5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters for your Home: Review and Buying Tips

Electric tankless water heater

Are you looking for an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution to your home's water heating needs?

If so, you might want to consider an electric tankless water heater.

These innovative appliances are designed to provide hot water on demand, without the need for a traditional storage tank. This means you'll have an endless supply of hot water whenever you need it, without wasting energy on standby heat loss.

Electric tankless water heaters are ideal for whole-house water heating, providing an efficient and space-saving alternative to traditional storage tank models. With their compact size and sleek design, they can be installed in small spaces, such as under a sink or in a closet, and can help you save up to 50% on your energy bills compared to conventional water heaters.

Moreover, with their advanced technology, these heaters offer precise temperature control and can deliver hot water at a consistent flow rate, ensuring you never run out of hot water, even during peak usage times.

In this guide, we'll review the best electric tankless water heaters available on the market today, so you can make an informed decision and choose the best option for your household's needs.

5 Best electric tankless water heaters: Model review

Our review covers top-selling brands such as EcoSmart, Eemax, Titan, Stiebel Eltron, and Rheem, and their advanced features and specs that make them preferable models to buy.

Each of these brands has established a reputation for delivering high-quality electric tankless water heaters that are durable, reliable, and energy-efficient.

Whether you need a unit for a small apartment or a large family home, our review will help you find the best model that fits your needs and budget.

We'll examine the key features and benefits of each brand, including their flow rate, temperature control, energy efficiency, and overall performance. We'll also discuss any potential drawbacks or limitations of each model, so you can make an informed decision.

In addition, we'll highlight the unique features that set each brand apart from the others. For example, EcoSmart's patented self-modulating technology adjusts the power output based on the hot water demand, while Stiebel Eltron's advanced flow control ensures a consistent output temperature, even in low-flow situations. 

These models have an attractive appearance which allows installation almost anywhere inside the house, utilizing quality elements that provide reliable and long operation, and heating power in the range from 24 kW to 27 kW. The price range for the reviewed models is from $300 to $700.

• EcoSmart ECO 27*
• Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus*
• Titan SCR4 N-210*
• Rheem RTEX-27*
• Eemax*

* (available on amazon.com)

EcoSmart ECO 27 review

EcoSmart ECO 27

EcoSmart ECO 27 is one of the best-selling electric water heaters online and is also the most affordable option. This 27 kW model comes with patented self-modulating technology, allowing power modulation from its minimum to the maximum of 27 kW, working only with the needed power - not more, not less.

In simple terms, if the water flow is low and only one fixture is used, the provided power will be low. Meanwhile, for multiple applications with high hot water demand, power will increase accordingly and to its maximum if needed. Such technology saves energy and money.

With a water flow rate of 3 GPM and a maximum of 6 GPM, the ECO 27 can easily supply enough hot water for 2 to 4 showers, reaching a maximum temperature of 140°F. The temperature is controlled by the digital thermostat, which allows temperature change from 80°F to 140°F, with a large display used to monitor the process.

According to the manufacturer, the EcoSmart ECO 27 can save up to 50% on water heating costs, and with a lifetime warranty, it is the best-selling water heater with numerous positive reviews for its excellent performance, consistent hot water, savings, great replacement for tank-type units, fresh water, long warranty, and more.

Rheem RTEX-27 review

Rheem RTEX-27

The Rheem RTEX-27 electric water heater offers a powerful flow rate of 7.0 GPM, making it an ideal choice for households with high hot water demands or multiple low flow fixtures. This sleek and stylish unit is designed to last, with durable materials and a robust construction.

The digital temperature control allows you to set the temperature between 80 and 140 F, while the LED display provides real-time monitoring of the unit's operation. With advanced self-modulation technology, the copper immersion-type heating elements can adjust the energy output to match your hot water needs, ensuring maximum efficiency.

In addition to its impressive performance, the RTEX-27 comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind and long-term protection for your investment. Whether you're replacing an old water heater or looking for a reliable solution for your new home, the Rheem RTEX-27 is an excellent choice that delivers superior hot water performance and energy savings.

Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 review

Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24

The Tempra 24 Plus from reputable German manufacturer Stiebel Eltron is one of the most advanced electric tankless water heaters on the market. It is equipped with true flow modulation, thermostatic control, heavy-duty electronics, and a higher price that justifies its quality.

Unlike many other electric appliances that operate in an ON/OFF mode, the Tempra 24 Plus uses advanced microprocessor technology for energy-saving performance and consistent water temperature without "cold water sandwiches."

The Tempra 24 Plus is fitted with several flow and temperature sensors that monitor the water flow and incoming water temperature. This information is sent to the microprocessor, which then modulates the power by engaging the heating elements in stages to maintain precise output temperature.

Additionally, the Tempra 24 Plus features advanced flow control technology, which adjusts the water flow rate to ensure the desired output temperature is reached. The unit comes with a warranty of three years.

