Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Gas Tankless Water Heater (2024-2025)
best gas tankless water heater
Are you tired of running out of hot water during your morning shower? Are you wondering if there’s a better way to heat water in your home? Gas tankless water heaters might be the solution you’re looking for. These smart appliances give you hot water on demand, helping you save money and space while ensuring you never run out of hot water again.
In this guide, we’ll explore gas tankless water heaters and help you understand what to look for when buying one. We’ll review four top-rated models, compare their features, and answer common questions to help you make a smart choice. Whether you’re replacing an old water heater or upgrading to a more efficient system, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to say goodbye to cold showers and hello to endless hot water? Let’s find the best gas tankless water heater for your home!
What to Look for in the Best Gas Tankless Water Heater
When shopping for the best gas tankless water heater, remember several key factors. Understanding these elements will help you pick a unit that fits your household’s needs and works well for years.
Flow Rate and Capacity
One of the most important things to consider is the flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). This tells you how much hot water the unit can provide at once. Ask yourself: How many hot water appliances do you usually use at the same time? A higher flow rate means running more hot water fixtures simultaneously without losing temperature or pressure.
Callout Box: Sizing Tip
When choosing a gas tankless water heater, consider your peak hot water usage. Add up the flow rates of all fixtures and appliances you might use simultaneously to ensure you select a unit with adequate capacity.
Energy Efficiency
Look for units with high energy factor (EF) ratings. The higher the EF, the more efficient the water heater. Many gas tankless water heaters now have ENERGY STAR certification, showing they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy.
Size and Installation Requirements
Think about the physical size of the unit and where you plan to install it. Gas tankless water heaters need proper venting, so ensure you have enough space and the right setup for installation. Some models offer more flexible venting options, which can be a big plus depending on your home’s layout.
Callout Box: Installation Tip
When installing a gas tankless water heater, ensure proper ventilation. These units require specific venting systems to operate safely and efficiently. Always consult with a professional installer to ensure your home meets the necessary requirements.
Temperature Range and Control
Check the temperature range of the unit and how easy it is to adjust. Some models offer precise digital controls, while others have simple dial adjustments. Consider units with remote controls or Wi-Fi connectivity for added convenience.
Durability and Warranty
Look for models made with high-quality materials that can handle frequent use and different water conditions. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and protect your investment. Many top brands offer warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years on heat exchangers and 5 years on parts.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the best tankless gas water heater for your home. Now, let’s look at some of the top-rated models on the market.
1. Rinnai RUR160iN Tankless Water Heater
Key Highlights:
- Very high efficiency with 0.96 Energy Factor
- ThermaCirc360™ technology for faster hot water delivery
- Wi-Fi enabled for remote control and monitoring
- Dual heat exchangers for better performance
- Recirculation capability for instant hot water
- Compact design for easy installation
The Rinnai RUR160iN is a top performer in gas tankless water heaters. This unit stands out with its impressive 0.96 Energy Factor, making it one of the most efficient models available. But efficiency isn’t its only strong point.
With a maximum flow rate of 9 GPM, this water heater can easily handle multiple hot water demands in most households. Whether you’re running the dishwasher, taking a shower, or doing laundry all at once, the RUR160iN can keep up.
One of the standout features of this model is its ThermaCirc360™ technology, which ensures faster hot water delivery throughout your home. Combined with its recirculation capability, you’ll never have to wait for hot water again. The dual heat exchangers improve performance and help the unit last longer.
For tech-savvy homeowners, the Wi-Fi connectivity is a great feature. You can easily control and monitor your water heater from your smartphone, adjusting temperatures or checking usage patterns.
Pros:
- Very energy-efficient
- High flow rate for multiple simultaneous uses
- Smart home integration with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Recirculation feature for instant hot water
- Compact design saves space
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to some models
- Professional installation is recommended due to complexity
Specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Energy Factor | 0.96 |
| Flow Rate | Up to 9 GPM |
| BTU Input | 15,000 – 160,000 |
| Dimensions | 27.5″ x 18.5″ x 11.1″ |
| Weight | 82 lbs |
| Warranty | 12 years on heat exchanger, 5 years on parts, 1 year on labor |
The Rinnai RUR160iN is great for larger households or those with high hot water demands. Its efficiency, performance, and smart features make it a top option in the gas tankless water heater market.
