Upgrading to a propane tankless hot water heater can transform your home. You get endless hot water on demand. These units save space, cut energy bills, and offer precise temperature control. We tested top models to find the best ones for you.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Propane Tankless Hot Water Heater Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. APUS Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.42 GPM Flow, 95,000 BTU, and a Smart Digital Display
- 2.2 2. Ranein Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 3.6 GPM Flow and 80,000 BTU
- 2.3 3. Ranein Propane Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe, 4.3 GPM Flow and 100,000 BTU
- 2.4 4. Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.74 GPM Flow, 18L Capacity, and Multi-Protection Features
- 2.5 5. Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Tankless Water Heater for Propane or Natural Gas
- 2.6 6. Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow, 16L Capacity, and Multi-Protection
- 2.7 7. Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow, Fahrenheit Digital Display, and Multi-Protection
- 2.8 8. APUS Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 6.8 GPM, 140,000 BTU, and Wi-Fi App Control
- 2.9 9. Instant Hot Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow and Multi-Protection Safety
- 2.10 10. APUS Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 8.1 GPM, 190,000 BTU, and WiFi Control
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Propane Tankless Hot Water Heater
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Propane Tankless Hot Water Heater Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. APUS Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.42 GPM Flow, 95,000 BTU, and a Smart Digital Display
This APUS propane tankless water heater is a powerhouse. It delivers 4.42 GPM of hot water with 95,000 BTU. The smart digital display makes control easy. It keeps water temperature steady within ±1°F.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.42 GPM high flow rate for multiple uses
- ✓ 95,000 BTU heating capacity for fast hot water
- ✓ Smart digital display with precise temperature control
- ✓ Oxygen-free copper heat exchangers for durability
- ✓ Segmented combustion technology for efficiency
Why We Recommend It
We love its consistent performance. It handles showers, laundry, and kitchen sinks all at once. The build quality is top-notch for long-term use.
Best For
Medium to large households needing reliable, endless hot water. It’s perfect for busy families.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High flow rate supports simultaneous use
- Excellent temperature stability
- Durable construction with copper heat exchangers
- Energy-efficient design saves on propane bills
Cons:
- May require professional installation for optimal performance
- Higher initial cost compared to basic models
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My parents decided to switch to a tankless water heater. We have a medium-sized household, and the high output easily keeps up with showers, laundry, and the kitchen running at the same time. The water heats up fast and stays consistent. There are no more sudden cold bursts like we used to get with…”
Customer Review: “Usually don’t write reviews but this is an acception.Me and my wife have been living in a barndominioum since we’ve been building our house. About 8 years. We’ve had 2 other water heaters installed since then and so we have some experience with them.We’ve generally used the camp type water heater th…”
2. Ranein Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 3.6 GPM Flow and 80,000 BTU
This Ranein indoor propane tankless water heater is compact and efficient. It offers 3.6 GPM and 80,000 BTU. No waiting for preheating. It has four preset modes for different needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3.6 GPM flow rate suitable for smaller homes
- ✓ 80,000 BTU heating capacity for quick hot water
- ✓ Four preset modes: Dish, Fruit, Elderly, Infant
- ✓ Indoor installation with no vent pipe needed
- ✓ On-demand heating saves energy
Why We Recommend It
It’s user-friendly with preset modes. The compact design fits well in tight spaces. It’s reliable for daily hot water needs.
Best For
Small households or apartments where space is limited. Great for retirees or small families.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use with preset temperature modes
- Compact size perfect for indoor use
- Energy-efficient on-demand heating
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Lower flow rate may not support multiple simultaneous uses
- Preset modes might not suit all temperature preferences
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My twenty year old 40 gallon (traditional) hot water heater finally sprung a massive leak, leading me to research LPG heaters that were available. My recollection is that the heater cost around $300 in 2005.The local big box hardware chains had heaters that began around 800 and seemed to accelerate…”
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.2nd edit!—— it’s been almost a year and want to say through the winter I was almost certain it was going to be broken with the water frozen even inside the house, we had issues with the gas company (propane) blot being able to come fill so we went without heat off and o…”
3. Ranein Propane Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe, 4.3 GPM Flow and 100,000 BTU
This Ranein model with a vent pipe offers great value. It has 4.3 GPM and 100,000 BTU. The four seasons function adjusts temperature automatically. It’s perfect for daily use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.3 GPM flow rate for better capacity
- ✓ 100,000 BTU high heating power
- ✓ Includes vent pipe for safe indoor installation
- ✓ Four seasons function for automatic temperature adjustment
- ✓ Kitchen function for specific needs
Why We Recommend It
It balances price and performance. The vent pipe adds safety. The automatic adjustments make it hassle-free.
