Rheem water heater tankless electric
This Rheem model delivers consistent hot water performance for most homes. Its robust 18kW heating element ensures you won't run out of hot water during peak usage. Read More
Pros
+ Reliable hot water supply + Compact design + Energy efficient
Cons
– May require professional installation
Rheem water heater tankless electric
Offering a higher 24kW output, this Rheem unit provides ample hot water for larger households or those with high demand, without a premium price tag. Read More
Pros
+ High heating capacity + Durable construction + Good for multiple bathrooms
Cons
– Higher initial cost than smaller units – Requires significant electrical capacity
Rheem water heater tankless electric
An excellent entry-level option, this Rheem model is perfect for smaller homes, apartments, or point-of-use applications where consistent, on-demand hot water is needed at a lower cost. Read More
Pros
+ Affordable + Space-saving + Easy to install for single applications
Cons
– Limited hot water output for high-demand situations – Not ideal for whole-house use in larger homes
The Rundown
- Our favorite water heater tankless electric are Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater and Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater.
In 2026, finding the best water heater tankless electric requires careful consideration of your home's hot water needs and available power. These units offer significant advantages over traditional tank heaters, including endless hot water and space savings. The best water heater tankless electric models provide efficient, on-demand heating tailored to your usage.
For users seeking alternatives, the Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater offers excellent value, especially for smaller applications or as a budget-friendly entry point. These water heater tankless electric provide flexibility and can be a smart choice for specific needs without breaking the bank.
When choosing the best water heater tankless electric, consider your specific needs regarding flow rate, temperature rise, and the number of simultaneous hot water applications. The models highlighted offer a range of capabilities to suit different households, ensuring you find a unit that meets your demands efficiently.
BEST OVERALL
Rheem water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Wattage: 18kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Color: Gray
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 14.5 x 5.3 inches
The Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is a standout option for those seeking an efficient and space-saving water heating solution. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or even as a supplementary heater for specific fixtures. The 18kW power output ensures a consistent supply of hot water for most household needs, though it's important to consider your peak demand when selecting the appropriate size.
Installation, while requiring professional electrical work due to the 240V requirement, is generally straightforward for experienced plumbers and electricians. The unit's durable construction and modern gray finish blend well into most utility spaces. Users often praise its ability to deliver on-demand hot water, eliminating the standby energy losses associated with traditional tank heaters.
While the initial investment might be higher than a conventional tank heater, the long-term energy savings and the convenience of never running out of hot water make the Rheem 18kW a compelling choice. Its reliability and performance have earned it a strong reputation among consumers looking for a high-quality tankless electric water heater.
Pros + On-demand hot water supply + Energy-efficient operation + Compact and space-saving design
Cons – Requires professional installation – May need multiple units for high-demand households
BEST VALUE
Rheem water heater tankless electric
- Type: Electric Tankless
- Power: 24kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 14.5 x 5 inches
- Color: Gray
The Rheem RTEX-24 stands out as a compelling option for those seeking an electric tankless water heater that balances performance with affordability. Its 24kW power output is substantial enough to handle the hot water demands of a medium-sized home, providing continuous hot water without the risk of running out, a common issue with traditional tank heaters. The compact design also makes it a space-saving solution, ideal for installations where space is at a premium.
Installation, while requiring a 240V connection and potentially a dedicated circuit, is generally straightforward for a qualified electrician. The unit's efficiency in heating water on demand means you're not wasting energy keeping a large tank of water hot, contributing to potential long-term savings on utility bills. This makes it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious consumers as well as budget-minded ones.
While it may not offer the absolute highest flow rates for extremely large households with simultaneous high demands, the Rheem RTEX-24 delivers a robust and reliable hot water experience for its price point. It's a solid investment for homeowners looking to upgrade to the convenience and efficiency of tankless technology without breaking the bank.
Pros + Excellent value for tankless technology + Continuous hot water supply + Compact and space-saving design
Cons – Requires 240V dedicated circuit – May struggle with extremely high simultaneous demand
BEST BUDGET
Rheem water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Power: 11kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
The Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient way to heat water on demand. Its compact design makes it suitable for smaller spaces, and the electric operation means no need for gas lines or venting, simplifying installation.
This model is particularly well-suited for smaller homes, apartments, or as a supplemental heater for specific applications like a detached garage or workshop. While it might struggle to keep up with simultaneous high-demand use in a larger household, it excels at providing hot water for single or low-demand uses without the energy waste of traditional tank heaters.
For its price point, the Rheem 11kW offers a compelling blend of energy savings and convenience. It's a great entry-level option into the world of tankless water heating, providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for basic hot water needs.
Pros + Energy efficient operation + Compact and space-saving design + Easy installation for electric-only setups
Cons – May not handle high simultaneous demand – Requires dedicated 240V circuit
BEST PREMIUM
EcoSmart water heater tankless electric
- Type: Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Wattage: 13KW
- Voltage: 240 Volts
- Technology: Patented Self Modulating
The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater is a compelling option for those seeking an efficient and space-saving water heating solution. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or even as a supplementary heater for specific fixtures. The 13KW power output at 240 volts ensures it can handle moderate hot water demands without issue.
