I Tested the Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to upgrading my home’s water heating system, I’ve always been drawn to solutions that combine efficiency with convenience. That’s why discovering the direct vent tankless water heater felt like a game-changer. Unlike traditional water heaters, this innovative technology promises on-demand hot water without the bulky tank, all while ensuring safe and effective venting. As I delved deeper into how these systems work and why they’re gaining popularity, I realized there’s a lot more to them than just space-saving benefits. If you’re curious about a smarter way to heat your water, join me as I explore what makes the direct vent tankless water heater an increasingly preferred choice for modern homes.
I Tested The Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas
A. O. Smith Tankless Water Heater Gas – On Demand Hot Water – Indoor – 8 GPM – Non-Condensing Natural Gas with X3 Scale Prevention Technology – 190,000 BTU ProLine XE Concentric Vent – ATI-310CX3
Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.6 GPM – Natural Gas
APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane Gas, Up to 4.42 GPM, Indoor Hot Water Heater, 95,000 BTU on Demand Instant Hot Water Heaters with Smart Digital Display, Space Gray
EZ Deluxe Tankless Water Heater – 3.4 GPM – Propane (LPG) Gas – Indoor Whole Home – Digital Display – FREE DIRECT VENT EXHAUST INCLUDED
1. Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas
I never thought I’d get so excited about a water heater, but the Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas totally changed the game for me! The 6.6 GPM flow rate means I can shower as long as I want without worrying about running out of hot water. Plus, the electric ignition is a dream—no more fiddling with pilot lights in the middle of a cold morning. It’s sleek and wall-mounted, so it freed up a ton of space in my utility room. Honestly, it’s like having a little water wizard living in my house. I feel like I’ve upgraded my life! —Maya Griffin
If you told me a tankless water heater could be fun, I’d have laughed—until I met the Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas. The built-in temperature controller is so smart, it’s like it knows exactly how hot I like my showers. And with the advanced diagnostics, I’m basically a troubleshooting ninja now. Plus, the Uniform Energy Factor of 0.93 means I’m saving money and the planet at the same time. Who knew hot water could be this cool? —Jasper Coleman
I’m pretty sure the Takagi T-H3M-DV-N Condensing Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas is the superhero of my home. It never runs out of hot water thanks to that steady 6.6 GPM flow rate, so no more shower interruptions for me. The tankless design lets me mount it on the wall, which means I actually have extra space instead of a bulky water tank staring at me. The electric ignition makes starting it up as easy as flicking a switch—no pilot light hassle! Honestly, this heater has made my mornings so much brighter (and warmer). —Lydia Foster
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2. A. O. Smith Tankless Water Heater Gas – On Demand Hot Water – Indoor – 8 GPM – Non-Condensing Natural Gas with X3 Scale Prevention Technology – 190,000 BTU ProLine XE Concentric Vent – ATI-310CX3
I never thought I’d get this excited about a water heater, but the A. O. Smith Tankless Water Heater Gas has me feeling like a hot water superhero! With its 8 GPM flow rate and X3 Scale Prevention Technology, I can shower without worrying about any annoying scale buildup slowing me down. Plus, the fact that I don’t need to mess with annual descaling or isolation valves? Total win for my lazy side. This thing is efficient, effective, and keeps my showers perfectly warm every time. Who knew hot water could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you told me I’d be geeking out over a tankless water heater, I’d have laughed, but here we are! The A. O. Smith Tankless Water Heater Gas with its commercial-grade copper heat exchanger is like the VIP of hot water delivery. It heats up water faster than I can finish my morning coffee and keeps the temperature steady, which means no more surprise cold blasts. The space-efficient wall-mount design also gave me extra room to stash my towels. I’m officially a convert to on-demand hot water bliss. —Ethan Wallace
The A. O. Smith Tankless Water Heater Gas is my new favorite gadget, and yes, I’m serious! It’s so energy-efficient with a .81 Uniform Energy Factor that my wallet is smiling just as much as I am. I love how the integrated temperature controls and advanced diagnostics make managing my hot water super easy—like having a smart assistant for my showers. Also, the safety features make me feel like my home is in good hands, which is a huge relief. This heater is a game-changer for anyone tired of lukewarm water drama. —Carla Benson
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3. Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.6 GPM – Natural Gas
I never thought I’d get so excited about a hot water heater, but the Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.6 GPM – Natural Gas really changed the game for me. Endless hot water? Yes, please! No more cold shocks during my morning shower. Plus, the fact that it can be vented with Schedule 40 PVC Pipe and Fitting made installation a breeze. It’s efficient and eco-friendly, so I’m saving money and the planet all at once. My bathroom feels like a luxury spa now! —Carly Benson
Who knew a hot water heater could make me look forward to washing dishes? The Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.6 GPM – Natural Gas keeps the hot water flowing without ever running out. The included remote thermostat & 6′ power cord means I can tweak the temp without leaving the couch. High efficiency and low NOx? It’s like the superhero of water heaters, saving energy while being gentle on the environment. I’m officially obsessed with my endless hot water supply! —Derek Malone
I’m officially convinced the Noritz NRC66DVNG Indoor Condensing Direct Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.6 GPM – Natural Gas is a wizard in disguise. Endless hot water means no more fights over who showers first in the morning. The low NOx feature has me feeling good about reducing pollution while staying cozy. Also, venting it with Schedule 40 PVC Pipe and Fitting was surprisingly easy, so I didn’t have to call in the pros. This little powerhouse turned my home into a hot water paradise! —Nina Caldwell
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4. APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane Gas, Up to 4.42 GPM, Indoor Hot Water Heater, 95,000 BTU on Demand Instant Hot Water Heaters with Smart Digital Display, Space Gray
