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10 Best Whole House Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, Gray

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,438
Power (kW)
Energy Efficiency
Installation Requirements

Most important from
3922 reviews

Power (kW)
Despite the high power demand, the unit remains off most of the time, only using energy when needed.
Energy Efficiency
The Rheem RTEX-24 is compact yet powerful, heating water quickly and efficiently.
Installation Requirements
The unit is easy to install and works exactly as intended, providing a hassle-free experience.

The Rheem RTEX-24 is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade to a tankless electric hot water heater for their home. With a flow rate of up to 5.9 gallons per minute (GPM), it can efficiently provide hot water for multiple outlets simultaneously, making it great for medium-sized households. Its self-modulating power control ensures that you get just the right amount of energy needed for heating water, which contributes to its impressive energy efficiency rating of 99.8%. This means you can enjoy consistent, on-demand hot water without worrying too much about energy consumption.

One notable feature is its ON/OFF dial control paired with an adjustable digital temperature display, making it user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, as it is designed for wall mounting and comes with necessary fittings, although professional help might still be recommended for optimal setup. The compact size of the unit (17.63” W x 18.25” H) allows it to fit conveniently in smaller spaces.

While the flow rate is decent, it may struggle to meet the hot water demands of larger households with simultaneous usage in multiple bathrooms or kitchens. The 24 kW power requirement also means that proper electrical infrastructure is necessary; homes must have the right voltage and amperage to support this unit. Additionally, while the warranty coverage is decent, some users may prefer a longer guarantee for peace of mind.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,438
Power (kW)
Energy Efficiency
Installation Requirements

Most important from
3922 reviews

Power (kW)
Despite the high power demand, the unit remains off most of the time, only using energy when needed.
Energy Efficiency
The Rheem RTEX-24 is compact yet powerful, heating water quickly and efficiently.
Installation Requirements
The unit is easy to install and works exactly as intended, providing a hassle-free experience.
#2

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 24 Plus – Electric, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White

Rating
7.9
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Rise
Power (kW)

Most important from
2202 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The unit's performance has exceeded expectations in terms of convenience and efficiency, providing continuous hot water even when running two showers simultaneously.
Temperature Rise
Precise temperature control ensures you get the desired hot water without any fuss.
Power (kW)
The unit operates without consuming power when not in use, and provides instant hot water upon return after a long absence.
Energy Efficiency
The heater uses only the necessary hot water, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Installation Requirements
Its space-saving design and minimal noise are standout features, making it ideal for installation near living spaces.

The Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 24 Plus is a robust option for homeowners looking for an electric solution to efficiently provide hot water on demand. With a flow rate of 4.0 GPM and the ability to maintain a temperature rise of up to 140°F, it can comfortably supply hot water for multiple outlets simultaneously, making it suitable for larger households. Its eco-friendly design incorporates advanced flow control technology, which adjusts the water flow to maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring that you won’t be left with a cold shower.

One of the standout features is its space-saving design. The unit is compact and does not require venting, which allows for flexible installation options. The digital display and preset temperature buttons make operation simple, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. Energy efficiency is a strong point, too, as the heater saves power through auto-modulation, and a savings monitor shows how much you’re saving on energy costs.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The Tempra 24 Plus requires a minimum electric service of 150 A, which may necessitate upgrades to your home's electrical system if it doesn't meet this requirement. Additionally, while the compact size is beneficial, it may not be suitable for very high-demand scenarios where multiple fixtures are used simultaneously at peak demand times. The warranty coverage is quite favorable, offering a 7-year leakage warranty and a 3-year parts warranty, which is reassuring for potential buyers. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is a solid choice for those seeking an efficient and reliable tankless hot water heater that can provide endless hot water without the bulk of traditional systems.

Rating
7.9
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Rise
Power (kW)

Most important from
2202 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
The unit's performance has exceeded expectations in terms of convenience and efficiency, providing continuous hot water even when running two showers simultaneously.
Temperature Rise
Precise temperature control ensures you get the desired hot water without any fuss.
Power (kW)
The unit operates without consuming power when not in use, and provides instant hot water upon return after a long absence.
Energy Efficiency
The heater uses only the necessary hot water, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Installation Requirements
Its space-saving design and minimal noise are standout features, making it ideal for installation near living spaces.
#3

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater - Tempra 29 Trend – Electric, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White

Rating
7.6
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Rise
Power (kW)

Most important from
2202 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Provides truly unlimited hot water, enabling simultaneous showers without interruption, ideal for households with multiple users.
Temperature Rise
Offers precise and customizable temperature control with easy presets, simplifying tasks like filling a soaking tub perfectly every time.
Power (kW)
Requires a substantial electrical setup, often needing dedicated breakers or panel upgrades, so professional installation and planning are essential.
Energy Efficiency
Auto-modulation technology efficiently adjusts energy usage to match demand, ensuring eco-friendly and cost-effective operation.
Installation Requirements
The compact, vent-free design allows flexible installation locations, delivering hot water quickly right where it’s needed and reducing wait times significantly.

