best electric tankless water heater consumer reports you didn’t know about

For homeowners, the best electric tankless water heater transforms daily routines with endless hot water.

The best electric tankless water heater ensures you never run out of hot water when you need it most. Models like the 14kW Tankless Water Heater and Rheem RTEX-24 deliver efficient, on-demand heating, making them ideal for families and individuals alike.

From compact installations to high-capacity solutions, these systems adapt seamlessly to your home’s needs, providing reliable hot water for multiple outlets simultaneously.

We detail pros, cons, and hidden perks ahead.

ORBEK 14kW Electric Tankless Water Heater

The adjustable valve sets the ORBEK 14kW Tankless Water Heater apart, allowing users to customize their hot water experience with precision. Constructed from 316-grade stainless steel, this unit resists corrosion, ensuring durability and longevity. Its compact dimensions of 14.2″H x 9.5″L x 3.1″W make it a space-saving solution for various installations.

Key Advantages

• The heater provides an impressive 3.38 GPM of instant hot water, suitable for 2-3 points of use simultaneously, which is ideal for busy households.
• With a built-in chip that adjusts heating power 20,000 times per second, it maintains a stable water temperature within 1°F, enhancing user comfort.
• ETL certification ensures comprehensive safety features, including leakage protection and over-temperature protection, making it a reliable choice.
• Its energy efficiency is noteworthy, potentially reducing electricity costs by up to 60% compared to traditional tank heaters.

Limitations

• Not compatible with 240V/30AMP systems; requires a dedicated 240V/60AMP two-pole breaker.
• May not be suitable for larger households with higher simultaneous hot water demands.

Best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable and efficient hot water solution, the ORBEK 14kW Tankless Water Heater excels in performance and safety, making it a top choice for modern homes.

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Rheem RTEX-24 24kW Electric Water Heater

The adjustable valve sets the Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater apart from its competitors. This unit features a robust design, constructed from durable materials, including a sleek gray casing. It measures 18.5 x 14.5 x 4.5 inches, making it compact enough for various installation scenarios.

Key Advantages

• The 316-grade stainless steel components resist corrosion, ensuring longevity and reliability.
• It provides continuous hot water for the entire home, with performance dependent on geographic location and groundwater temperature.
• The ON/OFF dial control with an adjustable digital temperature display allows for precise temperature adjustments in 1-degree increments from 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
• This tankless system is energy-efficient, saving space and reducing utility bills, while also eliminating the need for venting.

Limitations

• Not compatible with homes lacking adequate electrical service; it requires three 40 AMP double pole breakers and a recommended 200 AMP household service.
• May not meet the hot water demands of larger households if not properly sized based on water usage patterns.

Best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable, space-saving solution for continuous hot water, the Rheem RTEX-24 is an excellent choice for those committed to efficiency and performance.

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Rheem 18kW Tankless Electric Water Heater

The adjustable valve sets the Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater apart from its competitors. This innovative feature allows users to precisely control water temperature, ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency. Constructed from durable materials, it features copper immersion heating elements that are field serviceable, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance. The unit measures 18 x 14 x 4 inches and connects via standard 3/4 inch NPT water connections for straightforward installation.

Key Advantages

• The advanced self-modulation technology automatically adjusts power output to meet hot water demand, enhancing energy efficiency.

Limitations

• Not compatible with traditional tank water heaters, requiring a complete system overhaul for installation.

Best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable and efficient hot water solution, the Rheem 18kW is ideal for those who require a steady flow rate of up to 4.4 GPM. Its external digital thermostatic control with LED display offers +/- 1-degree accuracy, making it suitable for precise applications. Overall, this tankless water heater combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it a top choice for modern households seeking to upgrade their hot water systems.

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WINTEMP 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater

The adjustable valve sets the WINTEMP 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater apart from competitors, ensuring optimal performance tailored to user needs. This unit is constructed from 316-grade stainless steel, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability. With dimensions of 11.1” (W) x 19.1” (H) x 4” (D), it boasts a compact design suitable for tight spaces. The water connection is 3/4″ NPT, enhancing compatibility with standard plumbing systems.

Key Advantages

• The self-regulating technology adjusts energy consumption based on real-time water flow and temperature, achieving up to 99% energy savings compared to traditional tank heaters.
• With a maximum output of 6.5 gallons per minute, it provides a continuous supply of hot water, ideal for residential use without the inconvenience of preheating.
• Multiple safety features, including leakage protection and overheat protection, ensure safe operation, while the ETL certification adds an extra layer of confidence.

Limitations

• Not compatible with systems requiring higher flow rates or specific electrical setups beyond its 27kW rating.

Best for outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable, energy-efficient hot water solution, the WINTEMP 27kW is an excellent choice for modern homes seeking convenience and performance.

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EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater

The adjustable valve sets the EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater apart from its competitors. This innovative feature allows users to fine-tune water flow and temperature settings, ensuring optimal efficiency and performance. Constructed from durable materials, this unit features a compact design with dimensions of 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches, making it 90% smaller than traditional tank heaters. It operates at 13KW at 240 volts and has an amperage draw of 54 A.

Key Advantages

• With 316-grade stainless steel components, the EcoSmart ECO 11 resists corrosion, enhancing longevity and reliability.

Limitations

• It is not compatible with high-flow applications, as it provides between 1.3 and 3.1 gallons-per-minute depending on inlet water temperature.

This unit is best for outdoor enthusiasts and small households needing efficient, on-demand hot water solutions for bathrooms, small sinks, or office breakrooms. Its energy-efficient design heats water only when needed, boasting a remarkable 99% thermal energy efficiency. The EcoSmart ECO 11 is an ideal choice for those looking to save space and energy while enjoying consistent hot water without the drawbacks of traditional tank systems.

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Faq about best electric tankless water heater consumer reports:

1:What is an electric tankless water heater?

An electric tankless water heater heats water on demand without storing it, providing a continuous supply of hot water.

2:What are the benefits of using an electric tankless water heater?

Benefits include energy efficiency, space savings, and an endless supply of hot water, making them ideal for homes with high hot water demands.

3:How do I choose the best electric tankless water heater?

Consider factors like flow rate, energy efficiency ratings, installation requirements, and user reviews in consumer reports to find the best model for your needs.

4:Are electric tankless water heaters energy-efficient?

Yes, they are more energy-efficient than traditional water heaters since they heat water only when needed, reducing energy waste.

5:What are the top-rated electric tankless water heaters in consumer reports?

Top-rated models typically include brands like Rinnai, Stiebel Eltron, and EcoSmart, known for their reliability and performance.

6:How much does it cost to install an electric tankless water heater?

Installation costs vary but typically range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the complexity and local labor rates.

7:Do electric tankless water heaters require maintenance?

Yes, regular maintenance, such as descaling and checking filters, is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Conclusion

Both the ORBEK 14kW Electric Tankless Water Heater and the Rheem RTEX-24 24kW Electric Water Heater exemplify excellence in energy efficiency and performance. The ORBEK model stands out for its compact design and rapid heating capabilities, making it an ideal choice for smaller households seeking convenience without compromising on power.

Conversely, the Rheem RTEX-24 offers robust output and advanced temperature control, catering to larger demands with remarkable reliability. Together, these products represent the pinnacle of modern water heating solutions, ensuring optimal comfort while promoting sustainability.