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Hot water is non-negotiable. But sometimes, installing a traditional hot water heater is too space consuming. And these bulky insulated tanks can cause a spike in your utility bills. So there goes the saying,” hot water is a luxury.”
And if you have a small house, you might not have enough space to install a traditional storage tank. These units are not pleasing to the eyes, either. And you can also opt to have a gas tankless water heater. But there’s a risk of a gas leak.
Our list of the best electric tankless water heaters can make hot water accessible to everyone. And it has tons of pros over traditional storage tanks. Let’s see which brand should be in your wishlist.
Here Is the List of Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters:
- Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus
- Rheem RTGH-95DVLN
- Stiebel Eltron
- Bosch WH87
- Bosch Tronic 3000
- EcoSmart ECO 27
- Eemax EEM24027
- Sio Green IR288
- Rheem RTEX-18
- Rheem RTX 13
Top 15 Picks for the Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters (A Product Review)
With the best electric tankless water heaters, water need not be a luxury anymore. Everyone can have access to it.
So let’s start shopping.
1. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus – Best Premium Electric Tankless Water Heater
This Stiebel Eltron unit is a premium brand. And it’s one of the best in the market and you’re making a great investment. It can provide a constant temperature of hot water all year round. And it lasts longer too.
It’s also multipurpose. You can run several showers and a faucet, and yet you get the same hot water every single time. And even if you use it for a lot of applications, you will not notice a significant increase in your utility bills. In fact it can give you between a 2 and 15 percent savings on hot water bills.
The temperature settings are also quite accurate and it’s easy to control. And it operates quietly too.
Moreover, it has a lot of power that can also be used in both commercial establishments and larger homes.
Features
- 29 KW
- max GPM of 8
- 86-140 degrees Fahrenheit
- 100 amps
- 7-year leakage warranty
- 3-year parts warranty
Pros
- Sleek and stylish design
- Saves energy 2-15 %
- Consistent hot water all year round
- It’s auto modulating
- Easy to install
- Quiet
- Easy to set the temperature
Cons
- Higher tier
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a premium and efficient water heater that can give you great savings. Moreover, it can supply consistent hot water all year round.
2. Rheem RTGH-95DVLN – Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
This Rheem water heater unit is ideal for those with higher hot water demand. Among the other water heater units in our list, it’s the most multi-purpose and energy-efficient at the same time. It can supply reliable hot water for a lot of applications.
You can run several showers, the sink, a bathtub, and more simultaneously. Moreover, it does so with so many savings. That’s because this Rheem water heater is a condenser itself. It also makes use of exhaust gas to heat the water. Hence, resulting in greater energy savings.
It’s also compact and won’t eat space in your bathroom. Despite that, it’s packed with such power. And you wouldn’t expect from a small unit.
Features
- stainless steel condensing with exchanger
- intelligent electronic controls
- 96 percent energy efficient
Pros
- High water demand
- Ideal for several applications
- Energy efficient
- Compact and space saver
Cons
- Might incur additional installation cost
Why you should buy this water heater
This electric water heater is capable of supplying a higher demand for hot water. And it does so while being energy efficient. Thus, it’s ideal for larger homes.
3. Stiebel Eltron – Best Consistent Electric Tankless Water Heater
If you are looking for a consistent water heater, the Stiebel Eltron is a great option. This unit is equipped with patented advanced flow control that ensures the unit provides consistent hot water. You’ll never have to finish your shower with cold water again. Furthermore, your hot soapy bath will never be interrupted again.
And you’d surely want this reliable water heater for the colder season. And even if the water flow rates vary, you can still expect the same hot water output.
Furthermore, it can electronically measure the water flow. And it can even give you an idea of how much saving you’re making.
All in all, it’s a highly innovative water heater with a sleek and modern design.
Features
- 24KW
- 240/208 V
- 150 A
- 86-140 degrees Fahrenheit output water
Pros
- Innovative
- Eco friendly
- Digital temperature display
- Quiet
- Compact and sleek design
Cons
- The consistent flow rate may apply only to a single application
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a modern and highly innovative water heater. You can also enjoy the consistent flow of hot water all day.
