The Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters of 2024

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Energy-efficient and eco-friendly propane tankless water heaters provide virtually instant hot water with very little waste. Find the best model for your home right here.

Hot water is a basic requirement, but the range of tank-based and tankless systems now available can make choosing the right water heater a real challenge. Though traditional water heater tanks remain popular, modern tankless models could offer a number of advantages. Installation costs are modest, and the machines are highly energy efficient, so you’ll save money upfront and in the long run. What’s more, a tankless model can often be installed in places where a tank isn’t practical. There are even models designed for RVing and camping.

A tankless water heater supplies hot water “on demand,” meaning that it heats the water you need when you need it. This way, there’s no danger of the tank running out and no energy wasted keeping water warm all day and night. Gas water heaters are particularly efficient. For those living in areas where natural gas isn’t available, propane offers a flexible and affordable alternative. Use this guide to learn what to look for when shopping for the best propane tankless hot water heater, and find out why the models discussed here are considered among the best propane tankless water heaters on the market.

1. BEST OVERALL: Rheem ECOH200DVLP-2 Performance Platinum Water Heater
2. RUNNER-UP: Rinnai RL75iP Propane Tankless Water Heater
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Rheem ECO160DVLP3-1 Propane Tankless Water Heater
4. BEST FOR SMALL HOME: Rinnai V53DeP Propane Tankless Water Heater 
5. BEST FOR LARGE HOME: Rheem ECOH200DVRHLP Performance Platinum Water Heater
6. BEST FOR RV: Camplux 2.64 GPM Propane Portable Water Heater
7. BEST PORTABLE: Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater Pump

How We Chose the Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters

When gathering our top picks for propane tankless water heaters, we took a deep look into the market to see the range of features and options available. We made sure to include both high-output units for larger families who require near-constant hot water and more compact units for smaller households who can still enjoy hot water but at a more budget-friendly price point.

Our research also took us into the world of portable tankless water heaters, ideal for campers and RV enthusiasts. We made sure to include a few options across this wide spectrum, from large, powerful units to portable, lightweight models. While the installation of most of the standard indoor units in our top picks will likely require a professional, the reliability of their manufacturers should see them last for years to come.

Our Top Picks

The right propane tankless water heater for you will depend on how much water output you’d like and your portability preference for the unit. Below are some of the best indoor and outdoor propane tankless water heaters available, organized by category. Read on for some of these top picks’ best features and specs for providing clean water.

Best Overall

Rheem ECOH200DVLP-2 Performance Platinum Water Heater

For efficiency, reliability, versatility, and a host of other standout features, this Rheem tankless water heater is a solid choice. Designed for indoor use, it’s a compact unit rated at 9.5 gallons per minute (GPM) and a maximum of 199,000 British thermal units (BTUs). It is sufficient to run four showers (or equivalent) simultaneously. It is Energy Star certified with a market-leading Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), the Department of Energy’s (DOE) new industry standard for measuring energy efficiency in water heaters, of up to 0.93. This water-saving feature can reduce consumption by up to 1,100 gallons per year.

Precise digital controls make setting the preferred temperature simple. Built-in sensors alert you when maintenance is required. Compatibility with PVC venting pipe reduces installation costs, and a venting distance of up to 150 feet allows great freedom in terms of where it can be fitted.

Product Specs

• Type: Indoor
• Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Power output: 199,900 BTUs

Pros

• Compact wall-mount design with a venting distance of up to 150 feet
• Ideal for households of 3-5 people, rated at a reliable 9.5 GPM
• Reduces cold water bursts and may help reduce water consumption by up to 1,100 gallons per year

Cons

• Its powerful features and compact design come with a high price tag

Get the Rheem ECHO200DVLP-2 propane tankless water heater at The Home DepotorAmazon.

Runner-Up

Rinnai RL75iP Propane Tankless Water Heater

With its flow rate of 7.5 GPM, it might be easy to underestimate this Rinnai indoor propane tankless water heater. Yet it offers a money-saving alternative to high output systems and, with up to 180,000 BTU, it can run two or three showers consecutively, even in regions with cooler groundwater temperatures. The unit’s UEF is 0.81.