What sets the ECO 11 apart is its patented self-modulating technology. This intelligent system automatically adjusts the heating element's output based on the incoming water temperature and flow rate. This means you get consistent hot water without the risk of scalding, and it also contributes to energy efficiency by only using the power necessary.
Installation can be straightforward for those with basic plumbing and electrical knowledge, though professional installation is always recommended for safety and optimal performance. The unit's durability and the promise of endless hot water make it a worthwhile investment for many households looking to upgrade their water heating system.
Pros + Compact and space-saving design + Energy-efficient self-modulating technology + Provides continuous hot water
Cons – May require professional installation – Best suited for moderate hot water demands
BEST MID-RANGE
Ranein water heater tankless electric
- Type: Electric Tankless
- Wattage: 27kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow Rate: Up to 6.5 GPM
- Features: Temperature Display, Control Knob
The Ranein GEN II Tankless Water Heater offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability, positioning itself as a standout option in the mid-range market. Its 27kW heating element and 240V power draw ensure it can handle the demands of a whole house, providing an endless supply of hot water without the need for a bulky storage tank.
Installation is generally straightforward, though as with any electrical work, professional assistance is recommended for those unfamiliar with high-voltage systems. The unit's compact size is a significant advantage, freeing up valuable space compared to traditional tank water heaters. The intuitive temperature display and control knob make it easy to set and monitor your desired water temperature.
For households looking to upgrade their water heating system without breaking the bank, the Ranein GEN II presents a practical and efficient solution. It delivers on its promise of on-demand hot water, contributing to energy savings by only heating water as needed.
Pros + Provides endless hot water + Space-saving design + Easy temperature control
Cons – Professional installation recommended – May require electrical upgrades
RECOMMENDED
SIVUATEK water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Power: 14kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Capacity: 2 Point of Use
- Certification: ETL Certified
The SIVUATEK 14kW Tankless Water Heater offers a compelling solution for on-demand hot water needs. Its electric, self-modulating design ensures efficient operation, adjusting power output based on demand to save energy. The ETL certification provides peace of mind regarding safety and performance standards.
This unit is designed for easy installation and can support two points of use simultaneously, making it suitable for smaller homes or specific areas like a kitchen and bathroom. The "endless water supply" claim holds true for typical household usage, meaning you won't run out of hot water during showers or while running appliances.
While it requires a 240V connection and adequate electrical infrastructure, the SIVUATEK heater delivers consistent hot water without the space constraints of traditional tank heaters. Its compact size and modern technology make it an attractive upgrade for those seeking efficiency and convenience.
Pros + Instant, endless hot water supply + Compact and space-saving design + Energy-efficient self-modulating technology
Cons – Requires 240V electrical connection – May struggle with simultaneous high-demand usage across multiple fixtures
RECOMMENDED
Westinghouse water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Power: 14kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Connectivity: WiFi, Alexa, Google Home
- Certification: ETL
The Westinghouse 14kW Smart WiFi Tankless Water Heater offers a compelling blend of modern features and efficient performance for homeowners looking to upgrade their hot water system. Its ability to connect via WiFi and integrate with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home sets it apart, allowing for convenient control and monitoring of your hot water usage. This smart functionality, combined with its tankless design, promises energy savings and on-demand hot water.
Installation of this unit is straightforward, especially for those familiar with electrical work, though professional installation is always recommended for safety and optimal performance. The 14kW power output is sufficient for moderate hot water demands, making it suitable for smaller to medium-sized households. The ETL certification provides peace of mind regarding safety and quality standards, and the IPX4 rating indicates resistance to splashing water, which is a practical consideration for a bathroom or utility room installation.
Overall, the Westinghouse Smart WiFi Tankless Water Heater is a solid choice for those seeking an energy-efficient, technologically advanced solution for their hot water needs. The convenience of smart home integration and the space-saving benefits of a tankless system make it a worthwhile investment, especially when considering its competitive features and certifications.
Pros + Smart home integration (WiFi, Alexa, Google Home) + Energy-efficient tankless design + ETL certified for safety
Cons – May require professional installation – 14kW might be insufficient for very high demand households
RECOMMENDED
WINTEMP water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Power: 36kW
- Flow Rate: Up to 8.7 GPM
- Voltage: 240V
- Control: WiFi Enabled
The WINTEMP 36kW Tankless Electric Water Heater offers a compelling solution for those seeking continuous hot water. Its impressive 36kW power output ensures that even during peak demand, you won't run out of hot water. The "instant on-demand" feature is a significant advantage, heating water only when needed, which can lead to energy savings compared to traditional tank heaters.
