10 Best Tankless Hot Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Rinnai RXP199iN is a versatile tankless water heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to its Versa Vent system. It runs on either natural gas or propane, which adds flexibility depending on your fuel preference. With a strong flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute, it can supply hot water to around seven fixtures simultaneously, making it suitable for medium to large households. Its energy efficiency is excellent, boasting a UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) of 0.98, which means it uses fuel very efficiently and can help reduce energy bills.

The built-in Smart-Circ recirculation pump is a smart feature that learns your hot water usage patterns and adjusts accordingly, improving efficiency and convenience by reducing wait times for hot water. The water heater is quite compact, about the size of a small suitcase, which helps save space during installation. However, it is fairly heavy at 58 pounds and requires professional installation, which could add to upfront costs. The maximum temperature is 140°F, which fits most household needs. While it offers WiFi connectivity through an optional Control-R module for remote monitoring and control, this is not included and must be purchased separately.

Customer reviews are positive, with a high rating around 4.6 out of 5, reflecting satisfaction with performance and reliability. This Rinnai model is a solid choice for those needing reliable, efficient, and flexible hot water delivery, especially if you want advanced features like smart recirculation and WiFi control. Be prepared for professional installation and consider the additional cost of the WiFi module if desired.

The Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater in Gray offers several appealing features for those in need of a compact and efficient water heating solution. The primary advantages of this model include its advanced self-modulation technology, which helps adjust power based on the hot water demand, ensuring energy efficiency and cost savings. Additionally, it boasts a flow rate of up to 4.4 GPM, which is suitable for small to medium households, providing enough hot water for multiple uses simultaneously.

The external digital thermostatic control with an LED display allows for precise temperature adjustments, enhancing user convenience and comfort. The heater is also equipped with durable copper immersion heating elements, which are field serviceable, making it easier to maintain and extend its lifespan. Installation is straightforward due to the bottom 3/4 inch NPT water connections and threaded design, allowing for easy replacement if necessary.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. As an electric heater, it may not be as efficient or cost-effective in areas with high electricity rates compared to gas-powered models. Additionally, the temperature rise might be limited in very cold climates, potentially affecting the heater's performance. The size and installation process, while simple, may still require professional assistance for those unfamiliar with electrical systems. Lastly, it's essential to review the warranty and support options from Rheem to ensure long-term reliability. The Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is a strong choice for individuals seeking an energy-efficient, easy-to-use, and maintain water heating solution within the limitations of an electric-powered system.

The Rinnai RE180eP is a propane-powered outdoor tankless water heater designed to deliver hot water on demand without storing it. It offers a strong maximum flow rate of up to 8.5 gallons per minute, which is suitable for running multiple fixtures like showers and faucets at the same time in medium to larger households. Being non-condensing, it’s simpler in design but slightly less energy-efficient compared to condensing models, though it still includes features like an LED display to help with maintenance and efficiency reminders.

This model’s compact size, roughly like a small suitcase, makes it easier to install in limited outdoor spaces, but professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and proper setup. It provides a solid temperature rise capacity to meet typical household needs, though exact temperature increase depends on your incoming water temperature and region. The heater comes with a layered warranty—15 years on the heat exchanger, 5 years on labor, and 1 year on parts—to support long-term reliability.

A convenient option is the ability to add WiFi control via an additional module, allowing remote monitoring. This Rinnai unit is a strong choice for those wanting a reliable, high-flow propane outdoor tankless heater with smart features and solid support, while noting it may not be the highest in energy efficiency compared to condensing models.