2. Rheem RTGH-95DVLN Tankless Water Heater
Key Highlights:
- 94% energy efficient
- Self-diagnostic system for easy maintenance
- Low NOx emissions for environmental friendliness
- Freeze protection up to -30°F
- Flexible venting options
- EcoNet enabled for smart home integration
The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN is a high-performance gas tankless water heater that combines efficiency with reliability. With a 94% energy efficiency rating, it’s one of the most eco-friendly options on the market, helping you save on energy bills while reducing your carbon footprint.
This unit boasts a maximum flow rate of 9.5 GPM, making it suitable for homes with multiple bathrooms or high hot water usage. The self-diagnostic system is a standout feature, making maintenance easy by alerting you to issues and providing simple troubleshooting.
The freeze protection feature is a big plus for those in colder climates, protecting the unit in temperatures as low as -30°F. The flexible venting options also make installation easier in various home layouts.
Tech-savvy homeowners will appreciate the EcoNet compatibility, allowing for integration with smart home systems and remote control via smartphone apps.
Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient
- High flow rate for multiple simultaneous uses
- Self-diagnostic system for easy maintenance
- Excellent freeze protection for cold climates
- EcoNet enabled for smart home integration
Cons:
- May be too much for smaller households
- Initial cost is higher than some competitors
Specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Energy Factor | 0.94 |
| Flow Rate | Up to 9.5 GPM |
| BTU Input | 11,000 – 199,000 |
| Dimensions | 27.5″ x 18.5″ x 9.75″ |
| Weight | 79 lbs |
| Warranty | 12 years on heat exchanger, 5 years on parts |
The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN is a great choice for larger households or colder climates. Its high efficiency, solid performance, and smart features make it a top contender in the gas tankless water heater market.
Callout Box: Energy Saving Tip
Consider installing a recirculation pump with your tankless water heater. This can provide instant hot water at your taps, reducing water waste and saving energy in the long run.
3. Noritz NRC661-DV-NG Tankless Water Heater
Key Highlights:
- Compact size ideal for smaller spaces
- High efficiency with 0.91 Energy Factor
- Low NOx emissions for environmental friendliness
- Built-in temperature controller
- Dual stainless steel heat exchangers for durability
- Easy installation with top-mounted water connections
The Noritz NRC661-DV-NG is a compact powerhouse perfect for smaller homes or apartments. Don’t let its size fool you – this unit packs a punch with its 0.91 Energy Factor and ability to deliver up to 6.6 GPM of hot water.
One of the standout features of this model is its compact design. At just 23.6″ x 13.8″ x 6.7″, it can fit into tight spaces where larger units wouldn’t, making it an excellent choice for home upgrades or replacements where space is at a premium.
The built-in temperature controller allows easy water temperature adjustment, while the dual stainless steel heat exchangers ensure long-lasting performance and efficiency. The top-mounted water connections simplify installation, saving you money on installation costs.
Environmental consciousness is also a key feature of this unit, with its low NOx emissions meeting strict air quality standards.
Pros:
- Compact size ideal for smaller homes or apartments
- Energy-efficient operation
- Easy installation with top-mounted connections
- Built-in temperature controller for easy adjustments
- Environmentally friendly with low NOx emissions
Cons:
- Lower flow rate compared to larger models
- May not be suitable for homes with high simultaneous hot water demands
Specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Energy Factor | 0.91 |
| Flow Rate | Up to 6.6 GPM |
| BTU Input | 15,000 – 120,000 |
| Dimensions | 23.6″ x 13.8″ x 6.7″ |
| Weight | 38 lbs |
| Warranty | 12 years on heat exchanger, 5 years on parts |
The Noritz NRC661-DV-NG is a great choice for smaller households or those looking to upgrade to a tankless system in a space-constrained environment. Its efficiency, compact design, and ease of installation make it a strong contender in the gas tankless water heater market.
