Electric tankless water heaters are revolutionizing the way households experience hot water, offering endless supply and greater efficiency than traditional systems. Whether you’re upgrading your current system or installing one for the first time, electric tankless heaters are becoming the go-to choice for homeowners who want energy savings, convenience, and a constant supply of hot water.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the best electric tankless water heaters available, providing detailed reviews, specifications, benefits, and a comparison table to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also answer common questions about tankless heaters and help you understand why this option is worth considering for your home.
What is an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
An electric tankless water heater heats water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. The water is heated by an electric element, ensuring a constant supply of hot water. This means you don’t need to wait for a storage tank to fill up, making it a highly efficient system for households of all sizes.
Advantages of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy Efficiency: Since they only heat water when needed, these units avoid the standby energy loss that comes with traditional storage water heaters.
- Endless Hot Water Supply: There’s no need to worry about running out of hot water, even during peak usage.
- Space-Saving Design: Electric tankless units are compact and can be installed in small spaces.
- Lower Utility Bills: By only heating water on demand, electric tankless heaters can save on energy costs.
- Longer Lifespan: With proper maintenance, electric tankless water heaters often last longer than traditional models, sometimes up to 20 years.
Buying an Electric Tankless Water Heater
Before making your decision, it’s important to understand what features and specifications matter most in choosing the best electric tankless water heater for your home. Here are the critical factors to consider:
1. Flow Rate
Flow rate refers to how much water the unit can heat at once, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). The higher the GPM, the more fixtures (such as showers or sinks) can receive hot water simultaneously. Depending on your household size and water usage, you’ll want to choose a unit with an adequate flow rate. A small household may be satisfied with 3-4 GPM, while larger homes with multiple bathrooms may need 7+ GPM.
2. Energy Efficiency Rating
Electric tankless water heaters typically have higher energy efficiency ratings than traditional water heaters. Look for units with a higher Uniform Energy Factor (UEF), which indicates how efficiently the heater converts energy into hot water. A higher UEF means lower energy consumption and savings on your electricity bills.
3. Installation Requirements
While electric tankless water heaters are generally easier to install than gas models, it’s important to consider your home’s electrical system. Some units may require specific voltage levels or circuit breakers. Check the power requirements and consult with a licensed electrician if needed.
4. Temperature Rise
Temperature rise refers to the difference between the incoming water temperature and the desired output temperature. Make sure the heater you choose can meet your heating needs, especially if you live in a colder climate where incoming water temperatures are lower.
5. Price and Warranty
Electric tankless water heaters can vary in price depending on the brand, size, and features. Additionally, look for models that offer a solid warranty, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and cover repair costs if any issues arise.
Top 5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters in 2024
To help narrow down your options, we’ve reviewed and selected five of the best electric tankless water heaters based on performance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
1. Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus
Flow Rate: 4.0 GPM
Energy Efficiency: 99%
Warranty: 7 Years on Leakage, 3 Years on Parts
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is a high-performance unit that stands out for its impressive energy efficiency and compact design. Capable of delivering 4 GPM, it can handle multiple showers and sinks simultaneously, making it perfect for mid-sized households. Its advanced flow control technology ensures that you always get a consistent temperature, even when demand is high. This model is also extremely quiet and space-saving, making it a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their current water heating system.
2. EcoSmart ECO 27
Flow Rate: 6.6 GPM
Energy Efficiency: 99.8%
Warranty: Lifetime on Electronics, Heating Elements, and Exchangers
The EcoSmart ECO 27 offers a combination of affordability and performance, providing a flow rate of 6.6 GPM, ideal for larger homes. Its advanced self-modulating technology ensures that the heater only uses the energy necessary to heat water, maximizing efficiency. The unit is also compact and easy to install, and the lifetime warranty provides added peace of mind. This model is perfect for households in warmer climates, as it excels at heating incoming water with lower temperature rise requirements.
3. Rheem RTEX-18
Flow Rate: 4.4 GPM
Energy Efficiency: 99.8%
Warranty: 5 Years on Heat Exchanger, 1 Year on Parts
The Rheem RTEX-18 is another excellent option for those seeking a balance between price and performance. With a flow rate of 4.4 GPM, this unit is perfect for smaller to medium households. Its easy-to-use digital temperature control allows for precise temperature adjustments, and its compact design makes installation simple. The Rheem brand is known for reliability, and the RTEX-18 model is no exception, offering dependable hot water on demand.
