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10 Best Compact Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EcoSmart ECOS 27 Tankless Electric Water Heater, 27 kW at 240 Volts, 112.5 Amps with Self Modulating Technology

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,269
Size and Installation
Flow Rate
Warranty and Support

Most important from
8 reviews

Size and Installation
The unit is impressively compact and lightweight, making wall mounting easy even with just sheet rock anchors.
Flow Rate
The heater delivers consistent hot water flow and temperature, ensuring reliable performance.
Warranty and Support
Durability concerns focus mainly on the plastic water fittings, which remain to be proven over time.

The EcoSmart ECOS 27 tankless electric water heater is a compact and efficient option for those needing hot water on demand, especially in smaller spaces like bathrooms, offices, or kitchen sinks. It delivers between 2.7 and 6.6 gallons per minute depending on your incoming water temperature, which is suitable for low to moderate hot water use but might struggle with multiple large fixtures running simultaneously. Its 27 kW power rating at 240 volts ensures a strong temperature rise up to 140°F, and the self-modulating technology helps keep the temperature steady within 1 degree of your setting, improving comfort and saving energy. Speaking of energy, it’s very efficient—about 96% thermal efficiency—because it only heats water when you need it, unlike traditional tank heaters that keep water hot all the time.

The heater is also quite small, about 19 by 9.25 by 4.25 inches, and mounts easily on a wall, making it a great space saver. Installation is straightforward, but keep in mind it requires a substantial electrical supply (112.5 amps) which might need an upgrade to your home’s electrical panel. Warranty coverage includes 5 years limited on leaks and 1 year on parts, which is decent but not the longest in the market. If you want an energy-saving, space-saving water heater for light to moderate use, the EcoSmart ECOS 27 fits well. However, it may not be ideal for larger households or high-demand situations where more flow or multiple simultaneous hot water uses are needed.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,269
Size and Installation
Flow Rate
Warranty and Support

Most important from
8 reviews

Size and Installation
The unit is impressively compact and lightweight, making wall mounting easy even with just sheet rock anchors.
Flow Rate
The heater delivers consistent hot water flow and temperature, ensuring reliable performance.
Warranty and Support
Durability concerns focus mainly on the plastic water fittings, which remain to be proven over time.
#2

EcoSmart ECO 27 Tankless Water Heater, Electric, 27-kW - Quantity 1, 17 x 17 x 3.5

Rating
9.1
Flow Rate
Temperature Rise
Power Rating

Most important from
3026 reviews

Flow Rate
Delivers ample hot water for simultaneous use across multiple fixtures, even with high water pressure.
Temperature Rise
It takes just about 10 seconds longer to get hot water compared to traditional tanks, cutting down wait time substantially.
Power Rating
Upgrading electrical systems can be costly due to the need for multiple 40-amp breakers, which is an important consideration before purchase.
Energy Efficiency
Energy savings are significant, with heating only occurring on demand, leading to noticeably reduced utility bills.
Size and Installation
The compact size frees up valuable space, allowing installation in tight or out-of-the-way spots such as closets.
Warranty and Support
Customer service is responsive and willing to assist with technical questions, enhancing the overall ownership experience.

The EcoSmart ECO 27 is a compact, wall-mounted electric tankless water heater that stands out for its high power rating of 27 kW, which allows it to deliver a maximum flow rate of about 6.6 gallons per minute. This means it can supply enough hot water for multiple bathroom fixtures simultaneously in small to medium homes, making it suitable if you want a reliable flow without a bulky tank. It uses 240 volts on a single phase and offers digital temperature control with an easy-to-read LED display, so adjusting hot water temperature up to 120°F is straightforward. The heater is quite space-efficient with dimensions of 17 by 17 by 3.5 inches and weighs just under 11 pounds, which makes installation feasible in tight spots, especially compared to traditional tank water heaters. Energy efficiency is a strong point here; as a tankless unit, it heats water on demand, helping reduce energy waste and utility bills. EcoSmart backs this model with a limited lifetime warranty on key electronic components and heating elements, though the warranty doesn’t cover labor or incidental costs and requires proper registration to remain valid.

One limitation is that the maximum temperature is capped at 120°F, which might be lower than some users expect for specific needs. Also, while the flow rate is good for many households, it might be insufficient for larger homes with higher simultaneous hot water demands. The EcoSmart ECO 27 represents a smart choice if you want compact size, energy-efficient electric heating, and moderate hot water flow, but it may not be the best fit if you need very high temperature settings or serve a larger family with heavy water usage.

