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10 Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,334
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
191 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Powerful enough to use hot water at multiple places in the household simultaneously, making it ideal for larger families.
Energy Efficiency
High-quality build and sophisticated technology design provide hot water efficiently and save water due to the On Demand recirculation feature.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward thanks to the excellent, detailed instruction manual, but pre-planning is strongly advised.

The Rinnai RXP199iN is a robust propane tankless water heater that promises to cater to a wide range of hot water needs, making it ideal for larger households or properties with multiple fixtures operating simultaneously. With a flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute (GPM) and a powerful BTU rating of 199,000, this unit can deliver a consistent supply of hot water without the risk of running out, which is a major plus for busy homes.

One of its standout features is its high energy efficiency, boasting a UEF rating of 0.98. This means it can help save on energy bills compared to traditional tank heaters. The Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation system is another highlight, as it learns your hot water usage patterns and optimizes the recirculation accordingly, ensuring hot water is available when you need it.

Installation flexibility is another strength; it can be installed both indoors and outdoors, which gives homeowners options based on their available space. The compact design, about the size of a small suitcase, makes it easy to fit in tighter areas without compromising performance. There are a few drawbacks to consider. First, professional installation is recommended, which may add to the initial cost. While this ensures a proper setup, it requires finding a qualified technician, which could be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, while it offers WiFi connectivity through the Control-R module, this feature is sold separately, potentially leading to extra expenses if you desire smart home integration.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,334
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
191 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Powerful enough to use hot water at multiple places in the household simultaneously, making it ideal for larger families.
Energy Efficiency
High-quality build and sophisticated technology design provide hot water efficiently and save water due to the On Demand recirculation feature.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward thanks to the excellent, detailed instruction manual, but pre-planning is strongly advised.
#2

Ranein Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe, Indoor Max 4.3 GPM, 100,000 BTU Instant Hot Water Heater

Rating
9.8
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Rise

Most important from
719 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Handles multiple fancy faucets without any issues.
Energy Efficiency
Bills went down about $100, and it’s just perfect!
Temperature Rise
No leaks or problems with heating and maintaining temperatures after installation.
Size and Installation
Easy to install and hook up, even with minimal experience.

The Ranein Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater is designed to efficiently provide hot water on demand, making it a solid choice for households needing consistent hot water across multiple points. Its maximum flow rate of 4.3 GPM and a powerful 100,000 BTU rating allow it to serve kitchens and bathrooms effectively, ensuring you won’t have to wait for hot water to arrive. One of its standout features is the 'Four Seasons Function,' which automatically adjusts the water temperature based on seasonal changes, along with specific settings for kitchen and bathtub use, enhancing user convenience.

Additionally, this unit boasts energy-saving features, such as an oxygen-free copper water tank that minimizes heat loss and cuts down on energy consumption. It also comes with an exhaust pipe included in the kit, which saves you the additional cost of purchasing it separately.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The heater is not recommended for installations above 2,000 feet, which could limit its use in certain locations. Installation must comply with local regulations and should be done by a licensed professional, which might add to the initial setup cost. The unit is relatively lightweight at 28 pounds and compact in size, measuring 18.89 inches wide and 8.85 inches high, making it suitable for various indoor spaces.

Rating
9.8
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Rise

Most important from
719 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Handles multiple fancy faucets without any issues.
Energy Efficiency
Bills went down about $100, and it’s just perfect!
Temperature Rise
No leaks or problems with heating and maintaining temperatures after installation.
Size and Installation
Easy to install and hook up, even with minimal experience.
#3

NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

Rating
9.6
Flow Rate (GPM)
Size and Installation

Most important from
191 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Changing the flow rate settings might be necessary for high-efficiency washing machines.
Size and Installation
Fairly easy to install, though additional purchases like a water polisher and condensate neutralizing capsule might be needed.

The Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Water Heater is a strong contender in the propane tankless water heater category. With a commendable flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute (GPM), it can support multiple fixtures simultaneously, making it ideal for larger households or busy environments. Its impressive BTU rating of 199,000 ensures quick heating, allowing you to enjoy hot water without interruptions.

One of the standout features is its energy efficiency, boasting a UEF rating of .98. This means it uses energy effectively, potentially saving you money on utility bills over time. The compact size—similar to a small suitcase—makes it easy to install in various spaces, whether indoors or outdoors, thanks to the Versa Vent system.

There are some considerations. The need for professional installation is strongly recommended, which could add to your initial costs if you don’t have a suitable technician at hand. Additionally, while the Smart Sense gas control system offers modern convenience, it requires familiarity with the system, which might be a hurdle for some users. The Rinnai RX199iN does feature user-friendly aspects, including an easy-to-use interface and a Quick Flush feature for maintenance. However, it doesn’t come with WiFi control capabilities out of the box, which could be a letdown for those looking for smart home integration. The Rinnai RX199iN is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable, efficient, and powerful tankless water heater, particularly for medium to large homes, but be prepared for installation logistics and the learning curve that comes with its smart features.

Rating
9.6
Flow Rate (GPM)
Size and Installation

Most important from
191 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Changing the flow rate settings might be necessary for high-efficiency washing machines.
Size and Installation
Fairly easy to install, though additional purchases like a water polisher and condensate neutralizing capsule might be needed.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters

Choosing the right propane tankless water heater can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and ensure you have a reliable supply of hot water. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless models heat water on demand, which means they can save you money on energy bills and provide an endless supply of hot water. However, selecting the right model involves understanding several key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the essential specs and make an informed decision.
Flow Rate (GPM)Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the unit can produce at a given time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can meet your household's hot water demands. For instance, a flow rate of 3-4 GPM might be sufficient for a small household with one or two simultaneous hot water needs, like a shower and a sink. Larger households or those with higher hot water demands might require a flow rate of 7-10 GPM to ensure multiple showers, appliances, and faucets can run simultaneously without a drop in performance. Assess your household's peak hot water usage to determine the appropriate flow rate.
BTU RatingBTU (British Thermal Unit) rating measures the heater's heating capacity. A higher BTU rating means the unit can heat water more quickly and handle higher flow rates. For smaller homes or less demanding hot water needs, a unit with a lower BTU rating (around 100,000-150,000 BTUs) may be sufficient. Larger homes or those with higher hot water demands should consider units with higher BTU ratings (up to 200,000 BTUs or more). Consider your household size and hot water usage patterns to choose a unit with an appropriate BTU rating.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is indicated by the unit's Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). These ratings reflect how efficiently the heater converts fuel into hot water. Higher ratings mean better efficiency and lower operating costs. Look for units with an EF or UEF of 0.8 or higher for good efficiency. If you prioritize energy savings and environmental impact, opt for models with higher efficiency ratings. Consider your long-term energy costs and environmental goals when evaluating this spec.
Venting RequirementsPropane tankless water heaters require proper venting to safely expel combustion gases. There are two main types: direct vent and power vent. Direct vent units draw air from outside and are generally more flexible in installation but may require more complex venting setups. Power vent units use indoor air and typically need only one vent pipe, making them easier to install but potentially less efficient. Assess your installation space and preferences to determine which venting type suits your needs.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise refers to the increase in water temperature the unit can achieve. This is important because it affects how hot the water will be when it reaches your taps. If you live in a colder climate where incoming water temperatures are low, you'll need a unit with a higher temperature rise capability. For warmer climates, a lower temperature rise may be sufficient. Consider the incoming water temperature in your area and your desired hot water temperature to choose a unit with the appropriate temperature rise.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the unit and its installation requirements are important to consider, especially if you have limited space. Tankless water heaters are generally more compact than traditional tanks, but they still need adequate space for installation and maintenance. Ensure you have enough room for the unit and any necessary venting or piping. If space is tight, look for more compact models or consult with a professional to determine the best installation options for your home.

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