Navien is a top name in the tankless water heater industry, known for its reliability, high efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re looking to cut down on energy bills, get endless hot water, or replace an old system, Navien’s models are built to handle high-demand homes with ease.
Based on my experience with Navien installations and customer feedback, here’s a look at the best Navien tankless water heaters for various household needs.
Top 3 Navien Tankless Water Heaters
| Heater Name | Max GPM | Efficiency (%) | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navien NPE-240A2 | 11.2 GPM | 98% (Condensing) | Large homes, recirculation, high demand | $$$$$ |
| Navien NPE-180S2 | 8.4 GPM | 96% (Condensing) | Medium-sized homes, budget-friendly | $$$ |
| Navien NPN-160E | 8.4 GPM | 80% (Non-condensing) | Outdoor installation, off-grid use | $$ |
1. Navien NPE-240A2 – Best Overall for Large Homes
The Navien NPE-240A2 is a powerhouse tankless water heater perfect for large homes with multiple bathrooms and high hot water demand. This model is part of Navien’s Advanced series, which means it’s equipped with premium features like a built-in recirculation pump for instant hot water.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Delivers up to 11.2 GPM, making it ideal for large homes with 3-4 bathrooms running simultaneously.
- Efficiency: 98% thermal efficiency thanks to condensing technology—this model reuses heat from exhaust gases to maximize energy savings.
- Built-in Recirculation Pump: The ComfortFlow™ recirculation system means you get instant hot water at every fixture, minimizing water waste and waiting time.
- Dual Stainless Steel Heat Exchangers: Provides better durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring a long-lasting unit.
- Wi-Fi Compatible: Works with Navien’s NaviLink™ Wi-Fi system, so you can monitor and control the heater remotely via smartphone.
Best For:
- Large homes with high simultaneous hot water usage.
- Homeowners who want instant hot water and energy efficiency with a recirculation system.
- People looking for a premium, long-lasting solution.
Pros:
- High GPM—supports multiple showers, appliances, and fixtures running at once.
- Recirculation pump reduces water waste and provides instant hot water.
- Wi-Fi compatible for remote management and diagnostics.
- Extremely efficient with a 98% efficiency rating.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost, but offset by long-term savings in energy and water usage.
- Requires professional installation, especially for the recirculation system.
2. Navien NPE-180S2 – Best for Medium-Sized Homes
For homes with medium hot water demand, the Navien NPE-180S2 is a great option that balances performance and affordability. It’s part of Navien’s Standard series, so it lacks the recirculation pump but still offers top-tier efficiency and performance.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Delivers up to 8.4 GPM, which is more than enough for 2-3 bathrooms running simultaneously.
- Efficiency: 96% efficiency, which translates to lower energy costs, thanks to its condensing technology.
- Durability: Features dual stainless steel heat exchangers for longevity and corrosion resistance.
- NaviLink™ Compatible: Can be upgraded with Navien’s Wi-Fi control module for remote management and diagnostics.
Best For:
- Medium-sized homes or households with 2-3 bathrooms.
- People looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing energy efficiency.
- Homes that don’t need a recirculation pump but want high performance.
Pros:
- Great balance between performance and cost.
- 96% efficiency ensures energy savings over traditional systems.
- Durable construction with stainless steel heat exchangers.
- Compatible with Wi-Fi for remote control if needed.
Cons:
- No recirculation pump, so you may experience some delay in hot water at distant fixtures.
- May not meet the needs of larger homes with very high water usage.
3. Navien NPN-160E – Best Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
The Navien NPN-160E is part of Navien’s NPN series, which is designed for outdoor installation and non-condensing use. It’s perfect for off-grid setups, outdoor kitchens, or homes where installing an indoor unit may be difficult. Despite being non-condensing, it’s still energy-efficient and robust.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Provides up to 8.4 GPM, suitable for medium to large homes with 2-3 bathrooms.
- Efficiency: 80% efficiency, which is lower than condensing units but still much more efficient than traditional tank systems.
- Outdoor Installation: Built to withstand the elements, making it perfect for outdoor kitchens, cabins, or off-grid use.
- Durability: Equipped with stainless steel heat exchangers and freeze protection for outdoor durability.
Best For:
- Homes with outdoor water heating needs, such as outdoor showers or kitchens.
- Off-grid homes or cabins where space is limited indoors.
- Homeowners looking for a simple, non-condensing option.
Pros:
- Outdoor installation frees up space inside your home.
- Great for off-grid or outdoor use.
- Lower-cost option compared to condensing models.
- Durable and built to withstand weather conditions.
Cons:
- Lower efficiency (80% vs. 96-98% for condensing models).
- No built-in recirculation system.
- Not suitable for cold climates unless installed with proper freeze protection.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Navien Tankless Water Heater
1. GPM (Gallons Per Minute)
- For large homes with multiple bathrooms, you’ll need 8-11 GPM to run multiple fixtures simultaneously. The Navien NPE-240A2 is your best option.
- Medium homes can manage with around 8 GPM, like the Navien NPE-180S2.
- Outdoor applications may not need as much capacity, so the Navien NPN-160E works well for medium demand.
2. Condensing vs. Non-Condensing
- Condensing units (like the NPE-240A2 and NPE-180S2) are more efficient, with 96-98% efficiency ratings. They save more energy but tend to be more expensive upfront.
- Non-condensing units (like the NPN-160E) are less efficient (80%), but they’re cheaper and simpler, especially for outdoor or off-grid setups.
3. Recirculation Pump
- A built-in recirculation pump (found in the Navien NPE-240A2) ensures instant hot water, reducing wait time and water waste. If your home has long pipes and you often wait for hot water, this feature is invaluable.
- If you don’t need instant hot water, models without a recirculation pump, like the NPE-180S2, offer good savings.
4. Indoor vs. Outdoor Installation
- Indoor units like the NPE-240A2 and NPE-180S2 need proper venting and may require more complex installation.
- Outdoor models like the Navien NPN-160E are designed to withstand the elements and save indoor space.
5. Climate
- Cold climates can reduce the GPM of tankless water heaters due to lower incoming water temperatures. If you’re in a colder region, opt for higher GPM models like the Navien NPE-240A2 to ensure enough hot water.
Pros and Cons of Navien Tankless Water Heaters
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly efficient, especially with condensing models | Higher upfront costs for premium models |
| Built-in recirculation pump available in some models | Requires professional installation for complex units |
| Durable stainless steel heat exchangers for long life | Condensing models need condensate drainage systems |
| Wi-Fi compatibility for remote control and monitoring | Non-condensing models are less efficient |
| Compact and space-saving design | GPM drops in cold climates for some models |
Conclusion: Which Navien Tankless Water Heater is Right for You?
- For large homes with high hot water demand, the Navien NPE-240A2 is the best option, offering top-tier efficiency, a built-in recirculation pump, and high flow rates.
- For medium homes with moderate demand, the Navien NPE-180S2 is a more affordable option that still offers excellent efficiency and performance.
- If you need a simple, outdoor solution, the Navien NPN-160E is a durable, cost-effective choice, especially for off-grid or outdoor installations.
With Navien’s advanced technology, efficiency, and durability, you can’t go wrong with any of these models!