Best Outdoor Gas Water Heaters: Comprehensive Reviews

Imagine a chilly morning when you step into the shower only to find the hot water has run out. This situation is all too common with traditional water heaters, causing frustration and discomfort. Outdoor gas water heaters can provide a reliable solution by delivering endless hot water whenever you need it.

When selecting the best outdoor gas water heater, consider factors like flow rate, energy efficiency, and installation type. A great choice not only meets your hot water demands but does so while being energy-efficient and safe. With advancements in technology, many models now offer smart features and enhanced safety mechanisms.

In this roundup, we’ll explore five top contenders in the outdoor gas water heater market. Each product is evaluated for its performance and unique features, providing you with insights to help you make the best choice for your household needs.

Below is a comparison table to quickly highlight the key specifications of each model.

Features	Rheem 8.4 GPM	Rheem 7.0 GPM	MIZUDO 120,000 BTU	Westinghouse 8.1 GPM	Konfino 190,000 BTU
Max Output	180,000 BTU	160,000 BTU	120,000 BTU	180,000 BTU	190,000 BTU
Flow Rate	8.4 GPM	7.0 GPM	5.1 GPM	8.1 GPM	8.1 GPM
Efficiency	0.82 UEF	0.82 UEF	N/A	N/A	0.81 UEF
Control Type	Digital LED	Digital LED	WiFi & App	Self-Modulating	Wired Controller
Ideal For	Whole House	Whole House	Flexible Use	Whole House	Whole House

Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM is an exceptional natural gas tankless water heater designed for outdoor installation. It suits large families or homes with multiple bathrooms, delivering consistent hot water on demand.

This model excels in efficiency, boasting an output of 180,000 BTUs and a flow rate of 8.4 GPM. It provides enough hot water for 3-4 simultaneous showers, ensuring you never run out. With a 0.82 Uniform Energy Factor, it helps lower energy costs by up to 34% compared to traditional electric tank heaters.

However, installation requires a professional, which may add to upfront costs. Its size may also be a consideration for smaller outdoor spaces.

• Max Output: 180,000 BTU
• Flow Rate: 8.4 GPM
• Energy Efficiency: 0.82 UEF
• Control: Digital LED
• Warranty: 15-year heat exchanger

Best for: Large families needing consistent hot water.

Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM is a reliable outdoor gas water heater tailored for homes with moderate hot water needs. It is perfect for smaller families or homes with two bathrooms.

This unit offers a maximum output of 160,000 BTUs and a flow rate of 7.0 GPM, ensuring ample hot water for 2-3 simultaneous showers. Like its larger counterpart, it boasts a 0.82 UEF, contributing to significant energy savings over time.

One drawback is its slightly lower output, which may not be sufficient for larger households during peak usage times. Additionally, professional installation is recommended.

• Max Output: 160,000 BTU
• Flow Rate: 7.0 GPM
• Energy Efficiency: 0.82 UEF
• Control: Digital LED
• Warranty: 15-year heat exchanger

Best for: Moderate hot water needs in smaller households.

MIZUDO 120,000 BTU Natura…

The MIZUDO 120,000 BTU is a versatile tankless water heater that allows both indoor and outdoor installation. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for homeowners with varying space constraints.

With a maximum output of 120,000 BTUs and a flow rate of 5.1 GPM, it meets the hot water demands of medium-sized households. Its smart WiFi and app control feature enable remote management, making it easy to monitor energy usage and adjust settings.

However, the lower flow rate might not suffice for larger families during peak times. If you’re looking for a more robust performance, consider other options in this roundup.

• Max Output: 120,000 BTU
• Flow Rate: 5.1 GPM
• Control: WiFi & App
• Temperature Stability: ±1°F
• Components: Premium materials

Best for: Homeowners needing installation flexibility.

Westinghouse Gas Tankless…

The Westinghouse Gas Tankless Water Heater delivers impressive performance with a maximum output of 180,000 BTUs and a flow rate of 8.1 GPM. It’s perfect for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.

Its self-modulating technology maintains a consistent water temperature within ±1°F, providing a comfortable experience without sudden fluctuations. The compact design saves indoor space while offering reliable hot water for various fixtures.

A potential downside is the 2-year warranty, which is shorter than some competitors. Additionally, installation requires standard plumbing and electrical systems, which may complicate the setup for some homeowners.

• Max Output: 180,000 BTU
• Flow Rate: 8.1 GPM
• Energy Efficiency: On-demand
• Control: Self-modulating
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Best for: Larger households needing reliable hot water.

Outdoor Natural Gas Tankl…

The Konfino Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is a powerful unit with a maximum output of 190,000 BTUs. Its high flow rate of 8.1 GPM makes it ideal for households requiring extensive hot water access.

This heater excels with smart temperature control, allowing adjustments from 95°F to 149°F. Its all-weather design provides anti-freeze protection, ensuring reliability in extreme climates. The unit’s compact size allows for easy outdoor installation.

A trade-off is that it may require a bit of a learning curve for those unfamiliar with its advanced features. The price point may also be higher compared to other models.

• Max Output: 190,000 BTU
• Flow Rate: 8.1 GPM
• Control: Smart Temperature
• Features: All-weather protection
• Warranty: Not specified

Best for: Households with high hot water demands.

How We Chose These Products

Our selection of the best outdoor gas water heaters is based on a combination of performance metrics, customer feedback, and expert recommendations. Key factors include flow rate, efficiency, and durability. We also considered installation requirements and warranty options to ensure long-term satisfaction.

We reviewed a range of products to provide diverse options that cater to different household sizes and hot water needs. Each model was analyzed for its unique features and overall value, ensuring our recommendations meet real-world usage scenarios.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

When choosing an outdoor gas water heater, consider the flow rate, which indicates how much hot water can be delivered at once. A higher GPM is essential for larger households needing multiple fixtures running simultaneously. Energy efficiency is another critical factor, as it directly impacts your utility bills. Look for models with a high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF).

Installation type also matters; many models require professional installation, which can add to your costs. Ensure you assess your space and local regulations regarding outdoor installations. Finally, consider the warranty to ensure your investment is protected over time.

Our Top Recommendation

The Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM stands out as the top choice for its high efficiency, impressive flow rate, and reliability for larger families. For those with moderate hot water needs, the Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM offers great value. If installation flexibility is a priority, the MIZUDO 120,000 BTU is a worthy alternative. Each option provides unique benefits to suit various household requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do outdoor gas water heaters last? Most outdoor gas water heaters have a lifespan of 15-20 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

Can I install a gas water heater myself? While some homeowners may attempt DIY installation, it’s typically recommended to hire a professional for safety and compliance with local codes.

What maintenance do these heaters require? Regular maintenance includes checking for leaks, flushing the system annually, and ensuring proper venting to maintain efficiency.

Do outdoor gas water heaters work in cold climates? Yes, many models are designed with freeze protection features, allowing them to operate effectively in cold temperatures.