Choosing The Right Residential Gas Heater depends on home layout, fuel type, installation limits, and whether the need is for space heating or on-demand hot water. Below is a quick comparison of top residential gas heaters selected for reliability, fuel options, and application flexibility.
| Product | Type | Fuel | Key Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM | Tankless Water Heater | Natural Gas | 0.4–8.4 GPM, 157,000 BTU |
| ThermoMate 102,000 BTU 4.7 GPM | Tankless Water Heater | Natural Gas | 4.7 GPM, 102,000 BTU |
| Rheem RTGH Series 9.5 GPM | Tankless Water Heater | Liquid Propane | 0.4–9.5 GPM, 199,900 BTU |
| ProCom MN300HBA-B | Ventless Blue Flame Space Heater | Natural Gas | 30,000 BTU, up to 1,400 sq. ft. |
| Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 | Infrared Wall Heater | Natural Gas | 30,000 BTU, up to 1,000 sq. ft. |
Content Navigation
- Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 8.4 GPM Natural Gas Tankless
- ThermoMate 102,000 BTU 4.7 GPM Natural Gas Tankless
- Rheem RRTGH95DVLP3701178 9.5 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless
- ProCom MN300HBA-B 30,000 BTU Ventless Blue Flame Heater
- Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Infrared Wall Heater
- Buying Guide: How To Choose A Residential Gas Heater
Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 8.4 GPM Natural Gas Tankless
The Rheem RTGH Series unit is a residential indoor tankless water heater designed for continuous hot water delivery. It offers a flow rate of 0.4–8.4 GPM and a maximum input of 157,000 BTU. Temperature settings span 100 to 140°F with a default of 120°F and the unit includes electric ignition.
Applications: whole-house or point-of-use where natural gas service and indoor venting are available. Considerations include minimum flow activation and proper venting. The stainless steel finish supports indoor installation longevity.
ThermoMate 102,000 BTU 4.7 GPM Natural Gas Tankless
ThermoMate is specified as a high-efficiency, instant on-demand hot water heater with 4.7 GPM capacity and 102,000 BTU. The unit claims tight temperature control (±1°F) via an advanced flow sensor and microprocessor modulation, and multiple safety protections such as freeze, overheat, and flame-out protections.
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This model emphasizes energy efficiency with an oxygen-free copper heat exchanger and a high UEF. Ideal for homes needing simultaneous multi-point hot water for showers and faucets. Installation requires appropriate venting and gas supply sizing to match the BTU rating.
Rheem RRTGH95DVLP3701178 9.5 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless
The Rheem RTGH 9.5 GPM is a liquid propane tankless water heater rated up to 199,900 BTU. It supports flow rates from 0.4–9.5 GPM and the same temperature range of 100–140°F with electric ignition included.
This unit is suited for larger homes or households with high simultaneous hot water demand. Propane fuel changes installation logistics compared with natural gas—venting and gas line sizing must align with the higher BTU input for safe operation.
ProCom MN300HBA-B 30,000 BTU Ventless Blue Flame Heater
The ProCom MN300HBA-B is a ventless blue flame space heater designed for natural gas installations. It delivers up to 30,000 BTU and is rated to heat up to about 1,400 sq. ft. without electricity. Controls are manual with three heat settings and a push-button piezo ignition.
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Safety features include an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) that shuts the unit off automatically in low-oxygen conditions. Being ventless, it vents combustion products into living space—make sure local codes and ventilation requirements permit this type for your home.
Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 30,000 BTU Infrared Wall Heater
The Dyna-Glo IR30NMDG-1 is a natural gas infrared wall heater producing up to 30,000 BTU. Infrared technology heats objects and people directly rather than conditioning the whole air volume, which can provide perceived warmth faster in open or high-ceiling spaces.
Rated for areas up to about 1,000 sq. ft., this model is suitable for garages, workshops, or supplemental zone heating. Installation requires wall clearance and proper combustion air; fuel conversion is not permitted for this model, so choose the correct fuel variant.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Residential Gas Heater
Identify The Primary Purpose: Determine whether you need a heater for space heating (room, garage, workshop), a whole-house hot water solution, or supplemental heating. Tankless units address hot water demand; infrared, ventless, and forced-air unit heaters address space heating.
Fuel Type And Availability
- Natural Gas vs. Propane (LP): Confirm which fuel is available at the property. Propane units may be preferable where natural gas lines are not present but require on-site fuel storage.
- Conversion Limits: Some models cannot be converted between fuels—verify manufacturer guidance.
Heat Output And Coverage
- BTU Rating: Higher BTU increases heating capacity but requires adequate gas supply and venting. Match BTU to the space or hot water flow demand.
- GPM For Tankless Water Heaters: Estimate fixtures and simultaneous demand. 4–5 GPM typically supports 1–2 showers; 8–9+ GPM suits large households with multiple fixtures running.
Efficiency And Operating Cost
- Thermal Efficiency / UEF: Higher efficiency reduces fuel consumption. Copper vs. stainless heat exchangers affect heat transfer and corrosion resistance.
- Modulation & Controls: Units with variable firing rates or sensors adjust output to demand, improving efficiency and comfort.
Installation And Venting
- Indoor Vs. Outdoor: Indoor tankless and wall-mounted heaters require venting; outdoor-rated heaters eliminate indoor venting needs.
- Venting Category: Check category ratings (e.g., Category I, III) and whether vertical/horizontal venting is supported.
- Professional Installation: Gas appliances typically require licensed installers to size gas piping, perform venting, and comply with local code.
Safety Features
- ODS And Flame Sensors: Important for ventless or space heaters to detect oxygen levels and flame presence.
- Overheat, Freeze, And Flame-Out Protections: These prevent equipment damage and hazardous conditions in tankless units.
Space And Mounting Constraints
- Clearances: Verify required clearances from ceilings, floors, and nearby combustibles for safe installation.
- Wall-Mounted vs Floor Models: Decide based on available wall space, floor area, and user convenience.
Comparison Perspectives
- Whole-House Hot Water vs. Point-Of-Use: Higher GPM tankless models serve whole-house needs; smaller models or point-of-use units reduce distribution loss.
- Ventless Space Heaters vs. Ventilated Infrared Heaters: Ventless units are efficient and simple but require good indoor ventilation and code approval. Infrared heaters are effective in open or poorly insulated spaces and do not heat the air directly.
- Commercial-Style Unit Heaters: Higher BTU forced-air unit heaters (e.g., Mr. Heater type) suit large, open utility spaces but need professional venting and installation considerations.
Final Notes On Selection: Verify local building codes and fuel supply capacity before purchase. Consider professional sizing and gas line evaluation to ensure the chosen unit performs safely and efficiently in the intended residential setting.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.