The Best 40 Gallon Gas Water Heaters for 2023

There is no better feeling in the world than relaxing with a shower after a long day at work. But in the winter or cold weather, it can be frustrating to find no hot water available when you need it.

Don’t worry because you can rely on the best 40 gallon gas water heater, which is just the right size for many families. It also has the durability and ease of maintenance that thousands of households appreciate.

This device is reliable and requires less maintenance vs. other types of water heaters. However, it’s not as easy as it might seem to find the one that suits your family. Like any other home appliance, water heaters are available in different configurations.

Choosing a 40-gallon gas water heater is easy if you consider crucial buying factors. Thankfully, we have three essential parameters to help you decide.

• First-hour Rating: This factor is crucial for all storage tank water heaters, whether gas or electric. It describes how fast the device can raise the water temperature to a predefined level, allowing families to enjoy hot water within an hour of operating the heater. Families will benefit more from a gas water heater with a higher FHR value (i.e., 70 gallons vs. 50 gallons).

• Recovery Rate: Most 40-gallon gas water heaters recover about 30 gallons of hot water hourly, giving users an ample hot water supply. Although 30 GPH is enough for most families, one might choose a product with a higher recovery rating (i.e., 50 gallons).

• Warranty: Product guarantees reflect their quality construction and durability. After all, no company will want to replace a defective or dysfunctional unit. Hence, warranties underscore a brand’s belief in its gas water heater. As a rule, pick a 40-gallon gas water heater with a longer warranty (i.e., 12 years vs. 6 years) for peace of mind.

Worry not now, as help is here! Read the following for reviews of the top picks, each with pros and cons, and a buying guide on the features/factors to consider comparing your options. If you’re ready, let’s begin.

Top-Tier 40 Gallon Gas Water Heater Reviews

1. Eccotemp i12-NG Water Heater

Even the smallest 40-gallon gas water heater requires at least a foot of clearance on all sides. With the Eccotemp i12-NG, space is never an issue because it only measures 14 inches wide and 26 inches tall.

I love this gas-powered tankless water heater’s uber-stylish design in an elegant all-black mirror finish. Neighbors will never know we have a water heater mounted on our walls, thinking instead it is an advanced control unit for smart home technology.

The white LED readouts offer a remarkable contrast to the black tempered glass surface. Water flow and temperature information are on display, offering homeowners a quick view of the product’s performance. The screen is touch-sensitive, making this water heater a joy to operate.

Despite not being a well-known brand, this gas water heater rating is impressive. I am sure its beautiful design and intuitive controls are just a few of the many things homeowners love about this product.

Although I could not see an Energy Star certification, I am sure this gas water heater is energy efficient. It only draws 1.07 amps on a 120-volt outlet for a wattage rating of 128.4.

Using this water heater for three hours daily will only consume 140.6 kWh annually. Marketing information also shows families using this water heater will only spend $206 yearly on electricity.

Installation is more straightforward than conventional water heaters, although it still requires venting. Three gallons of water can pass through this water heater every minute, but it requires only 77 ounces of water flow to activate the heating mechanism.

2. Rinnai RU180iN Water Heater

The RU180iN Sensei SE+ tankless water heater is your solution if you’re looking for an energy-efficient heating system that works.

This particular model is rated with at least 15,000 BTU and at most 180,000 BTU and has a capacity of 10 gallons per minute. If you’re in a household with up to five members, you might want to consider it as one of your options.

I recommend this Rinnai water heater for its innovative ThermaCirc360 technology. It works by recirculating hot water through the pipes whenever you need it for a constant supply.

Furthermore, it does not waste water, unlike your traditional tank water heater. Using this unit, you can save up to 8,700 bottles of water per person annually.

Besides, you can save more room than with a tank water heater. This one has a compact design and small size, letting you install it in narrow spaces like a closet, crawl space, or attic.

3. EZ Tankless Water Heater

The EZ Ultra HE is Propane or Natural Gas (LPG) condensing water heater that provides all the advantages that loyal EZ consumers expect.

The Ultra HE is the brand’s first condensing heat exchanger that permits the arrest and draining of the acidic condensation that prevents vertical venting. You can’t go wrong with this tankless water heater because the system can reach an efficiency level of 92% and even more by using exhaust gases to preheat the inlet water.

With the low-temperature exhaust gases courtesy of the condensing heat exchanger, the unit can be vented with the Solid Core Schedule 40 PVC/CPVC pipe, either vertically or horizontally.