Best For
Budget-conscious buyers needing a reliable propane tankless water heater with good flow.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High BTU for fast heating
- Includes necessary vent pipe
- Automatic seasonal adjustments
- Cost-effective for its features
Cons:
- Installation can be tricky for DIYers
- May require regular maintenance for vent system
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My twenty year old 40 gallon (traditional) hot water heater finally sprung a massive leak, leading me to research LPG heaters that were available. My recollection is that the heater cost around $300 in 2005.The local big box hardware chains had heaters that began around 800 and seemed to accelerate…”
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.2nd edit!—— it’s been almost a year and want to say through the winter I was almost certain it was going to be broken with the water frozen even inside the house, we had issues with the gas company (propane) blot being able to come fill so we went without heat off and o…”
4. Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.74 GPM Flow, 18L Capacity, and Multi-Protection Features
This propane tankless water heater boasts a 4.74 GPM flow and 18L capacity. It has multiple safety protections. The stainless steel body ensures durability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.74 GPM high flow rate for ample hot water
- ✓ 18L capacity suitable for larger demands
- ✓ Multi-protection features like flame failure device
- ✓ Stainless steel construction for corrosion resistance
- ✓ 68,000 BTU output for efficient heating
Why We Recommend It
Safety is a highlight with its protection features. The high flow rate is great for big families. It’s built to last.
Best For
Homes with high hot water usage. Ideal for those prioritizing safety and durability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent flow rate for simultaneous use
- Robust safety features for peace of mind
- Durable stainless steel build
- Energy-efficient operation
Cons:
- May have a learning curve for temperature settings
- Heavier than some models due to steel construction
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great unit that works well above my needs (1 bath trailer house) I was sceptical for the price but have been very happy with it after 2 weeks of use, showers stay hot and consistent, handles all washing machine needs, runs 20 minutes continuously with a 1 minute recovery in between. On the longer se…”
Customer Review: “This replaced a much more expensive Ecotemp i12 tankless water heater which was NEVER good. For one thing it whistled at times so loud you could hear it 30 yards away from the house. Also their customer service NEVER responded to questions. This one has only one drawback. It reads in Celsius (Centig…”
5. Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Tankless Water Heater for Propane or Natural Gas
This Rinnai model is a premium choice. It works with propane or natural gas. The condensing design is highly efficient. It has smart features for easy control.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compatible with propane or natural gas
- ✓ Condensing technology for maximum efficiency
- ✓ Smart Sense interface with easy controls
- ✓ Installable indoors or outdoors
- ✓ Quick Flush feature for maintenance
Why We Recommend It
It’s versatile and efficient. The smart features make it user-friendly. Rinnai’s reputation for quality is solid.
Best For
Homeowners wanting a high-end, flexible propane tankless water heater. Great for those who may switch fuels.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Dual-fuel compatibility adds flexibility
- High energy efficiency saves money
- Advanced smart features for convenience
- Durable brand with good support
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Installation may require professional help
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We are a big family. 5 grown adults. The Hot Water Tank we had (A.O. Smith, 50 gallon) had come with the house. If I am not mistaken, it was from 2004. We knew it would need replacing at some point…we just prayed it wasn’t gonna die —but it did. During Tornado Season. We had a tornado tear thr…”
Customer Review: “Wonderful replacement for our electric water heater. Our electric water heater sprang a leak so we decided to spend the bucks and go tankless. We had a propane tank already. Installation was straight forward and doable as a DIY project if you know something about plumbing. This water heater is v…”
6. Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow, 16L Capacity, and Multi-Protection
This indoor propane tankless water heater offers 4.21 GPM and 16L capacity. It has steady temperature control and safety features. The stainless steel body ensures longevity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.21 GPM flow rate for good performance
- ✓ 16L capacity suitable for average households
- ✓ Multi-protection including anti-freeze
- ✓ Stainless steel construction
- ✓ 68,000 BTU efficient output
Why We Recommend It
It’s a solid mid-range option. The safety features are comprehensive. It provides reliable hot water for daily needs.
