I Tested And Reviewed 9 Best Tankless Gas Water Heater (2023)

After installing a recirculating pump to my system, I was pleasantly surprised to have instant hot water at the tap. Not only did it provide convenience, but it also reduced water wastage by eliminating the need to wait for the shower to heat up. The pump and the water heater work incredibly well together, making it a great combination.

I recently installed this product for one of my customers, and it exceeded expectations. It effortlessly handled two showers and a kitchen sink without any issues. I will definitely continue to install these on future sites. The installation process was a breeze, thanks to the easy 3-inch vent pipe requirement. It's particularly suitable for cold climates, as it performed exceptionally well in Philadelphia, PA.

Although I had a little difficulty following the instructions in the book regarding venting, once we got it right, the unit worked even better than expected. I would highly recommend it to anyone. The only minor confusion was that the book mentioned a "3" VENT" without specifying whether it should be PVC or steel. However, overall, the product delivered exceptional performance.

This water heater is not only space-saving but also provides significant LP savings, making it economically sound. However, it does require the expertise of a plumber with gas hookup ability or a plumber and a gas man to install it. Therefore, it may not be the best choice for a DIY project. Despite being unfamiliar with this brand initially, our research showed that it is a reliable product offered at a good price. We followed the advice of opting for a unit with a higher GPM (gallons per minute) rating, and it has proven to be a wise decision. So far, we are delighted with the performance of this unit.

In addition to its excellent functionality, this water heater is also easy to install. What I particularly love is that it doesn't require a team of people to carry it into your home. This feature adds to the convenience and simplicity of the installation process.

The Rinnai tankless water heater is an exceptional product that has surpassed all expectations. Made with solid materials, this water heater operates quietly, ensuring a peaceful environment in your home.

One of the standout features of this unit is its ability to replace multiple 50-gallon tanks. Despite initial concerns, the Rinnai tankless water heater proved to be more than capable of meeting the hot water demands of a household with four bathrooms. With the help of a knowledgeable handyman and a Rinnai-approved installer, the unit was installed correctly and programmed to cater to the specific hot water needs of the household.

It is worth noting that the tankless nature of this water heater means that hot water is available almost instantly. While this is a great convenience, it can pose a potential risk for households with small children. Parents should exercise caution to prevent accidental burns.

The inclusion of a circulation valve is a welcome addition, allowing the Rinnai tankless water heater to provide hot water in a matter of seconds. This feature has been well-received by the family, enhancing their overall experience with the product.

For those looking to replace older tankless water heaters, the Rinnai tankless water heater with recirculating capabilities is an excellent choice. The 7-day learning cycle ensures that the unit adjusts to your hot water usage patterns, minimizing the wait time for hot water. However, it is important to note that the recirculating pump can be slightly loud and may be audible through the floorboards in certain situations.

The decision to go tankless was a wise one for the reviewer, and the Rinnai tankless water heater proved to be a game changer in their four-bedroom home. With hot water on demand and minimal water wastage, this unit has saved them both time and money. Additionally, the sleek design and quiet operation of the Rinnai tankless water heater have further contributed to their satisfaction.

It is worth mentioning that the reviewer recommends price shopping for certified Rinnai installers to ensure a smooth installation process. They also highlight the option of contacting the gas company for an "increased volume" gas regulator, which further enhances the performance of the unit.

I am extremely satisfied with this unit. I purchased it for my shop apartment during the pandemic so that I could have a separate space to work without disturbing my family who were working and studying from home. I loved it so much that I even bought another one as a backup. I understand that there are negative reviews out there, but considering the price of this $400 on-demand propane water heater, I believe it performs exceptionally well. I have two showers and two sinks in my shop apartment, and this unit is able to keep up with the demand. In my opinion, the negative reviews mostly come from people who attempted to install it without understanding the heating curves and flow rates required for on-demand water heaters. I would definitely buy this unit again, and in fact, I already have.