Designed for the typical American household, this affordable, efficient, and easy to use system can remove a big bulk of your home’s standby energy loss, which would mean more significant savings on your money and energy use.

Emphasis on easy to use because it is designed for 100% automatic operation, which means you need to be waiting for it. Just turn on your water spigot, and hot water will be there in only a few minutes. Once the tap is off, the heater will also automatically switch off. Should the water supply be sporadic, your gas valve will shut off by itself.

With its full key touch water temperature settings, understanding which button to use is easy. Its user-friendly key controls can also be pre-set to your preferred water temperature, making it more convenient.

Once you have set it to your preferred temperature, it does the temperature modulation automatically. The system will modulate the fan, gas, and water flow, ensuring that the temperature is consistent and constant. Expect it to produce 3.4 gallons of water in 60 seconds at a 45F rise.

As a bonus, this system is simple and aesthetically beautiful, making it easy to install. Even if it is within view of your living spaces, it is not imposing or unpleasant to the eyes.

4. Takagi T-H3S-DV-P Water Heater

The TAKAGI must be on your list if you’re looking for a highly-efficient propane water heater that can produce eight gallons of hot water per minute. That’s great news for larger households with a higher volume of water requirements.

This unit can supply your home with endless hot water on demand. With this, you and your loved ones will have peace of mind that you won’t run out of hot water whenever you need it.

Besides, I like that this unit is space-saving, not requiring a large space for installation. You can have it installed even if you’re in an apartment, condominium, or tiny home.

This model has automatic safety features that make its operation more straightforward and convenient for busy households. There is also no need to worry about a pilot light, which is common among older models.

You can count on this one about health and safety because it is certified to produce low nitrogen oxide emissions. It meets Rule 1146.2 (2012 SCAQMD).

Additionally, it has a large capacity and rating of 180,000 BTU which translates to a larger capacity to produce hot water for the entire household, even those with three bathrooms (warm climates) and two bathrooms (cold climates).

5. Camplux Natural Gas Water Heater

Considering a 40 gallon water heater price, you’d be surprised with the CAMPLUX indoor tankless heater. Its price is not as steep as other models, yet it’s quality and innovative.

I like that this model is compact and sleek. The tankless water heater is suitable for small cabins and apartments because it does not occupy a large space.

This model is with a black glassy panel, which looks modern, matching any home design and decoration. Its front panel is also easy to understand, touchscreen controls and a digital display. You will not have a hard time understanding the data it is showing you at all.

The Camplux tankless water heater also has a high capacity of 3.18 gallons per minute, suiting even a large household. You can count on it for an on-demand hot water supply suitable for up to three persons who want a comfortable hot shower, especially in the cold weather.

I also recommend this indoor tankless heater because it has different protection features, ensuring your peace of mind. Some of these include anti-freeze protection and overheating protection.

Plus, it is designed with automatic temperature controls, including an energy-saving mode. And if you have kids at home, you can also count on its child-lock technology that keeps your children out of harm’s way.

6. Bradford White BWC RE340T6-1NCWW

One of the trusted brands that provide the top-tier water heater for your home is the Bradford White BWC RE34OT6-1NCWW model. This 4,500-watt unit has 40 gallons and is one of the most massive water heaters from Bradford.

This 40 gallon electric water heater boasts of its durability feature by using a protective magnesium anode rod. This same rod also protects it against corrosion. What’s more, this particular model meets all the current ASHRAE Standard 90.1 of the Department of Energy.

Made in the US, this water heater also has 2 inches of non-CFC foam insulation covering all the sides, including the tank’s top. This padding can help in maintaining heat and lessening energy consumption. That means you will have lower energy bills even if you have a water heater installed in your house.

You won’t run out of hot water because this has a First Hour Delivery of 55 gallons. The Recovery Rise is 21 minutes for this heater, meaning once the cold water enters your hot water tank, it will take 21 minutes for the water to rise to a temperature of 90 degrees.

Furthermore, it boasts a HydroJet Total Performance System, primarily a cold-water inlet tube engineered to lower the sediment buildup within the system. It also ensures that stored water is appropriately mixed with the incoming water.

With this technology, heaters don’t need to work as hard or as often because they can maintain a stable supply of hot water at a pre-set temperature.

Additionally, this water heater also comes with the world’s top-rated enamel tank lining, the Vitraglass, which lessens and almost zeroes out any failures on the system.