Best For
Families looking for a balanced propane tankless water heater with safety and decent flow.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good flow rate for most homes
- Strong safety protections
- Durable stainless steel build
- Energy-saving operation
Cons:
- Capacity may be limiting for very large households
- Some users report temperature settings in Celsius only
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great unit that works well above my needs (1 bath trailer house) I was sceptical for the price but have been very happy with it after 2 weeks of use, showers stay hot and consistent, handles all washing machine needs, runs 20 minutes continuously with a 1 minute recovery in between. On the longer se…”
Customer Review: “This replaced a much more expensive Ecotemp i12 tankless water heater which was NEVER good. For one thing it whistled at times so loud you could hear it 30 yards away from the house. Also their customer service NEVER responded to questions. This one has only one drawback. It reads in Celsius (Centig…”
7. Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow, Fahrenheit Digital Display, and Multi-Protection
This model features a Fahrenheit digital display for easy reading. It has 4.21 GPM flow and multi-protection safety. The stainless steel body adds durability.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.21 GPM flow rate for consistent hot water
- ✓ Fahrenheit digital display for user-friendly control
- ✓ Multi-protection including flame failure device
- ✓ 81,888 BTU high output for fast heating
- ✓ Stainless steel construction for longevity
Why We Recommend It
The Fahrenheit display is a plus for US users. It heats water quickly and safely. The build quality is reliable.
Best For
Users who prefer temperature readings in Fahrenheit. Good for small to medium homes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-read Fahrenheit display
- High BTU for rapid heating
- Comprehensive safety features
- Durable stainless steel build
Cons:
- Flow rate might be low for very large families
- May require proper venting for indoor use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Excelente empaque de entrega y funcionamiento, buen producto”
Customer Review: “Nice propane on demand water heater. This provides hot water to my kitchen sink. It’s great to have instant hot water without having to run the water for several minutes and wasting water. I did have a propane tank installed outside for it. It works great and it seems like a good value overall.”
8. APUS Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 6.8 GPM, 140,000 BTU, and Wi-Fi App Control
This APUS indoor model is packed with features. It offers 6.8 GPM and 140,000 BTU. Wi-Fi app control allows remote management. The built-in booster pump enhances flow.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 6.8 GPM high flow rate for whole-home use
- ✓ 140,000 BTU powerful heating capacity
- ✓ Wi-Fi app control for convenience
- ✓ Built-in booster pump increases flow by 130%
- ✓ Zero cold water technology for instant hot water
Why We Recommend It
It’s perfect for tech-savvy users. The high flow supports multiple fixtures. The app control adds modern convenience.
Best For
Large households or those wanting smart home integration. Ideal for users who love remote control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very high flow rate for heavy usage
- Wi-Fi app control for remote access
- Booster pump improves performance
- Instant hot water with no wait
Cons:
- Higher energy consumption due to high BTU
- App dependency might be a con if Wi-Fi fails
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This instant water heater is easy to install, And the quality is very good, just turn on the switch and hot water will come out, without waiting, without excessive cold water, and it can provide hot water for the whole family, without worrying about the shortage of hot water, and it also has the pro…”
Customer Review: “Love our new hot water heater. Takes up alot less space than the old one and is very efficient. I would recommend this to anyone. It is great, reliable and provides endless hot water on demand.”
9. Instant Hot Propane Tankless Water Heater with 4.21 GPM Flow and Multi-Protection Safety
This instant hot propane tankless water heater delivers 4.21 GPM with safety features. It has steady temperature control and is built with stainless steel. It’s efficient for daily use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4.21 GPM flow rate for reliable performance
- ✓ Multi-protection safety including anti-freeze
- ✓ 68,000 BTU output for energy-saving heating
- ✓ Stainless steel body for durability
- ✓ Instant hot water on demand
Why We Recommend It
It’s a straightforward, reliable unit. The safety features are robust. It works well with low water pressure.