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Trend is a strong choice for those looking for a whole-house tankless electric water heater. It offers a powerful 28.8 kW output running on 240 volts, which means it can supply continuous hot water without interruptions—ideal for families or households with multiple bathrooms. You can expect water temperatures adjustable up to 140°F, allowing for comfort tailored to your preference. This model includes advanced technology like auto-modulation, which adjusts the energy used depending on demand, helping save electricity when full power isn't needed.

Its compact, wall-mounted design saves space and doesn't require venting, making installation more flexible, but keep in mind it needs a substantial electrical setup (minimum 200 Amp service), which might mean an upgrade to your home's wiring if you don’t already have it. The unit operates silently and features an easy-to-read LED display for temperature control. On the warranty front, it offers a solid 7-year leak protection and 3 years for parts, giving peace of mind about its durability. The maximum pressure rating is suitable for most residential systems.

While the product is highly efficient and reliable, the initial cost and electrical requirements may make it better suited for those ready for a somewhat involved installation. It serves as a reliable, energy-saving option for homeowners seeking endless hot water without the bulk of a traditional tank.

Rating
7.6
Flow Rate (GPM)
Temperature Rise
Power (kW)

Most important from
2202 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Provides truly unlimited hot water, enabling simultaneous showers without interruption, ideal for households with multiple users.
Temperature Rise
Offers precise and customizable temperature control with easy presets, simplifying tasks like filling a soaking tub perfectly every time.
Power (kW)
Requires a substantial electrical setup, often needing dedicated breakers or panel upgrades, so professional installation and planning are essential.
Energy Efficiency
Auto-modulation technology efficiently adjusts energy usage to match demand, ensuring eco-friendly and cost-effective operation.
Installation Requirements
The compact, vent-free design allows flexible installation locations, delivering hot water quickly right where it’s needed and reducing wait times significantly.

Buying Guide for the Best Whole House Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters

Choosing the right whole-house tankless electric hot water heater can significantly impact your home's comfort and energy efficiency. These systems provide hot water on demand, which means you won't run out of hot water and you can save on energy costs since they don't maintain a reservoir of hot water. However, selecting the right model involves understanding several key specifications to ensure it meets your household's needs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the essential specs and make an informed decision.
Flow Rate (GPM)Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the unit can deliver at a time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can handle multiple hot water demands simultaneously, such as running a shower and a dishwasher. For smaller households with fewer simultaneous hot water needs, a lower GPM (around 3-5 GPM) may suffice. Larger households or those with higher hot water demands should look for units with higher GPM (6-10+ GPM). Assess your household's peak hot water usage to choose the right flow rate.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise refers to the increase in water temperature the unit can achieve. This is important because it affects how hot the water will be when it reaches your taps. The required temperature rise depends on your incoming water temperature and your desired output temperature. For instance, if your incoming water is 50°F and you want it at 120°F, you need a unit that can handle a 70°F rise. Colder climates may require units with higher temperature rise capabilities. Consider your local water temperature and your preferred hot water temperature to determine the necessary temperature rise.
Power (kW)The power rating, measured in kilowatts (kW), indicates the electrical power the unit uses to heat water. Higher kW ratings generally mean the unit can heat water more quickly and handle higher flow rates. Units typically range from 18 kW to 36 kW or more. Smaller households with lower hot water demands can opt for units on the lower end of the spectrum, while larger households or those with higher demands should consider higher kW ratings. Ensure your home's electrical system can support the power requirements of the unit you choose.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency measures how effectively the unit converts electrical energy into hot water, often expressed as a percentage. Higher efficiency means lower energy waste and reduced operating costs. Look for units with efficiency ratings of 90% or higher for the best performance. Consider your long-term energy savings and environmental impact when evaluating efficiency.
Installation RequirementsInstallation requirements include the electrical and space considerations necessary for setting up the unit. Tankless electric water heaters often require specific voltage and amperage, as well as adequate space for ventilation and maintenance. Ensure your home’s electrical system can accommodate the unit’s requirements, and that you have enough space for proper installation. Consulting with a professional installer can help you understand these needs and avoid potential issues.
WarrantyThe warranty provides an indication of the unit’s reliability and the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Longer warranties can offer peace of mind and protection against defects or failures. Warranties typically range from 5 to 15 years. Consider how long you plan to stay in your home and your comfort level with potential repair costs when evaluating warranty options.

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