Best Natural Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Imagine a scenario where you’re in the shower, enjoying a warm wash, when suddenly, the water turns cold. This scenario is all too common with traditional tank water heaters that can run out of hot water. Natural gas tankless water heaters provide an effective solution, delivering unlimited hot water on demand while being more energy-efficient than their tank counterparts.

The best natural gas tankless water heaters save space, reduce energy bills, and offer longer lifespans than conventional models. They heat water instantly as it flows through the unit, meaning you won’t have to wait for a tank to fill up. Choosing the right model involves understanding your household’s hot water needs and the specific features that can enhance your experience.

In this roundup, we’ll review five exceptional natural gas tankless water heaters, highlighting their performance, energy efficiency, and unique features. Whether you have a large family or simply want to upgrade your home’s water heating system, there’s a model here for you.

Here’s a quick comparison of our top picks:

Features	Rheem 7.0 GPM	ThermoMate 5 GPM	GASLAND 7.6 GPM	Novieex 4.3 GPM	MIZUDO 10.3 GPM
Max Output	7.0 GPM	5.0 GPM	7.6 GPM	4.3 GPM	10.3 GPM
BTU	160,000	102,000	199,000	100,000	199,000
Energy Factor	0.82	0.81	0.8	–	–
Safety Features	Multi-point safety	Overheat protection	Flame failure	Freeze protection	WiFi Control
Best For	Large households	Medium households	High demand	Small households	Tech-savvy users

Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series is designed for large households that require a constant supply of hot water. This model delivers up to 7.0 gallons per minute, making it suitable for 2-3 simultaneous showers plus other water outlets. It’s perfect for busy families or homes with multiple bathrooms.

What stands out about the Rheem RTG is its energy efficiency, boasting a 0.82 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). It significantly reduces energy costs compared to traditional tank heaters, saving up to 34% on bills. Additionally, the unit’s compact wall-mounted design frees up floor space, which is a major plus for smaller homes.

However, installation requires a professional, which can add to the initial costs. Also, it may not be the best choice for very small households where hot water demands are lower.

• Max Output: 7.0 GPM
• BTU: 160,000
• Energy Factor: 0.82
• Safety Features: Multi-point safety
• Installation: Indoor, wall-mounted

Best for: Large families needing continuous hot water.

ThermoMate CZ422NG, Natur…

The ThermoMate CZ422NG is a compact tankless water heater designed for residential use, offering up to 5 GPM of hot water. It is suitable for smaller to medium households, capable of supporting two simultaneous showers comfortably.

This model features advanced technology with a smart flow sensor that ensures consistent water temperature, adjusting heating up to 20,000 times per second. Its high thermal efficiency of 98% makes it a smart investment for energy-conscious consumers.

One limitation is its maximum output of 5 GPM, which may not suffice for larger families. Additionally, while installation is straightforward, some users may still prefer professional help for optimal setup.

• Max Output: 5.0 GPM
• BTU: 102,000
• Energy Factor: 0.81
• Safety Features: Multiple protections
• Installation: Easy, compact design

Best for: Medium households with moderate hot water needs.

GASLAND Gasmart E 199,000…

The GASLAND Gasmart E is a powerful tankless water heater that can deliver up to 7.6 GPM, making it ideal for larger homes. With a heating capacity of 199,000 BTU, it suits busy households with higher hot water demands.

This model excels in energy efficiency, offering a UEF of 0.8, which is significantly better than traditional 50-gallon tank heaters. It also features multiple safety systems, such as flame-out protection, ensuring reliable operation.

However, its larger size may be a drawback for homes with limited installation space. Users should also be prepared for a more complex installation process due to its features.

• Max Output: 7.6 GPM
• BTU: 199,000
• Energy Factor: 0.8
• Safety Features: Multiple protections
• Installation: Requires space

Best for: Large households with high water demands.

Novieex Natural Gas Tankl…

The Novieex Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater offers up to 4.3 GPM, making it suitable for smaller homes or apartments. It efficiently provides hot water for multiple points of use, like running a shower and kitchen faucet simultaneously.

Its built-in digital thermostat allows for precise temperature control, which enhances user comfort. Additionally, the unit’s efficiency can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills over time.

One limitation is its lower maximum output, which may not suffice for larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms. Installation might also require a licensed professional to ensure compliance with safety standards.

• Max Output: 4.3 GPM
• BTU: 100,000
• Energy Factor: Not specified
• Safety Features: Freeze protection
• Installation: Compact design

Best for: Small households needing reliable hot water.

MIZUDO Natural Gas Tankle…

The MIZUDO tankless water heater is designed for busy households, offering a remarkable 10.3 GPM. With 199,000 BTU, it can support multiple bathrooms and appliances simultaneously, making it an excellent choice for larger families.

One of its standout features is smart WiFi control, allowing users to manage water temperature and monitor usage from their smartphones. This is a game changer for tech-savvy users looking for convenience.

However, its advanced features come with a higher price point. Also, it may require a bit of a learning curve for those unfamiliar with smart technology.

• Max Output: 10.3 GPM
• BTU: 199,000
• Energy Factor: Not specified
• Safety Features: Anti-freeze protection
• Installation: Indoor use, smart control

Best for: Tech-savvy households with high hot water needs.

How We Chose These Products

To determine the best natural gas tankless water heaters, we evaluated various factors such as energy efficiency, maximum output, safety features, and ease of installation. We also considered consumer feedback and practical use cases, ensuring our selections cater to diverse household needs.

Performance metrics like BTU ratings and gallons per minute (GPM) helped us assess each model’s capability to meet hot water demands. Our goal was to provide a comprehensive overview that empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on their unique requirements.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

When selecting a natural gas tankless water heater, consider your household size and hot water consumption patterns. Larger families will benefit from models with higher GPM ratings, while smaller households can opt for lower-capacity units.

Energy efficiency is another critical factor. Look for models with higher UEF ratings to maximize savings on your utility bills. Finally, safety features should not be overlooked; models with built-in protections against overheating and leaks can provide peace of mind.

Our Top Recommendation

The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM stands out as our top recommendation due to its blend of efficiency, performance, and space-saving design, making it suitable for large families. For smaller households, the ThermoMate CZ422NG offers an excellent balance of efficiency and performance at a reasonable price. Regardless of your choice, investing in a quality natural gas tankless water heater can significantly enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a tankless water heater? Tankless water heaters typically last longer than traditional tank models, often providing about 20 years of service with proper maintenance.

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

Do tankless water heaters require maintenance? Yes, regular maintenance, including descaling and checking filters, is essential to maintain efficiency and longevity.

How do I know what size I need? Consider the number of simultaneous water outlets you’ll be using and choose a model with a GPM rating that meets or exceeds your needs.