Imagine this: you’re standing under a warm shower, ready to relax, and suddenly… ice cold water hits you! Frustrating, right? This is a common problem with old water heaters that can’t keep up. But what if there was a better way to get hot water whenever you need it, without waiting or running out?
That’s where tankless electric hot water heaters come in. They heat water on demand, meaning you get endless hot water for showers, laundry, and everything else. However, choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different types and features, it’s easy to get confused. You want to make sure you pick one that’s efficient, powerful enough for your home, and fits your budget.
In this blog post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about tankless electric water heaters. We’ll help you understand how they work, what to look for when buying one, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing the perfect tankless heater to keep your home warm and your water hot!
Our Top 5 Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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14kW Tankless Water Heater Electric | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters Detailed Reviews
1. Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater
Rating: 8.8/10
The Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater in Gray is a smart way to get hot water when you need it. It’s an electric heater that heats water on demand, meaning no more waiting for a big tank to warm up. This model is designed to be efficient and easy to use for your home’s hot water needs.
What We Like:
- Precise temperature control with its digital display, accurate to within one degree.
- Smart self-modulation that adjusts power based on how much hot water you’re using.
- Durable copper heating elements built to last.
- Easy to install with simple bottom water connections.
- Field serviceable, meaning you can fix it if needed without much hassle.
- Can provide a good flow rate of up to 4.4 gallons per minute.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires a 240V electrical connection, which might need professional installation for some homes.
- As an electric tankless heater, it needs a significant amount of power, so check your home’s electrical capacity.
This Rheem tankless water heater offers advanced features for convenient and efficient hot water. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your home’s water heating system.
2. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Rating: 8.8/10
Say goodbye to cold showers and hello to endless hot water with the EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater. This amazing heater uses 13KW of power and runs on 240 volts. It has special technology that cleverly adjusts itself to heat water exactly when you need it.
What We Like:
- It gives you endless hot water, so you never run out.
- It keeps the water temperature just right, within one degree of what you set.
- It’s super energy efficient, saving you money on your electricity bill.
- It’s 90% smaller than old tank heaters, saving lots of space.
- You can mount it on the wall or use it right where you need hot water, like at a sink.
- It’s 99% efficient at turning electricity into heat.
- It only heats water when you turn on the hot tap, not all the time.
- It’s perfect for one bathroom, a small sink, or an office breakroom.
- It heats water at a good pace, between 1.3 and 3.1 gallons every minute.
What Could Be Improved:
- It uses 54 amps, so you might need to check if your electrical system can handle it.
- For bigger homes or more hot water needs, you might need a different size.
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a smart choice for efficient and on-demand hot water. It’s a great way to save energy and enjoy consistent comfort.
3. 14kW Tankless Water Heater Electric
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your home’s hot water with the ORBEK 14kW Tankless Water Heater. This electric unit provides instant hot water exactly when you need it, saving you energy and space.
What We Like:
- It delivers up to 3.38 GPM of endless hot water, perfect for 2-3 uses at once.
- The heater is very energy efficient, potentially cutting electricity costs by up to 60%.
- It heats water in just 3 seconds with a water-electricity separation design to prevent scale.
- Safety is a top priority with ETL certification and features like leakage and over-temperature protection.
- Enjoy stable temperatures within 1°F thanks to its advanced chip.
- The LED digital display makes it easy to set your desired temperature between 86°F and 140°F.
- Its compact size saves over 50% of space compared to old tank heaters, and installation is straightforward.
- ORBEK offers great after-sale support with returns, exchanges, and technical help.
What Could Be Improved:
- This heater requires a 240V/60AMP two-pole breaker and 6 AWG wires, so check your electrical setup first.
- Your home’s main circuit breaker panel needs to be at least 150 amps to avoid issues, especially if you use other high-power appliances.
The ORBEK 14kW tankless water heater is a smart choice for instant, efficient, and safe hot water. Just be sure your electrical system is ready for it.
4. Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of running out of hot water? The Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is here to help. This heater provides hot water whenever you need it, so you can take longer showers or do more laundry without worry.
What We Like:
- It has an easy ON/OFF dial control. You can set your exact desired temperature using the clear digital display.
- The self-modulating power control is smart. It adjusts the power needed for your hot water demands, saving energy.
- This 11kW model delivers up to 2.68 gallons of hot water per minute. That’s enough for most homes.
- It provides hot water on demand. You get consistent and continuous hot water, no more waiting!
- Installation is straightforward with standard 1/2″ NPT water connections on the side.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very large homes with multiple simultaneous hot water needs (like two showers running at once), a higher kW model might be necessary.
- Electric tankless heaters require a dedicated high-amperage circuit, which might mean an electrical upgrade for some older homes.
The Rheem 11kW tankless water heater offers a convenient and efficient way to ensure you always have hot water. It’s a smart upgrade for any home seeking endless hot water.
5. Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of running out of hot water? The Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater is a smart solution for your home. This gray unit provides endless hot water, saving you space and energy.
What We Like:
- Continuous Hot Water: Enjoy hot water whenever you need it, for your whole house.
- Easy Temperature Control: An ON/OFF dial and digital display let you set the perfect temperature from 80 to 140 degrees F, with 1-degree changes.
- Space Saving: This tankless heater takes up much less space than traditional water heaters.
- Energy Efficient: It only heats water when you need it, saving energy and money.
