Best Commercial Tankless Water Heaters for Laundromats
When selecting a commercial tankless water heater for a laundromat, the goal is to ensure a steady supply of hot water for multiple washers and customers while maximizing energy efficiency and reliability. The following five products represent a range of gas and electric options suitable for laundromats, from rugged outdoor units to compact indoor models. Use this guide to compare capacities, installation requirements, and temperature control to determine the best fit for your facility.
| Product | Type | Approximate Capacity | Installation Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOGATTI Instagas Natural Gas Comfort 180S Series | Gas, Outdoor | Up to 8.1 GPM | Outdoor-ready, remote panel,4-stage combustion |
| FOGATTI Instagas Comfort 180S (Propane) | Gas, Outdoor | Up to 8.1 GPM | Outdoor-ready, remote panel, high efficiency |
| Rheem RTEX-24 Electric Tankless | Electric | Up to 4.0+ GPM | Requires 3 x 40A breakers, indoor use |
| Orbek 18kW Electric Tankless | Electric | Up to 4.17 GPM | Indoor, requires 2 x 240V/40A breakers |
| Nessxa 14L Propane Gas Tankless | Gas, Indoor | Up to 3.7 GPM | Indoor installation, 95,540 BTU input |
FOGATTI Natural Gas Tankless Outdoor 180S Series
FOGATTI’s Instagas Comfort 180S is a robust outdoor gas-fired unit rated up to 180,000 BTU with a maximum flow of 8.1 GPM. It is designed for multiple outlet points, making it suitable for laundromatic demand where several washers require hot water concurrently. Key features include instant hot water delivery, a bottom-mounted fan for safer combustion and longevity, and a four-stage combustion system for stable performance across seasons. Precision temperature control via water servo technology and sensors maintains tight temperature consistency, typically within ±1°F, helping laundromats avoid scalding and temperature fluctuations during peak hours.
FOGATTI Propane Gas Tankless Outdoor 180S Series
This propane-fired model mirrors the natural gas version’s capabilities, delivering continuous hot water up to 8.1 GPM with 180,000 BTU input. It shares outdoor-ready construction and a remote indoor control panel, ensuring flexible installation in laundromat environments. The four-stage combustion and precise temperature regulation help maintain a stable outlet temperature for multiple washers and utility sinks. The unit’s design emphasizes durability in outdoor settings, enabling reliable operation year-round for busy facilities that demand steady hot water.
Rheem RTEX-24 24kW Electric Tankless
The Rheem RTEX-24 is a compact electric tankless option rated at 24 kW. It provides continuous hot water for moderate usage and is suitable for laundromats with a smaller footprint or where gas supply is unavailable. Required electrical service is substantial (three 40-amp double-pole breakers and a 200-amp service is recommended). Features include an ON/OFF digital temperature display with 1-degree increments, which supports precise control for individual washers and utility sinks, though flow capacity is lower than gas models, making it best for limited concurrent demand scenarios.
Orbek 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Orbek 18kW electric model delivers on-demand hot water up to about 4.17 GPM. It requires two 240V/40A breakers and 3/4″ NPT water connections, with a 3-second warm-up to provide hot water. Energy efficiency is enhanced by water-electricity separation, reducing mineral buildup and corrosion. This makes it a practical option for laundromats prioritizing indoor installation and substantial electrical capacity, especially when gas lines are unavailable or undesirable.
Nessxa Tankless Gas Water Heater Indoor 14L
The Nessxa 14L indoor propane tankless water heater provides up to 3.7 GPM with a 95,540 BTU input, suitable for indoor laundromat applications where venting and space are constrained. The unit emphasizes rapid hot water delivery with an automatic on-demand design and a Fahrenheit digital display for precise temperature tuning. It presents a compact, efficient indoor option where venting is manageable and flow demands are moderate.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations for Laundromats
- Flow capacity vs. simultaneous demand: Laundromats typically run multiple washers at once. Gas models with 6–8+ GPM capacity better support higher concurrent usage, while electric options typically provide lower GPM and may require careful scheduling or additional units.
- Fuel and installation: Gas units require venting, gas supply, and outdoor or adequately ventilated spaces. Electric units avoid gas lines but demand substantial electrical service, breakers, and proper panel capacity. Assess existing utility connections before purchase.
- Temperature control and stability: Look for precise temperature regulation to avoid scalding and ensure uniform hot water across fixtures. Units with sensors, servo controls, and digital displays help operators maintain consistent performance during peak times.
- Durability and environmental suitability: Laundromats experience frequent usage and potential weather exposure for outdoor units. Select models built for outdoor durability or indoor-safe configurations with appropriate ventilation and clearance.
- Maintenance and serviceability: Choose units with accessible service points, clear installation manuals, and readily available replacement parts. Consider warranty terms and vendor support for commercial operations.
- Electrical and building compatibility: Ensure electrical service meets the unit’s requirements (e.g., three 40A breakers for some electric models) and confirm space, clearance, and venting specifications align with local codes.
- Certifications and safety: CSA, ETL, and other safety certifications, along with temperature and pressure safeguards, are important for commercial settings to minimize risk and downtime.
When evaluating options for laundromats, it is essential to balance upfront installation costs with long-term operational reliability and energy efficiency. Gas-powered outdoor units offer high flow suitable for busier facilities, while electric models provide installation flexibility in spaces with limited gas access. Consider the facility’s peak load, utility availability, and maintenance capabilities to identify the best long-term solution.