Are you considering upgrading to a tankless water heater for endless hot water on demand? Not only could you enjoy the convenience of instantaneous warm showers, but you could also potentially reduce your energy bills. With the market filled with numerous options, choosing the best electric tankless water heater can be a daunting task. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the top-rated models to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks
Our #1 Top Pick: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus stands out with its impressive combination of performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. This German-engineered tankless water heater is designed to supply a continuous flow of hot water while adjusting the power to save energy. It features a sleek, compact design that doesn’t require venting, allowing you to save space in your home.
Its advanced flow control technology automatically maintains water temperature, even under high demand. The digital temperature display and preset temperature buttons ensure ease of use. With a power output of 28.8 kW, the Tempra 29 Plus is capable of serving multiple fixtures without a hitch.
Pick #2: EcoSmart ECO 27
The EcoSmart ECO 27 electric tankless water heater provides a perfect balance between functionality and affordability. It’s lauded for its self-modulating technology, which adjusts energy usage based on how much hot water is needed. This unit can generate up to 3 gallons per minute, ensuring that you never run out of hot water.
Ideal for small to medium-sized homes, the ECO 27 features a compact design, making it an excellent choice for limited spaces. Its digital temperature control offers precise control, allowing you to set the temperature in 1-degree increments. With a 27-kilowatt rating, it’s powerful enough to handle moderate climates and multiple simultaneous uses.
Pick #3: Rheem RTEX-24
Renowned for reliability, the Rheem RTEX-24 electric tankless water heater caters to those needing a solid performer. This 24-kilowatt heater comes with external digital thermostatic controls with an LED display, delivering hot water at the exact temperature you prefer.
The RTEX-24 prides itself on its self-modulating power control and easy installation process. It’s well-suited for homes requiring a consistent supply of hot water at multiple points of use. The unit’s robust copper immersion heating elements with brass tops ensure long-lasting performance and easy replacement if necessary.
Pick #4: Bosch Tronic 3000 T
If you’re looking for something more suitable for point-of-use applications, the Bosch Tronic 3000 T is an excellent choice. This mini-tank water heater can be used for under-sink applications, providing hot water right where you need it.
The Tronic 3000 T comes in various sizes, with the 4-gallon model being a popular choice for its balance between capacity and compactness. Installation is straightforward as the unit can be mounted on a shelf, wall or floor. It plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet, making for a quick setup.
Pick #5: Titan SCR2 N-120
Rounding out our selection is the Titan SCR2 N-120, known for its durability and extensive lifespan. This electric tankless water heater employs space technology to reduce size without compromising on power. With a capacity of 11.8 kW, it’s suitable for warm climates or for homes with low to moderate hot water demands.
The N-120 ensures consistent temperatures with its incoloy heating elements and has proven to be a reliable performer over the years. It offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality and efficiency.
What to Know Before You Buy
When you’re contemplating purchasing an electric tankless water heater, there are several aspects you need to consider to ensure you’re making the right choice for your household needs.
– Power Supply: Electric tankless water heaters require a significant amount of electrical power. Ensure your home’s electrical system can handle the additional demand.
– Flow Rate: Consider the maximum flow rate, which indicates how much hot water the unit can deliver at a given time. It’s measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
– Temperature Rise: Compare the temperature rise capability, as it determines the heater’s efficiency in heating the incoming cold water to your desired temperature.
– Size and Installation: Look at the physical size of the unit and whether it fits where you plan to install it. Also, consider the complexity of installation.
– Energy Efficiency: Research the energy efficiency of each model as higher efficiency typically translates to lower operating costs.
– Climate: Your geographical location can affect performance; in cooler climates, the heater will need to work harder to achieve the same results.
– Manufacturer’s Warranty: Review the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
To make an informed decision in choosing the best electric tankless water heater, pay attention to the following factors:
– Household Hot Water Needs: Calculate the average hot water usage in your home to determine the required size and power of your tankless water heater.
– Electrical Requirements: Ensure that your electrical panel has enough capacity for the expected load, and comply with any additional requirements like wire size or circuit breakers.