4. Bosch WH87 – Best Whole House Tankless Water Heater
At 97 % efficient, this premium wholehouse water heater for Bosch is king. It can be used both in commercial and household settings. So you can be assured of a powerful surge of hot water. And that’s at a lower energy consumption.
It’s also highly innovative and has a built in sensor. It ensures a consistent temperature of hot water. So you can enjoy a sudsy warm bubble bath without getting a cold sandwich. It has amazing specs and packed with power.
The premium price is also very worth it. It has superior control capabilities and it can be assured of high performance. Plus, it doesn’t cause a rise in your utility bills.
Features
- 26.9 KW
- external temperature control known
- 97 % energy efficient
- built-in flow sensor
- polymer encase element
Pros
- High efficiency at 97 %
- Easy to install
- Compact and light
- Has temperature sensor
- Great control
- Consistent supply of hot water
- Low power consumption
- Operate quietly
Cons
- May have a slight delay of 20-40 seconds
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a premium brand with amazing power. It ensures that you get a steady supply of hot water. And that’s at a consistent temperature and lower utility bills.
5. Bosch Tronic 3000 – Best Versatile Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Bosch Tronic 3000 provides a steady flow of hot water. And it’s also quite versatile and can be installed without encountering any problems, both for indoor and RV use. you can also tap this unit into your existing cold water line. Then mount it under the sink to generate hot water.
Another great advantage of the Bosch Tronic 300 is that it’s fairly easy to mount. You can place it on top of a shelf. And you can even mount it on the floor or the walls. The Bosch Tronic is sleek and white. It also looks modern and it’s quite compact too.
Furthermore, the Bosch Tronic is equipped with a CFC foam-free insulation. This also makes the unit more energy efficient.
Features
- 1440 watts
- 17.5 W x 17.5 H x 14.5 D Inches
- 65 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Can be installed vertically or horizontally
- Easy to mount
- Has a pressure relief valve
- Available in two sizes
- Heats up fast
- Can provide a consistent flow of hot water
- Works great for RV units too
Cons
- Some encountered issues with the tolerance of the connections
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a sleek, handsome, and versatile water heater. It can be connected to your old water line and it can also be installed in an RV.
6. EcoSmart ECO 27 – Best Compact Tankless Water Heater
The Eco 27 is ideal for multiple applications. This unit can heat up to 3 gallons of water per minute. And if you have a big household with two bathrooms, there’s no need to race to the shower. Since it’s ideal for multiple applications, the ECO 27 can heat the water of up to 2 bathrooms simultaneously.
The temperature range is 80 -140 degrees. And one of the features that you’ll also like is that you can control the temperature digitally. Moreover, it’s equipped with patented modular technology, this enables the unit to conserve energy. It can cut you back up to 50 percent of water heating costs.
This water heater is made of stainless steel and copper components, so it’s quite durable too.
Features
- digital temperature controller
- 17H x 17W x 3.625D inches
- 240 volts
- requires 40 breakers
- 112.45max amp
- 113 A
- requires 8 wires
Pros
- Wall-mounted
- Compacted
- Equipped with a thermostat for automatic resets
- Has energy-saving features
- For multiple applications
Cons
- Can take time to heat water
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a space saver and energy-saving tankless water heater. You can also use it for multi applications.
7. Eemax EEM24027 – Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for Small Homes
The Eemax water heater is one of its kind. It’s a self-modulating tankless water heater. Hence, it can regulate or control how much energy it needs to use. So it’s cost-efficient. It’s relatively small and it’s a perfect unit for small homes.
The installation was a breeze. It’s fairly easy and the instructions were easy to understand. And you’d be amazed at how a very small unit can provide a continuous supply of hot water.
Features
- needs 3 separate 220 breakers
Pros
- Provides consistent supply of hot water
- Self-modulating
- Advanced technology
- Easy to install
Cons
- Applicable to small homes only
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s the perfect water heater for your small home. It’s energy-efficient and yet can provide a consistent stream of hot water.
