You can’t wash your hands effectively with cold water, let alone wash dishes or take a shower. So, when your hot water is shot–it’s an absolute nightmare!
Luckily, getting a new electric tankless water heater is easier than it ever has been, not to mention a much better value purchase.
Why’s that? Well, because instant-on tankless water heaters are easy to install, energy efficient, and provide hot water on demand for your sink, shower, or in some cases whole home.
Here’s a handy table that covers the features of each electric tankless water heater on this list, making it easy for you to compare them and decide which will work for you.
Top Picks for Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters in 2023
- Designed for whole home (5.9 gallons of hot water per minute)
- Digital display to control temperatures for constant comfort
- Saves energy costs with intelligent self modulating technology
- 7-year leakage and 3-year parts warranties
- Compact footprint
- Saves up to 50% on water heating bills
- Saves water with only on-demand heating
- Exceptionally quiet while heating
- Heats between 1.3 and 3.1 gallons of water per minute
- Energy saving model
- Easy to maintain
- Premium construction
- Exceptionally easy to install
- Energy efficient
- Easy touch digital control panel
- Heats the water for up to two sinks and a shower
- Excellent performance
- Easy to mount
- Saves up to 60% water heating bills
- Compact footprint
- Eco-friendly
- Requires low maintenance
- Overheat and over-voltage protection
And now, a little more detail on each of these top-rated electric tankless water heater models.
1. Stiebel Eltron Tempra – Best Space and Energy Saver
This German-engineered tankless water heater, Stiebel Eltron Tempra provides enough hot water for the whole home, and yet it’s small, compact and almost silent.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
| Voltage | 208 V |
| Temperature Range | 86°F – 140°F |
| Power (Watts) | 12 kW |
| Max Ampere | 50 A |
Stiebel Eltron Tempra boasts a digital display means you can easily monitor water temperature, and pre-set temperature button allows you to quickly switch between the various water temperatures you might need at home. Advanced Flow Control means that the right amount of water is always heated to the right temperature. Essentially, no cold showers, no matter how little or how often you use your water heater! This is part of what makes the Stiebel Eltron Tempra so eco-friendly, and long-term wallet-friendly.
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra tankless heater’s intelligent self-modulating technology means energy savings are constant, with no standby losses ever. Plus, the savings monitor feature shows how much money you’ve saved on energy costs. That’s one financial stat everyone can actually enjoy looking at!
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra series come in the same size but with varied flow rates, so you can choose the best-suited unit for your family's needs. This point-of-entry (POE) water heater should be installed by an electrician, but it’s a simple process. Water temperature output ranges from 86°F to 140°F, and if anything goes wrong there are 7-year leakage and 3-year parts warranties included with purchase.
Pros:
- This whole-home electric tankless water heater is suitable for most apartments and houses
- Comes with great warranties for both leakage and parts
- No standby losses and low power usage
- The savings monitor is a great feature
Cons:
- This is a high price, though it will save money in the long run
- Stiebel Eltron Tempra can be a little tricky to install
2. Rheem RTEX-18 – Best Value For Smart Features
The Rheem RTEX-18 is an excellent, well-priced option for a smaller home. This model delivers up to 4.4 GPM of hot water enough for 2 showers and 2 sinks simultaneously. For more demand, check the RTEX-24 model.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 4.4 GPM |
| Voltage | 240 V |
| Temperature Range | 86°F – 140°F |
| Power (Watts) | 18 kW |
| Max Ampere | 50 A |
Rheem RTEX-18 is a durable electric tankless water heater, with robust copper heating elements and brass tops for maximum toughness. On top of that, parts are really easy to replace in the Rheem RTEX-18 so if you’re reasonably handy you should be able to carry out maintenance and even installation yourself. The digital thermostat control also makes it really easy to keep an eye on the water temperature and adjust it when necessary.
This Rheem RTEX-18 is a small, compact heater that’s exceptionally quiet even when it’s working hard to heat your water. There’s no clicking, whirring, or buzzing, making it even more appropriate for a small home in which noise carries easily into the bedrooms and living spaces.
Given the Rheem RTEX-18 is a mid-range price, you might not expect self-modulation, but that feature is actually really advanced. This instant-on water heater never uses more power than needed to heat your water, so saves you money in the long run.
