Do you know that a tankless water heater can save up to 30 to 50 percent energy compared to a water heater with a tank? Tankless water heaters are cost-efficient and can supply you on-demand hot water. As it does not take much space, you do not need to worry about placing it. Just mounting the water heater on the wall will do the task for you.
Well, if you want to know about the best propane tankless water heater, this post is for you. Here, we will inform you about why you should get a tankless propane water heater and how to choose the best tankless propane water heater. You will also come to know about the top 9 best propane tankless water heater with pros and cons. And, at the end of this post, an FAQ section will answer all your potential questions. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started.
Why should you buy a tankless water heater?
If you are using a water heater unit with a tank, you can think of migrating to a tankless water heater run by propane. Well, you may ask, why is it better? Here are some reasons that show you why you should buy a tankless water heater.
- Firstly, suppose its winter and your home is full of guests. You do not need to queue in a line if you have a backup tankless water heater as that’s enough to serve you enough water heater to bathe.
- Secondly, it will cost you $100 less per year than a water heater with a tank system.
- Thirdly, if a standard water heater lasts for 8-10 years, a tankless water heater can last longer as it is made with high-quality materials and components.
- Fourthly, it will increase the resale value of your home if you want to move somewhere else.
- And finally, as it doesn’t waste your energy and supply you as much hot water as you need, it is way better for your family.
Top 10 Best Propane Tankless Water Heater Review:
Need to know the most trending and top products of the year in propane tankless water heater industry? Here we have reviewed the top 10 best tankless propane water heater for you.
1. Takagi T-K4-IN-LP Indoor Tankless Water Heater, Propane
If you are looking for the best indoor installation only tankless water heater, Takagi T-K4-IN-LP run by propane can be of your help. Coming with a stunning 8 gallons per minute flow rate, it only takes a few minutes for you to get enough hot water for you. If you have an apartment with 2 to 3 bathrooms, you can use this water heater without giving a second thought. Run by propane gas, it makes sure that your water is heated within a short period. Direct vent, electric ignition, and water temperature safety controls are some of the advantages of using this tankless water heater.
Features
Water Pressure: Takagi T-K4-IN-LP comes with a 15 psi of minimum water pressure with 150 psi maximum pressure range.
Electric Supply: This propane tankless water heater is run by 120V of electricity. :
Color: When it comes to color, Takagi T-K4-IN-LP is white.
BTU per hour: It can take from 11000 to 190000 British thermal unit per hour to heat the water.
Vent System: Having a good vent system is very essential for a good tankless water heater. It is great that this tankless water heater provides a direct vent system.
Temperature Range: With a temperature range of 99° to 167°F, you can comfortably get your water heater as you wish.
Dimensions and Weight: This tank features a dimension of 8.5 x 13.8 x 20.5 inches which is quite easy to install on a wall. You also do not need to think much about weight, as it is only 43 pounds.
Warranty: It has several warranty policies for several parts. For heater exchanger, you will get a warranty period of 12 years, while you will have 5 years of warranty for parts. Moreover, you will get a 1-year labor warranty.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Easy and quick to install.
- Safety control for exhaust and water temperature.
- Comes with a great energy efficiency factor of 0.82.
- Ensures enough hot water for two showers simultaneously.
- Not expensive.
Disadvantages
- Requires stainless venting.
2. Takagi TH3DV TH3 Indoor Whole House Tankless Water, Liquid Propane
Takagi TH3DV comes with such a great efficiency that it can cover your entire house. No matter how many kitchens, washrooms or spa you own, this model manufactured by Takagi is enough to reach hot water out to every corner of your home. With an amazing flow rate of up to 8.4 gallons per minute, it will not keep you waiting in winter mornings for hot water. Ensuring an energy factor of 0.95 and being flexible in weight, it is ideal to choose if you want high-quality tankless water heater. It takes a little space, so nothing to worry about if your room is not so big.
Features
Water Pressure: Takagi TH3DV has a minimum work pressure of 15 psi, while it can reach up to 150 psi maximum.
