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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

CAMPLUX 1.32 GPM Portable Water Heater, 5L Tankless Water Heater Propane Outdoor, AY132BN, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,276
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Range
Safety Features

Most important from
2452 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The product works exactly as described, providing hot water on-demand within minutes.
Temperature Range
Ideal for giving a dog a bath outside at night, with water heated to a comfortable temperature.
Safety Features
Draining the unit during freezing temperatures is essential to prevent damage.
Size and Portability
Perfect for camping or off-grid cabins, but be careful with fittings to avoid breaking the unit.

The CAMPLUX Portable Water Heater 1.32 GPM is a compact and lightweight solution for outdoor hot water needs, making it ideal for camping, off-grid living, and rural areas. Weighing just 10 pounds and featuring a convenient folding handle, it's easy to transport and set up. Its 1.32 gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate delivers adequate water flow for showers and small-scale cleaning tasks, while the 34,000 BTU rating ensures quick heating to a maximum temperature of 167°F.

The unit is powered by two D batteries, providing ignition without the need for an electrical connection, which enhances its portability and usability in remote locations. Safety is a priority with this model, as it includes six different protective features such as anti-freezing, over-heating, low water flow, and dry combustion protections, along with CSA approval, ensuring safe operation.

It's important to be cautious during installation to prevent gas leakage, and thorough drainage is required if storing the unit in cold climates to prevent freeze damage. While it offers good energy efficiency, specific efficiency ratings are not disclosed. Additionally, the maximum water pressure of 110 PSI might be more than needed for most outdoor scenarios, but the minimum starting pressure of 3.0 PSI is suitable for low-pressure water sources. The CAMPLUX AY132BN is a reliable and user-friendly option for those needing a portable, efficient water heating solution outside.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,276
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Range
Safety Features

Most important from
2452 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The product works exactly as described, providing hot water on-demand within minutes.
Temperature Range
Ideal for giving a dog a bath outside at night, with water heated to a comfortable temperature.
Safety Features
Draining the unit during freezing temperatures is essential to prevent damage.
Size and Portability
Perfect for camping or off-grid cabins, but be careful with fittings to avoid breaking the unit.
#2

Propane Tankless Water Heater Outdoor - ORBEK 120,000 BTU Up to 5.1 GPM Outdoor Installation - CSA Certified On-Demand Instant hot Water Heater 3/4" NPT Connector Size

Rating
10.0
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
172 reviews

Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout, significantly reducing electric bills and integrating well with solar power systems.
Temperature Range
Rapid heating ensures hot water is quickly available, maintaining consistent temperatures during long showers.

The Orbek outdoor propane tankless water heater is designed for those looking for an efficient and reliable source of hot water in outdoor settings. With a flow rate of up to 5.1 GPM and a BTU rating of 120,000, it can comfortably service multiple fixtures at once, which is great for larger households or outdoor gatherings. One of its standout features is its ability to maintain a stable water temperature, adjusting rapidly to changes, ensuring a pleasant shower experience.

Safety is a major focus, with the heater being CSA certified and equipped with multiple protections against issues like overheat and water leakage. This can give peace of mind for users concerned about safety while operating in various weather conditions. The device is also designed to withstand harsh elements, including heavy winds and low temperatures, making it suitable for year-round use.

Energy efficiency is another strong point, utilizing high-quality materials for effective heat transfer. This can lead to savings on energy bills over time. The remote control and digital display make it user-friendly, allowing easy adjustments to the temperature settings without the need for constant manual input. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While the heater is compact, professional installation is recommended to ensure optimal performance, which may incur additional costs for some users. While it is marketed for outdoor use, those in extremely cold climates may need to take extra precautions to prevent freezing. Additionally, the weight of the unit could be a factor for some users when considering portability or installation.

The Orbek outdoor propane tankless water heater is a strong option for anyone seeking a dependable hot water solution for outdoor use, providing a favorable mix of efficiency, safety, and user-friendly features.

Rating
10.0
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
172 reviews

Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout, significantly reducing electric bills and integrating well with solar power systems.
Temperature Range
Rapid heating ensures hot water is quickly available, maintaining consistent temperatures during long showers.
#3

Rheem RTG-70XLP-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Outdoor Tankless Liquid Propane Water Heater, 7.0 GPM

Rating
9.9
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
43 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
This heater provides a continuous hot water supply, making it ideal for busy households.
Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency is impressive, leading to noticeable savings on energy costs.
Temperature Range
Concerns were raised about the freeze protection, which only covers down to 30 degrees, leading to potential issues in colder climates.
Size and Portability
The compact size and lighter weight make installation much easier and allow for flexible placement.

The Rheem RTG-70XLP-3 High Efficiency Non-Condensing Outdoor Tankless Liquid Propane Water Heater is designed to provide a continuous supply of hot water, making it ideal for larger households or those who frequently use multiple hot water sources simultaneously, such as showers and dishwashers. With a maximum flow rate of 7.0 gallons per minute (GPM), it meets the demands of busy families quite well.

One of the standout features is its energy efficiency, as it only activates when hot water is needed, helping to lower energy costs. Additionally, the water-saving setting can potentially save up to 1,100 gallons per year, which is a great benefit for environmentally conscious users. The hot-start programming feature ensures that users won't experience any cold bursts when turning on the hot water, enhancing comfort.

When it comes to size, this model is more compact than its predecessors, with a 19% smaller footprint and a 22% lighter weight, making installation easier and allowing for more flexible placement. It also has impressive side clearance, which can be beneficial in tighter spaces. Potential users should ensure they have the necessary gas setup and consider their temperature preferences before purchasing.

Rating
9.9
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Range

Most important from
43 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
This heater provides a continuous hot water supply, making it ideal for busy households.
Energy Efficiency
The energy efficiency is impressive, leading to noticeable savings on energy costs.
Temperature Range
Concerns were raised about the freeze protection, which only covers down to 30 degrees, leading to potential issues in colder climates.
Size and Portability
The compact size and lighter weight make installation much easier and allow for flexible placement.

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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