When I made the switch to a tankless water heater, it was a game changer. Gone were the days of running out of hot water halfway through a shower or waiting for the tank to refill after a few loads of laundry. But not all tankless water heaters are created equal, and finding the right one for your home’s needs can be overwhelming. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the best tankless water heaters based on performance, efficiency, and user-friendliness.
1. Rinnai RU199iN (Natural Gas)
Best Overall Tankless Water Heater for Large Homes
Rinnai is a well-known name in tankless water heaters, and the RU199iN is perfect for those with high hot water demands, like larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms. This unit runs on natural gas, making it energy-efficient and capable of handling a big household.
Key Features:
- High Flow Rate: Up to 11 GPM, which can handle multiple showers or appliances running simultaneously.
- Energy Efficiency: Boasts a 96% thermal efficiency rating, which means almost no energy is wasted.
- Wi-Fi Capable: You can control the system remotely via an app, allowing for temperature adjustments or scheduling maintenance alerts.
- Recirculation Technology: Keeps hot water on standby, reducing wait times when you turn on the faucet.
Pros:
- Powerful enough for large homes.
- Very energy-efficient, saving on utility bills.
- Continuous hot water for multiple fixtures.
- Wi-Fi control for easy operation.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to smaller units.
- Requires professional installation.
2. Rheem Performance Platinum 9.5 GPM (Natural Gas)
Best for Energy Efficiency
The Rheem Performance Platinum series is well-regarded for its balance of efficiency, affordability, and performance. This model is especially suited for homes that want a gas-powered, highly efficient unit that won’t break the bank.
Key Features:
- 9.5 GPM Flow Rate: Handles multiple hot water demands at once, like showers and dishwashers.
- EcoNet App: Rheem’s system connects to Wi-Fi, so you can control and monitor the unit from anywhere.
- Ultra Low NOx Emissions: Environmentally friendly with reduced emissions.
- Energy Star Rated: Highly efficient, helping lower gas and energy bills.
Pros:
- Affordable for the power and efficiency it offers.
- Wi-Fi control allows for easy monitoring and adjustments.
- Environmentally friendly with low NOx emissions.
Cons:
- Flow rate slightly lower than the top-tier models.
- Requires regular maintenance to maintain peak efficiency.
3. EcoSmart ECO 27 (Electric)
Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
If you’re looking for an electric tankless water heater, the EcoSmart ECO 27 is a top performer. Ideal for homes in warmer climates or smaller households, this unit is compact yet powerful.
Key Features:
- Self-Modulating Technology: Adjusts energy consumption based on hot water demand, ensuring maximum efficiency.
- Up to 6.5 GPM: Suitable for homes with moderate water needs, such as one or two bathrooms.
- Lifetime Warranty: Comes with one of the best warranties in the industry, covering parts for life (with professional installation).
- Compact Design: Saves a lot of space compared to bulky traditional water heaters.
Pros:
- Affordable and compact for small homes or apartments.
- Excellent energy efficiency with the self-modulating feature.
- Lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
- Electric models are easier to install than gas units.
Cons:
- Not suitable for larger homes with high water demands.
- Flow rate decreases in colder climates.
4. Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus (Electric)
Best for Cold Climates
When dealing with colder groundwater temperatures, some tankless water heaters struggle to maintain high flow rates. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is engineered to handle lower incoming water temperatures while still providing ample hot water.
Key Features:
- Advanced Flow Control: Ensures stable hot water supply even in colder climates by automatically adjusting the flow rate to maintain temperature.
- 7.5 GPM: Great for homes with 2-3 bathrooms.
- Electric Efficiency: Uses a self-modulating system to adjust power output based on demand, reducing energy consumption.
- Digital Temperature Control: Allows precise settings for water temperature.
Pros:
- Consistent hot water flow even in cold weather.
- Quiet operation and space-saving design.
- Efficient and reliable performance.
Cons:
- Higher price for an electric model.
- Requires significant electrical capacity for installation.
5. Noritz NRC66DV (Natural Gas)
Best Compact Tankless Water Heater
The Noritz NRC66DV is a great option if you’re short on space but don’t want to compromise on performance. It’s compact, energy-efficient, and ideal for smaller homes or apartments.
Key Features:
- 6.6 GPM Flow Rate: Perfect for smaller homes or families of 2-3 people.
- Low NOx Emissions: Meets environmental standards for low emissions.
- Energy Star Rated: Helps save on energy bills with its efficient design.
- Built-In Recirculation: Reduces water waste by keeping hot water ready to go.
Pros:
- Compact and ideal for small spaces.
- Affordable and efficient for its size.
- Environmentally friendly with low emissions.
Cons:
- Lower flow rate, so it may not support multiple simultaneous uses.
- Not suited for large families or homes with high water demand.
6. Takagi T-H3-DV-N (Natural Gas)
Best for High Flow Rates
If you have a large family or a home with multiple bathrooms, the Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a high-powered option. Known for its impressive flow rate and durability, this unit will handle just about anything you throw at it.
Key Features:
- 10 GPM Flow Rate: Supports several fixtures running at the same time.
- Condensing Technology: Increases efficiency by reusing heat, lowering gas consumption.
- Direct Vent Design: Ensures efficient exhaust and air intake for better performance.
- Energy Star Rated: High energy efficiency, leading to lower monthly bills.
Pros:
- Handles large homes with high water demand.
- Extremely durable and built to last.
- High energy efficiency thanks to condensing technology.
Cons:
- High upfront cost.
- Requires professional installation and possibly more maintenance.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tankless Water Heater
Before you make your decision, here are the key factors to consider:
- Fuel Type: Do you want a gas or electric unit? Gas heaters generally offer higher flow rates and are more suitable for large households, while electric models are easier to install and maintain.
- Flow Rate (GPM): This is how much water the unit can heat per minute. Larger homes will need higher GPM models (8-12 GPM), while smaller homes may be fine with 5-7 GPM.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star ratings and features like self-modulation to keep energy costs down.
- Climate: If you live in a colder climate, choose a unit with advanced flow control or one designed to handle colder groundwater.
- Installation: Gas units often require professional installation, especially if venting or gas lines are involved. Electric units are easier to install but may need electrical upgrades depending on your home’s setup.
Conclusion: Which Tankless Water Heater is Right for You?
For large households, the Rinnai RU199iN is my top pick. Its ability to handle multiple bathrooms with ease and advanced features make it a standout. If you’re looking for an electric option, the EcoSmart ECO 27 offers a great balance of performance and price. And for homes in colder climates, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus ensures you won’t be left with lukewarm showers.
Take into account your home’s size, water demand, and energy preferences to choose the best tankless water heater that fits your needs!