Best Gas Water Heaters for Homes: Tank and Tankless Options
The best gas water heater depends on fuel type, household demand, and whether you want a storage tank or on-demand heating. The Rheem 50-gallon propane model is the storage-tank pick; the Rheem natural gas tankless unit suits indoor whole-home use; and the APUS propane tankless model is designed for outdoor installation and multiple outlets. The smaller NOVIEEX model offers lower stated capacity, while the Reliance product is a replacement control valve—not a complete water heater.
| Product | Type | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Rheem PROG50-36P | 50-gallon propane tank | Households seeking stored hot water |
| Rheem RTG Series | Natural gas tankless | Indoor whole-home demand |
| APUS 8.1 GPM | Outdoor propane tankless | Multiple simultaneous outlets |
| NOVIEEX 4.3 GPM | Indoor propane tankless | More modest hot-water demand |
| Reliance 100112336 | Gas control valve | Professional repair of compatible heaters |
Rheem 50-Gallon Propane Storage Water Heater
This tall residential water heater stores 50 gallons and uses liquid propane with a 36,000 BTU burner. It is best for buyers who want a conventional tank rather than an on-demand system and whose home is set up for propane.
Listed features include an eco-friendly, low-NOx burner, a Rheem R-Tech anode rod for tank protection, match-free lighting, and an EverKleen system intended to fight sediment buildup. These features make it a relevant option for shoppers comparing traditional gas storage heaters.
Limitation: This is a propane model, not a natural gas model. Confirm the fuel supply and installation requirements before choosing it.
Rheem 7.0 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Heater
This indoor, non-condensing tankless unit is rated at 160,000 BTU per hour and up to 7.0 GPM at a 35°F temperature rise. It is best for households seeking natural gas on-demand heating and a wall-mounted unit rather than a floor-standing storage tank.
The product information describes it as a whole-house option for homes with two to three simultaneous water points. It lists a 0.82 Uniform Energy Factor and a direct-vent system. It is selected for buyers who want to compare a higher-capacity natural gas tankless heater with the propane options below.
Limitation: Its stated flow rate is tied to a 35°F temperature rise; actual usable flow depends on incoming water temperature and household demand.
APUS 8.1 GPM Outdoor Propane Tankless Heater
The APUS unit is an outdoor propane tankless heater rated at 190,000 BTU and up to 8.1 GPM. It is best for buyers seeking a higher stated flow rate and outdoor placement. The product claims capacity for five to six simultaneous outlets, with a minimum flow rate of 0.79 GPM.
Features include app-based control through Tuya, a wired controller, and an adjustable temperature range of 95°F to 149°F. The listing specifies 120V AC power and 3/4-inch water and gas connections. These details make it useful to compare for homes with several hot-water points.
Limitation: It is designed for outdoor installation and uses propane, so it is not a direct fit for every home or natural gas setup.
NOVIEEX 4.3 GPM Indoor Propane Heater
This indoor propane tankless heater is rated at 100,000 BTU and up to 4.3 GPM. It is best for buyers comparing a lower-capacity on-demand option with larger whole-home models. The listing says it can supply a shower, kitchen faucet, and bathroom sink simultaneously, though actual performance varies with conditions.
The unit has an adjustable 95°F–149°F temperature range and listed temperature control accuracy of ±1°F. Its stated power supply is 110–120V AC at 60Hz, and the gas and water connections are NPT 1/2-inch.
Limitation: Its maximum stated flow is lower than the other tankless models in this guide, so compare expected demand before selecting it.
Reliance Natural Gas Control Valve
This is a natural gas control valve and thermostat, not a hot water tank or complete heater. The listing identifies compatibility with A.O. Smith, Reliance, State, and American-branded water heaters. It is best for buyers seeking a replacement component for a compatible unit, not shoppers replacing an entire water heater.
The product is included because gas heater buyers may be researching repair parts alongside new equipment. Check the existing heater’s model and component requirements before ordering.
Limitation: The listing says installation should be performed by a professional and cautions against homeowner installation because it could affect warranty coverage.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Gas Water Heater
Should you choose a tank or tankless heater?
A storage tank holds heated water for use, while a tankless model heats water on demand. Consider a tank model if you want a stated storage capacity, such as 50 gallons. Compare tankless units by flow rate and temperature rise, because a published maximum GPM does not represent the same output under every incoming-water condition.
Does the heater use natural gas or propane?
Check the fuel type before comparing capacity or features. The Rheem PROG50-36P, APUS, and NOVIEEX products listed here use propane; the Rheem RTG and Reliance valve listing specify natural gas. Do not assume a unit designed for one fuel works with the other. Confirm the home’s fuel supply and the product’s installation requirements.
How much hot water does the household need?
List the fixtures likely to run at the same time, such as showers, sinks, and kitchen faucets. Compare that demand with the heater’s stated flow rate and temperature-rise information. A higher GPM rating may better suit simultaneous use, but the appropriate capacity depends on household conditions and incoming water temperature.
What installation details should you check?
- Confirm indoor or outdoor placement, venting needs, electrical supply, and gas connections from the product specifications.
- Check available space and whether the unit is tank-style or wall-mounted.
- Use a qualified professional for installation or gas-control repairs, and follow applicable local requirements.
- For a replacement valve, verify compatibility with the existing heater rather than relying on brand name alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a gas tankless water heater the same as a gas water tank?
No. A gas tank heater stores heated water in a tank. A gas tankless heater heats water on demand and has no storage tank.
Can I use a propane water heater with natural gas?
Do not assume so. Confirm the heater’s specified fuel and installation instructions. The products listed here identify their fuel types separately.
What does GPM mean on a tankless water heater?
GPM means gallons per minute, a measure of water flow. The temperature rise affects how much hot water a heater can deliver at that flow.
Is the Reliance product a complete water heater?
No. It is a gas control valve and thermostat intended as a component for specified compatible water heaters.
Should a gas water heater be installed by a professional?
Professional installation is a prudent choice for gas equipment. The Reliance valve listing specifically says it should be installed by a professional.