– Energy Efficiency Ratings: Consider units with high energy efficiency ratings to capitalize on long-term savings through reduced energy consumption.
– Brand Reputation: Opt for reputable brands known for quality, reliability, and customer support.
– Digital Features: Consider if you would benefit from digital controls, remote operation, or other smart features for ease of use and control.
– Maintenance and Longevity: Assess the maintenance requirements. Look for models with readily available parts for easy servicing and longer lifespans.
Why Trust ChooseRight?
You might be wondering why you should trust the insights provided by ChooseRight. Our dedicated team meticulously reviewed dozens of electric tankless water heaters. We read through thousands of user reviews and sought feedback from plumbing and heating professionals to compile our list of top picks. Our commitment to providing unbiased, thorough evaluations ensures that you receive recommendations you can trust.
Each product selected has been scrutinized for performance, efficiency, and user satisfaction. We place your needs at the forefront, guiding you toward the best possible options for your household requirements.
Finishing Thoughts
Choosing the best electric tankless water heater can be quite the task, but with the right information and considerations in mind, you can find a unit that delivers efficiency, convenience, and long-term savings. Take into account your specific needs, the aforementioned factors, and our top picks to make a purchase that aligns with your lifestyle and budget. Remember, the best investment is one that caters to your unique circumstances, providing both comfort and reliability when it comes to your hot water demands. Choose wisely, and enjoy the endless benefits of on-demand hot water in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of an electric tankless water heater?
Electric tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, meaning they heat water as it is needed, which can result in energy savings since there is no need to maintain a tank of hot water. They are also compact, generally have a longer lifespan than tank water heaters, and can reduce the risk of water damage from tank leaks.
How do I determine which size electric tankless water heater I need?
To determine the right size, you’ll need to calculate the flow rate and temperature rise you require. The flow rate is the amount of water (measured in gallons per minute) that you will use at any given time. Temperature rise is the difference between the ground water temperature and your desired output temperature. Sizing charts or a professional assessment can help determine the best size for your home.
Can I install an electric tankless water heater myself?
Installation of an electric tankless water heater typically requires knowledge of plumbing and electrical systems. If you are not experienced with these, it’s recommended to hire a professional electrician and plumber to ensure the installation adheres to local building codes and safety standards.
Are electric tankless water heaters more energy-efficient than tank water heaters?
Yes, electric tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient than traditional tank water heaters because they only heat water on demand rather than constantly heating and reheating water in a storage tank.
How much can I save on my energy bill by using an electric tankless water heater?
The amount you can save will vary based on your current setup, hot water usage, and the efficiency of the unit you choose. On average, homeowners may save anywhere from 8% to 34% on their energy costs for heating water.
Do electric tankless water heaters require a lot of maintenance?
While electric tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than tank heaters, they should still be flushed out with a vinegar solution every 6-12 months to remove mineral build-up, depending on the hardness of the water in your area. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific maintenance guidelines.
What is the lifespan of an electric tankless water heater?
Electric tankless water heaters typically have a longer lifespan than their tank counterparts, often lasting 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Do electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates?
Yes, electric tankless water heaters can work in cold climates, but their efficiency may be reduced in extremely cold water conditions. In areas with very low incoming water temperatures, a larger unit or a gas-powered model might be more effective.
Can I use an electric tankless water heater for both my home and commercial property?
Electric tankless water heaters can be used for both residential and commercial properties, but it is important to choose a model that is appropriately sized for the demand of the property.
Is it possible to use multiple electric tankless water heaters in larger homes?
Yes, in larger homes or where hot water demand is high, it may be beneficial to install multiple electric tankless water heaters. This can ensure that sufficient hot water is available throughout the home.
What should I do if my electric tankless water heater isn’t producing hot water?
If your electric tankless water heater isn’t producing hot water, check for any tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. Also, inspect the unit for possible error codes which can indicate specific issues. If the problem persists, consult the user manual or contact a professional technician.