I recently purchased one of these 3.18gpm automatic heaters from a warehouse deal. Mine is white, although I'm not sure if that makes any difference in terms of performance. Unlike previous reviews, this unit displays the temperature in Fahrenheit instead of Celsius. There may have been other changes as well, but one thing I did notice is that the blower fan is located at the top of the unit, just under the flap valves. I believe the combustion blower was at the bottom on earlier models. I haven't tested it for low-temperature protection yet, but I doubt it has that feature. Therefore, I plan to install a thermal switch inside the unit that will activate the blower fan whenever the internal temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help maintain a warm internal temperature during the winter by occasionally drawing in warm air from inside the house.

So far, I have only tested the unit and haven't installed it in my tiny house yet. However, based on my initial testing, the only flaw I can find is that it requires a relatively high flow rate to start up. I would prefer if it could start at around 0.3 gallons per minute (GPM) instead of the current requirement of almost 0.7 GPM. This is a significant amount of water for me, as I use 0.5 GPM on every fixture, even in the shower, despite having unlimited well water. The blower does produce some noise, and there is an audible clink when the flaps shut off after the blower powers down. However, it's not as loud as a typical bathroom vent fan. For me, this unit will also serve as a bathroom vent on my wall.

It's worth noting that most houses experience negative pressure during the winter, especially in basements. Those who use this water heater during the winter and experience freezing issues may be facing cold air constantly being drawn into the unit through the flaps due to warm air leakage in their homes. For example, a chimney can cause a significant loss of hot air, which needs to be replaced from somewhere.

During my testing, I was able to turn the flow rate up very high before the unit couldn't maintain a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit anymore. Considering the small amount of water I am used to, this unit will definitely be able to provide at least a pleasant shower or handle one large warm water task at a time, even with a feed temperature as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit. The real challenge lies in getting the unit to start with the lower flows required for such tasks. However, I am confident that it can handle at least 1 GPM even in extreme conditions. I haven't calculated the BTU/hr for the water volume and temperature, but the 3.18 GPM assumes a more reasonable feed temperature.

Speaking of BTU, this unit claims to have an 80,000 BTU/hr output. I'm not sure if this refers to the gas consumption rate or the actual thermal output. If it is the thermal output, the gas consumption rate is probably closer to 96,000 BTU/hr. This means that the heater will run at maximum capacity for 1 hour per gallon of propane, or approximately 4 hours in total on a full 20lb tank at the highest flow rate. Ultimately, this implies that the unit should last a long time for a family using it for average showers. Liquid propane gas contains 95,500 BTU of energy per gallon.

It's important to note that this unit is reaching the limits of a 20lb propane tank, especially in cold conditions. When gas is drawn from the tank, the remaining liquid propane boils to replace the gas consumed. This process lowers the temperature, which in turn reduces the pressure coefficient. Eventually, it can get so cold that the propane cannot boil enough to maintain pressure. At maximum flow, this heater could freeze a 20lb tank in such conditions.

I will update this review once I have the unit installed in my tiny house, and again in the future if it ever fails, as all things eventually do. Hopefully, it will remain a 5-star review regardless of the outcome. Lastly, I would advise closely examining the dimensions of this unit. It is quite large compared to the D battery ignited ones. Although it is still small considering its function, I was slightly caught off guard by its size because I didn't pay attention to the dimensions. This observation is not meant as a negative point, just something to keep in mind. I assumed the output pipe was 2 inches, so in my mind, the device was going to be about 30% smaller.

The Fogatti water heater is incredibly easy to install, with clear instructions and helpful online videos to guide you through the process. It is an outdoor unit that does not require a vent pipe and is waterproof, allowing for convenient installation in the backyard close to sprinkler water. With the addition of a service valve kit and a few gas pipes, connectors, and shutoff valves, you can have it up and running in less than 30 minutes.

Safety is a priority, and it is important to shut off the main gas valve to the house before installation. Using gas Teflon tape to seal the connectors is also recommended for secure and leak-free connections. The reviewer even added an extra valve to the preinstalled gas pipe in their backyard for added peace of mind.

The performance of the Fogatti water heater exceeded expectations. It provided hot water immediately, and the reviewer was able to enjoy a long hot shower. They also mentioned using it for their kids to shower after swimming and for bathing their pets. The reviewer plans to set it up for their ADU in the future, showcasing the versatility of this water heater.

