7 Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters in 2024
Owning a propane tankless water heater makes it easy to get hot water in the fastest time. More importantly, it’s a great way to save energy and reduce carbon footprint in the environment. At a time when the debate on saving the environment is dominating the global discourse, methods like energy-saving propane water heaters are a welcome change.
As with most technology, there are a wide range of propane tankless water heaters, and different models have different selling points. So, how can you get your hands on the best variant in the market?
We sampled a variety of propane tankless hot water heaters for this compilation and compared them against each other to assess their quality and functionality. We checked in for the durability of the product, cost, and efficiency that helped us arrive at an unbiased conclusion.
Here is a list of 7 best propane tankless water heater reviews explained in detail that you can explore prior to making a choice for your home.
Types of Propane Tankless Water Heaters
Before we understand the parameters that define our tankless heater purchase, we need to understand the type of tankless heaters available and which one of them might be more up your alley.
1. Portable tankless water heater
Ideally suited for small accommodations and mostly for travel, the portable tankless water tank is every nihilist’s dream come true. Easy to carry, these tanks are lightweight and are super convenient for users. While marveling at its ease of conveyance, it is also better to take a look at its flow rate which usually is amicable for small bathrooms as well as the kitchen faucet.
Since it is easy to carry, it can also be deployed during camping or in an RV. Thanks to its simple structure, installing the portable tankless water heater is no complex maze.
2. Indoor and outdoor propane tankless water heater
The indoor and outdoor tankless heaters require dual installation points. For the indoor heater, you have to arrange for vent pipes to allow the gas out. On the other hand, the outdoor tank calls for freeze protection (if you are living in such regions) during the winters.
Since the requirements of these heaters are very specific, installation might not be a cakewalk. Hence, in case of difficulties, it is always better to seek professional help to avoid any surprises in the future.
3. Whole-house tankless water heater
Adhering to its name, the whole house tankless water heater is built to supply hot water to the entire house or to a large family. Accordingly, it’s the flow rate is large as well.
4. Condensing propane tankless water heater
Similar to the natural gas tankless water heater, it requires proper venting to eliminate the waste or used gas. Condensing tankless propane water heater saves energy and also reuses gases that otherwise might seep into the air as a greenhouse gas.
5. Small propane tankless water heater
As the name suggests, it is a small tank which does not occupy a lot of space and is perfect for a nuclear family and small houses. Its flow rate complements the size, reaching up to 3 gallons per minute. This type of tank is perfect for those who have little space around.
How to Choose the Best Propane Tankless Water Heater?
Selecting a right propane tankless water heater out of the confounding variety is essential to ensure judicious usage, save money and optimize the usage of energy as well. Here are some factors that you should consider before buying the perfect heater for yourself.
1. Price and Warranty
Warranty and pricing are two important factors that need to be considered before buying a tankless heater. It should be in your budget as well as be covered with a substantial warranty. These factors play a vital role in consumer psychology as well since users will be attracted towards the economically efficient option. However, you must synchronize your budget with quality as well. This will be helpful in avoiding the maintenance cost in the future.
2. Flow rate
Flow rate is a very important determining factor which will guide you in choosing the right heater for you. If you have a small house or a small family, a small heater with an optimum flow rate will be perfect. However, in case of a large requirement such as more bathrooms or greater number of people, it is important to go for the one with a higher flow rate.
3. Temperature
If you live in a moderate climate zone, it is suggested that you choose a heater with substantially normal heating capacity while cold regions can call for more powerful heaters. Regular heaters can rise up to 130F but drop substantially during the winters.
4. Size
Size matters here. If you are looking for a permanent option, you can go for larger heaters which will have a higher flow rate and heating capacity. However, if your requirements are small or maybe you are travelling, you can use the small propane tankless heater for your purpose. It is easy to carry and convenient to store. Thus, a win-win!
5. Safety
Ensuring security of a propane tankless hot water heater is a matter of top and immediate priority. Many water radiators are structured with self-assurance frameworks, for example, smart gadgets. These frameworks protect the unit from damage in risky situations and sustain longevity.
6. Energy efficiency
You can also go green with the right heater by determining its energy efficiency. An energy-efficient propane heater can help you save money, energy and goes a long way in reducing the carbon footprint as a result.
