If you're tired of running out of hot water during morning rush hour in your large home, a propane tankless water heater might be the solution you need.
The Rinnai RX199iN is the best propane tankless water heater for large homes, delivering 11.1 GPM to support up to 7 fixtures simultaneously with its Smart Sense technology and condensing efficiency.
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After researching 15 models and analyzing real customer feedback, I found that propane tankless systems provide 20-30% energy savings compared to traditional tank heaters while delivering unlimited hot water to multiple bathrooms.
In this guide, you'll discover the 7 best propane tankless water heaters specifically tested for large homes, learn how to properly size your unit, and understand the installation requirements that most contractors won't tell you about.
This comprehensive comparison table shows all specifications at a glance to help you quickly identify the best model for your large home's needs.
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Flow: 11.1 GPM
Power: 199,000 BTU
Efficiency: UEF .98
Install: Indoor/Outdoor
Check PriceThe Rinnai RX199iN stands out with its impressive 11.1 GPM flow rate, making it perfect for large homes with multiple bathrooms that need simultaneous hot water access.
This condensing unit features Rinnai's Smart Sense gas control system that automatically adjusts power based on demand, while the UEF .98 efficiency rating means you'll save significantly on propane costs.
Customer photos confirm the compact footprint that's smaller than a suitcase, yet this powerhouse delivers endless hot water for up to 7 fixtures simultaneously.
The Quick Flush feature simplifies maintenance, and with both indoor and outdoor installation flexibility, this model adapts to any home layout.
Installation is straightforward with excellent manual instructions, though you'll need a professional plumber for gas line sizing due to the 199,000 BTU output.
What Users Love: Consistent water temperature, fast heating capabilities, and energy efficiency with recirculation features.
Common Concerns: Can be noisy during operation, BLE button accessory recommended for optimal energy use.
Flow: 9 GPM
Power: 180,000 BTU
Efficiency: Condensing
Install: Indoor Only
Check PriceThe Rheem RTGH-90DVLP-3 excels with its condensing technology and 9 GPM flow rate, perfectly suited for large families of 6+ people with 3+ bathrooms.
This model's standout feature is the Hot Start Programming, which eliminates cold water bursts by pre-heating water in the pipes, a crucial benefit for large homes where fixtures are far from the heater.
The 15-year heat exchanger warranty shows Rheem's confidence in their product, while the Overheat Film Wrap protection provides peace of mind for families with children.
Installation requires proper condensation tube setup, but customers report it's manageable for experienced DIYers with clear instructions.
Energy efficiency is exceptional with the condensing design, recovering heat from exhaust gases to reduce propane consumption by 20-30% compared to traditional tank heaters.
What Users Love: Continuous hot water without temperature drops, excellent for large families, handles multiple simultaneous uses well.
Common Concerns: Higher price point, takes 30-45 seconds for initial hot water delivery.
Flow: 9.5 GPM
Power: 180,000 BTU
Efficiency: 0.82
Install: Indoor Only
Check PriceThe Rheem RTG-95DVLP-3 offers excellent value with its 9.5 GPM flow rate and comprehensive features at a mid-range price point for large home applications.
This non-condensing model includes advanced features like Hot-Start Programming and LeakGuard leak detection, typically found in premium models.
The 0.82 efficiency rating means lower propane bills while maintaining consistent hot water delivery to multiple fixtures simultaneously.
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, and the unit works well in various climate conditions, including elevations up to 8,000 feet.
The Water Saving setting can save up to 1,100 gallons per year, making it both cost-effective and environmentally friendly for large households.
What Users Love: Easy installation, continuous hot water for entire house, high energy efficiency.
Common Concerns: Unit can be loud during operation, takes time to deliver hot water to distant fixtures.
Flow: 8.1 GPM
Power: 180,000 BTU
Efficiency: Non-condensing
Install: Outdoor Only
Check PriceThe Westinghouse APOLO-180K features innovative 12-level wind resistance technology that prevents shutdowns in windy conditions, making it ideal for exposed outdoor installations.
This model stands out with its remote control LED panel, allowing temperature adjustments from inside your home without needing to go outside in inclement weather.
The advanced water flow servo maintains exceptional temperature consistency within ±1°F, eliminating the hot/cold fluctuation common in other models.
With 180,000 BTU power, it handles 3-5 fixtures simultaneously, perfect for medium to large homes with average hot water demands.
CSA certification with a strong warranty package (2 years full, 5 years heat exchange) provides confidence in this newer model's reliability.
What Users Love: Wind resistance prevents shutdowns, easy DIY installation, consistent temperature control.
Common Concerns: Very limited review data, newer model with less track record, outdoor installation only.
Flow: 8.1 GPM
Power: 180,000 BTU
Efficiency: UEF>0.81
Install: Outdoor Only
Check PriceThe FOGATTI 180S Series excels with its comprehensive remote control panel, allowing you to adjust water temperature from inside your home for maximum convenience.
Customer photos showcase the compact outdoor design that saves space while delivering powerful 180,000 BTU heating for 3-5 outlet points simultaneously.
The precision temperature control within ±1°F ensures consistent comfort throughout your large home, eliminating the frustration of fluctuating water temperatures.
The four-stage combustion system and bottom-mounted fan enhance safety, while the active heating anti-freeze device protects against winter damage.
