Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters in 2024

Propane tankless water heaters offer efficient and on-demand hot water solutions, ideal for both residential and commercial settings. With their compact design and endless hot water supply, they provide convenience while saving space and energy. Explore the benefits of propane tankless water heaters for a reliable and eco-friendly heating solution tailored to your needs.

Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater

Elevate your water heating experience with the Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater. Designed for efficiency and convenience, this sleek gray unit boasts a compact size of 14.5 inches in width and 18.25 inches in height, making it perfect for tight spaces. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while the advanced self-modulation feature adjusts power to meet your hot water demands with impressive precision.

Equipped with external digital thermostatic control and a LED display, this water heater offers precise temperature adjustments down to the degree. With a flow rate of up to 4.4 gallons per minute and two field-serviceable copper immersion heating elements, it ensures a steady and reliable supply of hot water. Installation is a breeze with bottom 3/4 inch NPT water connections, threaded for easy replacement. Say goodbye to fluctuating temperatures and hello to consistent hot water on demand with the Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater.

Pros:

• Advanced self-modulation for optimal energy efficiency
• External digital thermostatic control with LED display for precise temperature adjustments
• Durable stainless steel construction and copper immersion heating elements
• Easy installation with bottom 3/4-inch NPT water connections
• Field-serviceable design for longevity
• Digital temperature display for modern convenience
• The impressive 4.4 GPM flow rate ensures a steady supply of hot water

Cons:

• Limited to 18-gallon capacity
• Requires a power source (AC or DC) for operation

Eccotemp L5 1.5 GPM Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater

Lightweight and compact, the Eccotemp L5 1.5 GPM Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater redefines convenience. Standing at 18 inches tall and 11.5 inches wide, it’s perfect for camping, off-grid living, pet washing, and outdoor showers. Crafted with sturdy metal, it weighs just 11.2 pounds, ensuring easy portability.

This tankless wonder runs on a standard 20 lb. Liquid Propane tank, ignited by 2 “D” cell batteries for on-the-go use. Safety features include a 20-minute shut-off and a tilt sensor. With a low pressure activation of 20 PSI, it effortlessly connects to any garden hose, delivering hot water at 1.5 GPM, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
• Quick and efficient hot water supply at 1.5 GPM
• Versatile use for camping, off-grid adventures, pet care, and outdoor showers
• It runs on a standard 20-lb. Liquid Propane tank with a 10 KW wattage
• Equipped with electronic ignition powered by 2 “D” cell batteries
• Safety features include an automatic shut-off after 20 minutes or if tilted beyond 45 degrees
• Durable metal construction ensures longevity

Cons:

• Limited hot water output compared to larger, non-portable water heaters
• Relies on Liquid Propane, requiring a propane tank for operation

Elevate your RV experience with the Fogatti RV Tankless Water Heater. Designed for versatility, it seamlessly replaces various water heaters, offering a generous opening of 13 by 13 inches and a door size of 15 by 15 inches. Say goodbye to waiting with its continuous hot water supply, boasting an impressive 2.9 GPM flow rate powered by 55,000 BTU, ensuring over 40 minutes of indulgent showers. No more cold waits or limited showers, thanks to its propane heating system, ensuring uninterrupted warmth on your travels.

With a focus on safety and convenience, this CSA-certified heater features built-in protection mechanisms like dry combustion prevention and automatic gas shut-off. Enjoy hassle-free installation with included accessories like a pressure relief valve and an intelligent remote controller, providing control from up to 2 meters away. Experience reliability and peace of mind, whether you’re cruising through high altitudes or leisurely exploring new destinations.

Pros:

• High altitude suitability for mountainous terrains
• Staged combustion technology for controlled water temperature
• Wide compatibility with various RV water heater models
• Continuous hot water supply with a 2.2-gallon capacity
• Quick and efficient propane-powered operation
• CSA certification ensures safety and reliability
• It comes with a pressure relief valve, a 15×15-inch door, and a remote controller

Cons:

• Requires retrofitting for the larger 18×18-inch door if replacing a 10-gallon tank water heater
• Propane fuel dependency (which may be a consideration for some users)
• Limited to 2.9 GPM, which may not be sufficient for extremely high-demand scenarios
• The initial cost may be higher than traditional tank heaters

Ridgeyard Modern 8L Propane LPG Gas Tankless Water Heater

Elevate your outdoor experiences with the Ridgeyard Modern 8L Propane LPG Gas Tankless Water Heater. Boasting compact dimensions of 11.42 inches in width and 17.32 inches in height, this silver marvel delivers instant hot water at 8 liters per minute. Crafted from durable alloy steel and copper, it ensures longevity and reliability in every drop.

Efficiency meets safety with overheat protection and high water pressure safeguards. Powered by 16000 watts, this portable unit offers on-demand hot water, perfect for outdoor showers, foot baths, or pet cleaning. With automatic ignition and flameout modes, it optimizes energy consumption while ensuring your peace of mind. Versatile and lightweight, it’s the go-to solution for camping trips, road adventures, or simply maximizing space in your home. Transform any moment into a refreshing experience with this dependable water heater.