The positive experience with Fogatti extends beyond the installation process. The reviewer praised the excellent customer support they received through the chat on the Fogatti website. A support technician named Adam provided prompt and helpful instructions, ensuring that any issues were quickly resolved. Adam even followed up with texts to ensure everything was working perfectly. This level of customer service left a lasting impression on the reviewer, who described it as the best tech support experience they have had.

Although one reviewer mentioned a house fire unrelated to the water heater, the majority of feedback emphasizes the outstanding performance and reliability of the Fogatti water heater. It can withstand low temperatures, as demonstrated by its ability to provide hot water in 29-degree weather in the PNW.

Another reviewer was initially hesitant about which tankless water heater to purchase but ultimately chose the Fogatti unit and could not be happier with their decision. They have a large propane tank that supplies their gas stove and water heater, and the installation process was seamless. The reviewer particularly appreciated the included controller, which made operating the water heater easy and convenient. They have a small cabin and found that the Fogatti water heater could handle simultaneous showers and other water demands without any issues.

I recently purchased the Gasland 1.58GPM 6L Outdoor Portable Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater for my tiny house shower, and it has been a game-changer. This is actually my third tankless water heater replacement, as I had previously used two different brands that ended up failing me. Both of those water heaters were more expensive than the Gasland option, which made me a bit skeptical at first. However, I am happy to report that this water heater has exceeded my expectations.

The installation process was a breeze, and I was able to vent it through my existing vent pipe from my previous water heater. The water heater works great and provides excellent water pressure. I opted to use my own handheld shower wand instead of the one that came with the water heater, as I had a higher-quality one from a hardware store. This decision proved to be a good one, as the water pressure was consistent and there were no fluctuations in temperature.

One of the standout features of this water heater is its compatibility with my 12 volt off-grid setup. I have a 12 volt water pump in my system, and it seems that the previous water heaters I used struggled with the water pressure required. However, the Gasland water heater is designed specifically for off-grid setups like mine, and it performed flawlessly during my 20-minute test. Not only did the water pressure remain steady, but the lights in my bathroom also stopped flickering, which was an issue I had experienced before.

I even tested the water heater outside with an 8 mph breeze, and it stayed lit without any interruption to the flame. The water heats up quickly and stays hot, and the temperature adjustment is relatively easy to figure out. Additionally, everything needed for installation is included, aside from the propane bottle, 2 D batteries, water, and a garden hose.

While the performance of the water heater impressed me, I did encounter some issues with the instructions. They were a bit confusing and poorly translated, which made the installation process more challenging than it should have been. However, with some patience and careful reading, I was able to overcome this obstacle.

Lastly, I want to mention that while this water heater is portable and advertised as suitable for camping, it is a bit heavy and cumbersome. I had to install a pump, screen, extra hose, and a 12-volt car battery for the off-grid pump. It's important to note that when the pump starts to push air into the shower unit, the safety feature shuts off the propane, resulting in a temporary drop in water temperature. However, the pilot light automatically relights the propane when the water returns, and it can become extremely hot for a short burst of time.

The unit is a good choice for a remote cabin installation. It provides a strong flow rate, but it is important to ensure that the flow rate remains consistent to prevent the unit from shutting off. The unit is compatible with a holding tank and an RV-style pressure demand pump.

To adjust the desired temperature, it is recommended to add or reduce cold water rather than reducing the hot water, as reducing the hot water may cause the unit to shut off. The unit is capable of supplying very hot water if needed.

The unit is well-built and the installation guide makes it easy to mount. However, it is worth noting that my rating could change as the unit has only been up and running for a week. Despite this, the unit was on sale for an irresistible price and is rated higher than others in its non-sale price range.

Although the unit lacked a large number of feedbacks, it seemed to have no issues that would be a roadblock. With a rating of 4.3 and no significant problems, it was worth giving it a try. The flow rate of 3.6 GPM and 80,000 BTU is sufficient for a single person or even two people using low-flow outlets simultaneously.

The unit responds quickly for plumbing distances and maintains a consistent temperature without fluctuations. However, there is a slight lack of confidence based on the "you get what you pay for" mantra, but sometimes you can find a gem. The instructions are generally clear, but it is important to ensure that the gas line matches or exceeds the BTU rating of the unit, which was not explicitly mentioned in the instructions.