8. Sio Green IR288 – Best Tankless Water Heater for RV Units
The small and compact size of Sio Green and ease of installation makes it an ideal water heater for RV units. It might have a lower GPM of 1.7 compared to other brands, but this is sufficient enough to supply hot water for your RV unit. You also wouldn’t be worried about algae and lime deposits since it’s easy to maintain.
Sio Green is free from any metallic elements or components. So this water heater is 100% safe from corrosion. It can supply a steady stream of hot water without getting into contact with metal.
And if you want to make it more low maintenance, you cant opt to buy a water softener.
Pros
- The high energy rating of 98 %
- Dual purpose
- Low maintenance.
- Easy to install
- Space saver
- Affordable
- Corrosion-free
Cons
- Lower flow rate than other brands
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s the perfect water heater for your RV unit. The flow rate is just right for this type of application.
9. Rheem RTEX-18 – Best Quiet Electric Tankless Water Heater
It’s the quietest on our list. That’s why you can install it wherever you want without worrying about people complaining about your noisy water heater.
The Rheem RTEX- 18 is an electric wall mounted water heater. It’s one of its kind and highly innovative. This water heater can adjust the temperature according to how hot you need your water to be. So it can save you up on energy.
It’s multipurpose and can be used for your sink, several bathrooms, and more applications at a time. Yet, it can provide a steady stream of hot water for all applications.
Features
- LCD
- digital thermostat control
- 4.4 GPM
- wall mounted
- with 2 heating elements
Pros
- Self-modulating
- Relatively quiet
- Innovative
- Easy to install
- Multipurpose
Cons
- Works better with a flow regulator
Why do you need to buy this water heater
It’s the quietest water heater on our list. It’s also multipurpose and can supply a steady supply of hot water for various applications.
10. Rheem RTX 13 – Best Cost Efficient Electric Tankless Water Heater
If you’re on a budget or you’re trying to trim down your total expenses, this water heater is for you. It’s up to 98.9 percent energy-efficient. So it can cut back on your expenses. That’s why this unit also sells hot pancakes in the market.
This water heater is relatively small and perfect for those living alone. It can provide 1.5 GPM. And it’s more than enough for those who live alpine. It might even suffice for two persons in a small apartment.
And it has a crazy affordable price tag too. it might be the most efficient and affordable water heater in the market. And the max GPM is 4, so you can still enjoy a steady supply of hot water despite its price and small size.
Features
- LED display
- 1.5 – 4 GPM
- 54 A
Pros
- Adjustable digital thermostatic controls
- Easy to install
- Compact
- 99.8 energy efficient
- Affordable price
Cons
- Not for large homes
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s a cost-efficient and affordable water heater perfect for 1-2 persons.
11. Titan SCR2 N-120 E – Best Affordable Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Titan electric water heater is a low to medium capacity electric water heater perfect for cabins or small rooms. It’s also a nice feature for your bed and breakfast. Your guests will surely love the endless supply of hot water.
The Titan boasts of a steel finish with a modern design. It’s very light and compact at only 8 lbs. So it’s easy to mount on your walls or even behind a cabinet.
Another great feature of this electric tankless water heater is its great coverage. The brand offers great options so you get the most out of your purchase. It also costs more affordable compared to the other brands on our list. And despite its low price tag, you can still expect steady supply of hot water for low to average demand.
Also, this unit is very energy efficient. This will lower your carbon emissions and carbon footprint better than other brands on our list. It’s 99.5 % energy efficient. So you get tons of savings in the future.
Features
- 220 volts
- 54 amp
- 4 GPM
Pros
- Ideal for a small condo or cabin
- Modern sleek finish
- Very lightweight and small
- Affordable
- 99.5 % energy efficient
Cons
- Not for large homes
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s an energy efficient water heater great for providing low water demand.
12. Sio Green IR260 – Best Innovative Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Sio Green 1R260 is one of its kind. It’s an infrared electric tankless water heater that can boost your savings monthly. It can lower your electric utility bills every single month. And another great feature that you’ll love is that it’s available in different models, so you’re sure to find one that fits your homes and electric requirements.