Electric Supply: This propane tankless water heater is run by an electric supply of AC 120V. :
Color: It is mainly white, but there are some shades of black in it also.
BTU per hour: When it comes to BTU, it can work from 15,000 to 199,000 BTU.
Vent System: PVC direct venting technology is used.
Dimensions and Weight: This propane tankless water heater is 22.50″ in height, 17.75″ in width, and 10.75″ in depth.
Warranty: Takagi TH3DV has a 5 year limited warranty period for parts while 15 years for the heat exchanger.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Enough to supply water in 3 to 4 showers simultaneously.
- Qualified by Energy Star.
- Can cover your entire home.
- Efficient and Durable.
- Easy to install.
- Compact system.
Disadvantages
- Water flow may get delayed in cold climates.
3. Rinnai V65EP Tankless Water Heater
Are you thinking about how to get an endless supply of hot water in your entire home in cold winter? Worry no more. You have Rinnai V65EP Tankless Water Heater ready to serve you from the very moment you install it. Being an outdoor only installation water heater, it comes with modern technology and high efficiency. With this water heater, you can experience a great flow rate of 6.5 GPM which is pretty enough to cover more than two bathrooms. If you want to enjoy a clean and consistent supply of hot water at your set temperature, you can definitely go for this propane water heater.
Features
Energy Factor: Rinnai V65EP comes with an energy-saving mode. That’s why you will experience an energy efficiency factor of 0.82 with this water heater.
Electric Supply: Run by 120 volts of electric supply, it does its work perfectly.
Item Weight: This water heater is pretty flexible and doesn’t weigh more than 47.4 pounds.
Inner System: It comes with adjustable presets that let you set temperature from 120°F to 140°F. It is also equipped with an integrated code indicator and compatible with Digital Controllers manufactured by the company.
Dimension: This propane water heater got a product dimension of 9 x 14 x 23 inches.
Warranty: Rinnai V65EP comes with a 1-year labor warranty along with 5-year parts warranty. When it comes to the heat exchanger, it has a great warranty period of 10 years.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Adjustable heater setting.
- Great efficiency.
- Doesn’t take much space.
- Can heat water in 15 seconds to 30 seconds.
- Good warranty period.
- Ultra-condensing style.
- Easy to install.
Disadvantages
- You need a Rinnai certified expert to repair it.
4. Eccotemp FVI12-LP Liquid Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater
If you own a small home or cabin with one with a small family, Eccotemp FVI12-LP liquid propane gas tankless water heater is just perfect for you. As it is small and outputs a limited amount of water, it just takes a blink of the eye to provide you with hot water. Coming with a horizontal vent kit, this tankless water heater is ready to get installed in the indoor as soon as you unbox it. This tankless water heater is very inexpensive and you can be set everywhere very easily. Following the instruction manual, you or your plumber can manage to install it without much ado.
Features
Water Supply: Eccotemp FVI12-LP supplies around 3.6 gallons of water per minute when it is used. This is not bad for a single person or a small family to cover with this amount of water.
Electric Supply: Only 110 volts of electricity is required to run this water heater.
Color: Eccotemp FVI12-LP is available in white color only.
Dimensions and Weight: As it is small in size, this water heater is only 33 pounds which have made it easy to carry. When it comes to the dimension, the Eccotemp FVI12-LP measures 29 x 17 x 11 inches.
Temperature Range: Coming with manual temperature control, this tankless water heater features a temperature range of 80°-140°F.
Warranty: It comes with a two-year limited warranty.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Features a digital temperature display.
- Safe electronic ignition system.
- Manual control of water temperature.
- Almost noiseless when works.
- Effective power ventilation.
- Great for small house or cabin.
Disadvantages
- It is not possible to use a mixer faucet with this unit.
5. Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP Outdoor Tankless Water Heater, Propane
Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP is the smallest unit in the manufactured water heaters products by Takagi company. Being a good choice for a small residential home or studio apartment, this tankless water heater backs up with 6.6 gallons of hot water per minute. You can easily mount it on your wall and get hot water anytime you want. Coming with electric ignition, this water heater supports hydronic baseboard or radiant floor heating applications if required. Certified by energy star, this model of tankless water heater is really energy-saving and can deliver a range of 200 to 500 gallons of water. However, Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP is meant for outdoor installation only.