Pros:
- The Rheem RTEX-18 is a mid-priced water heater with the features of a much higher-end one
- This tankless heater can heat the water for a small apartment or studio
- A very easy water heater to repair and carry out maintenance
- Very quiet, no matter how hard it’s working
Cons:
- With hard water, the elements need cleaning regularly
- If you’re in an area with cold winters, your water temperature may not get as high as advertised
3. EcoSmart ECO 11 – Best For Low-Flow Water Supply
Just as the name suggests, the EcoSmart ECO 11 is both smart and eco-friendly. This great value point-of-use (POU) electric tankless water heater is perfect for home or office, or anywhere else you need a low-flow appropriate heater for your water.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 1.3 – 3.1 GPM |
| Voltage | 240 V |
| Temperature Range | 80°F – 140°F |
| Power (Watts) | 13 kW |
| Max Ampere | 57 A |
EcoSmart ECO 11 can heat between 1.3 and 3.1 gallons per minute (GPM), dependent on incoming water temperature. This means this point-of-use (POU) water heater delivers hot water on demand, whenever you need low-flow, whether it’s for one bathroom or a kitchen sink.
Self-modulating technology means that the EcoSmart ECO 11 uses only the amount of electricity needed to heat your water on-demand, meaning very little electricity is wasted and overall energy bills should be reduced compared to older or less ecologically sound models of instantaneous water heaters.
EcoSmart ECO 11 is about 90% smaller in size than an average tank-type water heater. This is also really easy to use and has a large knob on the front for digital temperature control that allows you to adjust between 80°F and 140°F. That’s lovely warm water, but never scalding!
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is easy to install for anyone with some plumbing skills and is equally easy to maintain. It comes with a fantastic lifetime warranty, and EcoSmart’s customer service team is U.S. based and some of the best in the business.
Pros:
- EcoSmart ECO 11 is an excellent value electric tankless water heater
- Self-modulation technology means this heater should save money and electricity
- Easy to install and maintain
- EcoSmart have a particularly excellent customer service team
4. Bosch Tronic 3000 T – Best For Easy Installation
This Bosch Tronic 3000 T from the powerhouse appliances brand is no different – it’s great value, even when compared to similar single point of use models, and it’s reliable to boot.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2.5 – 4 Gallons |
| Voltage | 120 V |
| Temperature Range | 65°F – 145°F |
| Ampere | 12 A |
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T is easy to maintain, with a premium glass lining almost guaranteeing a long working life. The simple design blends in easily if it has to be mounted somewhere visible, and it’s small enough to be mounted on the wall or sit on a floor or shelf. The Bosch Tronic 3000 T can be plugged into a normal 120V outlet, making it exceptionally easy to install.
As the Bosch Tronic 3000 T is a small electric tankless water heater, it can only heat water for up to two sinks. Given its price point, though, Bosch Tronic 3000 T has a whole variety of potential uses in bathrooms, kitchens, break rooms, and anywhere else where hot water is needed instantly and on demand. The Bosch Tronic 3000 T can be used as a point-of-use (POU) water heater, or as a booster for a sink or shower that is simply too far away from the main water heater.
Finally, some people choose to use a 2.5, 4, or 7 gallons Bosch Tronic 3000 T water heater as a buffer installed along with another electric tankless heater that doesn’t always provide hot water. This is called a cold water sandwich. However you use the Bosch Tronic 3000 T, there’s almost no stand-by loss from the heater.
Pros:
- Bosch Tronic 3000 T is a very affordable, reliable tankless water heater
- Comes in three sizes
- Easy to mount discreetly in cupboards, on walls, or on the ground
- Very easy to install
Cons:
- Can be a little noisy
- A point-of-use water heater isn’t enough for everyone
5. Eemax EEM24013 – Best For A Tight Budget
Eemax’s EEM24013 is a small, point-of-use electric tankless water heater with a really budger-friendly price tag.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 2.4 GPM |
| Voltage | 240 V |
| Temperature Range | Up to 110°F |
| Power (Watts) | 13 kW |
Eemax EEM24013 doesn’t compete with larger models in terms of capacity, but if you’re looking for hot water without breaking the bank this unit can provide hot water enough for one sink or one shower and one sink in warmer climates.