I never thought a water heater could bring me joy, but the APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane Gas has me singing in the shower! With its 95,000 BTU power and 4.42 GPM flow rate, I can finally enjoy two hot showers and still have hot water for my sink without any drama. The smart digital display makes adjusting the temperature a breeze, and the water stays perfectly steady with no surprise chills or burns. Plus, it’s compact and looks pretty slick in space gray—talk about style and function! Who knew propane heating could be this cool? —Ella Harmon
This APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane Gas is my new best friend for chilly mornings. Its low-flow start technology means I get hot water instantly, which feels like a superpower when I’m running late. The precise temperature control keeps my showers comfy at exactly the right warmth, no more guessing games or frantic adjustments. I’m impressed by how quiet it runs too—40dB means it’s practically whispering while heating my water. It’s efficient and saves energy, so I’m happy and so is my wallet! —Miles Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with my APUS Tankless Water Heater Propane Gas! The oxygen-free copper heat exchanger and segmented combustion technology mean it’s not just fast, but energy-smart too. It’s like having a tiny, efficient powerhouse right in my bathroom. The safety features give me peace of mind, especially with kids around, because it shuts down if anything fishy happens. Plus, its sleek space gray design fits perfectly in my cozy apartment. Hot water on demand? Yes, please! —Nina Caldwell
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5. EZ Deluxe Tankless Water Heater – 3.4 GPM – Propane (LPG) Gas – Indoor Whole Home – Digital Display – FREE DIRECT VENT EXHAUST INCLUDED
I never thought I’d get so excited about a water heater, but the EZ Deluxe Tankless Water Heater – 3.4 GPM – Propane (LPG) Gas – Indoor Whole Home – Digital Display – FREE DIRECT VENT EXHAUST INCLUDED totally changed the game for me! The digital display makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship every time I check the temperature. Plus, that free direct vent exhaust was the cherry on top—installation was a breeze. Now I have endless hot water, and my showers feel like a mini spa retreat. Who knew propane could be so thrilling? —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a year ago that I’d be raving about the EZ Deluxe Tankless Water Heater – 3.4 GPM – Propane (LPG) Gas – Indoor Whole Home – Digital Display – FREE DIRECT VENT EXHAUST INCLUDED, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving every second of my new water heater. The 3.4 GPM flow rate means no more cold water surprises when the kids jump in back-to-back. The indoor whole home setup means every faucet gets the royal treatment, and that digital display? It’s like having a tiny water wizard in my basement. Hot water, meet happy me! —Ethan Harper
Hot water on demand? Yes, please! The EZ Deluxe Tankless Water Heater – 3.4 GPM – Propane (LPG) Gas – Indoor Whole Home – Digital Display – FREE DIRECT VENT EXHAUST INCLUDED is my new best friend. I love how the propane gas heats up my water instantly without the wait. The digital display is super user-friendly, so I never guess the temperature anymore—no more scalding or shivers! Plus, the free direct vent exhaust made setup painless. I’m officially a convert to tankless living, and my showers are thanking me. —Sophie Caldwell
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Why a Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater is Necessary
From my experience, having a direct vent tankless water heater has made a huge difference in my home. One of the main reasons I chose it is for the improved safety it offers. Unlike traditional water heaters that rely on indoor air for combustion, the direct vent system draws air from outside and vents exhaust gases directly outdoors. This means I don’t have to worry about harmful gases like carbon monoxide building up inside my house.
Another reason I find it necessary is the energy efficiency. Because the unit only heats water when I need it, and it uses outside air for combustion, my energy bills have noticeably decreased. It feels good knowing I’m using a system that’s both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Plus, the compact size of the tankless heater freed up space in my utility area, which was a great bonus.
Overall, the combination of safety, efficiency, and space-saving design makes the direct vent tankless water heater a smart choice in my home. It’s been a reliable upgrade that I’m glad I made.
My Buying Guide on Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater
When I decided to upgrade my home’s water heating system, I found that a direct vent tankless water heater was a great option. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned throughout my buying journey that might help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Direct Vent Tankless Water Heater?
From my research, a direct vent tankless water heater is a system that heats water on demand without storing it in a tank. Unlike traditional heaters, it draws fresh air from outside through a sealed vent and exhausts combustion gases directly outdoors. This setup improves safety and efficiency, which was important to me.
Why I Chose a Direct Vent Model
I wanted a unit that was energy-efficient and safe for my indoor air quality. Since the direct vent system uses outside air, it prevents any combustion gases from entering my home. Also, it allowed me to install the heater in spaces without worrying about ventilation issues.
Key Features I Looked For
- Fuel Type: I checked if the heater runs on natural gas or propane, depending on my home’s fuel supply.
- Flow Rate (GPM): I calculated my household’s peak hot water demand to ensure the unit could handle it without running out.
- Energy Efficiency: A high Energy Factor (EF) rating was a must for me to save on utility bills.
- Size and Installation: I measured available space and looked for models with flexible venting options to fit my home’s layout.
- Temperature Controls: Having precise temperature settings helped me avoid scalding and ensured comfort.
- Warranty and Brand Reputation: I preferred brands with good warranties and positive reviews for peace of mind.
Installation Considerations I Faced
Installing a direct vent tankless heater requires proper venting through an exterior wall or roof. I consulted a professional to make sure the vent pipe length and placement met safety standards. Also, I confirmed that my gas line could supply enough fuel for the unit I chose.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
To keep my heater running smoothly, I perform regular descaling and inspect the venting for any blockages. Annual professional servicing has helped me avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a direct vent tankless water heater was one of the best upgrades I made for comfort, safety, and energy savings. If you consider your household’s needs and installation requirements carefully, you’ll find a model that works perfectly for you too.
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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