7. CAMPLUX CM264-NG Water Heater

Finally, we have the CM264-NG Water Heater, consistently top-rated in the category for its useful features, including innovativeness and quality. It comes from a reputable brand that has made outdoor life and adventures more fun and exciting!

By choosing this product, you can be confident you’re dealing with a brand that values its offerings’ performance. For one, it is easy to use for on-demand or whole-home use. It is also ideal for small homes, apartments, and cabins because of its small size.

Besides, the CAMPLUX CM264-NG has a modern design that makes it perfect, no matter your home decoration or theme. The modern design does not overwhelm any existing design. It also has an easy-to-read display that adds to its ease of use. You will not have to worry about anything, even if it’s your first time using a device like it.

This model comes with additional safety elements like airflow pressure switch protection and flame-out cut-off protection. You can use the Camplux CM264 with a natural gas tank with a capacity between 20 and 100 pounds.

What Is A 40-Gallon Gas Water Heater/ Who Is This For

One of the joys of modern technology is access to hot water with a simple twist of a knob. Gone were the days of endlessly freezing while taking a bath or even skipping your showers on unusually cold days.

A 40 gallon gas hot water heater is one of the many variants of water heaters you can buy on the market. It is a conventional water heater, which constitutes an insulated tank to store all the hot water.

These types are the most common ones and are found in most households. They are also relatively cheap and easy to use.

Among the different fuel sources, this water heater runs on gas. Hence, there is a gas burner at the tank’s bottom. Steam and other byproducts go up the chimney and leave the water heater by the vents.

While they may be expensive at first, gas water heaters become more energy efficient in the long run.

How Does It Work

Conventional water heaters come with a tank where you can store your hot water- ready to be used for your daily household activities.

First, cold water enters the 40 gal water heater tank through a cold water supply tube. The tank itself is made of steel to protect both its exterior and interior. This material also enables the water to heat up quickly.

Next, as the cold water settles, the tank’s bottom is slowly heated by the gas burner.

A gas regulator assembly controls and determines how hot the gas burner is. This regulator usually comes with a thermostat to measure the temperature and turns the burner on/off once the water reaches a specific temperature.

Once the water grows warm enough, it rises and passes through a hot water discharge pipe to provide hot water whenever needed.

The steam, gases, and other byproducts of the heating process leave the tank, go to an exhaust flute, and exit the tank via a vent pipe or, sometimes, a chimney.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using 40-Gallon Gas Water Heater

One of the many types of water heaters, gas, or propane water heater tanks, also provides numerous benefits. This section will list down these advantages.

Fast Heating

Compared to electric or hybrid water heater systems, gas or propane water heaters are faster when heating water. As such, you would not have to wait too long when you want to use hot water for a shower or other household activities.

Because of this feature, they are great for larger families since they can easily cope with the high demand. With a 40 gallon propane water heater, you would not have to worry about running out of hot water.

Low energy costs

While they may not be as energy-efficient as other water heater models, gas or propane water heaters incur lower energy costs. That is because the fuel sources it uses (gas or propane) are cheaper and easier to procure.

Cheaper in the long run

Often, gas or propane water heater tanks have higher upfront costs compared to other models. Regardless, with their cheap energy sources, these units enable the user to save more.

Not to mention, they do not require a lot of maintenance compared to other water heater types. Many users clean their units when there are signs of visible dirt. Many even conduct routine check-ups or inspections once or twice a month to check its performance and see if parts need replacement or repair.

Easy to Install

Gas or propane water heater tanks are also easier to install than the other types, especially when you already have an open gas line in your home.

Even if you do not have one, gas or propane water heater tanks are relatively more straightforward to install than the other models. If you have general plumbing knowledge, you are good to go.

However, nothing is stopping you from seeking a professional’s help, too.

Convenient

These water heater tanks, such as the most trusted 50-gallon gas water heater, are also more convenient. For one, the tank already stores hot water, which is ready at any time for your disposal. As such, you will need to push a button to have it. Also, in case your water heater not heat enough, you can check our water heater blanket reviews here.

Buying Guide

Expensive or affordable 40-gallon gas water heaters come in different shapes, styles, systems, and sizes. As such, I am looking for a good one that might prove to be complicated.

Besides looking at its specifications, you will also need to determine if the unit falls within your price range.

Nonetheless, you can find a suitable model through hard work, patience, and research. To start, you can read different 40 gal gas water heater reviews to see all the top rated 40 gallon gas water heaters in the market.