- No Venting Needed: Installation is simpler because it doesn’t require any vents.
What Could Be Improved:
- Electrical Requirements: This unit needs a significant electrical setup. You’ll need three 40 AMP double pole breakers and a 200 AMP household service. Make sure your electrical panel can handle it.
- Performance Varies: The amount of hot water it can provide depends on your local groundwater temperature. Check the performance guide to be sure it meets your needs.
The Rheem RTEX-24 is a powerful and efficient way to get endless hot water. Just be sure your home’s electrical system is ready for it.
Your Guide to Tankless Electric Water Heaters: Endless Hot Water!
Tired of lukewarm showers? A tankless electric water heater might be your perfect solution. These clever devices heat water on demand, meaning you get hot water whenever you need it. They’re energy-efficient and save space. Let’s dive into what makes them great and how to pick the right one for you.
Why Choose a Tankless Electric Water Heater?
Traditional water heaters store hot water in a big tank. When you use it, the tank refills and heats more water. This can lead to running out of hot water, especially during busy times. Tankless models heat water as it flows through them. This provides a continuous supply of hot water. They also use less energy because they only heat water when you need it. This can save you money on your electricity bills. Plus, they are much smaller and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up floor space.
Key Features to Look For
1. Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute – GPM)
This is how much hot water the heater can produce at once. Think about how many faucets or appliances might use hot water at the same time. For a single shower, you might need 1.5-2.5 GPM. For multiple showers and appliances, you’ll need a higher GPM. Check the heater’s specifications. They usually list the GPM at different temperature rises.
2. Temperature Rise
This is the difference between the incoming cold water temperature and the desired hot water temperature. Colder climates require a higher temperature rise. The heater must be powerful enough to heat the water to your desired temperature given the incoming water’s temperature.
3. Energy Efficiency (Energy Factor – EF)
Look for a high Energy Factor. This tells you how efficiently the heater converts electricity into hot water. Higher EF means more savings.
4. Size and Compactness
Tankless heaters are small. They mount on walls. This saves a lot of space compared to bulky tank heaters. Measure the space where you plan to install it.
5. Digital Controls and Smart Features
Some models have digital displays. You can set the exact temperature. Smart features let you control the heater with your phone. This is convenient.
Important Materials
The heating elements are crucial. They are usually made of stainless steel or copper. These materials are good at transferring heat. The outer casing is often made of durable plastic or metal.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- High-Quality Heating Elements: Durable materials ensure long life and efficient heating.
- Robust Construction: A well-built unit lasts longer and performs better.
- Good Insulation: Prevents heat loss, making the heater more efficient.
- Reliable Brand Reputation: Established brands often have better quality control and customer support.
Reducing Quality:
- Cheaper Materials: Can lead to premature failure of heating elements or casing.
- Poor Design: May result in inefficient heating or water flow issues.
- Lack of Safety Features: Important for preventing overheating or electrical hazards.
User Experience and Use Cases
Users love tankless electric heaters for their endless hot water. They are great for small apartments, RVs, or as a supplemental heater. If you have a large family or multiple bathrooms, you need to ensure the GPM is high enough. Installation might require an electrician, especially if your home’s electrical panel can’t handle the power draw. Always check the power requirements before buying.
Many people find them easy to use. You set your desired temperature, and the heater does the rest. Some users report a slight delay before hot water arrives, which is normal as the water needs to travel through the heating element.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much electricity do tankless electric water heaters use?
A: They use electricity only when you need hot water. This makes them more efficient than tank heaters, which constantly heat stored water. The exact amount depends on how much hot water you use and the heater’s power.
Q: Can a tankless electric water heater run out of hot water?
A: No, not in the same way a tank heater does. They provide hot water on demand. However, if you demand more hot water than the heater can produce (e.g., multiple high-flow showers at once), the water might not get as hot, or the flow might be reduced.
Q: What is the lifespan of a tankless electric water heater?
A: Tankless heaters typically last longer than tank heaters, often 15-20 years or more with proper maintenance.
Q: Do I need a special electrical setup for a tankless electric water heater?
A: Yes, they often require dedicated high-amperage circuits. You should consult an electrician to ensure your home’s electrical system can support the unit’s power needs.
Q: How do I maintain a tankless electric water heater?
A: Maintenance usually involves descaling to remove mineral buildup, especially in hard water areas. Some models may require periodic checks of filters or sensors.
Q: Are tankless electric water heaters expensive?
A: The upfront cost can be higher than a tank heater. However, their energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on your utility bills over time.
Q: Can I use a tankless electric water heater for my whole house?
A: Yes, but you need to choose a model with a high enough flow rate and power to meet your household’s peak demand. For very large homes with high demand, multiple units might be needed.
Q: What is the difference between gas and electric tankless water heaters?
A: Electric models heat water using electric resistance elements. Gas models use a gas burner. Electric models are often easier to install in existing homes, while gas models can sometimes provide higher flow rates.
Q: How do I choose the right size (GPM) for my needs?
A: Calculate the GPM needed for each fixture you might use simultaneously. Add them up. For example, a shower might use 2.5 GPM, and a faucet 1 GPM. If you might run both, you’d need at least 3.5 GPM.
Q: Are there any safety concerns with tankless electric water heaters?
A: They are generally very safe. They have built-in safety features like overheat protection. Ensure proper installation by a qualified professional to maximize safety.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.