When it comes to the best natural gas (NG) tankless water heaters, a few standout models consistently deliver on efficiency, performance, and long-term reliability. Here are the top picks based on flow rate, energy efficiency, and features:
1. Rinnai RUR199iN
- Flow Rate: Up to 11 GPM
- Energy Efficiency: 96% (Energy Factor)
- Best For: Large households with high water demand
- Key Features:
- Recirculation pump for near-instant hot water.
- Wi-Fi capability with Rinnai’s mobile app for remote control and diagnostics.
- Condensing technology for superior efficiency and energy savings.
- Why It Stands Out: The RUR199iN is perfect for large homes or homes with multiple bathrooms. Its high GPM flow rate allows for simultaneous use of hot water in multiple locations without sacrificing comfort. The built-in recirculation pump is ideal if you want fast hot water access.
2. Noritz NRC66DV
- Flow Rate: 6.6 GPM
- Energy Efficiency: 93% (Energy Factor)
- Best For: Medium homes or families with moderate water usage
- Key Features:
- Compact size with condensing technology for better efficiency.
- Low NOx emissions, making it environmentally friendly.
- Durable and reliable for homes in colder climates.
- Why It Stands Out: Noritz is known for its durable units, and the NRC66DV provides a balance of energy efficiency and cost. It’s great for homes in cooler areas, where consistent water heating performance is critical.
3. Takagi T-H3-DV-N
- Flow Rate: 10 GPM
- Energy Efficiency: 95%
- Best For: Larger homes or commercial applications
- Key Features:
- Condensing technology for higher energy efficiency.
- Built-in safety features like freeze, overheat, and surge protection.
- Compatible with both residential and commercial setups.
- Why It Stands Out: This is one of the top models for both residential and light commercial applications due to its high flow rate. Takagi’s built-in safety features also make it reliable in harsh climates and for heavy-duty use.
4. Rheem RTGH-95DVLN
- Flow Rate: 9.5 GPM
- Energy Efficiency: 94%
- Best For: Homes with high demand for simultaneous hot water usage
- Key Features:
- Low NOx emissions for environmentally conscious homeowners.
- Built-in recirculation technology.
- Integrated Wi-Fi for monitoring and adjusting settings remotely.
- Why It Stands Out: Rheem’s RTGH-95DVLN balances flow rate and energy efficiency, offering both power and control with Wi-Fi capabilities and a recirculation pump. Perfect for homes with high hot water usage but where efficiency is also a priority.
5. Bosch Greentherm 9000i
- Flow Rate: 9.0 GPM
- Energy Efficiency: 95%
- Best For: Homes with eco-conscious designs
- Key Features:
- Ultra-efficient with condensing technology.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for smart home integration.
- Sleek design with minimal space requirements.
- Why It Stands Out: Bosch is known for their high-quality builds and innovative features. The Greentherm 9000i is not only energy-efficient but also smart-home friendly, making it a modern choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
Key Considerations:
- Flow Rate (GPM): Ensure you choose a unit with the right flow rate to meet your home’s needs. For larger homes, look for units with at least 9-11 GPM.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for units with condensing technology for improved energy savings and lower utility bills.
- Recirculation Pump: A recirculation pump provides faster hot water delivery, reducing water waste.
- Wi-Fi and Smart Features: Many newer models allow remote control and diagnostics via smartphone apps.
These models represent the best of the best in natural gas tankless water heaters, offering both performance and efficiency. Choose based on your household size, climate, and personal preferences!