And since it uses infrared heating there’s no need for any metal components. It has a non coil or no metal design. So it’s corrosion-free. That’s one less thing to worry about.
The 1.5 GPM is more ideal for small homes or for families with few members. It’s suited for a low demand for hot water needs.
Features
- available in 30A and 3.4kW up to 80A and 18kW
- infrared technology
- non coil and non-metal design
- 1.5 GPM
Pros
- Features 4 power levels
- Corrosion-free
- Innovative infrared technology
- Boost monthly utility savings
- Easy to install
- Compact
Cons
- Low GPM
Why you should buy this water heater
You can make more savings monthly with this water heater that uses infrared
technology.
13. Sio Green SIO18 – Best Low Maintenance Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Sio Green SIO 18 is another innovative water heater that makes use of an infrared technology. So it means great savings on your monthly utility bills. Like the other Sio Green water heaters on our list, it’s very lightweight and compact. So you have more liberty in where you want to mount it.
What makes it a bit different from the other SIO Green water heaters that used infrared is that this specific unit is also suitable for a commercial establishment. And the infrared technology helps control the algae, the lime deposit, and mineral buildup.
And since it uses infrared technology it’s free from volatile components such as quartz. And it has no metal parts too. Other brands that make use of infrared technology have quartz. Although it’s an efficient heating element, it can quickly catch fire when it comes into contact with lint.
Features
- 110-220 V
- infrared technology
- quartz free
- fee from coils and metals
Pros
- Compact and light
- Great monthly saving on utility bills
- Corrosion-free tankless water heater
- Rids risk of fire from quartz
- Innovative
- Eliminates algae, lime and mineral buildup
Cons
- The temperature sensor isn’t that accurate
Why you should buy his hot water heater
It’s a quartz and free metal free pinafore water heater. This is corrosion-free and rids the risk of fire.
14. Bosch 3000 – Best Sink Electric Tankless Water Heater
If you’re looking for a sink water heater, the Bosch 300 is the best option. It has an affordable price tag and can supply hot water on demand.
You may also use it on your showers provided that it’s a 12 KW unit. Despite its limitations, it can still provide a steady supply of hot water. And the price tag is quite attractive. It’s 98 percent energy-efficient. So you can consume more water but less the energy. Thus earning a spot on our list.
Moreover, it has a sleek, clean, and pristine design that can complement your modern kitchen.
Features
- has overheating protection
- solid copper heat exchangers
- comes in 3.4 kW, 7.2 kW, 9.5 kW, and 12 kW models
- 98 % energy efficient
- 1.8 GPM
- 40 A
- 5-year heat component warranty
- 1-year warranty on others
Pros
- Compact size
- Energy-efficient
- Affordable
- Sleek and modern design
- Lesser maintenance
Cons
- Sink application only
Why you should buy this water heater
It’s the best sink water heater that’s 98 percent energy efficient.
What to Know Before Buying a Tankless Water Heater (A Buying Guide)
We’re pretty sure you have already shortlisted the top water heater for your homes. But before making a final decision, see some factors that you need to consider in buying a tankless water heater.
1. Energy source
Gas or electric? Tankless water heaters use these two energy sources.
Gas-powered water heaters make use of propane. It’s a more affordable choice since propane is relatively cheaper.
However, you need to shell out more moolah for the installation. You have to think about the cost of the venting, especially if it’s an indoor application.
Electric powered ones, on the other hand, can be expensive in the long run, and with the increasing and fluctuating electricity rates, it can be more expensive than gas-powered ones. But, tankless electric water heater units are cheaper.
Moreover, we have allocated a specific area in this article to further see the pros and cons of gas and electric tankless water heaters.
2. Your demand for hot water
The tankless water heaters on our list have different capacities. Some brands can supply a great demand, while others are fit for a smaller household with less demand.
To determine your demand for hot water, you have to look at the GPM. GPM is gallons per minute. It’s the maximum amount of water that a water heater can produce. Thus, the higher the GPM, the higher the capacity. And also they tend to have a more expensive price tag.