4. Takagi T-H3-DV-N Tankless Water Heater
Key Highlights:
- High efficiency with 0.95 Energy Factor
- Impressive flow rate of up to 10 GPM
- Ultra-low NOx emissions
- Built-in freeze protection
- Easy-Link system for multiple unit installation
- Commercial-grade heat exchanger for durability
The Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a high-performance gas tankless water heater designed to meet larger households’ demands or light commercial applications. With its impressive 0.95 Energy Factor and ability to deliver up to 10 GPM of hot water, this unit is a powerhouse of efficiency and performance.
One of the standout features of this model is its versatility. The Easy-Link system allows for up to four units to be connected, making it suitable for applications with extremely high hot water demands. This feature and its commercial-grade heat exchanger make the T-H3-DV-N a great choice for residential and light commercial use.
Environmental considerations are also at the forefront of this unit. It boasts ultra-low NOx emissions, meeting even the strictest air quality standards. The built-in freeze protection adds an extra layer of durability, making it suitable for installation in various climates.
Pros:
- High efficiency and impressive flow rate
- Versatile with Easy-Link system for multiple unit installation
- Ultra-low NOx emissions for environmental friendliness
- Built-in freeze protection for durability
- Suitable for both residential and light commercial applications
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to some models
- May be more than necessary for smaller households
Specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Energy Factor | 0.95 |
| Flow Rate | Up to 10 GPM |
| BTU Input | 19,500 – 199,000 |
| Dimensions | 23.6″ x 13.8″ x 9.7″ |
| Weight | 59 lbs |
| Warranty | 15 years on heat exchanger, 5 years on parts |
The Takagi T-H3-DV-N is great for larger households, homes with high hot water demands, or even light commercial applications. Its high efficiency, impressive performance, and versatility make it a top contender in the gas tankless water heater market.
Callout Box: Maintenance Advice
To keep your gas tankless water heater running smoothly, flush the system annually to remove mineral buildup. This simple maintenance step can significantly extend the life of your unit and maintain its efficiency.
The Best Gas Tankless Water Heater
After reviewing these top-rated gas tankless water heaters, it’s clear that each model offers unique advantages to suit different household needs. Let’s recap our findings:
- The Rinnai RUR160iN stands out for its high efficiency and smart home integration, making it ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who prioritize energy savings.
- The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN excels in cold climates with its excellent freeze protection and self-diagnostic system, perfect for those in colder regions.
- The Noritz NRC661-DV-NG is the go-to choice for smaller homes or apartments, offering efficient performance in a compact package.
- The Takagi T-H3-DV-N impresses with its high flow rate and versatility, making it suitable for large households or even light commercial applications.
Here’s a quick comparison of these top picks:
| Model | Energy Factor | Max Flow Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rinnai RUR160iN | 0.96 | 9 GPM | Energy efficiency & smart features |
| Rheem RTGH-95DVLN | 0.94 | 9.5 GPM | Cold climates & easy maintenance |
| Noritz NRC661-DV-NG | 0.91 | 6.6 GPM | Compact spaces & smaller households |
| Takagi T-H3-DV-N | 0.95 | 10 GPM | High demand & versatility |
When choosing the best gas tankless water heater for your home, consider your household size, hot water usage patterns, climate, and available space. Don’t forget to factor in long-term energy savings against the initial investment.
Ready to upgrade to endless hot water and energy savings? Click on the links provided to check current prices and make your purchase. Your perfect gas tankless water heater is just a click away!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do gas tankless water heaters typically last?
Gas tankless water heaters generally last longer than traditional tank water heaters. With proper maintenance, they can last 20 years or more, compared to 10-15 years for conventional tank models. Regular maintenance, such as annual flushing to remove mineral buildup, can help extend the life of your tankless water heater.
Are gas tankless water heaters more expensive to install than traditional tank models?
Yes, gas tankless water heaters typically cost more upfront for the unit and installation than traditional tank models. The installation can be more complex, often requiring gas lines and venting systems upgrades. However, the long-term energy savings and longer lifespan can offset these initial costs.
Can a gas tankless water heater provide endless hot water?
While gas tankless water heaters can provide a continuous flow of hot water, there are some limitations. They can supply hot water indefinitely as long as the demand doesn’t exceed the unit’s flow rate capacity.
