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 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 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.