3. Climate
What does the climate have to do with water heaters? A lot
Some brands are fit for any weather. it can simply supply hot water even in the coldest temperature. And some units are low to med efficiency. Meaning, they can provide hot water but aren’t that efficient if colder temperatures.
4. Installation cost
You have to put aside cost for the installation, especially for gas water heaters. These units need venting.
Tankless vs Tank Water Heater
Having ready access to hot water is a valuable commodity. And most people have one in their homes. There are two types of hot water storage- the traditional or the tank water heater and the tankless water heater.
Let’s see what makes them different from one another.
Tank Water Heaters
Most homes have a traditional or tank storage system in their homes. That’s the big and bulky tank of water most people have in their basements. Traditional water storage has a capacity of 30 -60 gallons. And it can be powered by electricity or by gas.
Pros
- All brands can deliver the same amount of efficiency in terms of water output. That’s a steady supply of hot water that can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The upfront cost is low.
Cons
- Since the main component is an insulated tank, it can be bulky.
- Expensive monthly cost.
- You pay for hot water even if you don’t need it yet.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are also called on-demand water heaters. It’s because these units only heat water if you need them. And they are also more compact than the traditional tank storages since they do not have an insulated tank as the main component.
Moreover, tankless water heaters can also be powered either by gas or electricity.
Tankless water heaters are increasingly becoming popular. And some brands are equipped with the latest innovation that lets you track your energy savings.
Even those with traditional water storage tanks are looking to shift to a tankless one. Though tankless water heaters can be more expensive, many are making the switch due to claims of gaining more savings in the long run.
But should you? What are the pros and cons of having a tankless water heater? Keep reading to find out.
Advantages of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
The more expensive upfront cost is one of the things to consider. But why do more people swear by the efficiency of tankless water heaters over the traditional water storage?
Let’s see why.
- More energy efficient
Studies reveal that electric tankless water heaters can be 20-35 percent more efficient over the traditional ones.
And this is why.
With tank water heaters, you need a continuous supply of fuel to heat water, even if you don’t need them yet. And once you need access to water, the unit reheats the water. So that’s an added cost on the fuel. Even if no one is at home, the water heater is still being fueled.
Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are also named in demand water heaters. That’s because they heat water just when you need it. it requires a surge of power to instantly heat water. But it’s still lower in cost compared to having to heat water 24/7.
2. Space saver
Tank water heaters are not bulky since they don’t have an insulated tank as the main component. They are, on the other hand, small and compact. And some brands are even suited for installation in an RV unit.
They can be small and you can even install them under the sink or behind the cabinet since space is not an issue. And for large families, you can even install more than one tankless water heater without worrying about available space in your basement.
Moreover, it’s amazing how these little water heaters are packed with power. They can provide almost the same water output as tanked ones. And the best brands ensures that you get a steady supply of hot water whenever you need it
3. They have longer warranties
Tankless water heaters are slowly invading everyone’s home. And it’s for several reasons. One of which is a better warranty from the brands. Some brands even offer 20 years warranty on their tankless water heater units.
4. Can last longer
Compared to tank water heaters, the tankless units can last for 20-30 tears. though if you live in areas with a hard water system, that may slightly affect that. But it’s still more reliable and has a longer life than traditional water storage.
5. Heats water fast
You’ll get hot water the moment you open the faucet. Unlike with a traditional one, you have to wait for 15-20 minutes, tankless water heaters are more convenient.
6. Ideal even for small homes
The traditional tank water storage is the only ideal for big homes. One, the space for the insulated tank would be a problem. And two, the capacity might be too large for a small household. And since you the water is heated continuously, that’s a no-no for a small home. You’ll end up paying for hot water that you don’t use and need.
Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are also ideal for both large and small homes. And some brands are configured to meet the water demands for both large and small families.
Disadvantages of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
And here are some tradeoffs, so that you’ll know what you’re getting yourself into. And these will help you make a sound decision.
1. The more expensive cost upfront
Tankless water heaters are more expensive than traditional ones. With the compact size and innovative features, and more reliable and durable specs, expect it to have a higher price tag.
