Forimo Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater vs Forimo 18L Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This forimo natural gas tankless water heater vs 18l tankless water heater comparison looks at two indoor units with identical flow rates. Both deliver 4.74 GPM and feature digital displays. The main difference is fuel type. One uses natural gas, while the other runs on propane. You also need to check venting sizes and physical dimensions before buying. These specs determine if the unit fits your space and gas line.
Key differences
| Aspect | Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater | Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas (LNG) | Propane (LPG) |
| Max Power Output | 81,888 BTU/hour | 68,000 BTU/hour |
| Max Temperature Raise | 75℃ | 167°F |
| Vent Pipe Size | 2.4" horizontal | 2.5" horizontal |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 21.7 x 13.8 x 13.8 inches | 25.4 x 14.4 x 14.4 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater if
- You have a natural gas line available for connection
- You need a higher maximum power output of 81,888 BTU
- Your installation space is smaller than 22 inches high
Choose Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater if
- You use propane tanks or a propane supply line
- You prefer a unit with anti-freezing protection
- You need a wider temperature range up to 167°F
Verdict: Choose the natural gas model if your home has a gas line and you want a more compact unit with higher heat output. Pick the propane model if you rely on propane fuel or need anti-freezing features for colder climates. Both units provide the same flow rate for simultaneous use.
Spec Comparison: Gas vs Propane
fuel type
The Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is designed exclusively for natural gas (LNG). This unit requires a connection to your home’s natural gas supply line. In contrast, the Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater operates solely on propane (LPG). You must connect this model to a propane tank or line. This is the primary distinction between the two units. You cannot swap fuels between them. Choose the natural gas model if you have a gas line. Select the propane model if you rely on tanked gas storage.
power output
Heating capacity differs significantly between these two models. The natural gas unit delivers a maximum power output of 81,888 BTU per hour. This higher output helps maintain consistent hot water during peak usage. The propane model provides a lower maximum output of 68,000 BTU per hour. Both units share the same 4.74 GPM flow rate. However, the higher BTU rating of the natural gas heater may offer better performance in colder climates. You get more thermal energy per hour with the natural gas option.
dimensions
Physical size impacts where you can install these units. The natural gas heater measures 21.7 inches in height, 13.8 inches in width, and 13.8 inches in length. It is more compact overall. The propane model is larger, standing 25.4 inches tall with a width and length of 14.4 inches. The propane unit is taller and slightly wider. You need to check your available space carefully. If you have a tight closet or confined area, the smaller natural gas unit fits more easily into limited spaces.
temperature range
Each unit offers a specific temperature control range via its LED display. The natural gas heater allows you to adjust water temperature between 38℃ and 75℃. The propane heater offers a range from 86°F to 167°F. These ranges cover typical household needs for both kitchen and bathroom use. Both models feature steady temperature control technology. You can set your preferred heat level on the digital interface. The propane model lists its range in Fahrenheit, while the natural gas model uses Celsius in its description, though both serve the same function.
venting
Installation requires proper ventilation for safe operation. Both units are designed for indoor installation and require a smoke exhaust pipe. The natural gas model comes with a 2.4-inch horizontal vent pipe. The propane model includes a 2.5-inch horizontal vent pipe. The difference in vent diameter is minor but notable. You must ensure your venting setup matches the specific pipe size included with your chosen unit. Both require standard ventilation practices to remove combustion gases safely from your home.
Choose the Right Fuel for You
Home with natural gas line
This unit runs exclusively on natural gas (LNG). It delivers 4.74 GPM with 81,888 BTU/hour output. The compact 21.7-inch height fits tight spaces. You get steady temperature control and safety protections. This model is ideal if your home already has a natural gas connection for indoor use.
Cabin using propane tanks
This heater operates on propane (LPG), making it suitable for remote locations. It provides 4.74 GPM at 68,000 BTU/hour. The unit includes anti-freezing protection for colder climates. You can adjust temperatures between 86°F and 167°F. Choose this if you rely on propane tanks for your power needs.
User needing max heat rise
If you require higher maximum water temperatures, this propane model raises water up to 167°F. The natural gas alternative tops out at 75°C (167°F). Both share the same 4.74 GPM flow rate. The propane unit offers specific anti-freezing features. Select this option if your climate demands robust heating capabilities and propane fuel.
