When you’re dealing with high water demand—multiple showers, dishwashers, and laundry running simultaneously—you need a powerful tankless water heater. 11 GPM (gallons per minute) is perfect for large homes or households with a lot of hot water needs.
Here’s my breakdown of the best 11 GPM tankless water heaters that can keep up with your home’s hot water demands without sacrificing efficiency.
Top 3 Best 11 GPM Tankless Water Heaters
| Heater Name | Fuel Type | Max GPM | Efficiency (%) | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rinnai RUR199iN | Natural Gas | 11 GPM | 96% (Condensing) | Whole-house, large homes | $$$$$ |
| Noritz NRC1111-DV | Natural Gas | 11.1 GPM | 94% (Condensing) | High-demand homes, cold climates | $$$$ |
| Takagi T-H3-DV-N | Natural Gas | 10 GPM | 95% (Condensing) | Large homes, multiple fixtures | $$$$ |
1. Rinnai RUR199iN – Best Overall 11 GPM Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai RUR199iN is the ultimate choice if you’re looking for a high-performance, 11 GPM tankless water heater that can handle multiple showers, dishwashers, and appliances running at once.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Delivers up to 11 GPM, making it ideal for large homes with 4-5 bathrooms.
- Efficiency: 96% thermal efficiency thanks to condensing technology, which recycles exhaust heat to improve performance.
- Recirculation Pump: Built-in recirculation pump ensures instant hot water, reducing wait times at distant fixtures.
- Wi-Fi Compatibility: Works with Rinnai’s Control-R™ Wi-Fi module, allowing you to control and schedule hot water remotely from your phone.
Best For:
- Large homes with multiple bathrooms and high simultaneous hot water usage.
- Homeowners who want instant hot water at all fixtures due to the built-in recirculation system.
- People looking for a premium, energy-efficient unit that minimizes fuel costs.
Pros:
- High GPM—supports multiple showers and appliances at once.
- Built-in recirculation for instant hot water, saving water and time.
- Wi-Fi compatibility for remote scheduling and control.
- Condensing technology for maximum energy savings.
Cons:
- High upfront cost, though justified by the premium features.
- Requires professional installation due to gas and venting.
2. Noritz NRC1111-DV – Best for Cold Climates
The Noritz NRC1111-DV offers one of the highest flow rates on the market at 11.1 GPM and is built to handle cold climates where incoming water temperatures are low. This is a great option for homes in colder regions that need high hot water output without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Provides 11.1 GPM, perfect for running 3-4 showers and additional appliances simultaneously.
- Efficiency: 94% efficiency through condensing technology, saving on fuel costs by reusing heat from the exhaust gases.
- Stainless Steel Heat Exchanger: Durable and corrosion-resistant, designed for long-term performance.
- Low NOx Emissions: Complies with low-NOx standards, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Best For:
- Homes in cold climates where incoming water temperature is low.
- Large families or households with a lot of simultaneous water use.
- People looking for durable, long-lasting tankless systems.
Pros:
- 11.1 GPM makes it perfect for large homes with high hot water demand.
- Condensing technology offers energy savings and eco-friendly operation.
- Durable build with a stainless steel heat exchanger.
- Low NOx emissions, complying with environmental regulations.
Cons:
- Installation can be complex, requiring professional help.
- Higher cost, but well worth it for large homes and cold climate performance.
3. Takagi T-H3-DV-N – Best Value for High Demand
The Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a natural gas tankless water heater designed for homes with large hot water demands, offering up to 10 GPM in ideal conditions, but it can push higher in warmer climates. Known for its durability and reliability, this unit is perfect for those needing high output at a lower price point compared to premium models.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: 10 GPM, sufficient for 3-4 fixtures running simultaneously.
- Efficiency: 95% thermal efficiency with condensing technology, ensuring high energy savings.
- Durable Design: Built to last with a stainless steel condensing heat exchanger, perfect for long-term use.
- Advanced Safety Features: Includes overheat protection, freeze protection, and anti-scald technology.
Best For:
- Large homes with high hot water demand but at a more affordable price than other 11 GPM models.
- Households looking for a reliable and durable tankless unit with great efficiency.
Pros:
- High-efficiency 95% condensing design.
- Advanced safety features like freeze and overheat protection.
- Perfect for large homes with moderate to high water usage.
- Durable heat exchanger built for long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- Lower GPM (10 GPM) than premium 11 GPM units, but still highly capable.
- Lacks Wi-Fi compatibility without additional modules.
Key Factors to Consider for 11 GPM Tankless Water Heaters
1. Fuel Type
- Most 11 GPM tankless water heaters are powered by natural gas or propane due to the higher energy output required for large flow rates.
- Gas-powered units typically require venting, so installation can be more involved than electric units.
2. Flow Rate (GPM)
- 11 GPM is enough to run multiple fixtures simultaneously in large homes. If you have 3-5 bathrooms or need hot water for multiple showers, dishwashers, and laundry machines at the same time, an 11 GPM unit is ideal.
3. Energy Efficiency
- Look for units with condensing technology (90%+ efficiency), which use the heat from exhaust gases to preheat incoming water. This significantly reduces energy costs.
- Non-condensing models are still efficient but may not meet stricter environmental regulations in some areas.
4. Installation Requirements
- Gas units require venting (either direct or power venting), and installation usually involves professional help to ensure the gas and exhaust lines are set up safely.
5. Climate
- In colder climates, incoming water temperatures are lower, which means tankless water heaters need to work harder to heat the water. Models like the Noritz NRC1111-DV are specifically designed to handle cold climates with minimal loss in GPM.
Pros and Cons of 11 GPM Tankless Water Heaters
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High flow rate—supports multiple fixtures at once | Higher upfront cost compared to smaller units |
| Energy-efficient—lower fuel costs over time | Installation can be complex, requiring professional help |
| Endless hot water—no running out like with tank heaters | May require upgraded gas lines or venting |
| Space-saving compared to traditional tank units | Cold climates may still reduce GPM slightly |
Conclusion: Which 11 GPM Tankless Water Heater Is Right for You?
- For the best overall option, the Rinnai RUR199iN is unbeatable. It’s built for high demand, offers premium features like a recirculating pump, and delivers instant hot water across the home.
- If you live in a cold climate or need maximum flow, the Noritz NRC1111-DV is an excellent choice with its 11.1 GPM capacity and durable design, perfect for consistent hot water even in colder areas.
- For those looking for great value at a slightly lower price, the Takagi T-H3-DV-N offers solid performance with advanced safety features and excellent efficiency for larger homes.
All of these options will ensure endless hot water for your home, no matter how high the demand!