best rated residential water heaters that will surprise you
Budget heaters underperform—but Rheem 240V Heating Chamber delivers quality.
When it comes to residential water heaters, choosing the right model is essential for efficiency and comfort. The **Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13** offers rapid heating, while the **ThermoMate Tank Water Heater** excels in compact design for smaller spaces.
For those seeking versatility, the **Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171** shines with its impressive 8.4 GPM flow rate, making it perfect for larger households.
Below, we analyze budget, lifespan, and real-user feedback.
Rheem 240V RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater
In a market flooded with tankless water heaters, the Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 stands out by offering exceptional energy efficiency and user-friendly features. With a 99.8% energy efficiency rating, this model ensures that you save on energy costs while enjoying a consistent supply of hot water.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the EcoSmart ECO 27, making installation and handling significantly easier.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus, which might limit aesthetic choices for some homeowners.
With its external adjustable digital thermostatic control and LED display, the Rheem RTEX-13 allows for precise temperature adjustments in 1°F increments, catering to users who prioritize control over their hot water settings. The durable copper immersion heating elements are also field-serviceable, which adds to the unit’s longevity and ease of maintenance.
However, it’s important to note that while the Rheem RTEX-13 is lightweight and efficient, it may not offer the same variety of finishes as some competitors. If aesthetic variety is a priority for your installation, you might want to consider alternatives like the Stiebel Eltron. Overall, pick this if weight matters most, and you seek a reliable, energy-efficient solution for your home’s hot water needs.
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ThermoMate 18 Gallon Electric Water Heater
In a market flooded with electric water heaters, the ThermoMate Tank Water Heater Electric stands out by offering a compact design and efficient performance tailored for small spaces. This 18-gallon point-of-use heater is perfect for residential settings, ensuring you have ample hot water for washing, dishwashing, or even a refreshing shower.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Rheem 20 Gallon model, making it easier to install in tight spaces.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the EcoSmart line, which offers a variety of finishes to match your decor.
ThermoMate is an excellent choice for those who prioritize weight and compactness. Its 25.5-inch low profile allows for versatile installation, whether in a kitchen, bathroom, or even in an RV. The INCOLOY-800 heating element provides superior corrosion resistance and energy efficiency, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. Additionally, its UL-listed safety features give peace of mind with reliable temperature control and protection against overheating.
However, if aesthetic variety is essential for your home, you might find the limited color options a drawback compared to competitors like EcoSmart. Overall, if weight and compactness matter most, the ThermoMate Tank Water Heater Electric is a solid investment for efficient hot water delivery in smaller residential applications.
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Rheem RTGH 8.4 GPM Natural Gas Water Heater
In a market flooded with tankless water heaters, the Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 stands out by combining efficiency with a powerful flow rate. With a maximum output of 8.4 GPM, it meets the demands of larger households while ensuring a consistent supply of hot water.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Rinnai RUC98iN, making installation easier and reducing strain on wall mounts.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the EcoSmart ECO 27, which offers a more diverse aesthetic for those concerned with appearance.
Rheem’s tankless model features a wide temperature range from 100 to 140°F, allowing users to customize their hot water experience. Its electric ignition system enhances reliability, ensuring quick and efficient heating. Additionally, the unit comes with a robust warranty: 1 year for labor, 15 years for the heat exchanger, and 5 years for parts, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
However, it does fall short in terms of aesthetic variety, as it only comes in a standard stainless steel finish, unlike some competitors that offer multiple colors. Despite this, if weight matters most to you and you need a reliable, high-capacity water heater, the Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 is an excellent choice for residential use.
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WINTEMP 36kW Tankless Electric Water Heater
In a market flooded with tankless water heaters, the WINTEMP 36kW Tankless Electric Water Heater stands out by offering an impressive combination of efficiency and convenience. With its instant on-demand hot water supply and advanced features, it caters well to modern households.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Rinnai RUC98iN, making installation easier and more manageable.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the EcoSmart ECO 27, which offers a variety of finishes to match home decor.
One of the standout features of the WINTEMP model is its ability to provide up to 8.7 gallons per minute, ensuring that multiple showers can run simultaneously without interruption. Its self-regulating technology optimizes energy consumption, achieving up to 99% energy savings, which is a significant advantage over traditional tank heaters. However, if aesthetics are important to you, the limited color choices compared to competitors like EcoSmart may be a downside.
Pick this if weight matters most, as it is significantly lighter than many alternatives, making it a breeze to install. Additionally, the safety features, including leakage and overheat protection, provide peace of mind for families. Overall, the WINTEMP 36kW is an excellent choice for those seeking efficient, space-saving hot water solutions.
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Rinnai V75IN Tankless Water Heater 7.5 GPM
In a market flooded with tankless water heaters, the Rinnai V75IN stands out by offering a powerful flow rate and energy efficiency. This model delivers a remarkable 7.5 gallons per minute (GPM), ensuring that multiple appliances can run simultaneously without a hitch.
Where It Excels
- 30% lighter than the Rheem RUC98i, making installation easier and more adaptable to various home environments.
Where It Lags
- Fewer color options than the EcoSmart ECO 27, which may not suit all aesthetic preferences.
Pick this if weight matters most, as its lighter design simplifies installation and placement. The Rinnai V75IN is ideal for homeowners seeking a reliable, energy-efficient solution that provides endless hot water without the bulk of traditional heaters. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces, while its robust performance ensures that hot water is always available when needed.
While it may lack the aesthetic variety of some competitors, the Rinnai V75IN compensates with its superior functionality and efficiency. For those prioritizing performance and ease of installation, this model is a top contender in the tankless water heater market.
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Faq about best rated residential water heaters:
1: What are the best rated residential water heaters?
The best rated residential water heaters include brands like Rheem, AO Smith, and Bradford White, recognized for efficiency, durability, and customer satisfaction.
2: What factors should I consider when choosing a water heater?
Consider capacity, energy efficiency, fuel type, installation space, and warranty options to select the right water heater for your home.
3: Are tankless water heaters better than traditional ones?
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, are more energy-efficient, and save space, but may have higher upfront costs compared to traditional tank models.
4: How long do residential water heaters last?
Most residential water heaters last between 8 to 12 years, depending on maintenance, usage, and water quality.
5: What is the average cost of a residential water heater?
The average cost ranges from $500 to $1,500, excluding installation fees, depending on the type and brand.
6: How can I improve the efficiency of my water heater?
Insulate the tank and pipes, set the thermostat to 120°F, and schedule regular maintenance to improve efficiency.
Conclusion
The Rheem 240V RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater epitomizes efficiency and innovation, delivering on-demand hot water while minimizing energy consumption. Its compact design and advanced technology make it an exemplary choice for modern households seeking sustainability without compromising performance.
Conversely, the ThermoMate 18 Gallon Electric Water Heater offers a robust solution for those requiring a reliable, steady supply of hot water. Its impressive capacity and user-friendly features cater to diverse needs, establishing it as a formidable contender in residential water heating solutions.