your home. Just remember to have it installed by a qualified professional for safe operation.
3. Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater
Rating: 8.9/10
Say goodbye to cold showers and hello to endless hot water with the LiberLive Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater. This indoor unit packs a punch with 3.6 GPM and 85,000 BTU, meaning you can run multiple hot water fixtures at once. Its smart design saves space and energy, making it a great choice for any home. Plus, with CSA certification and a 2-year warranty, you can trust in its safety and reliability.
What We Like:
- Provides endless hot water for 2-3 simultaneous uses, like showers and sinks.
- Maintains a stable, comfortable water temperature, preventing sudden changes.
- Slashes utility bills by only heating water when you need it, saving energy.
- Compact, wall-mounted design frees up valuable space in smaller homes or apartments.
- Easy to install in most US homes with standard connections.
- CSA certified with multiple safety features for peace of mind.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty and dedicated customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires installation by a licensed professional.
- Not recommended for elevations above 2,000 feet.
- Venting and water valve kits are sold separately.
This tankless water heater offers a smart, efficient, and safe way to ensure you always have the hot water you need. It’s an excellent upgrade for any home looking for convenience and cost savings.
4. NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater
Rating: 8.8/10
Say goodbye to cold showers and hello to endless hot water with the NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Tankless Water Heater. This powerful unit is designed to meet the needs of busy households, offering a continuous supply of hot water for up to 7 fixtures at once. Its compact size, about the size of a small suitcase, makes it easy to fit in most homes, and it can be installed either indoors or outdoors. Plus, it works with both natural gas and propane, giving you flexibility in your fuel choice.
What We Like:
- Provides up to 11.1 GPM, meaning you won’t run out of hot water.
- Can be installed indoors or outdoors for versatile placement.
- Works with both natural gas and propane fuel types.
- Compact size saves space.
- Very energy-efficient with a UEF of .98.
- Easy-to-use interface and a Quick Flush feature.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires a separate RX-OVC vent cap for outdoor installation.
- WiFi control is available but requires purchasing the Controlr module separately.
- Professional installation is strongly recommended, which adds to the overall cost.
This Rinnai tankless water heater is an excellent choice for homes needing a reliable and efficient hot water solution. Its smart features and flexible installation options make it a top contender for upgrading your home’s water heating system.
5. Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of running out of hot water? The Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM tankless water heater is here to help! This powerful heater provides a continuous supply of hot water for your home. It uses natural gas and is designed for indoor use. Its stainless steel construction ensures it lasts. You’ll enjoy hot water whenever you need it, from showers to washing dishes.
What We Like:
- It offers a high flow rate, from 0.4 to 8.4 gallons per minute. This means multiple faucets can run at once.
- You can set the temperature anywhere from 100 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The default is a comfortable 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- It has an electric ignition, so it’s easy to start up.
- Rheem backs this heater with good warranties. You get 1 year of labor, 15 years on the heat exchanger, and 5 years on parts.
- It’s compact, with a width of just 17-11/16 inches, making it easy to fit in many spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires a 120-volt electrical connection, which is standard but something to consider for installation.
- The 157,000 BTU rating means it needs a proper gas line to perform at its best.
This Rheem tankless water heater delivers on performance and reliability. It’s a smart choice for a steady supply of hot water.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Tankless Gas Water Heater
Tired of running out of hot water? A tankless gas water heater might be the perfect solution for your home. These amazing heaters provide hot water on demand, meaning you’ll never face a cold shower again. Let’s dive into what makes a great tankless heater and how to pick the right one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a tankless gas water heater, keep these important features in mind:
- Flow Rate: This tells you how much hot water the heater can produce at once. More gallons per minute (GPM) means more hot water for your needs. Think about how many showers you might run at once or if you have multiple faucets running.
- Energy Factor (EF): A higher EF means the heater is more efficient. It uses less gas to heat the same amount of water. This saves you money on your energy bills.
- Temperature Control: Look for models with precise digital temperature controls. This lets you set the exact water temperature you want.
- Ignition Type: Most tankless heaters use electronic ignition, which is more efficient than pilot lights.
- Ventilation: Gas tankless heaters need proper ventilation to safely remove exhaust gases. Check if the model offers different venting options to fit your home’s setup.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size of your home and the number of people living there. A larger family will need a higher flow rate.
Important Materials
The materials used in a tankless water heater affect its durability and performance. The main part to focus on is the heat exchanger. High-quality heat exchangers are often made of stainless steel or copper. These materials resist corrosion and transfer heat very well. This means your heater will last longer and work better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Tankless Heater Great?
Several things make a tankless water heater a quality choice. A strong heat exchanger is key. Good insulation helps keep the heat in, making the unit more efficient. Reliable electronic components ensure it works smoothly. Simple controls make it easy to use. A good warranty also shows the manufacturer stands behind their product.
What Can Lower the Quality?
Lower quality can come from using cheaper materials that rust easily. Poorly designed venting can be a safety concern. If the heater struggles to keep up with demand, it’s a sign of lower quality. Complex or confusing controls can frustrate users. A short warranty period might also suggest the manufacturer isn’t confident in their product’s longevity.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a tankless gas water heater is a game-changer for many households. Imagine never worrying about the hot water running out during a busy morning with multiple showers and dishwashing. This is especially useful for larger families or homes with high hot water demands.
They are also great for smaller homes or apartments where space is limited. Since they don’t have a large tank, they take up much less room. This frees up valuable storage space.
For people who enjoy long hot baths or frequent laundry cycles, a tankless heater ensures a constant supply of hot water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a tankless water heater?
A: The main benefit is that they provide hot water only when you need it. This means you never run out of hot water.
Q: Are tankless gas water heaters energy efficient?
A: Yes, they are generally more energy efficient than traditional tank water heaters. They don’t waste energy heating water that isn’t being used.
Q: How long do tankless water heaters last?
A: With proper maintenance, a tankless water heater can last 20 years or more. This is longer than most tank water heaters.
Q: What is flow rate, and why is it important?
A: Flow rate is how much hot water the heater can deliver per minute. You need a high enough flow rate to handle all your hot water needs at once.
Q: Do I need special ventilation for a gas tankless water heater?
A: Yes, gas tankless heaters produce exhaust. They require proper venting to safely remove these gases from your home.
Q: Can a tankless water heater heat my entire house?
A: A single tankless unit can usually handle the hot water needs of a typical home. For very large homes or extreme demands, you might need multiple units.
Q: How much space does a tankless water heater take up?
A: Tankless water heaters are much smaller than tank heaters. They often mount on a wall and save a lot of space.
Q: What is the average cost of a tankless gas water heater?
A: The cost can vary widely, but expect to pay more upfront than for a tank heater. However, they save money on energy bills over time.
Q: Can I install a tankless water heater myself?
A: Installation can be complex, especially with gas lines and venting. It’s usually best to hire a professional installer.
Q: What maintenance is required for a tankless water heater?
A: Regular checks and flushing to remove mineral buildup are important. This keeps the heater working efficiently and prevents damage.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.