Recirculation technology reduces hot-water delay. Digital control with Wi-Fi compatibility allows for precise temperature settings. While faults are rare, this model will provide extensive diagnostic error codes should that happen.

The unit can be fitted with standard or concentric venting; horizontal venting is available at an extra cost. Both isolation and pressure-relief valves are included, which help make annual maintenance flushing much easier.

Product Specs

• Type: Indoor
• Flow rate: 7.5 GPM
• Power output: 180,000 BTU

Pros

• The control panel is easy to use; allows for precise temperature settings
• Compact size takes up less space and recirculation technology reduces hot-water delay
• Can be connected to Wi-Fi and provides extensive diagnostic error codes

Cons

• Quite a pricey unit with its smart features and flexible venting options

Get the Rinnai RL75iP propane tankless water heater at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.

Best Bang for the Buck

Rheem ECO160DVLP3-1 Propane Tankless Water Heater

Those looking for a competitively priced indoor propane tankless water heater might consider this Rheem. With a maximum output of 7.0 GPM and 160,000 BTU, this model, with a UEF of 0.82, can supply the needs of a 1- or 2-bathroom home.

Despite the comparatively low cost, some impressive features are included. A digital thermostat offers accurate temperature control, and it can be installed remotely for added convenience. A hot start program reduces water temperature fluctuations that can be caused by stop/start use. While this model does require stainless steel venting, which will add to the cost, it remains an affordable and energy-efficient option for modest residences or guesthouses.

Product Specs

• Type: Indoor
• Flow rate: 7 GPM
• Power output: 160,000 BTUs

Pros

• Supplies up to 2 bathrooms; suitable for small- to medium-size homes
• Remote control and digital thermostat included; provides accurate temperature control
• Hot start feature to limit temperature fluctuations

Cons

• Requires costly steel venting, which increases the otherwise low cost

Get the Rheem ECO160DVLP3-1 propane tankless water heater at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Small Home

Rinnai V53DeP Propane Tankless Water Heater

If you hope to conserve energy without spending a lot on a gas tankless water heater, consider the noncondensing Rinnai V53DeP water heater. This tankless propane water heater is designed for outdoor installation and will provide up to 5.3 GPM of hot water flow, depending on the ground temperature (colder water temperatures can reduce hot water flow).

This affordable water heater is well suited to small homes in warm rural areas where temperatures remain above freezing all year and where natural gas is not piped into the home. It’s also suitable for seasonal vacation homes where it can be drained and shut down during cold months. It comes with a maximum BTU output of 120,000, so it will provide enough hot water for a small 1-bathroom home or a vacation cabin where showers are staggered.

Product Specs

• Type: Outdoor
• Flow rate: 5.3 GPM
• Power output: 120,000 BTUs

Pros

• Can heat water in small to medium-size homes and can be used all year round
• Compact and durable; should be able to withstand the elements in warm and cold months
• Comes with an excellent scale detection system to prevent malfunction

Cons

• Only suitable for use in warmer climates for year-round use
• Must be drained during the winter

Get the Rinnai V53DeP propane tankless water heater at Amazon.

Best For Large Home

Rheem ECOH200DVRHLP Performance Platinum Water Heater

Rheem produces a number of high-quality propane tankless water heaters, and the indoor Performance Platinum tops their range. It runs at up to 11 GPM and 199,000 BTUs, with a UEF of 0.93. It is designed to meet the needs of a 4-bathroom home.

Recycling technology reduces the time it takes for hot water to go from the unit to the faucet or shower. The system is UL and CSA certified, which means it’s been independently evaluated and fulfills international safety standards. It can be programmed to suit homeowner usage patterns, has a digital panel for precise control, and is capable of detecting gas or water leaks. Compatibility with PVC venting reduces installation costs, and the Energy Star-certified unit can save thousands of gallons of wastewater annually.

Product Specs

• Type: Indoor
• Flow rate: 11 GPM
• Power output: 199,000 BTUs

Pros

• The powerful water flow rate is perfect for up to 4 bathrooms
• Sleek modern design and compact, convenient size
• Energy Star-certified and compatible with PVC venting to reduce installation costs

Cons

• Design, features, and energy efficiency add up to a higher price tag

Get the Rheem ECOH200DVRHLP propane tankless water heater at The Home Depot.