Another user mentioned that the instant water heater works great with no problems after using it for a few months in a park model camper. It is important to note that it requires a metal flue with metal exhaust piping, which was not specified in the description. Despite this, the user is satisfied with the product and would buy it again.

One user mentioned that it took some time to get used to the hot water taking a bit to reach the faucet, but once it does, it is amazing. They also mentioned that they have to watch their water usage as everyone in their household now showers for a longer duration. The installation process was super easy with no issues.

Lastly, a user mentioned that they installed the product yesterday and it seems to work great. They appreciate that it is quiet and that hot water comes out instantly. They would recommend this product to friends and family.

I recently purchased the 550 sq. ft. cabin with a full bath and a kitchenette, and I must say, the hot water system has exceeded my expectations. Not only does it provide hot water for all our needs, including long showers and dog baths, but it has also been incredibly efficient in terms of propane usage.

We have been using an 80 lb propane tank to feed the system, and to my surprise, we haven't had to refill it yet after almost 3 months of use. This is a remarkable feat considering we are a family of six and have been using the hot water system on a regular basis.

The installation process was relatively easy and straightforward. However, I would highly recommend using plumbing tape and a good thread sealer to ensure a tight and leak-free connection. It's also important to install the system as close as possible to the lines feeding the house to prevent any heat loss. If that's not feasible, I would suggest investing in a recirculating pump for optimal performance.

Once the system was connected, it was as simple as pressing the on button to start enjoying endless hot water. This has been a game-changer for our family, especially since we no longer have to worry about running out of hot water, even with our large household.

I recently purchased the Rheem hot water heater for my home in the Bay Area, where space is at a premium. Let me tell you, this unit is perfect for my needs. I paired it with an UPS to ensure uninterrupted power supply, and it has been running flawlessly. The temperature control is easy to use – simply press and hold the up button until it blinks, then press the down button simultaneously to reach the desired temperature of 140°F. With three bathrooms and two kitchens in my home, we have never experienced any issues with hot water shortage.

Compared to our previous 40-gallon gas water heater, this Rheem unit heats water much faster. The installation process was quite involved, taking four full days of work including plumbing in the crawl space and drilling a hole through the roof for venting. If you're not prepared to do this work yourself, be aware that hiring a professional plumber can add an additional cost of around $350. However, the space-saving benefits and the increase in home value make it well worth the investment, according to the assessor who visited our home in central Illinois. With two bathrooms and a total square footage of 1700, this hot water heater is a perfect fit for our needs.

Our previous three-gallon continuous hot water heater paled in comparison to the Rheem unit. The 9-gallon per minute capacity of this hot water heater is truly impressive. We now enjoy steamy hot water that seems to last forever. The installation process was complex, so we decided to hire a plumber, which cost us around $1100. But let me tell you, it was worth every penny.

Setting up the Rheem hot water heater was a breeze. All the fittings are 3/4 inches, making it a straightforward process. However, I did encounter a minor issue when the front panel arrived damaged. It seemed like it had been dropped multiple times during transit. Nonetheless, I contacted customer support, and they promptly addressed the issue and replaced the damaged panel.

The Rheem circulation pump is highly recommended for those who have a return line, as it greatly improves the overall performance and ease of installation. Speaking of performance, this tankless gas unit is an absolute powerhouse. I have personally tested it by running three showers simultaneously for over 20 minutes, and it never missed a beat. The water stayed consistently hot in all showers, without any fluctuations.

As someone with extensive experience in installing water heaters (over 400+ units), I can confidently say that as long as you do your homework and have a good understanding of your water flow rate and the overall temperature of your water throughout the year, you will have zero problems with these units. It's worth noting that these tankless units use 199,000 btu, compared to the standard 60,000 btu of a traditional tanked water heater. This means that you'll need a larger diameter gas line to ensure proper flow.

For those looking to purchase an outdoor unit, I highly recommend constructing a wooden box around the pipes and insulating it with heat tape. This extra precaution will prevent freezing, although the unit itself has a built-in computer that heats it to prevent internal freezing.

However, it's important to note that the maximum temperature available with this unit is 120 degrees, which may not be as hot as what you're used to with a regular water heater. Additionally, the water pressure may be slightly lower compared to a traditional water heater.