2. More maintenance is needed.
Homeowners might need to flush out their water from the system at least once a year to prevent lime and mineral deposits. Though you also do this with traditional storage, you tend to be more cautious with the tankless water heaters. Why? Because it can gravely affect the warranty.
4. May have inconsistent temperatures
Some brands of tankless water heart may provide inconsistent water temperatures. And to alleviate that, we’ve listed the best brands that can offer the same consistent hot water supply as the traditional water heaters.
Electric Tankless Water Heater Installation
Installing an electric water heater may not be as hard as you think, especially if you’re a seasoned DIYer already. But keep in mind that it also entails some basic electric and plumbing duties.
Or if you’re not keen on doing any of those, you can always hire a professional plumber for the installation.
But if not, see our step by step guide below on how to install an electric water heater.
1. Before installing an electric tankless water heater, make sure that your home is fitted with the proper electrical requirements. Different brands of electric water heater may require varying electrical requirements. Some brands might be more complex and will require you to upgrade to a service panel with bigger breakers or wires.
Some units may require 220 V, 240 V or 120 V. You can confirm the electrical size by checking your electrical breaker box.
2. Secure permit for the water pressure requirements. Most states will require this for inspection of safety too. The pressure gauge of tankless water heaters ranges from 30 and 150 psi.
3. Choose the best location to mount the electric tankless water heater on the wall. For whole house water systems, it’s advisable to place it where the demand for hot water is greatest.
You may also mount the units under the sink. It gives you more liberty because of its compact size. But make sure to install it vertically (except some brands). The power and water supply should be pointing down.
And avoid placing the heater in areas where it could be freezing or anywhere where it could often get wet.
4. Have all your tools and materials on hand. And you need the following:
- Pencil
- sandpaper
- shut off valves
- Tape measure wire and ground piping (¾)
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
- anchors
- Needle nose pliers
- double pole circuit breakers
- mounting screws
- Phllipps head screwdriver
- reducing valve pipe insulation
- Flathead screwdriver
- soldering or welding supplies
- pipe cutter
- Drill and drill bits
- temperature and pressure relief valve
5. Now, time to get your hands dirty. First off, turn off all circuit breakers.
6. Close the main water supply. And if you have an old water heater, drain and disconnect it first.
7. Remove the screw from the cover of the water heater.
8. Carefully mount the water heater on the wall. The brand usually throws in screws and anchors to be used for mounting.
9. You now have to establish cold and hot water connections. You can use a PEX tubing or a ¾ stainless steel flex pipe. Make sure that the cold water connections can be easily removed. This is to allow for easier cleaning.
10. After soldering or welding the pipes, ensure to flush off with water to dissipate the heat. Too much heat can damage the unit.
11. It’s also advisable to install a shut-off valve so you don’t have to shut the entire water supply if you need to clean it.
12. Also, install a pressure reduction valve on the cold water connection.
13. You may not need to install a T & P valve on the hot water side unless prescribed by local installation codes.
14. Purge any air from the pipes and water heater. You can do this by opening several hot water outlets for a few minutes.
15. This Is also the time to inspect any connections for leaks. Close the connection and inspect for any leaks.
16. It’s time to make the electrical connections. Always refer to the instruction manuals for the circuit breaker uber and size. And larger water heaters may need two circuit breakers and thicker wire.
17. Then get the wires and cut to the needed length and strip. Feed the wire through the bottom holes of the water heater housing. Then attach it to the terminal blocks.
18. Remember that a good conductor must be connected to the circuit breaker panel and the unit’s grounding busbar.
19. Doble check the electrical connections and ensure that it’s not mixed up and it’s snugly fitted.
20. Turn on the circuit breakers.
21. It’s good to go! You may now configure your water heater according to your preferences.
22. To check the water on other applications. Open your faucet and wait for the water to stabilize.
How to Clean an Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater
Regular maintenance of tankless water heaters should be duly done at least once a year. Necklacing this can gravely affect the warranty of your tankless unit.
And if you’re living in areas with hard water, you might need to have a bi-yearly cleaning and maintenance. As minerals in the hard water can be taxing on the unit if left uncleaned.