Invalid table id.Propane Tankless Water Heater Reviews in 2024
#1. Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP Indoor
Features
- Vent Type: Direct Vent
- Water Connections: ¾ inch
- Heat Exchanger: Copper
- Voltage: AC 120V
- 6.6 GPM max flow rate
- 4-inch category III stainless steel venting needed
- Product Weight: 38lbs
- Safety features comprise of freeze and overheat protection, troubleshooting diagnostic codes and surge protection.
Hot water is a commodity that can be required at either home or workplaces for a variety of reasons. If your choice is pointing towards a more silent and compatible water heater, Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP Indoor might be just the thing that you are looking for! The best part about this heater is that it requires minimal maintenance and doesn’t compromise on the quality. Let us take a look at its specifications and functionality.
Takagi requires a power input of 140000 BTUs per hour with a very optimum flow rating. The heater has the ability to offer hot water above 150F and can produce 6.6 gallons every minute. This is the case for those at moderate climate and those living in colder climates can experience a drop in the heating capability – 3-5GPM.
One of the best parts about this heater is that it can be controlled by a remote controller which makes setting the temperature of choice a cakewalk. However, the most charming aspect of this heater is its compact size. It is lightweight, merely 38 pounds unlike many others in the market. It is perfect for those who are looking for the energy-saving heater which can fit in small spaces.
Pros
Cons
- Maximum BTUs: 140,000 ; Minimum BTUs: 19,500
- Vent Type: Direct Vent ; Water Connection Location: Bottom ; Water Connection: 3/4 Inch
- Heat Exchanger: Copper; Voltage: AC 120V ; UEF: 0.80 ;Emissions: Low Nox
- Product Weight:38 lbs; Safety features include freeze, overheat, surge protection, and troubleshooting diagnostic codes
- 140,000 BTU
#2. Rinnai RL94iP
Features
- Need 3 to 4 hot showers? This unit fits the bill
- Flow rate is 9.4 GPM
- Power-packed and ages slow
- Saves energy, but not as good as other counterparts on the list
Rinnai is among the trusted names in the markets for tankless water heaters and makes some of the best variants packed with serious smarts. Its build, RL94iP, might have captured the last spot on the list, but doesn’t pale in comparison. Ideal for most residential homes, Rinnai RL94iP features a GPM of 9.4 and can support 3 to 4 hot showers at once.
If not multiple showers, it can support a single hot shower and several appliances at one time. The fact that Rinnai RL94iP is an indoor unit can be a strong deciding factor if you are looking at saving yourself from the hassles of outdoor installation. Also, the unit comes with a digital controller and needs electronic spark ignition, which makes it a strong takeaway.
The digital controller allows you to toggle the temperature anywhere between 98 and 140 degrees F. Installing Rinnai RL94iP isn’t as easy as a cakewalk, and there are technicalities involved. Seek professional help to get the champ installed to avoid tough luck later. Read this post on Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Reviews for more information.
Pros
Cons
- Original Design: Tankless hot water heater's Circ-Logic technology offers recirculation patterns that match your habits; For the latest in non-condensing technology that speeds up service and installation, check out our new RE180iP model
- Never Run Out of Hot Water with this Compact Propane Water Heater: Non-condensing tankless hot water heater from Rinnai is only the size of a small suitcase and fits in a wide variety of spaces, but provides up to 9.8 GPM (6 fixtures at once)
- Smart, Durable Design: Includes 12-, 5-, and 1-year residential guarantee and 5-, 5-, and 1-year commercial factory warranty for heat exchanger, labor, and parts, respectively; See Controlr module for WiFi control (not included)
- Professional Installation Recommended: Visit the Find a Rinnai PRO page on our website to locate a qualified technician in your area to install your tankless water heater; We do not recommend installing a water heater without a technician
- Find Your Rinnai: See our product guides, manuals, energy guide, warranty information, videos, and tables to find the right tankless water heater for your home; Check our Ground Water Temperature Map to see if this heater is optimal for your region
#3. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24kW
Features
- Does not make the conventional heater sound.
- High flow rate with Advanced Flow Control Technology.
- Water temperature does not waver.
