Best Tankless Gas Water Heaters 2024

A tankless gas water heater is a smart choice if you want to save energy, space, and money. It heats water only when you need it, so you don’t have to store it in a large tank. It also has many advantages, such as unlimited hot water, lower operating costs, a longer lifespan, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In this article, we will compare some of the best tankless gas water heaters on the market and help you choose the right one for your home.

Rheem Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater

Experience efficient, reliable hot water with the Rheem Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater in gray. Designed for indoor installation, it features a flow rate range from 0.26 to 9.5 gallons per minute, accommodating diverse water needs. The temperature settings vary from 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, with a factory preset at 120 degrees, ensuring optimal comfort.

Crafted from stainless steel and polyvinyl chloride, this durable unit includes an EcoNet Smart Monitoring System for advanced protection and energy savings. The electronic ignition system, requiring only 200 watts, ensures reliable performance. This heater combines rugged construction with innovative technology for long-lasting convenience.

Pros:

• 94% energy efficiency with a stainless-steel condensing heat exchanger.
• The exclusive Guardian overheat film wrap enhances safety.
• Intelligent electronic controls for increased energy efficiency.
• Third-party efficiency is listed by AHRI for reliability.
• EZ-Link cable allows tandem operation for higher demand.

Cons:

• Indoor installation limits placement options.
• Requires PVC pipe for the two-pipe direct vent system.
• Limited to a 9.5-gallon capacity.
• The digital remote control may need occasional battery replacement.

MAREY Tankless Water Heater

Efficient and compact, the MAREY Tankless Water Heater offers smart design and high performance, with a powerful 170,000 BTU capacity. Its user-friendly display enables dynamic power adjustment for tailored usage. Experience endless hot water with up to 3-4 points running simultaneously, perfect for household or light-commercial needs. CSA certified for safety and quality, it boasts multiple security layers, including overheat and flame failure features. Installation is a breeze with its compact wall-mounted design and standard 3-inch exhaust venting, ideal for saving space and time.

With over 65 years of expertise, Marey provides water heating solutions to fit every budget and lifestyle. Trust in their commitment to innovation and quality, backed by a 5-year limited warranty. Enjoy efficient performance and endless hot water, making Marey Tankless Water Heater the ideal choice for your home or business.

Pros:

• High-Efficiency Design
• LED Touch Screen for Easy Control
• CSA-certified and UL-listed for Safety
• Stainless Steel Venting Exhaust for Durability
• Anti-Freeze Protection for Versatility
• Oxygen-Free Copper Heat Exchanger for Optimal Performance

Cons:

• Unit performance affected above 2000 feet elevation
• The white color may show dirt more prominently

AQUAH Gas Tankless Water Heater

Elevate your home’s comfort with the AQUAH Gas Tankless Water Heater. Efficiently designed for indoor use, this sleek unit boasts a 3.2-gallon per minute capacity, ensuring a steady supply of hot water whenever you need it. Say goodbye to bulky tanks and hello to instant, on-demand heating.

With overheat protection and an impressive 85% thermal efficiency, this heater offers both peace of mind and cost savings. Its automatic electrical pulse ignition, powered by either 2 D batteries or 120V AC, guarantees hassle-free operation. Enjoy a 45-degree temperature rise at 3.2 gallons per minute flow rate, providing consistent warmth for your household needs. Plus, with included BSP to NPT adapters, installation is a breeze. Upgrade today to experience the convenience and efficiency of AQUAH.

Pros:

• The high flow rate of 3.2 gallons per minute
• Efficient: 85% thermal efficiency
• Automatic electrical pulse ignition for convenience
• Overheat protection ensures safety
• Lightweight design at 27 pounds
• Versatile power options: 2 D batteries or 120V AC
• Free adapters for gas and water fittings included

Cons:

• Limited to indoor use
• Requires either 2 D batteries or 120V AC power source
• White may not suit all aesthetic preferences

CAMPLUX Tankless Water Heater

Discover endless hot water comfort with the CAMPLUX Tankless Water Heater. Delivering 3.18 gallons per minute, this propane heater ensures instant hot water for small households. Activated by water flow, it guarantees efficiency with a minimum activation rate of 0.65 GPM. Installation is a breeze with standard fittings and a 2.3-inch horizontal vent pipe, perfect for homes, cabins, and apartments. Its sleek design and LED touchscreen offer easy temperature control in both Fahrenheit and Celsius.

Crafted with a copper heat exchanger and stainless steel burner, this heater boasts high heating efficiency up to 89.98%. Safety features include dry combustion and flame failure protection, while energy-saving modes and child lock technology offer peace of mind. Say goodbye to cold showers and hello to continuous hot water with CAMPLUX.

Pros:

• Instant and endless hot water at 3.18 gallons per minute
• Easy installation with standard fittings and included vent pipe
• Modern design with LED touchscreen for temperature control
• High heating efficiency (89.98%) with copper heat exchanger and stainless steel burner
• 6-in-1 safety features for worry-free operation

Cons:

• It requires a gas regulator (Camplux model KR-106A) and an additional connector for the propane tank hookup
• Suitable for 2–3 people, may not be ideal for larger households
• Indoor use is recommended and may require additional accessories for outdoor installation
• Propane-powered, necessitating a propane supply
• Initial cost investment, although offset by energy-saving features

Unleash uninterrupted hot water with the FOGATTI Gas Tankless Water Heater. Its tankless design ensures instant access to hot water without the wait. Boasting a compact build, this heater measures 17.1 inches wide and 26.2 inches high, making installation a breeze. Powered by natural gas and featuring wind-powered technology, it delivers a robust 170,000 BTU heating capacity and a maximum flow rate of 7.5 gallons per minute, suitable for 3-4 outlet points. With a UEF over 0.81, it maximizes energy efficiency, reducing both energy consumption and costs.