Tankless water heaters have a longer life. They can last for 2 decades, that’s provided you give them the proper care AKA regular maintenance.
Even if it doesn’t have a tank, the steps in cleaning a tankless water heater are about the same with traditional ones, why? Because what we are cleaning are the mineral and lime deposits. The residue from the water such as the minerals, stone, deposits, etc can damage your water heater.
And it may also affect the efficiency of your heater. Hence, it can cause a ballooning in your utility bills. And of course, if there’s irreversible damage caused by mineral deposits, replacement is needed. And that’s going to be an additional cost.
While you can also hire cleaning services to de-lime your electric tankless water heater, you can also do it yourself. And it’s quite easy so you might want to save on the professional fees instead and clean in yourself.
And here’s how
- Switch off the power and remove the lid of the tank. This might entail unscrewing 3-4 screws off the top.
- Ensure that the water valves supplying the water heater are closed.
- You have to remove the pressure build up inside the valves. And you can do this by removing the valve caps that are located on the purge valves. These are located on both hot and cold water valves. Skip this step and you might scald your skin.
- Attach the hose to each of the valves. You would usually have these along with your purchase.
- Get 3 gallons of white vinegar. And use this one to clean the mineral and lime deposits on the heat exchangers.
- Drain and flush the solution.
- Close the purge port valve by twisting the T shaped handles.
- Disconnect the line.
- Then replace the cap on the purge valves. Be sure to tighten it.
- Find the filter, unscrew it, and clean it. Be sure to clean both the housing and the inside of the filter. Just rinse it off with water. Then safely put it back in.
- Now you can rest your electric water heater. You must refer to the instruction manual for the resetting process because they may vary.
Which is the Best Hot Water Heater? Gas vs Electric
Tankless water heaters can either be powered by gas or electricity. And each has its pros and cons. To help you decide which type of tankless water heater is best suited for your homes, let’s see them side by side.
- Most electric water heater brands are more energy-efficient than their gas counterparts. The best electric tankless water heaters can be as much as 98 percent energy-efficient.
- E-tankless water heaters are easier to install. Gas tankless water heater requires venting. And if you have an old traditional gas water heater, you might be able to use the same gas line. so you need to set aside additional cost for the venting and installation.
- Gas tankless water heaters have a more complex installation process. And if you do not have an existing gas water heater, you need a new vent. and proper venting is crucial to ensure that it will work properly.
- Gas tankless water heaters have a more high upfront cost compared to their electric counterparts. However, electricity can be more expensive than gas. And propane is relatively cheap. So the fuel for the gas tankless water heaters is more affordable. Hence, the monthly cost is lower for gas tankless water heaters.
- Gas tankless water heaters have more complex parts. So electric tankless water heaters are easier to maintain and clean. You can even maintain it yourself. While you need to hire a professional to install your gas tankless water heater.
- Gas tankless water heaters have more capacity. And the higher capacity means that they are more equipped in providing hot water during the colder climate.
- There’s a risk of the gas leak in gas tankless water heaters.
- Electric tankless water heaters are more compact, they can fit under the sink or even in a cabinet. So It can fit any space requirements. And most electric water heaters are a third of the size of gas ones.
- Electric tankless hot water heaters are easier to troubleshoot. You might need to commission a professional to maintain your gas tankless water heater.
- E- tankless water heaters are more eco friendly. They can reduce your carbon footprint better than a gas water heater.
- E -tankless water heaters may need more power, especially in the colder season.
- Electric tankless hot water heaters also have a lower flow capacity.
- No electricity, no power. If there are power outages, you would not be able to take a hot bath.
Who Should Get a Gas Tankless Water Heater?
The monthly operating cost is one thing. But with the rise in commodity prices, it would not be surprising if propane will be as expensive as gas in the future. So the two types of tankless water heaters may have the same monthly cost in the future.
But it seems like electric water heaters are more convenient, right? But when is a gas tankless water heater advisable for your homes?
1. If you want a single unit that can heat water for the entire house.
Though there are electric tankless water heaters that are multipurpose, their gas counterparts can still provide a higher water output. And this is perfect for those with larger homes. It can provide a steady supply of hot water with a large demand.