You can also use this buying guide to see the different factors you need to consider when looking for the top-quality 40 gallon water heater in the market.

Capacity

The size of the water heater tank you should get depends on your household’s demands. If you have a large family, then a bigger tank is the right choice. At the same time, a smaller one might be most suitable for those living alone.

A 40 gallon hot water storage tank is excellent for those with a family of at least five people or those living in shared spaces. With this size, you will have enough hot water for several hot water showers and other household activities that require hot water.

Tank Material

Most water storage tanks, such as a 40 gal water heater, are made of steel – both their exterior and interior. This material is not only durable, but it also makes the heating process faster. As such, you would not have to wait long for hot water.

Nevertheless, if you want your water heater tank to last longer, consider buying one lined with glass. Steel tanks that are lined with glass are durable and are more resistant to corrosion and similar damages.

Anti-Scale Devices

You should also purchase water heater tanks that have an anti-scale device. Hard water, as we know, often leaves residues that might clog pipes and drains over time. Anti-scale devices help with this problem. These devices work by swirling the water to prevent any buildup.

Digital Display

While style is a matter of the user’s preference, you should purchase a water heater tank with a digital display. This feature enables you to monitor the water and temperature levels easily and even customize its settings. Some units have a vacation mode for efficient water heating.

Valve Type

Drain valves are located at the bottom of your water heater tank and are usually made of plastic or brass. For durability, look for a water heater tank that comes with brass valves. They are generally more durable compared to plastic ones. Moreover, they also do not rust or corrode easily.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should a 40 gallon gas water heater last?

A 40 gallon power vent gas water heater has the same longevity as a 50- or 80-gallon unit, which is about eight to twelve years. However, brands and models often vary in their gas water lifespan, as does maintenance and care.

Although not absolute, a water heater’s warranty offers a reliable estimate of its quality and, hence, durability. After all, no company will want to give away too many refunds and replacements.

For example, a Richmond 40 gallon gas water heater 12-year warranty offers homeowners peace of mind, knowing the system will last at least a dozen years.

Meanwhile, the A.O. Smith Signature 100 only comes with a six-year coverage. It is the same assurance you will get with the Rheem Professional Classic, although you can extend it with the brand’s ProtectionPlus Upgrade.

As a rule, the most reliable brands provide 40-gallon gas water heaters that can serve your family for 15 years.

According to Consumer Reports, Rheem is one of the most trusted gas water heater companies, although we can add A.O. Smith and Bradford White to the list. You will feel more confident that these gas-powered water heaters will last at least a decade.

How often to flush the 40 gallon gas water heater?

Although manufacturers of 40 gallon natural gas hot water heater units recommend biannual flushing, no clear-cut guidelines as to flushing frequency exist. Some even say once yearly is enough.

However, heater flushing frequency depends on water consumption and quality.

Hard water contains minerals that can clump and cling onto the water heater’s interior components, impacting its ability to work. Scale buildup can undermine the device’s performance and lead to its early demise.

Hence, you might have an A.O. Smith Short 40 gallon water heater that should last ten years but only endure five because of mineral and sediment deposits.

Installing a water softener and filtration system before the water heater should extend the product’s lifespan. These water treatment systems can lighten the appliance’s burden by removing as many contaminants as possible.

Homeowners must also monitor their water consumption. Although 40-gallon heaters are sufficient for a family of four, they might not last long if demand exceeds supply. Interestingly, that also addresses the question, is 40-gallon water heater enough for a family of 4?

Are more expensive 40 gallon gas water heaters better?

Expensive 40-gallon gas hot water heaters are not always better, just as not all higher-priced items have higher quality.

For example, Rheem water heaters are more affordable than Bradford White units, though the latter offers more energy-efficient technologies.

Meanwhile, Rheem commands a respectable following among ordinary homeowners. If you’re not overly concerned about your electrical bill, the variance is negligible.

Compared to A.O. Smith gas water heaters, Rheem units are expensive. However, the price difference does not mean A.O. Smith 40-gallon gas water heaters are pushovers. These products have Energy Star certifications, and some have 12-year warranties.

These examples illustrate how price is relative, depending on what buyers value more.

How long does it take to install a 40 gallon gas water heater?

Installing 40-gallon home water heaters gas units should not take more than three hours, provided no complications or issues arise during the activity. Still, DIY installations might take longer to complete.

What are the most trusted 40-gallon water heater brands?

