10 Best Electric Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Rheem 18kW Tankless Electric Water Heater is a solid choice for those looking for an efficient and space-saving solution to hot water needs. Its compact size (14.5"W x 18.25"H) makes it ideal for homes with limited space, and the wall-mount design allows for easy installation. With a maximum flow rate of 4.4 gallons per minute, it can adequately serve smaller households or apartments, meeting the demands for showers and other hot water needs simultaneously.

One of the key strengths of this model is its impressive energy efficiency, boasting a 99.8% efficiency rating. This not only helps reduce energy bills but also makes it an eco-friendly option. The external digital thermostatic control with LED display allows for precise temperature adjustments, which can be a great feature for users who value control over their hot water supply.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the recovery rate is decent for its size, larger families might find the output insufficient during peak usage times. Additionally, installation might require a professional, especially if your existing plumbing does not match the specifications. Some customers have also noted that while the unit is generally reliable, it may not handle extremely high volumes of hot water demand as effectively as larger tank systems.

The warranty and customer service provided by Rheem is a plus, offering peace of mind should any issues arise. Safety features are also included, which is essential for households with children. The Rheem 18kW Tankless Electric Water Heater is best suited for smaller homes or apartments focused on energy efficiency and compact design, but larger families may need to consider their hot water demands before making a decision.

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is a tankless electric water heater designed to provide on-demand hot water without the drawbacks of traditional storage heaters. One of its standout features is the Advanced Flow Control technology, which maintains a steady water temperature, ensuring that showers or hot water tasks can be completed without interruption. This makes it highly suitable for households where multiple hot water needs are common.

In terms of size, its compact design allows for easy installation in various spaces, making it a great choice for homes with limited installation areas. The unit's energy efficiency is another strong point; it uses auto-modulation to save energy and even includes a savings monitor to track energy costs, appealing to environmentally-conscious users and those looking to reduce utility bills.

The Tempra 24 Plus also offers user-friendly operation with digital temperature controls and presets, making it easy for anyone to set their desired hot water temperature. With a decent warranty of 7 years for leaks and 3 years for parts, customers can expect reliable long-term performance. There are some considerations to keep in mind. The heater requires a minimum recommended electric service of 150 amps, which may necessitate electrical upgrades in older homes. Additionally, while it can provide hot water continuously, its maximum temperature limit of 140°F might not be sufficient for all users, especially in areas with colder climates or higher hot water demands. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, space-saving solution for hot water but may require additional considerations for installation and service requirements.

The Rheem 8kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is a compact and energy-efficient option for providing on-demand hot water in smaller households or for limited use points like a single bathroom or kitchen sink. Its tankless design means it heats water continuously, so you don’t have to wait for a tank to refill, which helps save space and potentially reduces energy waste compared to traditional tank heaters. The unit has an 8kW power rating and can deliver a flow rate of up to 1.95 gallons per minute, making it suitable for low-to-moderate hot water needs but likely not enough for whole-house use or multiple simultaneous showers.

The adjustable digital temperature display and ON/OFF dial control offer easy temperature customization. At just over 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide, it fits well in tight spaces and mounts on a wall, which is great if installation space is limited. The maximum operating pressure is 150 PSI, which is standard but something to confirm with your home plumbing setup.

Rheem is a reputable brand known for reliable water heaters, which adds confidence in durability. This unit is a practical choice if you need a small, efficient electric water heater for point-of-use applications, though it may not meet the demands of larger households or multiple simultaneous users.