According to user reviews, proper installation is crucial due to the large power (Amps) requirements and hard water. The most praised features include the stylish design, reliable heating, steady temperature even when multiple hot taps are open, and high-quality, heavy-duty parts when compared to competitors.

Titan review

Titan SCR4 water heater

The Titan SCR4 N-210 is a tankless water heater that comes with advanced features, such as the next generation of high-speed electronic integrated circuitry and dual Microtemp thermistor with a manually resettable thermostat to protect the system from high temperatures.

This Titan model can operate efficiently in any part of the country because it's resistant to mineral deposits and hard water. The heating elements are built from the durable Incoloy, an industrial-grade nickel-chromium heat-resistant alloy, housed inside rugged copper/brass chambers.

With 21 kW at 240 V of heating power, it's ideal for whole-house applications with high hot water demand. The energy loss is minimal since the energy efficiency is 99.5%.

Titan provides a 10-year manufacturer's warranty against leakage on all water-carrying parts and one year on all other components.

Eemax review

Eemax tankless water heater

The Eemax HA008240 is a high-quality residential electric tankless water heater suitable for various applications.

Equipped with a highly adjustable thermostat and microprocessor, the Eemax HA008240 ensures precise outlet temperature. The computer-controlled micro-processing temperature control prevents scalding water by regulating high temperature.

This 8 kW unit features staged heating modules that save energy as it heats only the amount of water requested. It can provide up to 3 GPM of hot water.

To protect the heating element from burnout, the Eemax HA008240 is equipped with a high-temperature limit switch and reset button. Additionally, it is LEED certified.

The warranty is one year on parts and five on the tank against leakage.

Things to consider before buying an electric tankless water heater

Before buying the electric tankless water heater, you should consider the following electric requirements:

• Amperage - the Amps draw required may differ between manufacturers, so it's important to ensure that your electrical system can support the demands of the electric water heater.
• Circuit breaker - you may need to install a separate circuit for your new electric tankless unit.
• Voltage - there are models that support various voltage levels, such as 110 V, 120 V, 208 V, 220 V, 240 V, and 277 V. Always check the specifications of an electric water heater before purchasing it.

Electric tankless water heaters can easily replace an old storage tank type in the retrofit applications, but you have to consider the appropriate, heavier wiring. Electrical reconnection might need to be inspected by a licensed electrician.

Keep in mind that larger electric tankless models usually require 120 Amps, which could overload many residential electrical panels. You should provide heavy duty wiring and according to the electrical codes properly designed circuit breaker.

Electric tankless water heaters: Benefits

• Electric tankless water heaters are economical to use in whole-house and point-of-service applications, providing savings up to 30%.
• They are a good alternative when replacing tank-type water heaters in new homes or retrofits.
• The best electric tankless water heaters have a small size and modern look, allowing for installation in almost any part of the house, cottage, apartment, condo or office.
• Their lightweight design provides easy handling and fast installation on the wall, above or under the sink.
• Their simple design makes them less expensive than gas models.
• Electric heaters do not require venting and gas piping, making them less risky to install and operate.
• They offer great savings due to their on-demand and modulating operation, providing endless and continuous hot water.

Conclusion

Electric tankless water heaters are an excellent choice for those who value energy efficiency, space-saving design, and endless hot water supply.

With the advanced features such as microprocessor technology, flow control, and precise temperature control, they provide a superior user experience.

However, it's essential to consider the electrical requirements, appropriate wiring, and circuit breaker when choosing the right model.

To ensure maximum performance and reliability, it's recommended to select one of the best models such as those reviewed here: Stiebel Eltron, Titan, or Eemax.

FAQ

Can electric tankless water heaters be installed outside?

Yes, some electric tankless water heaters can be installed outside as long as they are designed and rated for outdoor use. These units typically have weather-resistant housings and are designed to withstand various weather conditions. However, it's important to make sure that the installation location is protected from freezing temperatures and direct sunlight. Additionally, you should consult with a licensed electrician or plumber to ensure proper installation and compliance with local codes and regulations.

Why do some electric tankless water heaters have higher energy efficiency ratings than others?

The energy efficiency rating of an electric tankless water heater depends on various factors such as the quality of the heating element, the design of the unit, and the advanced features it incorporates. For example, a model that uses a high-grade nickel-chromium heat-resistant alloy for the heating element can have a better energy efficiency rating compared to a model that uses a less durable material. Similarly, a unit with advanced flow control technology and precise temperature control can optimize energy consumption, resulting in a higher energy efficiency rating.

Do electric tankless water heaters work in cold climates?

Yes, electric tankless water heaters can work in cold climates, but the unit's capacity may be reduced when the incoming water temperature is colder. In colder climates, it's important to choose a model that has a higher temperature rise to compensate for the colder incoming water. It's also important to ensure that the unit is properly sized for the household's hot water needs.