- Energy-efficient
For those who are not big winter fans and more so, the quintessential heater noise, this is the perfect companion. With its high-end parts and credible cover, it cuts out the noise and makes it a quiet experience.
Secondly, it does not have a switch which enables the heater to work in silence. Unlike several tankless units, its flow rate does not vary with temperature and vice-versa. Increased temperature results in lower output in case of many heaters.
However, drawing itself a cut, Stiebel does not have the drawback, thanks to its Advanced Flow Control Technology. This is what makes this heater unique and credible. Additionally, it is compact, energy-efficient and self-modulating. However, its installation calls for professional expertise. Here is an in-depth review of Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus.
Pros
Cons
- Digital temperature control. Voltage : 240 Volt or 208 Volt
- Proven reliability
- No venting required
- Sleek design fits anywhere
- Save at least 15-20% on the hot water portion of your electric bill
#4. Eccotemp FVI-12-LP Propane Tankless Water Heater
Its most highlighting feature is its compact design which perfectly epitomizes tankless water heaters. In addition to its compact size, it also extremely lightweight and weighs a mere 20 lbs. Its measurements additionally supplement its weight meaning in the event that you don’t have a huge space to store water warmers, you need the Eccotemp FVI-12.
Energy efficiency is another remarkable part of this heater. While it has a 20lb propane tank – and takes in 110W while running on full throttle – this warmer draws just 2W while it is sitting inert. Therefore, it won’t amp up your vitality bills while sitting inert.
For its lean size, the FVI-12-LP’s most extreme flow rate of 3.4GPM is a bit on the downside but it can accommodate one shower and one, low-evaluated fixture simultaneously.
This heater is exceptionally simple to operate. On its front, there are two handles: one for gas and the other for water temperature guidelines. These are the main two mechanical switches you’d see on the warmer. Close by these handles is an LCD screen showing water temperature at any case.
Likewise, turn it around, and you’d see three pipe openings on the radiator’s back: water delta, heated water outlet, and gas gulf. All the more critically, all three of them are named legibly. Henceforth, in case if you are planning on installing this heater without professional assistance, you might have a good shot there.
Pros
Cons
- Whole home indoor, gas powered tankless water heater, rated at 3.6 GPM that activates only when in use, making it an energy saver.
- For indoor installation with safe, efficient power ventilation and perfect for any small home, cabin or apartment.
- Easy to read digital temperature display, on a compact and space-saving design with minimal noise output.
- Safe electronic ignition system; plugs into standard 120v electrical outlet with UL-listed cord.
- Uses standard 1/2" NPT water fittings and is equipped with easy to use manual water temperature controls.Minimum 0.65 GPM flow rate
#5. Rheem RTG – 64 XLP
Features
- Ideal for outdoors
- Flow rate: 6.4 GPM
- Remote controlled
- Has 10- feet long thermostat wire
- Low NOx emission
One of the most powerful tankless propane water heaters, the Rheem RTG – 64 XLP is one of a kind. With unique specifications and additional features, it makes for a fine choice among others in the market. Let us take a look before you arrive at your conclusion.
Rheem is a highly powerful heater with a power input of 150000 BTUs per hour and has a highly streamlined framework that adds to the aesthetic appeal. It is laden with a reliable power supply which ensures a regular and optimal water supply.
Its flow rate is 6.6 GPM but it can vary based on the temperature of the water. Altitude or points leveraging the hot water may change the flow rate as well. At its peak, Rheem has a flow rate of 7 GPM. The hot water’s temperature reaches up to 180F without any glitches.
We must also take due note of its compact exteriors which can be installed anywhere. Moreover, its lightweight makes it further compatible with the daily hustle of life and can be carried anywhere.
Yet another laudable attribute of this heater is the low emission of NOx which not only helps you save energy but also reduce an adverse impact on the environment. Its advanced construction enables a comparatively lesser amount of gas release. Here is a new article on Rheem Water Heater Reviews as well.
Pros
Cons
- Propane Tankless Water Heater
- 6.4 gal/min. at 35 Degree Rise
- UMC-117 remote control and 10-Feet of thermostat wire is included
- Low Nox Version
#6. Atmor AT-D18TP-AZ Instant Tankless Water Heater
Features
- Equipped with a water sensor.