Features
Water Supply: This tankless water heater propelled by propane gas is designed for a small house. As a result, this has a flow maximum flow rate of 6.6 gallons water per minute.
Electric Supply: You have to use an electric supply of 120V(60Hz) to use this tankless water heater.
Energy Factor: Takagi T-T-KJr2-OS-LP works with an energy efficiency factor of 0.82 which is quite impressive.
Dimensions and Weight: Being 20.3″ in height, 13.8″ in width and 6.7″ when it comes to depth, it is just okay for your home. It weighs 38 pounds only.
BTU per hour: Starting with 19,500 BTU/hr, this can go up to 140,000 BTU/hr maximum.
Warranty: With this tankless water heater, you will get a warranty of 12 years for heat exchanger, 5 years for parts and 1-year labor. However, you cannot claim a warranty if you do not install this water heater by licensed personnel.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Comes with internal freeze protection.
- Certified by Energy Star.
- The smallest water heater unit by Takagi.
- Easy to move and install.
- A good energy factor.
- Water temperature adjustment feature.
Disadvantages
- The unit is prone to leak propane.
6. Eccotemp L10 2.6 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater, 1 Pack, White
If you are a travel freak or go camping frequently, Eccotemp L10 2.6 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater can be your ideal companion. A hot shower will revive you from the hustle and bustle of your business trip. Being small and portable, Eccotemp L10 is what you need after a tiring day. Setting it up is very easy. Just you need to attach a garden hose and a propane tank, and that’s all to let you enjoy a refreshing bath with hot water. This tankless water heater is best for cabins or campsites. However, if you have got a small studio apartment, this will cover that too. The minimalist design with battery-powered electric ignition makes it perfect for areas where electricity is not available all the time.
Features
Water Supply: As this tankless water heater is run by batteries, we cannot expect much from it. Yet, 2.6 gallons of water supply per minute is enough for a person or pet to get washed thoroughly.
Temperature Range: With Eccotemp L10, you can reach a temperature from 50 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dimensions and Weight: Having a product dimension of 15 x 6.5 x 35 inches, Eccotemp L10 is 27 pounds.
Power Supply: Coming with electric ignition, this tankless water heater is backed up with 2 “D” cell batteries.
Water Pressure: You will have water pressure from 20 psi to 80 psi with this small beast.
Color: It is white.
Warranty: With Eccotemp L10 a 1-year warranty is provided.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Perfect for outdoor showers.
- Good for camping.
- Portable to anywhere you want.
- An alkaline cell type battery.
- Easy to install.
- Safety shut-off timer.
- Great to use for pets and washing dishes.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Temperature controls.
- Frustration-free packaging.
Disadvantages
- The cover of the heater may get hot.
7. Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP Indoor Tankless Water Heater
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP is a good choice for a medium-sized family. Using liquid propane to heat water, this tankless water heater is certified by Energy Star. This tank features modern technologies like freeze protection, surge protection, and overheat protection. It can also troubleshoot diagnostic codes. With a maximum flow rate of 6.6 gallons per minute, it ensures that you get enough hot water in your home whenever you need it. Featuring a heat exchanger made from copper, Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP takes a very short time to deliver you heated water. However, you need a category 3 stainless steel for venting purposes.
Features
Water Flow Rate: When it comes to water flow rate, this tankless is enough to meet the demand of an entire household. It can cover up to 6.6 GPM.
Electric Supply: It is run by AC 115 volts.
Dimensions and Weight: Featuring a dimension of 6.7 x 13.8 x 20.3 inches and a weight of 38 pounds, it can easily be carried and installed.
BTUs per hour: With a minimum of 19,500 BTU, it can reach up to 140,000 BTU.
Energy Factor: This indoor tankless water heater is good at saving energy and scores an energy factor of 0.81-0.83.