4. Bosch Tronic 3000 T
Flow Rate: 3.0 GPM
Energy Efficiency: 98%
Warranty: 5 Years on Parts
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T is a great choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Despite its lower flow rate of 3 GPM, this unit is capable of efficiently heating water for smaller households or single-point applications, such as a single shower or sink. Its lightweight design and ease of installation make it ideal for tight spaces. While it may not offer the highest flow rate, the Bosch Tronic 3000 T is a reliable option for anyone looking for an affordable, efficient electric tankless water heater.
5. Eemax EEM24013
Flow Rate: 3.1 GPM
Energy Efficiency: 99.8%
Warranty: 1 Year on Parts, 5 Years on Leaks
The Eemax EEM24013 is perfect for small to mid-sized homes, offering a flow rate of 3.1 GPM. Its compact size allows for easy installation in small spaces, and the unit’s energy-efficient design ensures that you’re not wasting electricity on standby heating. The Eemax heater is known for its durability and long lifespan, making it a solid investment for homeowners who want a reliable and efficient water heating system.
Electric Tankless Water Heater Comparison Table
| Model | Flow Rate (GPM) | Energy Efficiency | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus | 4.0 GPM | 99% | 7 Years on Leakage, 3 Years on Parts | Mid-sized Households |
| EcoSmart ECO 27 | 6.6 GPM | 99.8% | Lifetime | Large Homes |
| Rheem RTEX-18 | 4.4 GPM | 99.8% | 5 Years on Heat Exchanger, 1 Year on Parts | Small to Medium Homes |
| Bosch Tronic 3000 T | 3.0 GPM | 98% | 5 Years on Parts | Single Point Use |
| Eemax EEM24013 | 3.1 GPM | 99.8% | 1 Year on Parts, 5 Years on Leaks | Small to Medium Homes |
Pros and Cons of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
While electric tankless water heaters offer many benefits, it’s important to understand both the pros and cons to decide if they’re the right choice for your household.
Pros
- Energy Efficiency: Because they only heat water when needed, these systems use significantly less energy than traditional water heaters.
- Endless Hot Water: You’ll never run out of hot water, even with multiple showers or appliances running simultaneously.
- Space-Saving: Electric tankless units are much smaller than traditional storage tanks, allowing you to install them in tighter spaces.
- Lower Long-Term Costs: Though the initial cost may be higher, electric tankless water heaters can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time.
Cons
- Higher Initial Cost: Electric tankless water heaters can be more expensive to purchase and install compared to traditional models.
- Electrical Requirements: Some models require special voltage or circuit breakers, which can add to installation costs.
- Limited Flow Rates: For large households with high water demand, an electric tankless heater may struggle to keep up, especially in colder climates where incoming water temperatures are lower.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are electric tankless water heaters more efficient than gas models?
Electric tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient than gas models, as they don’t experience heat loss from venting. However, gas models can provide higher flow rates, making them more suitable for larger households.
2. How long do electric tankless water heaters last?
With proper maintenance, electric tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years, significantly longer than traditional tank heaters.
3. Can I install an electric tankless water heater myself?
While experienced DIYers can install an electric tankless water heater, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper electrical wiring and safety.
4. How do I size an electric tankless water heater for my home?
To size a unit, calculate the total GPM required for all fixtures that might be used simultaneously. Also, consider the incoming water temperature and desired temperature rise.
5. Are electric tankless water heaters environmentally friendly?
Yes, because they use less energy than traditional heaters and don’t produce greenhouse gas emissions, electric tankless water heaters are a more environmentally friendly option.
6. Do electric tankless water heaters require a lot of maintenance?
Electric tankless water heaters require minimal maintenance compared to traditional models. Flushing the system annually to remove mineral buildup is usually sufficient.
7. Can electric tankless water heaters handle multiple bathrooms?
Yes, as long as the flow rate is high enough, an electric tankless water heater can provide hot water to multiple bathrooms simultaneously.
8. How much can I save on energy bills with an electric tankless water heater?
Savings vary depending on usage, but homeowners can typically save up to 30% on their energy bills compared to traditional tank water heaters.
Final Words
Electric tankless water heaters offer a modern solution for endless hot water while maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing space. Whether you’re looking for a unit to accommodate a small apartment or a large family home, there’s a model that suits your needs. By carefully considering factors like flow rate, energy efficiency, and installation requirements, you can find the perfect water heater for your home.
Investing in a high-quality electric tankless water heater will not only enhance your comfort but also reduce your utility bills and contribute to a greener environment. With advanced features, longer lifespans, and smart technology, these heaters are well worth the investment.