Rating
9.1
Flow Rate
Temperature Rise
Power Rating

Most important from
3026 reviews

Flow Rate
Delivers ample hot water for simultaneous use across multiple fixtures, even with high water pressure.
Temperature Rise
It takes just about 10 seconds longer to get hot water compared to traditional tanks, cutting down wait time substantially.
Power Rating
Upgrading electrical systems can be costly due to the need for multiple 40-amp breakers, which is an important consideration before purchase.
Energy Efficiency
Energy savings are significant, with heating only occurring on demand, leading to noticeably reduced utility bills.
Size and Installation
The compact size frees up valuable space, allowing installation in tight or out-of-the-way spots such as closets.
Warranty and Support
Customer service is responsive and willing to assist with technical questions, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
#3

14kW Tankless Water Heater Electric, ORBEK 240 Volt On Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, with LED Digital Display, ETL Certified, Up to 3.38 GPM for 2-3 Point of Use

Rating
9.1
Size and Installation
Temperature Rise
Flow Rate

Most important from
130 reviews

Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward and the compact design saves significant space.
Temperature Rise
The temperature control is precise and easy to adjust, providing consistent hot water exactly at the desired setting.
Flow Rate
Water pressure remains strong and steady, supporting multiple points of use without issue.
Power Rating
Upgrading electrical wiring may be necessary for optimal performance in homes with older setups.
Energy Efficiency
It effectively replaced a traditional tank heater, maintaining hot water supply for a family while reducing space and energy costs.

The Orbek 14kW tankless electric water heater provides instant hot water with a flow rate of up to 3.38 gallons per minute, suitable for 2 to 3 points of use simultaneously, such as sinks or showers. It includes a stable temperature control system that maintains water temperature within 1°F of the set level, adjustable between 86°F and 140°F through an easy-to-read LED display. Designed for high energy efficiency, it can reduce electricity costs by up to 60% compared to traditional tank heaters, utilizing water-electricity separation technology that also helps prevent scaling and corrosion.

This heater requires a 240V power supply and a dedicated 60-amp breaker, which may necessitate professional electrical installation if your home’s setup is insufficient. Its compact size (approximately 14 by 9.5 inches) saves space, making it ideal for tight installation spots. Safety features include ETL certification and multiple protections against leaks, overheating, dry heating, and electrical issues. The product comes with a warranty and 24/7 customer support for added peace of mind.

Its 14kW power rating limits its use to smaller households or point-of-use applications rather than whole-home coverage. Due to specific electrical requirements and installation considerations, it may not be suitable for those seeking a simple DIY installation or with lower electrical capacity. This model fits well for users needing reliable, energy-efficient instant hot water for a few taps or showers, who have the appropriate electrical setup and want a space-saving solution with modern controls.

Rating
9.1
Size and Installation
Temperature Rise
Flow Rate

Most important from
130 reviews

Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward and the compact design saves significant space.
Temperature Rise
The temperature control is precise and easy to adjust, providing consistent hot water exactly at the desired setting.
Flow Rate
Water pressure remains strong and steady, supporting multiple points of use without issue.
Power Rating
Upgrading electrical wiring may be necessary for optimal performance in homes with older setups.
Energy Efficiency
It effectively replaced a traditional tank heater, maintaining hot water supply for a family while reducing space and energy costs.

Buying Guide for the Best Compact Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters

Choosing the right compact tankless electric hot water heater can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and ensure you have a reliable supply of hot water. These heaters are designed to provide hot water on demand without the need for a bulky storage tank, making them ideal for smaller spaces. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs.
Flow RateFlow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the heater can produce at a given time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can meet your household's hot water demands. Lower flow rates (1-3 GPM) are suitable for small households or single applications like a shower or sink. Higher flow rates (4-6 GPM) can handle multiple simultaneous uses, such as running a shower and a dishwasher at the same time. Assess your household's hot water usage to choose the right flow rate.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise refers to the increase in water temperature as it passes through the heater. This is important because it affects how hot the water will be when it reaches your tap. A higher temperature rise is needed in colder climates where the incoming water temperature is lower. For example, if you need a 70°F rise to achieve your desired hot water temperature, ensure the heater can provide that at your required flow rate. Consider your local water temperature and desired output temperature to determine the necessary temperature rise.
Power RatingThe power rating, measured in kilowatts (kW), indicates the electrical power the heater uses to heat the water. This is important for understanding the heater's efficiency and compatibility with your home's electrical system. Lower power ratings (3-6 kW) are suitable for smaller applications or lower flow rates, while higher power ratings (7-12 kW) can handle larger demands. Ensure your home's electrical system can support the heater's power requirements and choose a power rating that matches your hot water needs.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency, often expressed as a percentage, indicates how effectively the heater converts electrical energy into hot water. Higher efficiency means lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. Look for heaters with efficiency ratings of 90% or higher for the best performance. Consider your long-term energy savings and environmental impact when evaluating efficiency.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the heater and its installation requirements are important for ensuring it fits in your available space and can be installed properly. Compact models are ideal for small spaces like under sinks or in closets. Check the dimensions and installation guidelines to ensure compatibility with your space. Consider where you plan to install the heater and ensure it meets the necessary clearance and ventilation requirements.
Warranty and SupportA good warranty and reliable customer support are important for peace of mind and long-term satisfaction. Warranties typically cover parts and labor for a certain period, often ranging from 1 to 5 years. Look for heaters with longer warranties and positive customer reviews regarding support. Consider the manufacturer's reputation and the availability of service in your area when making your decision.

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