Warranty: A 10-year warranty for the heat exchangers and 5 years for parts are available. However, to claim the warranty you must install this water heater by a skilled and licensed technician.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Transmitters for inlet and outlet with a view to monitoring temperature.
- Variety of available safety features.
- Direct vent system.
- Easy to install.
- Modern technologies are used.
- Energy-saving.
- Low-Nox version.
- Lightweight.
Disadvantages
- The copper core may crack easily.
8. Rheem RTG-64XLP 6.4 GPM Low NOx Outdoor Tankless Propane Water Heater
Designed to be installed outdoors, Rheem RTG-64XLP offers a solution to your hot water problems. With this tankless water heater installed in your home, you will never run out of water. It comes with space-saving and minimalist fashion to use it with utmost comfort. With the innovative technologies used here, you will get a continuous supply of fresh hot water without much ado. Next-generation burner technology is used to output a maximum flow rate of 6.4 gallons per minute with 35 degrees F. This water heater includes a remote control and thermostat wire for your convenience of control.
Features
Water Flow Rate: You will experience 6.4 gallons of hot water per minute with a 35-degree rise.
Electric Supply: A supply of 120 volts of electricity is necessary to use this tankless water heater.
Dimensions and Weight: Featuring a dimension of 14 x 10 x 26 inches, Rheem RTG-64XLP weighs a little bit more than 53 pounds.
Installation System: This unit of water heater is meant for outdoor installation only.
Certification: Being certified by Energy Star, this is really a top-notch product with amazing quality.
Warranty: Rheem RTG-64XLP has a good warranty policy which you can claim if you need to replace or fix your unit. Refer to their replacement and warranty policy to know details about it.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- You can manifold up to 6 points with exclusive manifold control.
- Takes very short space.
- Upgraded burner technology.
- Made for both residential home and commercial use.
- Remote control and Thermostat wire included.
- Certified by Energy Star
- Features Low Nox.
Disadvantages
- These may not work as expected in an extremely cold environment.
9. Camplux 10L Outdoor 2.64 GPM Portable Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater
Camplux BW264 10L Outdoor is another great tankless water heater for people who frequently go for camping. Be it a family vacation to the beach or atop the mountain, this portable tankless water heater will always be there for you. Though it is ideal for cabins and horse stables, you can also use it at your home if necessary. However, it is meant for outdoor use. Indoor use is possible if the water is additionally ventilated. The greatness of this tankless heater is, you do not need electricity to use it. Just 2 “D” cell batteries are enough to ensure hot water within a short span of time. If you buy this tankless water for you, you are definitely going to save more than 10% energy.
Features
Water Flow Rate: With a water flow rate of 2.64 gallons per minute, you can easily bathe, wash your boat, car, and your pets.
Power Supply: You do not need any electricity to run this unit and have hot water. Just 2 “D” cell batteries are enough to back this up.
Dimensions and Weight: Featuring a dimension of 21.6 x 12.9 x 8.3 inches, this portable tankless water heater is only 18.8 pounds in weight.
Water Pressure: When it comes to water pressure, you will experience a water pressure of 2.8 to 110 psi maximum.
Battery Type and Life: Lithium battery type is required to use. You can expect an average battery life of 180 days with this unit of the water heater.
Voltage and Wattage: 3 volts and 20 KW of wattage are used to run this unit.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Comes with eco/full switch function.
- Anti-freezing and overheating protection.
- Stainless steel burner and copper heat exchanger.
- Low water flow and high water pressure protection.
- Flame failure protection.
- Portable and easy to install.
- Energy saving.
- Money and space-saving.
Disadvantages
- Does not work properly above 2000 ft up.
How to Choose the Best Propane Tankless Water Heater?
If you have intended to have a tankless propane water heater instead of having a traditional water heater, it means you are well aware of the benefits and advantages tankless water heater provides. Nonetheless, it is not a plain job to find the best propane tankless water heater from hundreds of them out there. You need to know the aspects that make propane tankless water heater great. If you do not know the things that you should consider carefully before buying your desired tankless water heater, you may end up getting frustrated.
