In this section, we will provide an overview of our top picks for tankless water heaters. These reviews are based on extensive research and analysis of various models available in the market. We will discuss the features, efficiency, and performance of each model to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways:
- Our top picks for tankless water heaters are based on extensive research and analysis.
- We consider factors such as features, efficiency, and performance when evaluating the models.
- Choosing the right tankless water heater requires careful consideration of your specific needs and household size.
- Investing in an energy-efficient and reliable water heater can help reduce your energy consumption and utility costs.
- Consulting a professional if needed can ensure you select the best tankless water heater for your requirements.
Best Overall: Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater is our top pick for the best electric tankless water heater. With its exceptional performance and reliability, it provides a high flow rate of 5 GPM and a heat capacity of 24 kW. This makes it ideal for large households that require a continuous supply of hot water.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7dXgGT1Cb0
One of the standout features of the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater is its compact design, allowing for easy installation in tight spaces. Additionally, it comes with a 7-year warranty against leaks, providing peace of mind and long-term protection for your investment.
Not only is the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater highly efficient in terms of energy consumption, but it also offers a consistent and reliable source of hot water. Whether you need it for showers, laundry, or kitchen use, this water heater delivers top performance to meet your needs.
Key Features:
- High flow rate of 5 GPM
- Heat capacity of 24 kW
- 7-year warranty against leaks
- Compact design for easy installation
Flow RateHeat CapacityWarrantyDesign5 GPM24 kW7 yearsCompact
Best Whole-House: Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater
The Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater is our top choice for whole-house use. It boasts a high flow rate of 7.5 GPM and a heat capacity of 120,000 BTU, making it suitable for medium and large-sized homes. With enhanced scale detection and the ability to provide hot water to multiple appliances simultaneously, this water heater offers both convenience and efficiency.
The Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater stands out for its advanced features and reliable performance. It is equipped with a temperature lock function, allowing you to set a desired water temperature and prevent accidental changes. The water heater also utilizes condensing technology, increasing its energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
In terms of installation, the Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater provides flexibility with both indoor and outdoor venting options. Its compact size makes it easier to fit in tight spaces, and the unit is designed for easy maintenance, with accessible components and advanced diagnostics for troubleshooting.
To summarize, the Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater is the best option for whole-house use. It offers a high flow rate, enhanced scale detection, and advanced features for optimized performance. Its compact design and easy installation further add to its appeal for homeowners looking for an efficient and reliable water heating solution.
Best Propane-Powered: Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater
When it comes to propane-powered tankless water heaters, the Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater stands out as the best option. With a flow rate of 5.3 gallons per minute (GPM) and a heat capacity of 180,000 BTU, this water heater provides a reliable and efficient source of hot water for your household.
What sets the Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater apart is its ability to be installed outside, saving valuable space in your home. Its lightweight design allows for easy installation, and with the option to use Wi-Fi technology for remote control, you have the convenience of adjusting your water temperature from anywhere in your home. The water heater also comes with a 12-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for years to come.
Pros:
- Propane-powered for energy efficiency
- Can be installed outside, saving space indoors
- Lightweight design for easy installation
- Option to use Wi-Fi technology for remote control
- Comes with a 12-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Requires access to a propane fuel source
- May have additional installation costs for venting
- Higher upfront cost compared to electric models
Overall, the Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater is the best choice for those looking for a propane-powered tankless water heater. Its efficient performance, outdoor installation capability, and convenient features make it a reliable and convenient option for providing hot water to your household.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FU9coieMM9Y
Most Efficient: EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater
The EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater is the most efficient option on our list. With a flow rate of 5 GPM and a heat capacity of 18 kW, it offers consistent hot water supply while reducing energy consumption. This water heater utilizes advanced self-modulating technology, which adjusts the power output based on hot water demand, ensuring optimal efficiency.
One of the key features of the EcoSmart ECO 18 is its lifetime warranty for residential use. This provides peace of mind and reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the quality and durability of their product. Additionally, the compact size of this water heater allows for easy installation in tight spaces, saving valuable floor space in your home.
