10 Best Electric Water Heaters 2026 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 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.

The Rheem 6.5kW 240V Point of Use Thermostatic Tankless Electric Water Heater is a compact and efficient option for providing hot water on demand. Its tankless design means it only heats water as you use it, which can save energy compared to traditional tank heaters. The unit is quite small—about 11 by 6 inches—making it ideal for tight spaces or point-of-use installations like under sinks. It has a capacity of about 1.4 gallons and can deliver hot water at a flow rate of up to 1.5 gallons per minute, which suits small households or single fixtures but may not fully serve multiple users simultaneously or large baths.

The thermostatic control helps maintain water temperature within one degree of your setting, offering consistent comfort. Operating at 240 volts and 6500 watts, it achieves temperatures up to 140°F, which is typical for household hot water needs. Safety-wise, it supports up to 150 PSI water pressure and includes standard electric water heater protections. The product is wall-mountable and lightweight, simplifying installation in small spaces.

This Rheem heater is well suited for anyone needing a space-saving, energy-efficient water heater near a single faucet or appliance but might fall short if you require hot water for multiple outlets or larger demand due to its limited flow rate and small capacity.