When it comes to point-of-use tankless water heaters, the best units offer quick and efficient heating, compact design, and energy savings for specific locations like a sink or shower. Here are the top choices:
1. EcoSmart ECO 11
- Flow Rate: 1.3 to 3.1 GPM (depending on temperature rise)
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a very popular option for point-of-use installations due to its self-modulating technology, which adjusts the energy output based on demand, providing energy savings. It’s compact and perfect for smaller applications like a single sink or low-flow shower.
- Best For: Small bathrooms or single-point applications like sinks or low-flow faucets.
- Key Features:
- Digital temperature control for precise adjustments.
- Easy installation and compact design.
- Great for warm climates or light water usage.
2. Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12
- Flow Rate: Up to 2.0 GPM
- Power: 12 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 is known for its reliable performance and precise temperature control. It offers a solid flow rate for point-of-use applications, particularly in colder climates where water needs a greater temperature rise.
- Best For: Cold climates or for more demanding fixtures like a shower in a small apartment.
- Key Features:
- Self-modulating technology for energy savings.
- Durable design with copper heating elements.
- Suitable for sinks, laundry, or even a low-demand shower.
3. Bosch Tronic 3000 US12
- Flow Rate: 1.8 GPM
- Power: 12 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 is a compact and powerful point-of-use water heater designed for small fixtures. It provides instant hot water and is highly reliable for undersink installations in bathrooms or kitchens.
- Best For: Undersink applications like a bathroom or kitchen sink.
- Key Features:
- Easy to install in tight spaces.
- Thermostatic control for precise temperature adjustments.
- Reliable for small to moderate hot water demands.
4. Rheem RTEX-13
- Flow Rate: 1.5 to 3.0 GPM (depending on temperature rise)
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Rheem RTEX-13 is a favorite for those looking for reliable performance at point-of-use locations. It features external digital thermostats and LED displays for easy temperature adjustments and self-modulating technology to ensure efficient operation.
- Best For: Bathrooms, wet bars, or smaller homes needing hot water at one point.
- Key Features:
- External thermostats for easy control.
- Compact and energy-efficient.
- Durable copper immersion heating elements for long life.
5. Eemax EEM24013
- Flow Rate: 1.5 to 3.0 GPM (depending on temperature rise)
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Eemax EEM24013 is designed to provide efficient hot water for point-of-use applications. With a compact footprint, it’s a great choice for areas with limited space.
- Best For: Single sinks or low-demand fixtures like a bathroom sink or dishwasher.
- Key Features:
- Self-modulating technology to save on energy costs.
- Easy to install in tight spaces.
- Can support moderate hot water demand for sinks or small fixtures.
Key Considerations:
- Flow Rate (GPM): Depending on the application, select a model that provides the right flow rate for your needs (e.g., 0.5 to 1.5 GPM for a sink or up to 3 GPM for a shower).
- Power Output: For point-of-use applications, 8-13 kW models are generally sufficient. Higher power output is better if you’re in colder climates or need to heat water faster.
- Self-Modulating Technology: This feature adjusts the power usage based on the water flow demand, ensuring energy efficiency and lower operating costs.
Conclusion:
The EcoSmart ECO 11 and Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 are top choices for most point-of-use installations, offering excellent performance and energy savings. If you’re looking for something more compact and budget-friendly, the Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 is ideal for undersink use.
Choosing the right model depends on your specific needs, but any of these units will provide instant hot water in a compact and efficient package.