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10 Best Propane Gas Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Ranein Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe, Indoor Max 4.3 GPM, 100,000 BTU Instant Hot Water Heater

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,363
BTU Rating
Portability
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
717 reviews

BTU Rating
This unit suits families of 3 to 6 people, balancing output capacity with efficient operation.
Portability
Its compact design saves valuable space, allowing use in areas where traditional tanks would be impractical.
Fuel Consumption
Using a propane tankless system cuts down on gas consumption compared to traditional gas water tanks.

The Ranein Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater is a powerful unit with a 100,000 BTU rating and can deliver up to 4.3 gallons of hot water per minute. This makes it suitable for supplying hot water to multiple points like a bathroom, kitchen, and bar without running out. Its tankless design means you get instant hot water without waiting, which is convenient for busy households. It also includes smart features like automatic temperature adjustment for different seasons and preset modes for kitchen and bathtub uses, enhancing comfort and ease of use.

Safety-wise, the product includes a vent pipe for proper exhaust, which is important for indoor use. Installation should be done by professionals to meet local codes, and it’s not recommended for high-altitude areas over 2,000 feet. Portability is average since it weighs 28 pounds and is designed more as a semi-permanent indoor fixture rather than a portable heater.

The heater uses propane efficiently with a copper water tank that helps reduce heat loss and energy consumption. It runs on standard 120V power for controls but does not need electric batteries. This model is best suited for homeowners looking for a reliable, on-demand hot water solution that avoids the energy waste of tank heaters and meets the needs of multiple water outlets. For those needing a heater for larger spaces, outdoor use, or a fully portable option, this might not be the best fit.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,363
BTU Rating
Portability
Fuel Consumption

Most important from
717 reviews

BTU Rating
This unit suits families of 3 to 6 people, balancing output capacity with efficient operation.
Portability
Its compact design saves valuable space, allowing use in areas where traditional tanks would be impractical.
Fuel Consumption
Using a propane tankless system cuts down on gas consumption compared to traditional gas water tanks.
#2

Rinnai RE160eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Up to 6.1 GPM, Outoor Installation, 160,000 BTU

The Rinnai RE160eP is a propane-powered tankless water heater designed for outdoor use, delivering a strong 160,000 BTU output and capable of providing hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously with a flow rate of up to 6.6 gallons per minute. This makes it a good fit for medium to larger households needing continuous hot water without the bulk of a traditional tank heater.

It features a smart design that heats water only when needed, helping to conserve energy, and includes an easy-to-read LED display that shows service reminders and error codes, enhancing user convenience and maintenance. The unit is fairly compact, about the size of a small suitcase, making it reasonably portable among tankless models, though it is wall-mounted and weighs around 49 pounds, so it’s not something you'd move frequently.

Safety-wise, it is built for outdoor installation, which reduces concerns about indoor gas fumes, but it does require professional installation for safe operation, indicating it’s not a simple DIY project. Fuel consumption is optimized through its non-condensing technology that focuses on heating only when necessary, which can save propane over time compared to older models. The product comes with a solid warranty on key components, reinforcing its durability and reliability. The Rinnai RE160eP is well-suited for users looking for an energy-efficient, high-capacity outdoor propane water heater, with the caveat that installation should be left to professionals and portability is limited by its size and wall-mount design.

#3

Rinnai RE140iP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Up to 5.3 GPM, Indoor Installation, 140,000 BTU

The Rinnai RE140iP is a propane tankless water heater designed for indoor use that offers strong heating power with its 140,000 BTU rating, capable of delivering up to 5.3 gallons of hot water per minute. This means it can handle multiple water fixtures at once, making it a good fit for households needing a steady, on-demand hot water supply without running out. Its compact size is a plus, roughly the size of a small suitcase, which helps with installation in tighter spaces. The unit features an LED display for easy monitoring, including service reminders and error codes that can aid in maintenance and troubleshooting. While it is designed for indoor installation, it requires professional installation to ensure safety and proper operation.

The heater is not portable due to its size and installation needs, and it uses propane gas directly rather than electricity, which can be efficient but requires a reliable propane supply. This model suits homeowners who want a reliable, high-output hot water system and are comfortable arranging professional installation. It is less suitable for those needing a portable or outdoor heater or those unfamiliar with propane systems.

Buying Guide for the Best Propane Gas Heaters

Propane gas heaters are a popular choice for providing warmth in various settings, such as homes, garages, workshops, and outdoor spaces. When selecting a propane gas heater, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you choose the right model for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the heater you select is safe, efficient, and effective for your intended use.
BTU RatingBTU stands for British Thermal Unit, and it measures the heating capacity of the heater. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the heater can produce. This spec is important because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up a space. For small rooms or areas, a heater with a lower BTU rating (5,000-10,000 BTUs) may be sufficient. For larger spaces or outdoor areas, you may need a heater with a higher BTU rating (20,000-50,000 BTUs or more). To pick the right BTU rating, consider the size of the area you need to heat and the level of warmth you desire.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are crucial in propane gas heaters to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Common safety features include tip-over protection, which automatically shuts off the heater if it is knocked over, and oxygen depletion sensors (ODS), which shut off the heater if oxygen levels in the room drop too low. These features are important for preventing fires and ensuring that the heater does not pose a risk to your health. When choosing a heater, look for models that include these safety features, especially if you plan to use the heater in enclosed or high-traffic areas.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater from one location to another. This is important if you need to use the heater in different areas or if you plan to store it when not in use. Portable heaters typically have handles, wheels, or a lightweight design. If you need a heater that can be easily transported, look for models that are compact and have built-in carrying handles or wheels. For stationary use, portability may be less of a concern, and you can opt for a larger, more powerful unit.
Ignition TypeThe ignition type determines how the heater is started. Common ignition types include manual ignition, piezo ignition, and electronic ignition. Manual ignition requires a match or lighter to start the heater, while piezo ignition uses a push-button mechanism to create a spark. Electronic ignition is the most convenient, as it allows you to start the heater with the push of a button. The ignition type is important for ease of use and convenience. If you prefer a hassle-free startup, look for heaters with electronic ignition. For those who don't mind a bit of manual effort, piezo or manual ignition may be suitable.
Fuel ConsumptionFuel consumption indicates how much propane the heater uses over a certain period, usually measured in pounds per hour. This spec is important for understanding the operating cost and how often you will need to refill the propane tank. Lower fuel consumption means the heater is more efficient and will require less frequent refills. To choose the right fuel consumption rate, consider how long you plan to use the heater and how often you are willing to refill the propane tank. For extended use, a heater with lower fuel consumption is more economical.
Heating AreaThe heating area specifies the maximum space the heater can effectively warm, usually measured in square feet. This is important for ensuring that the heater can adequately heat the intended area. Smaller heaters may cover areas up to 200 square feet, while larger models can heat spaces of 1,000 square feet or more. To pick the right heating area, measure the size of the space you need to heat and choose a heater that can cover that area. For larger or open spaces, opt for a heater with a higher heating area rating.

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