While branded water tank heaters are not necessarily the best, some companies are known and trusted for producing high-quality and efficient models.

Most of these companies have been in the industry for a long time. Their products are tested by long generations of users who are satisfied with their performance and durability.

Some relatively new companies have also earned their spot due to the ingenuity and efficiency of their products.

Some of these brands include Noritz, Camplux, Rinnai, Rheem, AO Smith, Bradford White, and others. Water heaters made by these companies are generally efficient, durable, and easy on the pocket.

Is Rheem or AO Smith better?

Both companies are known for manufacturing top-of-the-line products that have satisfied generations of users. Because of that, these two brands often buy heads.

On the one hand, AO Smith tends to be the preferred choice for many homeowners and plumbers. Their water tank heaters tend to last for a long time – some up to 30+ years.

Aside from their durability, these water tanks are also efficient as the company focuses on obtaining high LEED ratings.

On the other hand, Rheem is a trustworthy and reliable company. Compared to AO Smith, they offer a wider variety of water tank heaters to suit different tastes and preferences. Compared to AO Smith, their water heaters also tend to be cheaper while still durable and efficient.

How much should it cost to replace a 40-gallon gas water heater?

Many households are equipped with water heater tanks. Depending on the brand and model you choose, water heater tanks differ in their installation costs.

In the United States, the cost to install a new water heater in your home ranges from $400 to $900 for a 40-gallon tank. These prices are without prejudice to the water heater tank’s upfront costs.

If you are planning to hire a professional, installation fees range from $250 to $500.

The brand and the model of your water heater tank also weigh the replacement costs. For one, some units are more difficult to install and remove compared to others. They may have more expensive parts and components, which increases the cost.

The average fee for replacing water heater tanks is $650 for a whole-house water heating system. This price can go up to $1,000, depending on the damages and replacement fees, as well as the difficulty of removal.

Which is better, Bradford White or Rheem?

Bradford White is an old company that has been tried and tested by many households. Their products are patented with a preserving technology called the Vitraglass lining. This lining protects their tanks from rust, corrosion, and other chemical reactions caused by water.

However, Bradford White tends to have a limited selection of products. Not to mention, they charge an installation fee if you want it to be installed by their plumbers.

On the other hand, Rheem offers a wide selection of water heater tanks. As such, you can find varying styles from different lines.

Moreover, the company tends to sell its products wholesale. As such, you might find their products cheaper compared to other brands. They produce some cheap 40 gallon gas water heaters for those tight with their budgets.

Rheem’s products are also easier to install. Plus, they charge a fee. Compared to Bradford White, they also place more extended warranties on their products.

How to use it?

Gas or propane water heater systems usually have an insulated tank that stores water until the user needs it.

How this thing works is that the cold water enters the tank via the pipe. Coldwater settles to the bottom of the tank, where the water heater gas burner heats it.

The hotness of the gas burner depends on its regulator. This regulator comes with a thermostat to monitor the water’s temperature. As such, it automatically turns the whole system off when the water reaches a specific temperature.

The steam, gas, and other byproducts during the heating process go into a valve and are expelled by the water heater via a vent or chimney, depending on its design.

When you need hot water, you will need to press a button. The tank then pumps out the hot water, which quickly goes through the house’s water supply pipes for your use.

Once the water level is low enough, the water heater tank automatically refills it with cold water. Then the entire process starts again.

The water heater continues to heat up the water supply day and night to maintain its temperature, even if no one is currently using it.

Where to buy?

Water heater tanks are usually found in hardware and construction stores, home depots, and other similar shops. If you want, you can purchase your water tank online via trusted online sites like Amazon, eBay, and the like. If you already have a brand and manufacturer in mind, you can directly visit them on their site and order from there.

Many users advise purchasing the water heater tank in person. Doing it this way will enable you to evaluate and inspect the product thoroughly before purchase. Moreover, you can quickly ask for help from the sales clerk, especially if you are a beginner.

Conclusion

Finding the best 40 gallon gas water heater can be more comfortable with research and comparing good water heaters. Hopefully, this buying guide enlightens you about what to check when looking for one that suits your needs. These tankless heaters come with different specifications and capacities. Determine your family’s needs and pick the right one today!

Ronald Brown

Hi, I am Ronald, founder of Saveourh2o. With this website, we aim to solve all the problems related to your water filters, softeners, and heaters. I have five years working in water equipment sales & service. I hope to bring the knowledge gathered from my daily work to help you to achieve comfort and safety in your home!