With an output of 2.4 gallons per minute, Eemax EEM24013 is suitable for single-use functions: whether you’re adding hot water to a garage or outhouse or looking for an efficient hot shower, Eemax EEM24013 has got you covered. For more significant hot water requirements, such as bathing, you’ll need a bigger model.
With self-modulating technology Eemax EEM24013 got the eco-credentials, only heating as much water as you need and never more. The digital display screen is a wise addition, giving instant feedback about the Eemax EEM24013 heating performance. It’s quite a power-hungry model though, so don't expect to see a significant drop in your energy bill.
Built from solid stainless steel, it’s clear that Eemax has built this EEM24013 electric tankless water heater to last. The 5-year warranty for leaks, and 1 year for parts, further puts your mind at rest.
Eemax EEM24013 is a compact model and installation is straightforward so long as you have an accessible power source. It requires wiring into your circuit directly as there’s no plug included with the model, so make sure you’re comfortable with electrics if you’re planning to go for a DIY installation.
Pros:
- Self-modulating technology
- Digital display panel
- Easy installation
- A low price point makes this a great buy on a budget
Cons:
- Limited capacity and point-of-use only
- Requires direct wiring
- Makes a bit of a racket when it’s heating
6. Titan N-120 – Best For Milder Climates
The Titan N-120 doesn’t look as flashy or modern as some of the electric tankless water heaters on this list, but don’t let that fool you.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 4 GPM |
| Voltage | 220 V |
| Temperature Range | 65°F – 95°F |
| Max Ampere | 52 A |
In actual fact, the N-120 from Titan is one of the most popular and energy-efficient models of electric tankless water heaters for two-bath homes in warmer climates.
Although barely bigger than a phonebook and easy to mount, the Titan N-120 provides seemingly endless water for any two-bath space at or smaller than 1,500 meters. It will keep up with your needs flawlessly, while self-modulating to make sure no electricity is wasted heating water you aren’t going to use.
In fact, if you are switching from a tank-type water heater to a Titan N-120 you can expect to save up to 60% on your water heating bills in the first year! That’s pretty impressive and means that the Titan N-120 eventually pays for itself.
The Titan N-120 works best when incoming water temperatures are 65°F to 95°F, which means it is most suited to warmer climates. If the water coming in is colder, it won’t be heated to a temperature high enough for a bath or shower.
Pros:
- Titan N-120 is a well-priced water heater
- Titan N-120 is really compact and discreet
- Can heat the water for a two-bath home without issue
Cons:
- This is a water heater designed for warmer climates
- It’s not the best looking appliance – it has an air of the 90s about it, despite some modern features
7. ECOTOUCH ECO55 – Best Instant and Sufficient Hot Water
The ECOTOUCH ECO55 is a clean, neat and thoroughly modern electric tankless water heater capable of delivering hot water at an impressive 116°F. It’s a great value point of use water heater, and should be able to provide water for any sink or small tub with ease.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 1.5 – GPM |
| Voltage | 240 V |
| Temperature Range | 67°F – 109°F |
| Power (Watts) | 5.5 kW |
This self-adjusting ECOTOUCH ECO55 water heater balances use and temperature, using less power when you are running water slower, making sure that only the necessary amount of electricity is used always. This saves up to 98% electric energy, is good for the planet, and is light on your wallet too!
ECOTOUCH ECO55 is safe and carefully designed, with water and power lines kept separate at all times. It should require very little upkeep and, as it’s no bigger than an oatmeal box, it can be installed easily and discreetly pretty much anywhere.
This ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) approved product includes overheating protection, over voltage protection, dry combustion protection and sensitive leakage protection, making it one of the most trustworthy and durable options available for a point-of-use electric tankless water heater.
Pros:
- This is a great value point of using a water heater
- Excellent self-modulation
- This is a really well-protected and 100% safe water heater
Cons:
- Can be slightly noisy
- Has a comparatively low GPM
Buying Guide: How To Pick The Right Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater
Here’s what to consider when choosing an electric tankless water heater.
GPM (Flow Rate)
GPM stands for gallons per minute. In an electric tankless water heater, the GPM represents how much water your unit can heat per minute. If the GPM is 2.5, for example, the heater can heat water enough for one shower, and one bathroom when GPM is 1. Of course, for high water demands, it will require more GPM, and therefore serve more of your home.