Crafted with durable copper materials and certified by CSA for safety and quality, this heater guarantees peace of mind. Its built-in forced exhaust fan ensures stable combustion, eliminating external wind interference. Plus, with a 5-year warranty on the heat exchanger and 2 years on other parts, FOGATTI prioritizes longevity and customer satisfaction. Say goodbye to preheating delays and hello to endless hot water with this advanced tankless water heater.

Pros:

• Tankless design for instant hot water
• High heating capacity of 170,000 BTU
• Compact and easy to install
• Durable copper construction
• LCD display for convenient temperature control
• Wind-powered for energy efficiency
• CSA-certified for safety
• 5-year warranty on heat exchanger, 2-year warranty on other parts

Cons:

• Installation must comply with local codes and require a licensed professional
• Labor costs are not covered after 31 days of purchase

Buying Guide for the Best Tankless Gas Water Heaters

Tankless gas water heaters have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their energy efficiency, space-saving design, and endless hot water supply. As the name suggests, these water heaters do not store hot water in a tank; instead, they heat water on demand as it flows through the unit. Choosing the right tankless gas water heater can be a daunting task, given the wide range of options available on the market. This buying guide aims to provide you with all the essential information you need to make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider

Energy Efficiency

One of the primary advantages of tankless gas water heaters is their energy efficiency. Unlike traditional tank-style water heaters, tankless units do not continuously heat and reheat a large volume of water, which can result in significant energy savings. However, it’s crucial to look for models with high energy efficiency ratings to maximize your cost savings and reduce your environmental impact.

Flow Rate and Temperature Rise

The flow rate and temperature rise are critical factors to consider when selecting a tankless gas water heater. The flow rate refers to the amount of hot water the unit can produce per minute, while the temperature rise is the difference between the incoming water temperature and the desired output temperature. Determine your household’s hot water demand and choose a unit with a flow rate and temperature rise that can accommodate your needs.

Venting Requirements

Tankless gas water heaters require proper venting to expel combustion gases safely. Depending on the model and your home’s configuration, you may need to install new venting or modify existing venting systems. This can add to the overall installation cost, so it’s essential to factor in venting requirements when budgeting for your new water heater.

Installation and Maintenance

While tankless gas water heaters are generally more compact than traditional tank-style units, their installation can be more complex and may require professional assistance. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as descaling and cleaning, is necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Consider the installation and maintenance requirements when evaluating different models.

Types of Tankless Gas Water Heaters

Condensing vs. Non-Condensing

Tankless gas water heaters can be classified as condensing or non-condensing units. Condensing units are more energy-efficient as they capture and reuse a portion of the exhaust heat, resulting in higher efficiency ratings. However, condensing units typically have higher upfront costs and may require additional venting considerations.

Whole-House vs. Point-of-Use

Whole-house tankless gas water heaters are designed to provide hot water to multiple outlets throughout your home, making them suitable for larger households or homes with higher hot water demands. Point-of-use units, on the other hand, are smaller and intended to supply hot water to a single location, such as a kitchen sink or a bathroom.

Installation and Maintenance

While tankless gas water heaters offer many benefits, it’s crucial to consider the installation and maintenance requirements. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure proper venting, gas line connections, and adherence to local building codes. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the unit and cleaning the air intake and exhaust vents, is essential to maintain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your tankless water heater.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality tankless gas water heater can provide numerous benefits, including energy savings, a continuous supply of hot water, and a space-saving design. By considering factors such as energy efficiency, flow rate, temperature rise, venting requirements, installation, and maintenance, you can find the perfect tankless gas water heater to meet your household’s needs. Remember to research and compare different models to ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and hot water demands.

Frequently Asked Question

How do tankless gas water heaters work?

Tankless gas water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. A gas burner or electric element then heats the water instantaneously as it flows through the heat exchanger, providing a continuous supply of hot water.

What are the advantages of tankless gas water heaters over traditional tank water heaters?

Tankless gas water heaters offer several advantages, including energy efficiency, as they only heat water when needed, eliminating standby heat loss. They also provide an endless supply of hot water, are more compact and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank water heaters.

What size tankless gas water heater do I need for my home?

The size of the tankless gas water heater you need depends on factors such as the number of bathrooms in your home, the peak hot water demand, and the temperature rise required. Generally, a professional installer can help determine the right size based on your household’s specific requirements.

Are tankless gas water heaters more expensive to install than traditional tank water heaters?

Initially, tankless gas water heaters may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional tank water heaters. However, they can result in long-term savings due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan. Installation costs can vary depending on factors such as existing infrastructure and location.

What maintenance is required for tankless gas water heaters?

Tankless gas water heaters typically require less maintenance compared to traditional tank water heaters. It’s recommended to flush the system periodically to remove mineral buildup and ensure optimal performance. Additionally, regular inspection of components such as the burner and heat exchanger is advisable to prevent any issues. It’s best to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance requirements.