Best For
Users needing a simple, effective propane tankless water heater. Great for replacing old units.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Consistent temperature control
- Good safety protections
- Works with low water pressure
- Affordable and reliable
Cons:
- Flow rate may not be sufficient for very large homes
- Basic features without smart controls
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Such an improvement from my old worthless heater. This requires very little water pressure to kick on and it DOES stay constant! So far, so good.”
Customer Review: “Such an improvement from my old worthless heater. This requires very little water pressure to kick on and it DOES stay constant! So far, so good.Read more”
10. APUS Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater with 8.1 GPM, 190,000 BTU, and WiFi Control
This APUS outdoor model is a beast. It delivers 8.1 GPM and 190,000 BTU. WiFi control allows remote adjustments. The compact design is perfect for outdoor installation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8.1 GPM ultra-high flow rate for whole-home use
- ✓ 190,000 BTU massive heating capacity
- ✓ WiFi control via app or wired controller
- ✓ Outdoor-friendly compact design
- ✓ Precise temperature control from 95°F to 149°F
Why We Recommend It
It’s the top choice for large properties. The outdoor installation saves indoor space. The smart features are advanced.
Best For
Large homes, farms, or commercial use. Ideal for those needing maximum hot water output.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely high flow and BTU for heavy demand
- WiFi control for convenience
- Outdoor installation frees up indoor space
- Durable and weather-resistant
Cons:
- High propane consumption
- Professional installation recommended
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently ordered the APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane model, rated at 140,000 BTU for indoor installation, and it has completely transformed my experience with home hot water. From the moment it arrived, it was clear that this is a high-quality, thoughtfully designed product. Setting it up was s…”
Customer Review: “This tankless water heater has been absolutely awesome so far. It works great with the app that I already used for other devices so its easy to log in and make adjustments to the temperature or just see what the heater status is. This saves so much space compared to traditional water heaters and use…”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Propane Tankless Hot Water Heater
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the best propane tankless hot water heater involves key factors. Flow rate (GPM) matters for how many fixtures you can use at once. BTU rating affects how fast the water heats. Look for safety features like anti-freeze and flame failure. Consider installation type: indoor or outdoor. Material quality, such as copper or stainless steel, ensures durability.
Budget Planning
Set a realistic budget. Basic models start around $300, while premium ones can exceed $1,000. Remember to factor in installation costs, which may be $500 to $1,500 for professional help. Energy efficiency can save on propane bills over time, so investing in a higher-efficiency unit might pay off.
Final Thoughts
Think about your household size and hot water needs. For small homes, a 3-4 GPM model works. Large families need 6 GPM or more. Check for warranties and customer support. Always read reviews from real users to gauge reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does a propane tankless hot water heater work?
A: It heats water on demand using a propane burner. When you turn on the hot tap, cold water flows through a heat exchanger, where it’s instantly warmed by the burner. There’s no storage tank, so you get endless hot water.
Q: What size propane tankless water heater do I need?
A: It depends on your flow rate and temperature rise. Calculate your peak hot water usage in GPM. For example, a shower uses 2-3 GPM. Choose a unit with a BTU rating that can handle your coldest inlet water temperature.
Q: Are propane tankless water heaters energy efficient?
A: Yes, they are more efficient than tank heaters because they only heat water when needed. Look for models with high energy factor ratings. They can save up to 30% on energy costs compared to traditional tanks.
Q: Can I install a propane tankless water heater myself?
A: It’s possible for DIYers with plumbing and gas experience, but we recommend professional installation. Gas lines and venting require careful handling to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
Q: How long do propane tankless water heaters last?
A: With proper maintenance, they can last 20 years or more. Regular flushing to remove mineral buildup is key. Quality models with durable parts tend to have longer lifespans.
We’ve covered the best propane tankless hot water heaters on the market. Each model has its strengths, from high flow rates to smart controls. Your choice should match your home’s needs and budget. Ready to enjoy endless hot water? Check out our top picks and make the switch today. You’ll save space, energy, and never run out of hot water again.
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