The ideal GPM or size of the electric tankless water heater depends on how big your house is, how many people, how many bathrooms or what’s the overall demand for hot water at peak times.
Here’s a quick table to measure the GPM with the electric tankless water heater, you needed based on your demand:
| Fixtures | Average Flow GPM |
|---|---|
| Shower | 2.5 – 3 GPM |
| Tub | 4 GPM |
| Dishwasher | 1.5 GPM |
| Kitchen Sink | 1.5 GPM |
| Washing Machine | 2 GPM |
Energy Efficiency
When compared to other conventional tank-type water heaters, an instantaneous electric tankless system saves a huge amount of energy because they are highly energy efficient up to 95% (1). When you replace a storage water heater with an on-demand electric tankless heater, you will usually see your electricity bills drop by around 30-50%.
On-Demand Heating
An electric tankless water heater means you have hot water on demand. There’s no waiting time unlike a tank filled with a conventional water heater, and you never run out of hot water. Modern models like those on this list are all self-modulating, too, which not only keeps water at a constant steady temperature but also means energy is never wasted.
Compactness
There’s no mystery to what this one means – how much space do you have for your new electric tankless water heater?
Firstly, instant-on electric tankless water heaters are much smaller than storage water heaters. In fact, they can usually be mounted on any wall with very little labor work, and fit in most cupboards. Point-of-use (POU) water heaters can often be installed under sinks, or high up where they are unlikely to be noticed.
Warranty
Does the tank water heater model you are considering come with a warranty? And if so, what sort?
Often, leakage warranties are longer than parts warranties. Some units come with both but cost more initially, others don’t have a warranty at all. Think about what you need here, and how much you are willing to spend.
Types of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
As you may have noticed through reading my list, there are a few different types of electric tankless water heaters on the market. They all offer various pros and cons.
Point-of-Use (POU) Electric Tankless Water Heaters
A point-of-use (POU) electric tankless water heater is, in some ways, a step up from portable.
These are small electric heaters that can heat enough water for one or two sinks and are commonly found in restrooms at commercial properties, work break rooms, and sometimes in bathrooms that are poorly served by a home’s main water heater.
Whether your main storage water heater falls short on storage capability or GPM, a POU electric tankless water heater where you most often need hot water on demand may solve your problems.
Whole Home Electric Tankless Water Heaters
The largest and most powerful type of at-home electric tankless water heater you’re likely to run into when purchasing them yourself, these heaters often replace traditional tank-type heaters for the whole home.
They come in various sizes and levels of Power and GPM, and for larger homes, more than one heater (or additional point-of-use electric tankless water heaters) may be required.
Whole-house electric tankless water heaters use less energy than conventional water heaters, so although they are initially expensive they do lead to savings over time.
Portable Electric Tankless Water Heaters
A portable electric tankless water heater is a great investment if you have a recreational vehicle (RV), caravan, or campervan. You can take them with you anywhere easily, and they cost less than most other wat heater models.
You just need to plug the heater into an outlet or in some cases your car cigarette lighter, and off you go. Many even come with a showerhead attachment.
Of course, there is a catch. Portable electric tankless heaters can be tricky to master, and you will need to get to know your exact model before you find it easy to use. Plus, you need water or a water supply in addition to the heater.
A portable electric tankless water heater is a great investment if you do a lot of camping or road trips, but it won’t heat water for your whole home!
Conclusion
There are electric tankless water heaters on this list that should fit all lifestyles and budgets. Many of them are about as modern as it is possible for a water heater to be, with energy-saving features that would make Greta Thunberg proud. Okay, not only quite a lot energy-efficient, but they do save a lot of money in the long run!
Your final choice will depend on your needs. The Eemax EEM24013 is a fantastic option for a small apartment or studio, it’s really good value, looks great, and will last years.
If you want to heat water for a whole home, however, I would recommend the Stiebel Eltron Tempra, which is robust and very easy to control once it is installed. It provides enough hot water on demand for anyone’s family.
Finally, if you’re getting a new water heater largely because of environmental concerns or worries over your current power bills, then the EcoSmart ECO 11 is probably perfect for your needs!
Whichever on-demand tankless water heater you choose, though, you won’t be disappointed with any on this list.