The products compared
Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Indoor natural gas homes needing multi-fixture hot water
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas (LNG)
- Flow Rate
- 4.74 GPM
- BTU
- 81,888 BTU/hour
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- Fahrenheit digital display
- Dimensions
- 21.7 x 13.8 x 13.8 inches
View on Amazon: Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This Forimo unit delivers 4.74 GPM of hot water using natural gas. It features a maximum output of 81,888 BTU/hour and supports simultaneous use at two to three fixtures. The stainless steel and copper construction aims for durability. You can adjust the temperature via the digital display. It is designed for indoor installation and requires a vent pipe for proper operation.
Pros
- Outputs 4.74 GPM for multiple fixtures
- 81,888 BTU/hour heating capacity
- Digital display for temperature control
- Stainless steel and copper construction
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Requires specific ventilation pipe
- Limited to natural gas fuel type
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a bathroom and kitchen
- You have an existing natural gas line
- You prefer indoor installation with venting
Skip if
- You require propane fuel
- You need outdoor installation
- You want a tank-style system
Verdict: Forimo 18L Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater fits homes needing steady hot water for two to three points. It suits users with natural gas access who can handle indoor venting requirements.
Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater
Best for: Indoor propane hot water for 2-3 fixtures
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 4.74 GPM
- BTU
- 68,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- 86°F-167°F
- Dimensions
- 25.4 x 14.4 x 14.4 inches
View on Amazon: Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This Forimo unit delivers 4.74 GPM of hot water using propane fuel. It features a 68,000 BTU output and precise digital temperature control between 86°F and 167°F. The stainless steel and copper construction supports indoor installation. You get steady flow for two to three simultaneous fixtures. It fits compact spaces well, making it suitable for bathrooms and kitchens in homes or small cabins.
Pros
- 4.74 GPM flow rate for multiple fixtures
- 68,000 BTU/hr maximum power output
- Digital display with 86°F-167°F range
- Stainless steel and copper heat exchanger
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Propane fuel required
- 25.4-inch height may limit placement
Good fit if
- You need hot water for 2-3 fixtures
- You have propane gas available
- You require indoor installation
Skip if
- You need outdoor installation
- You use natural gas only
- You need higher flow rates
Verdict: Forimo 18L Propane Tankless Heater suits households needing reliable indoor hot water for multiple fixtures. It works best where propane is available and space is limited.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater | Forimo 18L Indoor Propane Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas (LNG) | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 4.74 GPM | 4.74 GPM |
| BTU | 81,888 BTU/hour | 68,000 BTU/hr |
| Installation Location | Indoor | Indoor |
| Temperature Control | Fahrenheit digital display | 86°F-167°F |
| Dimensions | 21.7 x 13.8 x 13.8 inches | 25.4 x 14.4 x 14.4 inches |
| Features | Digital Display | Digital Display |
| Size | 18L | not stated |
| Color | Black(18L-Natural Gas) | Black |
| Model | CT1414-HWRSQ | HWRSQ-18L-LPG-2 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the Forimo natural gas unit outdoors?
No. The Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is rated for indoor installation only. You must place it in a protected area that meets ventilation requirements. It is not designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions or temperature extremes.
What is the physical size difference between the two models?
The propane model is slightly larger. The natural gas unit measures 13.8 by 13.8 by 21.7 inches. The propane version is 14.4 by 14.4 by 25.4 inches. Both are compact, but the propane unit needs more vertical space due to its greater height.
Do both heaters include a digital display?
Yes. Both the natural gas and propane models feature a digital display. This allows you to monitor the water temperature and system status directly on the unit. It helps you adjust settings without needing external tools or apps.
Which model is better for a home with limited space?
The natural gas model is more compact. It stands 21.7 inches tall with a smaller footprint. The propane unit is taller at 25.4 inches and wider. If you have tight clearance constraints, the natural gas version fits more easily.
Can I use the natural gas heater with propane?
No. The Forimo 4.74 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is built exclusively for natural gas. You cannot convert it to run on propane. Using the wrong fuel type can damage the unit and void safety certifications.
How many fixtures can these units support simultaneously?
Both models are designed for two to three fixtures. They deliver a flow rate of 4.74 GPM. This capacity suits households that need steady hot water for multiple points, such as a shower and a kitchen sink running at the same time.