That’s right, there I was, expecting endless hot water, and it failed. It wasn’t some random, unreliable brand either. It was one of the big names. So, what went wrong? After troubleshooting, and eventually replacing it, I’ve learned the good, the bad, and the ugly of tankless water heaters.
If you’re thinking of going tankless, you’ve probably heard that they save space, provide on-demand hot water, and cut energy costs. All that’s true – when you choose the right unit. But with so many options, how do you find the best tankless water heater for your home? Well, let me share my hands-on experience and reviews of some of the top models available in 2024.
1. Rinnai RUR199iN – The Heavy-Duty Choice
The Rinnai RUR199iN is like the workhorse of tankless water heaters. I installed this for a family that had a four-bedroom home and endless need for hot water – two showers, laundry, and a dishwasher running at the same time. This model never slowed down.
- Flow Rate: 11 GPM (Gallons Per Minute)
- Best For: Large homes, simultaneous water demands
- Fuel Type: Natural Gas
- Key Features:
- Recirculation technology for faster hot water
- High efficiency with a 0.95 Energy Factor (EF)
- Wi-Fi capable for easy monitoring
Pros: Powerful and efficient for large homes, highly reliable
Cons: More expensive than smaller units; professional installation recommended
2. Rheem RTEX-13 – The Best Electric Option for Small Spaces
If you’re living in a small apartment or only need hot water for a single fixture, the Rheem RTEX-13 is a no-brainer. I personally installed one in a vacation cabin that only needed hot water for a shower and kitchen sink. Perfect for lower demands.
- Flow Rate: 3.17 GPM
- Best For: Apartments, cabins, or small households
- Fuel Type: Electric
- Key Features:
- Simple, compact design
- Digital temperature control
- Energy-efficient at 99.8%
Pros: Affordable, easy installation, ideal for small applications
Cons: Won’t handle multiple hot water sources at once
3. EcoSmart ECO 27 – Best for Budget & DIY Installation
If you want to go tankless but without the hefty price tag, the EcoSmart ECO 27 should be on your radar. It’s electric, compact, and a popular choice for homeowners who like to tackle their own installations. I set one up in a rental property and found the controls straightforward.
- Flow Rate: 6.5 GPM
- Best For: Medium-sized homes, budget-conscious users
- Fuel Type: Electric
- Key Features:
- Self-modulating technology for energy efficiency
- Compact and lightweight design
- Lifetime warranty on the heating element
Pros: Budget-friendly, efficient for the size, relatively easy to install
Cons: Electric units don’t always heat water as fast as gas options
4. Noritz NRC66DVNG – Compact Gas Unit for Mid-Sized Homes
Noritz has been making tankless water heaters for decades, and their NRC66DVNG unit impressed me for its compactness and performance. I helped a client swap this in for an outdated tank water heater in their two-bathroom house, and it works like a charm.
- Flow Rate: 6.6 GPM
- Best For: Mid-sized homes, energy efficiency
- Fuel Type: Natural Gas
- Key Features:
- Compact and space-saving
- Low NOx emissions for eco-conscious homes
- High-efficiency design
Pros: Space-saving, affordable for a gas model, consistent performance
Cons: Requires venting, which adds to installation costs
5. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 – The Quiet Performer
If you hate hearing your appliances make noise, this Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 is one of the quietest tankless water heaters I’ve worked with. I set one up for a couple who were sensitive to noise in their small bungalow. Not only did it run quietly, but it also delivered consistent hot water for their needs.
- Flow Rate: 4 GPM
- Best For: Smaller homes, quiet operation
- Fuel Type: Electric
- Key Features:
- Advanced flow control to maintain consistent temperature
- Silent operation
- Digital temperature display
Pros: Very quiet, efficient, and compact
Cons: More expensive than other electric units
How to Choose the Right Tankless Water Heater
Now, I get it – choosing a tankless water heater can be overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, but if you keep these main factors in mind, you’ll land on the right one for your needs.
Key Factors:
- Size and Flow Rate (GPM)
- How much hot water does your home need at once? Showers, dishwashers, and washing machines running simultaneously? Go for a higher GPM like 10-11.
- Fuel Type
- Gas vs. Electric: Gas heaters usually have higher GPM, but electric units are easier and cheaper to install. Think about your home’s fuel access.
- Efficiency
- Look for units with high Energy Factors (EF) to ensure you’re saving money on your energy bill. A unit with a 0.95 EF or higher is a solid choice.
- Installation and Venting
- Electric units are typically easier to install DIY, while gas models often require professional installation due to venting requirements.
- Price
- Tankless water heaters can range from $200 to over $2,000 depending on the size and brand. Budget accordingly.
Pro Tip: Regular Maintenance Is Key!
After my initial mishap with my first tankless heater, I learned the hard way that routine maintenance is non-negotiable. Descaling the unit every 6-12 months (especially in areas with hard water) is critical for keeping the system working efficiently. Many units come with descaling kits, but you can also have a plumber do it for you if you’re not comfortable with the process.
The Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
- Large Homes: Go with the Rinnai RUR199iN. It’s reliable, powerful, and worth the price if you need a high GPM.
- Small Homes or Apartments: The Rheem RTEX-13 gives you consistent, instant hot water at an affordable price.
- On a Budget: The EcoSmart ECO 27 is easy on the wallet and efficient, especially for medium-sized households.
- Quiet & Compact: The Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 is perfect for smaller homes and those who value silent operation.