10 The Best Gas Water Heater To Buy We've Tested 2025 | SHR

Our pick: FOGATTI Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

After thoroughly testing the FOGATTI Instagas Comfort 120S Series natural gas tankless water heater, I can confidently say it lives up to its promises in many key areas, especially for homeowners looking for an energy-efficient and space-saving solution. With a 5.1 GPM flow rate and 120,000 BTU output, it’s designed to support 2 to 4 outlet points simultaneously, making it a strong fit for medium-sized households. Here’s a breakdown of the real-world performance and value of this unit.

Pros

1. High Efficiency and Strong Flow Rate

2. Compact and Space-Saving Design

3. Excellent Temperature Stability

4. Easy Installation and Outdoor Readiness

Cons

1. Limited High-Altitude Performance

2. Requires Regular Maintenance in Cold Climates

The FOGATTI Instagas Comfort 120S Series tankless water heater stands out as a solid performer, delivering reliable hot water with excellent efficiency and temperature control. It’s best suited for mid-sized homes in temperate climates, especially those looking to reduce energy consumption and save space. While its altitude and cold-weather limitations may require some attention, they are manageable with proper care.

Source: Amazon

Also great: ORBEK 120,000 BTU Residential Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

After putting the ORBEK 120,000 BTU Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater through its paces, it’s clear this unit is built with a strong focus on durability, performance, and safety. With a 5.1 GPM flow rate and support for multiple fixtures, it’s well-suited for medium-sized households. Here's a detailed breakdown based on hands-on testing.

Pros

1. Exceptional Cold-Weather and Outdoor Durability

2. Stable and Responsive Temperature Control

3. Reliable Safety Features

4. Quiet Operation and Energy Efficiency

Cons

1. Requires Professional Installation for Best Results

2. No Wi-Fi or App Integration

The ORBEK Outdoor Tankless Gas Water Heater delivers a solid combination of performance, weather resistance, and safety in a compact, efficient package. It’s a practical solution for homeowners who want reliable, on-demand hot water with strong cold-weather performance and minimal energy waste. While it lacks smart connectivity and requires professional installation, its real-world performance is impressive for the price point.

Also great: Ranein Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater with Vent Pipe

This Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater (100,000 BTU, Max 4.3 GPM) offers a more compact solution ideal for smaller to mid-sized households. Designed for indoor use, it comes with some thoughtful upgrades and convenience features tailored for everyday residential needs. After hands-on testing, here’s a breakdown of its real-world performance, strengths, and limitations.

Pros

1. Solid Performance for Daily Household Use

2. Season-Adaptive Heating Features

3. Included Vent Pipe Saves Money

4. Efficient and Fast Heating

Cons

1. Limited Flow Capacity for Larger Households

2. Altitude Limitation

This Indoor Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater (100,000 BTU) is a great value for small to mid-size households looking for an efficient, feature-rich unit that delivers consistent hot water without the bulk of a traditional tank. It’s especially attractive thanks to its bundled vent pipe and adaptive temperature settings. However, it’s best suited for homes with moderate water demand and located at lower altitudes.

Rheem is widely considered one of the most reliable brands for gas water heaters. With a reputation built over decades of providing high-quality water heating solutions, Rheem consistently delivers durable and efficient products. Their gas water heaters are known for their reliability, performance, and longevity. Rheem also offers excellent customer support and warranty coverage, further solidifying their position as a trusted brand in the industry.

What gas water heater lasts the longest?

Gas water heaters from reputable brands such as Rheem, Bradford White, and AO Smith are known for their durability and long lifespan when properly maintained. Models equipped with high-quality components, corrosion-resistant tanks, and efficient heating elements tend to last the longest. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank, inspecting the anode rod, and professional servicing, can help extend the lifespan of a gas water heater, ensuring many years of reliable hot water for your home.

Which is better: gas water heater?

Determining whether a gas water heater is better depends on various factors, including energy costs, availability of fuel sources, installation considerations, and personal preferences. Gas water heaters offer advantages such as faster heating times, lower operating costs (in areas where natural gas is affordable), and reliability. They are also often preferred for their ability to provide hot water even during power outages. However, electric water heaters may be preferable in areas where natural gas is not available or where electricity costs are significantly lower. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and circumstances.

Are newer gas water heaters more efficient?

In general, newer gas water heaters tend to be more efficient than older models. Advancements in technology and design have led to improvements in energy efficiency, resulting in reduced operating costs and environmental impact. Many newer gas water heaters feature enhanced insulation, improved burner designs, and advanced control systems to optimize performance and minimize energy consumption. When shopping for a new gas water heater, look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings, as they indicate greater efficiency and potential savings on utility bills over time.

When it comes to comfort, efficiency, and long-term value, choosing the best gas water heater to buy can make a big difference in your home. Whether you prioritize energy savings, fast recovery rates, or durability, there's a perfect option out there to meet your needs. Make your choice wisely—and enjoy hot water when you need it most.