Keeping your needs in mind, we have come up with the tips that will help you choose the best propane tankless water heater. So, let’s proceed on to get a crystal clear idea about how to choose the best propane tankless water heater.
Energy Efficiency: How much energy saving your tankless water is the most important thing that you should never ignore. It is energy efficiency that stimulates most of the people to start using a tankless water heater. It is the energy factor (EF) rating that is used to measure the energy efficiency of a specific water heater. The more EF factor rating your tankless heater has, the better the unit is. Usually, Energy Star certifies the energy factor of the unit.
Warranty: If a manufacturing company provides warranty for a certain time frame, it means that they care for you and your problem with the tankless water heater. Most of the manufacturer wants that you use the service of a professional technician when installing their product. If you follow their rules, usually they help you with a warranty that covers the heat exchanger, parts and labor also. Most of the time the manufacturers provide you with 10 to 15 years warranty period for the heat exchanger. When it comes to parts, you may get a warranty period of 2 to 5 years. And, in terms of labor, most of the manufacturers cover a warranty of 1 year.
The Right Size: Choosing the right size is very important when it comes to buying a propane tankless water heater. First of all, you need to determine the total amount of water your family needs as per the family size and use of hot water. Most of the tankless water heater may supply a flow rate of 2 to 6 gallons if run with gas. If you can determine the flow rate and temperature rise, you can move to see which of the tankless water heater can satisfy your need.
Venting System: Proper venting is one of the most essential things that you should ensure before installing your propane tankless water heater. For a tankless water heater, we need a different venting system than the traditional ones. Venting system with a tankless water heater is not complex. Yet, it is always better to take advice from your technician to understand which would be the best place to set your water heater. Usually, a propane tankless water heater requires a category III venting system made from stainless steel. Though it is a bit expensive, it is durable and safer.
Fuel Supply Line: To get instant hot water, fuel supply line contributes the most. If it is not sized as necessary, your burner will not work its best. If your burner uses propane, it can output up to 200,000 BTU/hour. This is really greater than the traditional supply. However, make sure that you have got a gas fuel line that is long enough to help your tankless water heater work quick.
Ignition System: When it comes to the ignition system, there are 3 types of it. If your ignition type is complex it means that it will be way more expensive than that of the simple one. But, on the contrary, a simple ignition system will cost you more energy. Standing pilot light system is less expensive, but costs very high energy. Direct ignition system works either will electrical hook-up or without it. And, hydro-power ignition system work without any battery or electric connection. However, most of the tankless water heater uses a direct ignition system, which you can also choose to use.
We know that it is not very easy for you to look at all these things together and find your necessary one from the market places. That’s why we have reviewed 9 best propane tankless water heater above. Read about them and find which one is perfect for you.
Faq
How much does a tankless water heater may cost?
Actually, it depends on the features. If you try one with a high flow rate and energy efficiency rate, that may cost you much. However, usually, you can buy a small propane tankless water heater at $200, while it may take up to $1000 for a bigger one.
Can I install the propane tankless heater myself?
If you have technical knowledge about a tankless heater and how to set, yes, you can. But, to avoid complexity, leak-free water, future upgrade, and warranty claim, it is better to choose a certified technician to install your propane tankless water heater.
What is the average lasting period of a tankless propane water heater?
If you are using propane, your tankless water heater may operate as long as 20 years without much ado if your choice is right.
However, tankless water heater run by electricity may run for a shorter period than one that is run by the gas.
Are propane tankless water heater safe?
As the air supply and exhaust vents are sealed in propane tankless water heater, they usually do not leak for back-drafting. If there is an earthquake or the issue of a leak, there is no chance of spilling gallons of water as it only produces hot water on-demand.
Final Words
If you were looking for the best propane tankless water heater, we hope that you have already selected one from the above. However, follow our buying guide to know the things that you should look before buying a propane tankless water heater. The products we have reviewed here are popular for their uniqueness and service. As many people have many choices, we believe that you also have one. Choose the one you would love to use.