When it comes to electric tankless water heater reviews, the EcoSmart ECO 18 receives positive feedback from users. Customers appreciate its energy-saving capabilities and the ability to provide hot water on demand. The self-modulating technology ensures that the water heater only uses the necessary amount of energy, resulting in lower utility bills.
In summary, the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater stands out for its efficiency, advanced features, and positive customer reviews. It offers a great balance between performance and affordability, making it a top choice for individuals looking to upgrade to a tankless water heating system.
Best for Small Households: EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater is specifically designed for small households. With a flow rate of 2 GPM and a heat capacity of 13 kW, it is ideal for one or two people. This compact water heater is equipped with advanced self-modulating technology, ensuring energy-efficient hot water supply while saving on electricity costs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIO47lSesW0
One of the key advantages of the EcoSmart ECO 11 is its compact size, making it suitable for installation in tight spaces. Additionally, this water heater offers precise temperature control, allowing you to set the desired hot water temperature according to your preference.
When considering the purchase of a tankless water heater for a small household, it is important to take into account the household's hot water usage patterns. The EcoSmart ECO 11 can provide a continuous supply of hot water, but it may not be suitable for simultaneous use of multiple hot water sources. It is recommended to evaluate your specific needs and consult a professional to ensure the right-sized water heater is selected.
Key Features:
- Designed for small households
- Flow rate of 2 GPM
- Heat capacity of 13 kW
- Compact size for easy installation
- Advanced self-modulating technology
- Precise temperature control
Pros:
- Energy-efficient
- Compact design
- Easy installation
- Advanced temperature control
Cons:
- May not be suitable for simultaneous use of multiple hot water sources
Table
Specification EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater Flow Rate 2 GPM Heat Capacity 13 kW Size 11.5" x 8" x 3.75" Weight 6.5 lbs
Best Value: Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater
The Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater is our top value pick for its affordability and reliable performance. With a flow rate of 1.95 GPM and a heat capacity of 8 kW, this water heater offers on-demand hot water supply for small to medium-sized households. Its compact design allows for easy installation in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for homeowners.
One of the key features of the Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater is its energy efficiency. It operates using advanced heating elements that provide consistent hot water while minimizing energy consumption. This can result in significant savings on electricity and gas costs over time.
Additionally, this water heater is equipped with digital temperature control, allowing you to set the desired water temperature with precision. It also features self-diagnostic capabilities that monitor the system for any potential issues, ensuring reliable performance and peace of mind.
Features Specifications Flow Rate 1.95 GPM Heat Capacity 8 kW Energy Efficiency Advanced heating elements Installation Compact design for easy installation Control Digital temperature control Monitoring Self-diagnostic capabilities
Overall, the Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater offers excellent value for money without compromising on performance or energy efficiency. Whether you're looking to replace an old water heater or upgrade to a more efficient system, this model is definitely worth considering.
Compare Top-Rated Tankless Water Heaters
In this section, we will compare the top-rated tankless water heaters discussed in the previous sections to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. We have compiled the key features, flow rates, heat capacities, warranties, weights, and dimensions of each model for easy comparison.
Table 1: Comparison of Tankless Water Heaters
Model Flow Rate (GPM) Heat Capacity (BTU) Warranty Weight (lbs) Dimensions (inches) Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater 5 24,000 7 years 15.4 16.6 x 14.5 x 4.6 Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater 7.5 120,000 10 years 44.3 9.6 x 14 x 23 Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater 5.3 180,000 10 years 39.5 9 x 14 x 22.6 EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater 5 N/A Lifetime (residential) 14.3 17 x 17 x 3.75 EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater 2 N/A Lifetime (residential) 6.5 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater 1.95 N/A 5 years 10.75 12.63 x 8.25 x 3.63
Based on the comparison table above, the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater offers a high flow rate and heat capacity, accompanied by a 7-year warranty. It is a compact option suitable for large households. On the other hand, if you have a medium to large-sized home and prefer a gas-powered water heater, the Rinnai Indoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater or the Rinnai Outdoor Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater are excellent choices.