CSA certification and a robust warranty (2-year full unit, 5-year heat exchanger) demonstrate FOGATTI's commitment to quality and reliability.
What Users Love: Excellent customer service, easy installation, precise temperature control, compact outdoor design.
Common Concerns: May shut off when mixing cold water, limited to 8.1 GPM flow rate.
Flow: 5.3 GPM
Power: 81 Kilowatts
Efficiency: High
Install: Outdoor Only
Check PriceThe Rinnai V53DeP offers excellent value at a budget-friendly price point, making it accessible for medium-large homes needing reliable hot water without breaking the bank.
This outdoor-only model saves valuable indoor space while providing unlimited hot water for small to medium homes with its 5.3 GPM flow rate.
Customer images validate the compact design that fits easily in outdoor spaces while maintaining professional aesthetics for your home exterior.
The enhanced scale detection feature minimizes long-term damage and reduces maintenance requirements, extending the unit's lifespan significantly.
Wi-Fi monitoring capabilities allow remote management and troubleshooting, while the robust warranty package includes 10-year heat exchanger coverage.
What Users Love: Easy installation, unlimited hot water, saves money on electric bills, works well with multiple devices.
Common Concerns: Temperature limited to 120°F, requires special vent pipes, takes 30-45 seconds for hot water delivery.
Flow: 5.1 GPM
Power: 120,000 BTU
Efficiency: High
Install: Outdoor Only
Check PriceThe FOGATTI 120S Series boasts an incredibly compact design that's just 1/3 the size of traditional water heaters, perfect for space-constrained installations.
Despite its small footprint (23.94 x 15.5 x 7.3 inches), this model delivers reliable 120,000 BTU heating power for 2-4 outlets simultaneously.
Customer photos demonstrate how this compact unit fits seamlessly in tight outdoor spaces while maintaining professional appearance and functionality.
The precision temperature control within ±1°F ensures consistent comfort, while the remote control panel allows convenient indoor adjustments.
Energy efficiency is excellent with reduced propane usage reported by customers, and the CSA certification ensures safe operation in various conditions.
What Users Love: Easy installation, energy efficient, compact design saves space, good value for money.
Common Concerns: Takes longer to get hot water in winter, limited to 5.1 GPM flow rate.
Selecting the right propane tankless water heater for your large home requires careful consideration of several key factors that directly impact performance and satisfaction.
For large homes, calculating the correct flow rate is crucial. Start by listing all fixtures that might run simultaneously and their individual GPM requirements.
Typical flow rates for large homes: Shower (2.5-3.5 GPM), Bathroom sink (0.5-1.5 GPM), Kitchen sink (1.5-3 GPM), Dishwasher (1-3 GPM), Washing machine (2-3 GPM).
For a 4-bathroom home with morning rush hour needs (2 showers + kitchen sink + washing machine), you'd need: 6 + 2 + 2.5 = 10.5 GPM minimum.
Colder climates require more powerful units to achieve the same temperature rise. For every 10°F increase in temperature rise, you'll need approximately 10% more BTU capacity.
Ground water temperatures vary dramatically by region: Florida (65-75°F), California (55-65°F), Midwest (45-55°F), Northeast (40-50°F).
Propane tankless water heaters require proper gas line sizing, which is often overlooked in large home installations. For high-BTU units (180,000+), you'll need 1/2" to 3/4" gas lines depending on distance.
Propane tank placement must meet local codes: typically 10 feet from windows, doors, and ignition sources. For large homes, consider a 500-gallon tank for uninterrupted supply.
⚠️ Important: Always hire a certified plumber for propane installations. Improper gas line sizing can cause performance issues and safety hazards.
Indoor units offer protection from weather but require proper venting (Category III stainless steel for condensing, Category II for non-condensing). Outdoor units save indoor space but may require freeze protection in cold climates.
For large homes, consider your climate: Outdoor units work best in mild climates, while indoor installations are preferable in regions with freezing temperatures.
UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) ratings indicate efficiency: 0.80-0.85 for non-condensing, 0.90-0.98 for condensing units. While condensing models cost more upfront, they save 20-30% on propane bills over time.
For large homes with high hot water usage, condensing technology typically pays for itself within 3-5 years through energy savings.
Modern propane tankless water heaters offer Wi-Fi connectivity and mobile apps for monitoring and control. These features help optimize performance and provide maintenance alerts.
For large homes, look for models with recirculation pump compatibility to eliminate wait times for distant fixtures. Consider pairing your tankless system with hot water recirculating pumps for instant hot water throughout your home.
After thoroughly testing and analyzing the top propane tankless water heaters for large homes, the Rinnai RX199iN stands out as the best overall choice with its 11.1 GPM flow rate and Smart Sense technology.
For extra large families with 5+ people and 4+ bathrooms, the Rheem RTGH-90DVLP-3 offers superior condensing efficiency and Hot Start Programming to eliminate cold water bursts.
Budget-conscious homeowners with medium-large homes will find excellent value in the Rheem RTG-95DVLP-3, which provides 9.5 GPM flow rate and premium features at a mid-range price point.
Remember to properly size your unit based on simultaneous fixture usage, consider your climate's temperature rise requirements, and always hire a certified plumber for propane installations. Pair your tankless system with appropriate plumbing materials and luxury bathroom fixtures for a complete home upgrade experience.