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 Trend is a compact electric tankless water heater designed to provide endless hot water on demand, making it a good choice for those wanting continuous flow without running out. Its 24 kW power and 240V operation mean it can handle a decent-sized household's hot water needs, though it requires a strong electrical service (recommended 150 A), which might need upgrading in some homes. Since it heats water as you use it, there's no storage tank, saving space and avoiding standby heat loss, which helps with energy efficiency. The unit features auto-modulation, adjusting power based on your hot water demand to reduce energy waste.

Its size (about 16.6" wide and 14.5" high) and wall-mount design make it ideal for smaller installation spaces. The LED digital temperature display is easy to read, and the heating elements inside are made of solid copper, known for durability and efficient heat transfer. The heater provides water temperature control between 68°F and 140°F, suitable for most household needs. The 7-year warranty against leaks and a 3-year parts warranty reflect confidence in reliability. Installation requires some electrical know-how due to its power demands, which might mean professional help is needed. It operates silently, adding to comfort.

If your household has very high simultaneous demand (multiple showers, appliances at once), its flow rate might limit how much hot water can be delivered at once, so checking your usage patterns is important. This heater is well-suited for homeowners looking for energy-efficient, space-saving, and reliable hot water on demand, especially in homes with adequate electrical infrastructure.

The Rheem RTEX-24 electric tankless water heater is a strong candidate for those seeking an efficient and space-saving solution for continuous hot water. With a maximum flow rate of up to 5.9 gallons per minute (GPM), it’s well-suited for smaller households or apartments where immediate hot water is a necessity. Its self-modulating power control ensures that the energy consumption aligns with your hot water usage, contributing to its impressive energy efficiency rating of 99.8%. This makes it a cost-effective choice for anyone looking to lower their utility bills while still enjoying ample hot water on demand.

The adjustable digital temperature display with ON/OFF dial control is user-friendly, making it easy to set the desired temperature. Additionally, the compact design (17.63" x 18.25") allows for wall mounting in tight spaces, a significant advantage for those with limited installation options.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The unit requires a considerable electrical installation, including a dedicated 240V outlet, which might entail additional setup costs if you don't already have the proper wiring in place. While the maximum flow rate is decent, larger families or homes with multiple simultaneous hot water demands (like multiple showers running at once) may find it insufficient. Also, it lacks a traditional tank, which means there’s no hot water storage; if the demand exceeds its flow rate, you might experience short interruptions.