If energy efficiency is your top priority, the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater provides superior performance and a lifetime warranty for residential use. For smaller households, the EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater offers a compact design and energy-efficient hot water supply. Lastly, the Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater is a value option with on-demand hot water supply and a 5-year warranty.
Consider your hot water requirements, budget, and space limitations when comparing these top-rated tankless water heaters to find the perfect match for your home.
Best Tankless Water Heater Overall: Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater is the best overall option in our list of top tankless water heaters. With its high flow rate, heat capacity, warranty, and compact design, it offers a range of advanced features that make it a top choice for both residential and commercial use.
One of the key advantages of the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater is its memory settings, which allow users to set their preferred temperature and easily recall it whenever needed. This feature ensures a consistent and personalized hot water experience.
Another notable feature is the advanced flow control function, which helps maintain a steady and precise water output temperature, regardless of fluctuations in the input water temperature or flow rate. This ensures a comfortable and reliable hot water supply throughout your household.
While the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater offers exceptional performance, it's important to note that it has a larger footprint compared to other electric models. Additionally, some customers have reported a restocking fee when returning the product. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by its superior performance and reliability.
Pros:
- High flow rate and heat capacity
- 7-year warranty against leaks
- Memory settings for personalized temperature
- Advanced flow control for steady hot water supply
Cons:
- Larger footprint compared to other electric models
- Possible restocking fee for returns
Flow Rate (GPM)Heat Capacity (kW)WarrantyFootprintRestocking Fee5247-year warranty against leaksLarger footprint compared to other electric modelsPossible restocking fee for returns
Overall, the Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater offers superior performance, advanced features, and a reliable hot water supply. Despite its slightly larger size and potential restocking fee, it remains the best choice for those seeking a high-quality, electric tankless water heater for their home or business.
Best Whole-House Water Heater: Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater
The Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is our top choice for whole-house use. It offers a high flow rate and ample heat capacity to meet the hot water demands of medium and large-sized homes. With its advanced features and efficient performance, this water heater provides convenience and reliability for your household.
Features
The Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater comes equipped with enhanced scale detection, ensuring efficient and trouble-free operation. It also has the capability to supply hot water to multiple appliances simultaneously, making it suitable for busy households. Additionally, this water heater offers temperature control options and a user-friendly interface for easy operation.
Efficiency
This tankless water heater is designed to be highly efficient, providing consistent hot water while minimizing energy consumption. Its advanced technology and self-modulating capabilities help optimize energy usage, resulting in cost savings on utility bills. With its energy-efficient design, the Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is an eco-friendly choice for your home.
Features Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater Flow Rate High (varies based on model) Heat Capacity Ample for whole-house use (varies based on model) Scale Detection Enhanced Multiple Appliance Supply Yes Temperature Control Yes Energy Efficiency High Warranty Varies based on model
Considering its top-rated performance and features, the Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is an excellent choice for whole-house use. However, it's important to note that some customers have reported difficulties with installation, so professional installation is recommended. Despite this, the Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater remains a reliable and efficient solution for your hot water needs.
Best Propane-Powered Water Heater: Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater
If you prefer a propane-powered water heater, the Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is the best choice. With its lightweight design and the flexibility of being installed outside, this water heater offers convenience and efficiency. It has a flow rate of 5.3 GPM and a heat capacity of 180,000 BTU, making it suitable for medium to large households.
One of the notable features of the Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is its compatibility with Wi-Fi technology, allowing you to control the unit remotely. Whether you want to adjust the temperature or monitor energy usage, you have the convenience of managing your hot water supply from anywhere in your home. Please note, however, that this water heater may not be compatible with certain products, so it's important to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater does not include a recess box for protection against outdoor elements. Therefore, it's important to consider the environment in which it will be installed and take appropriate measures to protect the unit. With its impressive performance and versatile features, the Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is an excellent choice for those looking for a propane-powered water heater.
