One chilly morning, my traditional water heater finally gave out. That ice-cold shower jolted me into action, and after some research, I found myself intrigued by LPG tankless water heaters. Now, I’ve had my fair share of plumbing challenges, but this one felt like a smart upgrade. Here’s the lowdown: These heaters offer endless hot water, use liquid propane gas (LPG), and are hailed as a more energy-efficient alternative to tanked models. But, I wanted to know – do they live up to the hype?
How an LPG Tankless Water Heater Changed My Plumbing Game
Once I got my LPG tankless heater installed, the difference was immediate. No more waiting for water to heat up, and it seemed like my gas bills took a dive, too. But before you rush out and get one, there are a few things I learned along the way that could save you some time and headaches.
Pros of LPG Tankless Water Heaters
- Endless Hot Water: This is the big selling point. Unlike traditional tanks, an LPG tankless heater heats water on-demand, meaning you won’t run out, even if the entire family takes back-to-back showers.
- Energy Efficiency: Since you’re not keeping 40+ gallons of water constantly hot, tankless models can save up to 30-50% in energy use, depending on your household size and water usage. The LPG units tend to have higher energy ratings compared to their natural gas counterparts due to the efficient burn of propane.
- Space Saver: These units are compact, typically wall-mounted, and free up valuable space. I mounted mine in the garage, but they can fit in small utility closets, or even outdoors with the right weatherproofing.
- Durability: The lifespan of an LPG tankless unit is around 20 years—nearly double that of a conventional water heater. This means fewer replacements and less hassle in the long run.
Cons to Consider Before You Buy
- Higher Upfront Costs: The initial cost for an LPG tankless water heater is significantly more expensive than a traditional water heater, with prices ranging from $500-$2,500, depending on size and brand. Add installation fees, which can range from $1,000 to $3,000, and you’re looking at a hefty investment.
- Installation Complications: If you’re switching from a traditional water heater to tankless, be prepared for some plumbing and venting modifications. Ventilation is crucial since LPG burns hotter than natural gas, and some older homes might not have proper venting.
- Delayed Hot Water: There’s often a small delay (a few seconds) before hot water reaches your faucet because it needs to heat up on demand. While not a dealbreaker, it’s a slight adjustment from traditional heaters.
- Flow Rate Limits: Every tankless heater has a maximum flow rate—typically between 5 to 10 gallons per minute (GPM). If you have a larger home or multiple bathrooms running simultaneously, this could cause a dip in performance. You might need multiple units if you have high water usage.
Top Brands I Checked Out
After my research and personal use, I found that certain brands performed better than others. Here’s a quick rundown of the top contenders:
| Brand | Key Features | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Rinnai | Best for larger homes, reliable high flow rates | $800-$2,500 |
| Rheem | Budget-friendly, simple installation | $500-$1,500 |
| Noritz | Premium durability, great for colder climates | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Bosch | Compact and efficient, ideal for small to mid-sized homes | $700-$1,800 |
| Eccotemp | Portable options, good for RVs and smaller spaces | $300-$600 |
Key Features to Look for When Choosing an LPG Tankless Heater
Before you settle on a model, here are the top features you should prioritize:
1. GPM (Gallons Per Minute)
This tells you how much water the unit can heat at once. To give you an idea:
- 1 GPM for a sink
- 2-3 GPM for a shower
- 4-5 GPM if you’re running two showers at the same time
For larger households, a unit with 7+ GPM is ideal.
2. Energy Efficiency Rating
Look for heaters with an Energy Factor (EF) of at least 0.8 or higher. The higher the EF, the more efficient the heater.
3. Safety Features
Most modern LPG tankless heaters come with safety features like:
- Flame failure protection (automatic gas shut-off if the flame goes out)
- Overheat protection
- Anti-freeze protection (important for colder climates)
4. Modulation Technology
Modulating burners adjust the amount of fuel used based on water demand. This saves gas when you only need a small amount of hot water (like washing hands) versus when you need a full flow for a shower.
Installation: DIY or Call a Pro?
This was where things got tricky for me. While I’m comfortable with many DIY projects, I opted for a professional installation. LPG requires precise gas line work, and local regulations were strict about venting.
If you go the DIY route, ensure:
- You have the correct gas lines installed.
- Adequate ventilation is in place, especially if installed indoors.
- You follow local codes regarding gas appliances.
But unless you’re highly skilled with gas systems, I’d recommend calling a pro to avoid potential safety risks.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To keep your LPG tankless water heater running smoothly, here are some quick maintenance steps:
- Flush the system annually to remove mineral buildup.
- Check the venting for blockages or damage.
- Inspect the gas lines for leaks.
- Consider installing a water softener if you have hard water, which can reduce scale buildup inside the heat exchanger.
Final Thoughts
After using my LPG tankless water heater for a while, I can confidently say it was a great investment. It’s energy-efficient, space-saving, and provides consistent hot water without fail. However, be mindful of the upfront cost and the complexity of installation. If you can handle the initial hit and hire a professional for the install, you’ll be enjoying uninterrupted hot water for years.
If you’re in the market for a long-lasting and efficient hot water solution, an LPG tankless water heater should definitely be on your list!