Pros:

• Instant hot water at 8 liters per minute for on-the-go needs
• Portable and lightweight design saves space
• Robust safety features: overheat, water pressure, and flameout protection
• Energy-saving with automatic ignition and flameout modes
• Versatile applications for outdoor activities

Cons:

• Liquid petroleum gas-powered vehicles may require a compatible fuel source
• Designed for warmer climates, it is optimal for outdoor use
• No installation required, but hose compatibility may vary
• Limited hot water flow may not be suitable for larger households
• Summer/winter mode effectiveness may depend on specific conditions

Rinnai RL75IP Tankless Hot Water Heater

Compact yet powerful, the Rinnai RL75IP Tankless Hot Water Heater revolutionizes your household with its innovative Circ-Logic technology, ensuring you never run out of hot water again. Measuring 13 inches in width and 31 inches in height, this propane-powered marvel delivers up to 7.5 gallons per minute, catering to the demands of five fixtures simultaneously. Its smart design comes with residential and commercial warranties, offering peace of mind for up to 12 years. For seamless control, explore the optional Controlr module for WiFi integration (not included).

Expertly crafted for efficiency, this tankless water heater is a testament to durability and reliability. Professional installation is recommended, underscoring Rinnai’s commitment to safety and performance. With comprehensive product guides and manuals, finding the perfect fit for your home has never been easier. Experience uninterrupted hot water on demand with the Rinnai RL75IP, designed to elevate your comfort and convenience with every use.

Pros:

• Compact design for versatile installation
• Powerful propane heating provides up to 7.5 GPM
• Smart Circ-Logic technology ensures hot water availability
• Durable with extensive residential and commercial warranties
• Compatible with Controlr module for WiFi control

Cons:

• Professional installation recommended
• The controller module sold separately
• Non-condensing technology (which may not be ideal for all climates)

Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters Buying Guide

Propane tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water on demand without the need to store water in a tank. As water flows through the unit, cold water passes over a heat exchanger that is heated by propane burners. This heats the water instantly, eliminating the energy losses associated with heating and storing water in conventional tank-style heaters.

Propane tankless water heaters offer several advantages over traditional water heaters:

Efficiency and Cost Savings

Tankless water heaters only heat water when needed, rather than maintaining a full tank of hot water 24/7. This results in significant energy savings, as you aren’t constantly reheating unused water in a tank. Tankless heaters have efficiency ratings over 90%, compared to 50–60% for tank models. This translates into lower energy bills. Propane tankless heaters also tend to have a longer lifespan than tank heaters.

On-Demand Hot Water

Tankless heaters provide a continuous, unlimited supply of hot water. You’ll never run out of hot water for showers, laundry, dishes, etc. This makes them ideal for larger households with multiple bathrooms. The water temperature remains consistent rather than fluctuating as a tank empties.

Compact Size

Tankless units are much smaller than conventional tank heaters. A typical propane tankless heater is about the size of a small suitcase and mounts on a wall. This frees up valuable floor space compared to a bulky tank model.

Considerations When Selecting a Propane Tankless Water Heater

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right propane tankless water heater for your needs:

Sizing

It’s important to choose a unit sized appropriately for your household’s hot water demand. This depends on factors like home size, number of bathrooms/occupants, and peak usage times. Undersizing leads to inadequate hot water, while oversizing wastes energy.

Flow Rate

Flow rate indicates how many gallons per minute (GPM) a unit can heat. Higher flow rates are needed to support multiple uses simultaneously. Check fixtures to determine the required GPM.

Installation Location

Most propane tankless heaters are designed for outdoor installation. Ensure the location has proper ventilation and protection from weather and elements.

Energy Factor

A higher energy factor means greater efficiency. Look for a minimum. 82 EF rating.

Temperature Settings

Choose a model with an adequate maximum temperature setting for your needs. Some have up to 140°F for high-demand applications.

Warranty

Select a unit with a strong manufacturer’s warranty, ideally 5–10 years for the heat exchanger. This protects against defects.

Cost

Propane tankless heaters have higher upfront costs, from $500-$1500, but save on energy in the long run. Calculate costs vs. savings when budgeting.

Conclusion

Propane tankless water heaters are an efficient, high-performance option for homes with adequate gas supplies. Key benefits include unlimited hot water, energy savings, and compact size. Carefully evaluate flow rate, sizing, and other factors to choose the right model. A higher initial investment yields lower operating costs and long-term savings on energy bills. With some strategic planning, a propane tankless heater can be an ideal choice to meet your household’s hot water needs.

Frequently Asked Question

What are the advantages of using a propane tankless water heater?

Propane tankless water heaters offer on-demand hot water, providing endless and immediate access to hot water whenever needed. They are also energy-efficient, as they only heat water when required, reducing energy consumption compared to traditional tank-style water heaters.

How does the size of my home affect the choice of a propane tankless water heater?

The size of your home and the number of fixtures it has directly impact the selection of a propane tankless water heater. Larger homes with multiple bathrooms and appliances may require a higher capacity unit to ensure a sufficient supply of hot water for all simultaneous needs.

What maintenance is required for a propane tankless water heater?

Propane tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than traditional tank-style heaters. Periodic flushing to remove mineral deposits and debris is recommended to maintain optimal performance. It’s also important to check for and address any gas leaks or venting issues as part of routine maintenance.

Can a propane tankless water heater be installed outdoors?

Yes, many propane tankless water heaters are designed for outdoor installation. Outdoor models are often a practical choice, especially in regions with milder climates, as they eliminate the need for venting and provide flexibility in terms of installation location.

Are propane tankless water heaters more cost-effective than electric models?

While the upfront cost of propane tankless water heaters may be higher than electric models, they can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their energy efficiency and lower operating costs. Propane heaters generally have a faster heating rate, making them suitable for larger homes or homes with higher hot water demand. The overall cost-effectiveness will depend on factors such as local energy prices and the specific needs of your household.