Best For RV

Camplux 2.64 GPM Propane Portable Water Heater

The specifications of the Camplux Pro portable outdoor water heater are impressive. While it weighs just 18 pounds, it can deliver up to 2.64 GPM and 68,000 BTU. It will work with water pressure from 3 to 110 psi (household water is generally between 45 and 70 psi), so it’s ideal for remote locations where pressure is often low. Two D-cell batteries provide ignition. A showerhead and a convenient hanging bracket for the side of your RV are included.

A very safe unit, it will sense if water pressure is beyond the normal range or if the flame has failed, and it will shut off automatically if overheating. There’s a drain plug for residual water to prevent damage from freezing.

Product Specs

• Type: Outdoor
• Flow rate: 2.64 GPM
• Power output: 68,000 BTUs

Pros

• Relatively lightweight unit at just 18 pounds
• Still works even when water pressure is low, such as in remote locations
• Automatic safety shutoff prevents overheating or running if the flame has failed

Cons

• May not fit all hose adapters; additional purchases may be necessary

Get the Camplux propane tankless water heater at Amazon, Lowe’s,The Home Depot, or Camplux.

Best Portable

Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater Pump

The Hike Crew portable propane water heater combines the luxuries of home with the ruggedness of camping. The built-in pump is placed into a water source and attached to a propane tank to provide ongoing hot water for camp showers, washing dishes, and rinsing equipment.

A handle at the top of the water heater acts as a carrying-case system. The portable water heater comes with a hand faucet and shower head attachment to supply hot water anywhere, and it connects to AC/DC power. The little unit includes a safety shutoff to turn the burner off when it reaches 125 degrees Fahrenheit or when available water runs out. This portable unit only operates at less than 1 GPM on average, making it ideal as a mobile unit but not great for any other applications.

Product Specs 

• Type: Indoor/outdoor
• Flow rate: Average of 0.58 GPM
• Power output: 18,771.5 BTUs

Pros

• Comes with a built-in pump and carrying handle
• Hand faucet and shower head attachment included
• Fuse protection is a handy safety shutoff feature

Cons

• Suitable for small appliances and light-duty use only

Get the Hike Crew propane tankless water heater at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to Consider When Choosing a Propane Tankless Water Heater

Propane tankless water heaters offer hot-water solutions for numerous situations without having to use harmful natural gas. These versatile units can supply an entire home or be a cost-effective solution for guest accommodations. There are even models you can strap to a tree when camping. To choose wisely, it’s best to understand the technical aspects detailed below.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Propane tankless water heaters are available as indoor or outdoor models, just like natural gas water heaters. Indoor models are compact enough to fit in much smaller spaces than a typical water tank, but consideration must be paid to obtaining the gas supply from outside, where it is almost invariably stored. Additionally, burning propane produces carbon dioxide (CO2), which is toxic in confined spaces, so venting is necessary. In most cases, this means making a hole through an external wall or roof.

The installation of outdoor tankless water heaters can be much simpler. It needs a cold-water supply, and, of course, the gas needs to be hooked up, but then the only pipe required to enter the house is the one that provides the hot water. While some need electricity hooked up, portable models generally run on batteries.

Outdoor tankless water heaters have their limitations, however. A propane tankless water heater will work effectively in temperatures below zero, but the unit will need protection from rain, snow, and high winds. Similarly, those models designed for camping or other off-grid use shouldn’t be left out in bad weather.

Flow Rate (GPM)

The flow rate for a tankless water heater refers to how much hot water the unit delivers, so it’s perhaps the single most important factor in choosing the best model for your needs. It is typically measured in GPM, although some European models are measured in liters per minute (l/min), and there are 3.78 liters to the gallon.

The GPM rating for a propane tankless water heater is an indication of the amount of hot water the unit can supply. Accuracy is limited because it depends on the temperature of the water coming in, but general assumptions can be made. A standard faucet, for instance, requires a supply of around 1 GPM, while a shower needs 2 to 3 GPM.