- User-friendly
- Energy saving
- Self-modulating system
A class apart from most of the water heaters, Atmor is certainly the next big thing. How? While it follows most rules in the book, it has a unique element – the water sensor. True to its name, this water sensor senses the water gushing and immediately adjusts the temperature of the water.
If the tap is turned on, it will heat up the water and if turned off, it will cease to heat it. This as-per-need-basis makes it very energy efficient and not to mention, very cost-effective.
User-friendliness is another strong point. Atmor water heater is very user-friendly and has a rather simple design layout that makes it easy to operate. A single knob under the digital thermostat is all that needs simulation to change the temperature and the heater’s performance.
It is optimally secure and very safe for children to operate. Another icing to the cake is its compliance to IPS4, a certification that assures the internal components remain dry and safe during operations.
Its self-modulating system grants it a smart status where it assesses the flow rate and quantity of water and accordingly, adjusts the temperature. This makes Atmor smart, energy-saving and highly economical tankless heater.
Pros
Cons
- Digital temperature control allows you to set your temperature in increments of 1°. Thermostatic control range from 90-135°f
- Electricial requirements: 3 x 30a single-phase DP breakers, 3 x 8 AWG wires, 240V. 75 amp total connected load
- Specially equipped to heat incoming water as low as 37F at 1.9 GPM
- Stainless steel interior is durable and corrosion resistant allowing for heat efficiency and longer life expectancy
- Save up to 50% on electric bills compared to a traditional tank water heater
#7. Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP
Features
- Compact size and lightweight
- Flow rate is 6.6 GPM
- It saves energy
- Comprises of an air-fuel ratio sensor and thus, has low NOx emissions
Takagi appliances are a name to reckon in the field of tankless water heaters. Known for its high-quality products, the organization created yet another heater, the Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP which is heralded as one of the best in the market. Compact in size, it is perfect for those residing in smaller dwellings with nuclear families.
It requires 19.5 to 14,000 BTUs of power/hours and is efficient enough to heat up water for smaller residential areas with two bathrooms. Its energy-saving ability is also worth a mention with 0.82 energy factor and low emission of NOx that is ecologically viable as well as lighter on your wallet. In this energy-saving mode, it manages to achieve a flow rate of 6.6 GPM which is quite better in comparison to other products.
However, it is feasible only for outdoor installation, and despite its small size, it is quite well-adept and durable to handle the adverse cold. It has a feature, interior freeze protection which guarantees durability and proper functionality as well. The heater is also reinforced with an overheat cutoff fuse, water, and exhaust.
Ensure to get it installed by a professional to avoid fuss in the future. To read more about outdoor water heaters you can check out these Best Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters.
Pros
Cons
- Outside installation only; Includes internal freeze protection
- 19,500 - 140,000 BTU/hr
- 0.82 energy factor
- 6.6 GPM max flow rate
Editor’s Choice
- Easy-to-install low power tankless water heater.
- This heater has stainless steel vents to block fumes.
- It is a ‘point of use’ heater and not the ‘whole house’ thus, making it efficient and usable on as per need basis.
- Maximum BTUs: 140,000 ; Minimum BTUs: 19,500
- Vent Type: Direct Vent ; Water Connection Location: Bottom ; Water Connection: 3/4 Inch
- Heat Exchanger: Copper; Voltage: AC 120V ; UEF: 0.80 ;Emissions: Low Nox
- Product Weight:38 lbs; Safety features include freeze, overheat, surge protection, and troubleshooting diagnostic codes
- 140,000 BTU
- Maximum BTUs: 140,000 ; Minimum BTUs: 19,500
- Vent Type: Direct Vent ; Water Connection Location: Bottom ; Water Connection: 3/4 Inch
- Heat Exchanger: Copper; Voltage: AC 120V ; UEF: 0.80 ;Emissions: Low Nox
- Product Weight:38 lbs; Safety features include freeze, overheat, surge protection, and troubleshooting diagnostic codes
- 140,000 BTU
Conclusion
So here we are with some of the most accommodating and easy to use propane tankless water heaters. These heaters were evaluated on the basis of their user-friendliness, types, and pace as well. This is to maintain a holistic overview on which best propane tankless water heaters to pick. You can dive into research until you find the heater of your choice.