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10 Best Tankless Water Heaters 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,454
Flow Rate
Energy Efficiency
Fuel Type

Most important from
316 reviews

Flow Rate
Powerful enough to provide hot water simultaneously at four places in a household of five or more.
Energy Efficiency
For maximum energy efficiency, the BLE Bluetooth button accessory is recommended to activate the water recirculation cycle, saving lots of water and energy.
Fuel Type
Supports both natural gas and propane, making it versatile for different household setups.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward with the excellent, detailed instruction manual, though pre-planning for mounting location, materials, and electrical service is advised.
Warranty and Support
While the quick start guide can be confusing, the manufacturer's tech support is very helpful for resolving issues.

The Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Tankless Water Heater offers impressive versatility, operating with either natural gas or propane and being suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. With a flow rate of up to 11.1 GPM, it can handle multiple fixtures at once, making it ideal for larger households. Its compact size and modern design, which includes features like Quick Flush and Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation, enhance its efficiency and user-friendliness.

Additionally, the unit boasts a high energy efficiency factor of 0.98, translating to significant energy savings. The option for WiFi connectivity through the Control-R module adds to its smart appeal, although this module is not included with the water heater. Installation should be performed by a professional, which adds to the initial cost but ensures proper setup and operation. The unit's temperature rise and maximum output of 199,000 BTU make it suitable for demanding environments, but users should ensure their home’s infrastructure supports this capacity.

The warranty and support are implied to be robust through Rinnai's recommendation for professional installation and their central app for service and troubleshooting. This tankless water heater is best suited for those needing a high-performance, energy-efficient solution for a large household.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,454
Flow Rate
Energy Efficiency
Fuel Type

Most important from
316 reviews

Flow Rate
Powerful enough to provide hot water simultaneously at four places in a household of five or more.
Energy Efficiency
For maximum energy efficiency, the BLE Bluetooth button accessory is recommended to activate the water recirculation cycle, saving lots of water and energy.
Fuel Type
Supports both natural gas and propane, making it versatile for different household setups.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward with the excellent, detailed instruction manual, though pre-planning for mounting location, materials, and electrical service is advised.
Warranty and Support
While the quick start guide can be confusing, the manufacturer's tech support is very helpful for resolving issues.
#2

Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, Gray

Rating
9.7
Flow Rate
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
3865 reviews

Flow Rate
The unit provides endless hot water, even for a household with high demands like three boys.
Energy Efficiency
The reduced electricity bills were a noticeable benefit.
Size and Installation
Installation was straightforward and the unit worked exactly as intended. The compact size and quick heating were impressive.

The Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater offers a robust solution for continuous hot water supply with its impressive flow rate of up to 5.9 gallons per minute, making it suitable for households with moderate to high hot water demands. One of its standout features is the 99.8% energy efficiency, which helps in reducing energy costs and promoting eco-friendliness. The electric fuel type simplifies installation and maintenance compared to gas models, although it does require a 240V electrical connection, which some homes may need to upgrade to accommodate.

The compact dimensions (17.63”W x 18.25”H x 3.5”D) and wall-mount design make it space-efficient and ideal for small utility areas, while the digital temperature display and ON/OFF dial control provide ease of use and precise temperature adjustments. Additionally, the self-modulating power control enhances efficiency by only using the necessary amount of power based on the water flow rate.

However, the temperature rise might be limited during peak usage in colder climates, potentially requiring additional units for larger homes. Potential buyers should consider the installation requirements and whether their household electrical setup can support the unit. Those looking for a reliable, energy-efficient, and continuous hot water supply will find the Rheem RTEX-24 a compelling option, especially in moderate climates and homes with appropriate electrical infrastructure.

Rating
9.7
Flow Rate
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
3865 reviews

Flow Rate
The unit provides endless hot water, even for a household with high demands like three boys.
Energy Efficiency
The reduced electricity bills were a noticeable benefit.
Size and Installation
Installation was straightforward and the unit worked exactly as intended. The compact size and quick heating were impressive.
#3

NEW Rinnai RX180iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 10 GPM, 180,000 BTU

Rating
9.7
Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute - GPM)
Energy Source (Gas vs. Electric)
Installation Requirements

Most important from
316 reviews

Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute - GPM)
Delivers prompt and continuous hot water flow, even when multiple fixtures run simultaneously.
Energy Source (Gas vs. Electric)
Highly efficient and economical to operate, significantly reducing utility costs compared to electric models.
Installation Requirements
Installation is straightforward for those with plumbing knowledge, with simple ventilation adjustments needed.
Size and Dimensions
Saves space compared to traditional tank heaters, freeing up room for other appliances.

