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10 Best Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,480
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Portability

Most important from
293 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Powerful enough to use hot water at multiple places in the household simultaneously.
Energy Efficiency
The On Demand BLE Bluetooth button accessory significantly maximizes energy efficiency.
Size and Portability
Compact size is a space saver, making it suitable for various installation locations.

The Rinnai RXP199iN is a propane or natural gas tankless water heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It boasts an impressive flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute (GPM), which is excellent for households with multiple fixtures needing hot water simultaneously. With a BTU rating of 199,000, it effectively heats water quickly, ensuring you won’t run out during peak usage times.

A standout feature is its high energy efficiency, rated at a UEF of .98, which means it uses energy wisely, potentially lowering your utility bills. The Smart Circ Intelligent Recirculation technology is a convenient addition, as it learns your hot water usage patterns, helping to minimize waste and keep hot water readily available.

While its compact size—similar to that of a small suitcase—makes it easy to install in various locations, professional installation is strongly recommended, which may add to your overall costs. The Rinnai Central App provides helpful tools for setup and troubleshooting, although the WiFi module is sold separately, which could be a drawback for those looking for a completely integrated smart system.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,480
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Portability

Most important from
293 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Powerful enough to use hot water at multiple places in the household simultaneously.
Energy Efficiency
The On Demand BLE Bluetooth button accessory significantly maximizes energy efficiency.
Size and Portability
Compact size is a space saver, making it suitable for various installation locations.
#2

FOGATTI Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater Outdoor - Max 5.1 GPM 120,000 BTU, CSA Certified Compact Design On Demand Instant Hot Water Heater - Instagas Comfort 120S Series

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Size and Portability

Most important from
176 reviews

Energy Efficiency
For climates without extreme cold, this unit is very effective and doesn't break the bank.
Size and Portability
Consider buying a unit one size larger than you think you need to ensure optimal performance.

The FOGATTI Propane Tankless Water Heater is designed for outdoor installation and offers an impressive flow rate of up to 5.1 gallons per minute (GPM). With a BTU rating of 120,000, this unit can efficiently supply hot water to multiple points in a household, making it ideal for families.

This tankless water heater stands out for its precise temperature control, capable of maintaining water temperature within a 1°F margin, which is beneficial throughout the year. Additionally, its compact size (23.9)

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Size and Portability

Most important from
176 reviews

Energy Efficiency
For climates without extreme cold, this unit is very effective and doesn't break the bank.
Size and Portability
Consider buying a unit one size larger than you think you need to ensure optimal performance.
#3

NEW Rinnai RXP160iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 9 GPM, 160,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
293 reviews

Energy Efficiency
The high-quality build and sophisticated technology deliver hot water efficiently while saving significant water and energy through the on-demand recirculation feature.
Temperature Range
The unit heats water quickly and maintains consistent temperature even when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, perfect for busy households.

The Rinnai RXP160iN is a versatile tankless water heater suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, powered by either propane or natural gas. It delivers a strong flow rate of up to 9 gallons per minute, enough to supply hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously, which is great for medium to large households. With a high BTU rating of 160,000, it heats water quickly and efficiently, and its energy factor of 0.97 means it wastes very little energy compared to traditional heaters. You can adjust the temperature up to 140°F, offering flexibility for different needs.

This model stands out with its Smart Sense gas control and Smart-Circ recirculation pump that learns your water usage patterns to save energy and reduce wait times for hot water. It also features an easy-to-use interface and a Quick Flush option for easier maintenance. However, it weighs 57 pounds and is about the size of a small suitcase, so while it’s portable in that sense, it still requires a sturdy wall mount and professional installation, which might add to the initial costs.

Safety features are solid, but the product doesn’t come with built-in WiFi control—though you can add an optional Controlr module for remote operation. Considering the unit’s price and installation needs, its efficiency, smart technology, and ability to work both indoors and outdoors make it a smart choice for those wanting a reliable, energy-saving water heater that can handle busy households.

Rating
9.4
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
293 reviews

Energy Efficiency
The high-quality build and sophisticated technology deliver hot water efficiently while saving significant water and energy through the on-demand recirculation feature.
Temperature Range
The unit heats water quickly and maintains consistent temperature even when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, perfect for busy households.

Buying Guide for the Best Outdoor Propane Tankless Water Heater

Choosing the right outdoor propane tankless water heater can significantly enhance your outdoor living experience by providing a continuous supply of hot water for showers, washing dishes, or other outdoor activities. The key to selecting the best model for your needs is understanding the various specifications and how they impact performance and usability. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the perfect fit for you.
Flow Rate (GPM)Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the heater can deliver at a time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can meet your hot water demands. Lower flow rates (2-4 GPM) are suitable for single applications like a shower or sink, while higher flow rates (5-10 GPM) can handle multiple simultaneous uses, such as a shower and a dishwasher running at the same time. To pick the right flow rate, consider the number of hot water outlets you plan to use simultaneously.
BTU RatingBTU (British Thermal Unit) rating measures the heater's heating capacity. A higher BTU rating means the heater can heat water more quickly and efficiently. For light use, such as a single shower, a lower BTU rating (30,000-100,000 BTUs) may suffice. For heavier use, such as multiple showers or a combination of shower and kitchen use, look for a higher BTU rating (100,000-200,000 BTUs). Choose a BTU rating based on your expected hot water usage and the climate, as colder climates may require higher BTUs to heat the water effectively.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how well the heater converts propane into hot water. Higher efficiency means lower propane consumption and cost savings. Efficiency is often expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating better performance. Look for models with an efficiency rating of 80% or higher for optimal savings. If you are environmentally conscious or looking to reduce utility bills, prioritize models with higher efficiency ratings.
Temperature RangeThe temperature range specifies the minimum and maximum temperatures the heater can achieve. This is important for ensuring the water is hot enough for your needs. Most heaters offer a range between 80°F to 140°F. If you need very hot water for specific tasks, ensure the heater can reach those temperatures. Consider your typical usage scenarios and choose a model that can comfortably meet those temperature requirements.
Ignition TypeIgnition type refers to how the heater starts heating the water. Common types include manual, electric, and battery-powered ignition. Manual ignition requires you to light the heater yourself, which can be less convenient. Electric ignition is more user-friendly but requires a power source. Battery-powered ignition offers convenience without needing an external power source. Choose the ignition type based on your preference for convenience and the availability of power sources in your outdoor setting.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are critical for ensuring safe operation. Look for features like flame failure protection, overheating protection, and anti-freeze protection. Flame failure protection shuts off the gas if the flame goes out, preventing gas leaks. Overheating protection prevents the water from getting too hot, which can be dangerous. Anti-freeze protection is essential if you plan to use the heater in cold climates. Prioritize models with comprehensive safety features to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the heater determine how easy it is to install and move. Smaller, lightweight models are easier to transport and install, making them ideal for camping or temporary setups. Larger models may offer higher performance but can be more challenging to move and install. Consider where and how you plan to use the heater and choose a size that balances performance with ease of installation and portability.

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