Key Features:
- Flow rate: 5.3 GPM
- Heat capacity: 180,000 BTU
- Lightweight design
- Compatible with Wi-Fi technology
- No recess box included
Flow Rate (GPM) Heat Capacity (BTU) Wi-Fi Compatible Recess Box Included 5.3 180,000 Yes No
Most Efficient Water Heater: EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater
The EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater stands out as the most efficient option among the top picks. With its advanced technology and energy-saving features, this water heater can help you reduce your water heating costs by up to 60%. It offers point-of-use installation, allowing you to have hot water whenever and wherever you need it.
One of the key highlights of the EcoSmart ECO 18 is its self-modulating technology. This innovative feature ensures that the water heater only uses the necessary amount of energy to heat the water, optimizing its efficiency and reducing standby losses. This means that you won't be wasting energy when hot water is not in use, making it an eco-friendly choice for your household.
In addition to its energy efficiency, the EcoSmart ECO 18 also offers a lifetime warranty for residential use. This provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you are investing in a durable and reliable water heater. The compact, wall-mounted design further saves valuable floor space and allows for easy installation.
Comparison Table: Most Efficient Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Water Heater Flow Rate (GPM) Heat Capacity (kW) Warranty Installation EcoSmart ECO 18 5 18 Lifetime (Residential) Point-of-use Stiebel Eltron 5 24 7 years Whole-house Rinnai Indoor 7.5 120,000 BTU 12 years (Heat Exchanger), 5 years (Parts) Whole-house Rinnai Outdoor 5.3 180,000 BTU 12 years (Heat Exchanger), 5 years (Parts) Outdoor Rheem 1.95 8 5 years Point-of-use
When comparing the most efficient electric tankless water heaters, it's important to consider factors such as flow rate, heat capacity, warranty, and installation type. While the EcoSmart ECO 18 offers a slightly lower flow rate compared to the Stiebel Eltron and Rinnai models, it compensates with its energy-saving capabilities and lifetime warranty. It is an excellent choice for those looking to maximize energy efficiency without compromising on performance.
Overall, the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater stands out as the most efficient option due to its advanced self-modulating technology, energy-saving features, and lifetime warranty. It provides a reliable and eco-friendly solution for your hot water needs, helping you save on energy costs while enjoying endless hot water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering tankless water heaters, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of different brands available in the market. Our comprehensive reviews have highlighted the top choices for different household needs.
While Stiebel Eltron Electric Tankless Water Heater stands out as the best overall option, Rinnai Indoor Tankless Hot Water Heater is the ideal choice for whole-house use. For those who prefer propane-powered water heaters, Rinnai Outdoor Tankless Hot Water Heater offers convenience and flexibility.
EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater offers the highest level of energy efficiency, while Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater provides excellent value for the price. It is important to carefully assess your hot water requirements and consult a professional to ensure the right choice for your specific needs.
FAQ
Can a tankless water heater be used for a whole-house hot water supply?
Yes, there are tankless water heaters available with high flow rates and capacities that can provide hot water for a whole house.
Are tankless water heaters energy-efficient?
Yes, tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient compared to traditional tank water heaters as they only heat water on-demand, resulting in reduced energy consumption.
Do tankless water heaters require professional installation?
While some tankless water heaters can be installed by homeowners, it is recommended to consult a professional for installation to ensure proper sizing, ventilation, and connection to the plumbing system.
How long do tankless water heaters last?
Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan compared to traditional tank water heaters. With proper maintenance, they can last for 20 years or more.
Are tankless water heaters more expensive than traditional tank water heaters?
Initially, tankless water heaters may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional tank water heaters. However, they can provide long-term energy savings and lower utility bills, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Can a tankless water heater supply hot water to multiple appliances simultaneously?
Yes, most tankless water heaters have the capacity to provide hot water to multiple appliances at the same time, depending on their flow rate and capacity.
Do tankless water heaters require maintenance?
Tankless water heaters typically require less maintenance compared to traditional tank water heaters. However, regular flushing of the system and descaling may be necessary to prevent mineral buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Are tankless water heaters suitable for small households?
Yes, there are tankless water heaters available with lower flow rates and capacities specifically designed for smaller households or point-of-use applications.