The Rinnai RX180iN is a powerful and versatile tankless water heater designed to provide continuous hot water for medium to large households. It delivers up to 10 gallons per minute, which means it can handle multiple fixtures at once, such as showers and sinks running simultaneously. This high flow rate is suitable if you have a busy home or want to avoid running out of hot water during peak times. It runs on natural gas or propane, giving you flexibility depending on your energy source, and it has a very high energy efficiency rating (UEF 0.98), which helps reduce utility costs compared to traditional water heaters. The compact size (about the size of a small suitcase) and indoor or outdoor installation options add convenience, although outdoor installation requires a specific vent cap.

Professional installation is recommended due to the technical nature of gas hookups and venting requirements. Maintenance is made easier with features like a Quick Flush, which helps keep the system clean and running smoothly, though periodic servicing by a technician will still be necessary. The unit operates quietly and includes smart controls compatible with WiFi modules (sold separately), allowing for remote monitoring and adjustments.

The initial cost and installation complexity can be higher than standard tank heaters, and it requires a 120-volt power supply mainly for controls rather than heating. If your home needs a reliable, efficient, and space-saving water heating solution with the ability to supply multiple fixtures simultaneously, the Rinnai RX180iN is an excellent choice.

Rating
9.7
Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute - GPM)
Energy Source (Gas vs. Electric)
Installation Requirements

Most important from
316 reviews

Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute - GPM)
Delivers prompt and continuous hot water flow, even when multiple fixtures run simultaneously.
Energy Source (Gas vs. Electric)
Highly efficient and economical to operate, significantly reducing utility costs compared to electric models.
Installation Requirements
Installation is straightforward for those with plumbing knowledge, with simple ventilation adjustments needed.
Size and Dimensions
Saves space compared to traditional tank heaters, freeing up room for other appliances.

Buying Guide for the Best Tankless Water Heaters

Choosing a tankless water heater can be a smart way to ensure you have hot water on demand without taking up much space or worrying about running out. Unlike traditional heaters with storage tanks, tankless models heat water only when it's needed, making them energy-efficient and generally more durable over time. To find the best fit for your household, it's essential to understand the main specifications and features, as these will directly affect your experience and satisfaction.
Flow Rate (Gallons Per Minute - GPM)Flow rate measures how much hot water the unit can provide at once, typically shown in gallons per minute (GPM). This is important because if the flow rate is too low, you might struggle to use hot water in multiple places at the same time (like a shower and kitchen sink). Lower GPM units (around 2-4 GPM) work well for small households or single fixtures, while larger homes or those who need hot water at several points at once should look at higher GPM units (6+ GPM). To pick the right flow rate, add up the GPM of appliances you normally use together at peak times; choose a model that covers your total need.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise tells you how much a heater can increase the water's temperature as it flows through. This matters because the incoming water is colder in some places or during certain seasons. Units are rated based on how much they can heat the water at a given flow rate. If you live in a colder area, or want extra-hot showers, choose a model that can deliver a higher temperature rise at your required flow rate. Manufacturers often provide charts; match your expected flow and local cold water temperature to select the right fit.
Energy Source (Gas vs. Electric)Tankless water heaters can be powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. Gas models usually provide higher flow rates and can keep up with larger demand, while electric models are often more compact and easier to install in smaller spaces. The choice comes down to what's available in your home and your hot water use. If you need high capacity or already have a gas line, gas may be better. For smaller needs, or if you want a simpler setup, electric could be the way to go.
Installation RequirementsInstallation involves factors like ventilation for gas models, electrical capacity for electric ones, and space for fitting the unit on a wall. Gas models need proper venting to the outside, which can add to the installation steps, while electric heaters often require an upgraded electrical panel. Consider what's easier and feasible in your home; if your installation location can't easily be adapted, that should guide your choice.
Size and DimensionsWhile tankless heaters are much smaller than traditional tanks, they still come in different sizes. Size affects where you can place your unit, especially if you want to install it in a tight spot, like under a sink or in a closet. Measure your available space and make sure the unit you pick will fit comfortably, including space for any necessary maintenance.
Maintenance NeedsTankless units generally need less day-to-day attention than tanks, but they should still be cleaned (descaled) annually, especially if you have hard water. Some models make this easier than others. If you want minimal hassle, look for units with simple maintenance requirements and easy access for servicing. Think about your ability and willingness to keep up with maintenance when making your choice.

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