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2. If you live in colder climates
Gas tankless water heaters are king when it comes to providing hot water in colder climates. Some E-tankless water heaters can’t heat water in extreme cold.
3. If you live in areas with regular power outages or your neighborhood has low electricity output.
Who Should Get an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
- If your homes already have a setup for an electric water heater.
- If you don’t want and can’t shell out more money for the installation and cost of putting a vent.
- Electric water heaters are advisable for those living alone or with a small household of 3-4 members. Since the water demand is slow, you’ll save more money.
- If you have limited space, electric tankless water heaters are the best option.
- If you want to install the water heater yourself.
Popular Tankless Water Heater Brands
Our list contains the best water heater brands in the market. These brands are known for producing high-efficient tankless water heaters. That means more bang for your buck.
Let’s see what these brands are.
Rheem
Rheem was initially known for galvanizing steel drums. And the band eventually ventured onto manufacturing water heaters, air conditioning units, and others. When the brand split into 2 in 1972, one division focused on air conditioner while the other half set their hearts on manufacturing water heaters.
Now, this brand is one of the oldest and long-standing manufactures or water heaters. And we have several Rheem water heaters on our list. The brand offers a ton of water heater options to its clientele. Rheem offers solar-powered, gas, heat pump models, and electric tankless water heaters.
Bosch
Bosch, a German brand, has been a household name when it comes to innovative products. This brand is one of the frontrunners in engineering and technological innovation. They manufacture a broad range of innovative products. And when you say Bosch, you can always be assured of a reliable, convenient, and innovative product,
And since Bosch manufactures one of the most reliable models of tankless water heaters, you can expect to get more savings in the long run. The brand also offers one of the longest and best warranties in the industry.
Ecosmart
From the name of the brand itself, Ecosmart is involved in manufacturing products that are more eco friendly. And it’s amazing how the brand can make reliable and efficient tankless water heaters that ensure lesser emission too. This is a great option for those who’d love to go green.
Albeit being a newcomer in the industry, Ecosmart manufactures reliable and durable products that last longer.
Rinnai
Rinnai is a Japanese brand that has its beginnings way back in 1920. This brand has been involved in manufacturing gas appliances, pressurized cooking stoves, and aircraft parts in the past.
In the 1960s, the brand ventured into the manufacturing of tankless water heaters. The brand boasts of energy efficiency. Rinnai water heaters have Energy Star rated units and most of them are multipurpose too. It’s a more premium option, but it’s indeed a very reliable and durable one.
Stiebel Eltron
The brand is a German company initially intended to provide quality water heaters for the German market in 1924. Stiebel Eltron is more popular in manufacturing compact and smaller tankless water heaters and pump units.
Takagi
This Japanese brand pursued to make efficient tankless water heaters and environment friendly at the same time. The brand seems to be the first company to sell tankless water heaters to the North American market.
Takagi water heaters are reliable, compact, and efficient. And this brand also offers great warranty options.
FAQ’s:
An electric tankless water heater can cost more or less 1000 dollars. While a whole house or gas tankless water heater can cost up to 3000 dollars.
Yes, you can. But take note that you also need to have plumbing and electrical skills.
It usually takes 45 – 60 minutes to have installed an electric tankless water heater on your own.
Each type has its pros and cons. Gas water heaters are perfect for those who need a larger demand for hot water. And It’s also ideal for colder climates.
While electric tankless water heaters are best for those with small space. It’s also advisable if you are looking for a more affordable cost upfront.
Without maintenance, tankless water heaters are susceptible to mineral and lime buildup.
Conclusion
Electric tankless hot water heaters may be relatively new in the market, but they are gaining popularity fast. It has a lot of advantages and of course, great savings, in the long run, is a huge plus. The best electric tankless water heaters on our list are innovative. And you’re sure to find one that suits your needs and requirements.
Not sure which brand suits your homes and needs? Our tankless hot water heater reviews will give you more insight into that.
It’s time to get rid of that big old steel tank in your basement! And electric tankless water heaters greener options too!