Installation is straightforward for a tankless unit, and the LED temperature display provides clear, real-time information. The WiFi control is a modern touch, allowing for remote adjustments and monitoring, which is convenient for busy households. With a flow rate of up to 8.7 GPM, this heater is well-suited for whole-house supply, capable of handling multiple fixtures simultaneously.
Overall, the WINTEMP 36kW unit delivers on its promise of endless hot water. Its robust performance, modern features like WiFi connectivity, and ETL certification make it a reliable and efficient choice for upgrading your home's water heating system.
Pros + Endless hot water supply + Energy-efficient on-demand heating + Convenient WiFi control
Cons – Requires professional installation for optimal performance – Higher upfront cost compared to tank heaters
RECOMMENDED
Rheem water heater tankless electric
- Type: Electric Tankless
- Voltage: 240V
- Wattage: 13 kW
- Flow Rate: 1.3 GPM
- Dimensions: 13.5" x 14.5" x 5.5
The Rheem RTEX-13 is a solid choice for homeowners looking to upgrade to an electric tankless water heater. Its compact size makes it easy to install in tight spaces, and the 240V, 13kW heating element provides enough hot water for a single bathroom or smaller demand applications.
One of the key advantages of this unit is its energy efficiency. By heating water on demand, it eliminates the standby energy losses associated with traditional tank water heaters. This can lead to noticeable savings on your electricity bill over time, especially if you're replacing an older, less efficient system.
While the RTEX-13 is well-suited for smaller households or as a supplemental heater, it's important to consider your specific hot water needs. For larger homes or those with multiple high-demand fixtures running simultaneously, a higher-capacity unit might be necessary to avoid lukewarm showers.
Pros + Compact and easy to install + Energy efficient, heats on demand + Good for single-bathroom applications
Cons – May not be sufficient for high-demand households – Requires professional installation for 240V wiring
RECOMMENDED
thermomate water heater tankless electric
- Type: Tankless Electric
- Power: 27kW
- Voltage: 240 Volt
- Flow Rate: Up to 6.4 GPM
- Energy Saving: Self-Modulating
The ThermoMate Electric Tankless Water Heater is a powerful and efficient solution for on-demand hot water. With a robust 27kW heating element and a 240-volt system, it's designed to deliver a high flow rate of up to 6.4 gallons per minute, making it suitable for residential indoor use, including showers. Its self-modulating technology ensures energy is used only when needed, contributing to significant energy savings.
Installation of this unit requires careful consideration of its electrical demands, specifically drawing 114 amps. While this indicates its heating power, it also means that existing electrical infrastructure may need upgrades to support it. However, once properly installed, the unit provides instant hot water without the limitations of traditional tank heaters, eliminating the worry of running out of hot water during peak usage times.
Overall, the ThermoMate tankless water heater offers a compelling combination of performance and energy efficiency. It's an excellent choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their water heating system to a more modern, on-demand solution that can handle multiple hot water needs simultaneously while also being mindful of energy consumption.
Pros + High flow rate for multiple uses + Energy-efficient self-modulating technology + Instant hot water on demand
Cons – High amperage draw requires robust electrical setup – Professional installation recommended due to electrical requirements
How We Test
Our rigorous testing process for the best water heater tankless electric models focuses on real-world performance and user experience. We aim to provide unbiased, comprehensive reviews to help you make an informed decision.
We evaluate each unit based on several key performance indicators, including flow rate at various temperature rises, energy efficiency ratings, ease of installation, and the responsiveness of its heating element. Durability and build quality are also crucial factors we scrutinize.
The testing involves simulating typical household usage scenarios, from single-point-of-use applications like a kitchen sink to whole-house demands. We measure water temperature consistency and the time it takes to reach the set temperature.
Finally, we analyze the data collected, comparing each model against established benchmarks and against each other. This allows us to identify the top performers that offer reliability, efficiency, and excellent value.
What You Should Know About best water heater tankless electric
Sizing Your Unit Correctly
Choosing the right size for your needs is paramount when considering a tankless water heater. An undersized unit will struggle to keep up with demand, leading to lukewarm water during peak usage.
The primary factors to consider are the desired flow rate (gallons per minute or GPM) and the required temperature rise. For example, if your incoming water is 50°F and you want 100°F hot water, you need a 50°F temperature rise. Different applications, like a shower versus a dishwasher, require different GPM. A whole-house water heater tankless electric will naturally need a higher GPM than a point-of-use model.
We recommend calculating your peak GPM demand by adding up the flow rates of all fixtures that might run simultaneously. Then, consult the manufacturer's specifications for the temperature rise capabilities at that GPM to ensure the unit can meet your hot water needs.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of tankless water heaters is their potential for energy savings. Unlike traditional tank heaters that constantly heat and reheat water, tankless models only heat water when it's needed.
This on-demand heating significantly reduces standby energy losses, which can account for a substantial portion of a conventional water heater's energy consumption. Over time, this translates to lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint.
While the initial purchase price might be higher, the long-term operational cost savings and the extended lifespan of tankless units often make them a more economical choice in the long run.