Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, are becoming a popular choice for homeowners looking to save on energy bills while enjoying continuous hot water.
If you’re searching for the best tankless water heaters in 2024, this guide will provide insights into the top models available today based on efficiency, performance, and reliability.
What Are Tankless Water Heaters?
Tankless water heaters heat water directly without using a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, where either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water.
As a result, tankless water heaters provide a constant supply of hot water. You’ll never run out of hot water like with traditional storage tanks.
Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy Efficiency – Because they heat water on demand, tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional models, which store and continuously heat water in a tank.
- Space Saving – These units are much smaller and can be installed on walls, freeing up space.
- Longer Lifespan – Tankless water heaters generally last longer, with an average lifespan of up to 20 years, compared to 10-15 years for traditional tanks.
Best Tankless Water Heaters of 2024
1. Rinnai RUR199iN – Best Overall Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai RUR199iN stands out as one of the best tankless water heaters in 2024, offering high efficiency and advanced features for residential use.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 11 GPM (gallons per minute), perfect for larger households with multiple simultaneous water uses.
- Energy Factor: 0.96, which means it operates at 96% efficiency.
- Recirculation Technology: It features ThermaCirc360 technology, allowing for instant hot water delivery.
- Fuel Type: Natural gas.
This model is ideal for homeowners looking for a reliable, high-performing water heater that significantly cuts down on energy consumption.
2. EcoSmart ECO 27 – Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
For those who prefer electric units, the EcoSmart ECO 27 is a fantastic choice. Known for its compact design and impressive energy savings, it’s one of the best electric tankless water heaters available.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 6.5 GPM.
- Energy Factor: 0.99, making it highly energy-efficient.
- Self-Modulating Technology: Adjusts energy usage based on hot water demand.
- Lifetime Warranty: On the electronics and heating elements, providing peace of mind.
The EcoSmart ECO 27 is an excellent option for mid-sized homes and those looking to reduce their energy footprint.
3. Noritz NRC66DV – Best Tankless Water Heater for Small Homes
The Noritz NRC66DV is a great choice for smaller households, offering efficient performance in a compact design.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 6.5 GPM.
- Energy Factor: 0.91.
- Condensing Technology: Reduces heat loss and boosts efficiency by using the heat from exhaust gases.
With its smaller size and effective heating capabilities, the Noritz NRC66DV is perfect for homes with fewer occupants and less water demand.
4. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 – Best for Cold Climates
For homes in colder climates, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 is an outstanding choice. It’s built to handle lower incoming water temperatures without sacrificing performance.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 4.5 GPM.
- Energy Factor: 0.99.
- Advanced Flow Control: Automatically adjusts the water temperature to ensure it remains constant.
- Electric: Suitable for homes without access to gas.
The Tempra Plus 24 is engineered to deliver consistent hot water in even the coldest environments, making it one of the best tankless water heaters for colder regions.
5. Takagi T-H3-DV-N – Best Gas Tankless Water Heater
If you prefer a gas unit, the Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a fantastic option. It’s powerful, energy-efficient, and designed for large homes or commercial use.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 10 GPM.
- Energy Factor: 0.95.
- Commercial Grade: Suitable for larger residences or light commercial applications.
- Condensing Technology: Further improves efficiency.
The Takagi T-H3-DV-N is ideal for those seeking a high-capacity water heater that can handle heavy water demands.
How to Choose the Best Tankless Water Heater for Your Home
Selecting the right tankless water heater depends on several factors, including your household size, water usage, and energy preferences. Here’s what to consider when choosing a tankless water heater for your needs:
1. Fuel Type
- Gas: Natural gas or propane tankless water heaters typically offer higher flow rates and are better suited for larger homes with multiple bathrooms.
- Electric: Electric tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient and are ideal for smaller homes or places without access to natural gas.
2. Flow Rate
The flow rate determines how much hot water the unit can provide per minute. The larger your household or the more hot water demands you have, the higher the GPM (gallons per minute) rating you’ll need. For example, larger homes with several bathrooms may require 9-11 GPM, while smaller homes can function well with 5-7 GPM.
3. Energy Efficiency
Look for models with high energy factors (EF). The higher the EF, the more efficient the water heater. Units with condensing technology are particularly efficient, as they use waste heat to further warm the water.
4. Installation and Maintenance
Some models may require professional installation, especially gas-powered units. Additionally, consider the long-term maintenance required. Many tankless water heaters are low-maintenance, but regular descaling may be necessary in areas with hard water.
5. Budget
While tankless water heaters can be more expensive upfront, they can save you money on energy bills over time. Gas models tend to have higher installation costs but lower operating costs, while electric models are cheaper to install but may have slightly higher running costs.
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
- Unlimited Hot Water: You’ll never run out of hot water, as long as your water heater is properly sized.
- Energy Savings: No need to keep water hot in a tank, resulting in lower energy bills.
- Compact Size: Tankless water heaters take up less space than traditional storage tank models.
Cons:
- Upfront Costs: Tankless water heaters can be more expensive to purchase and install than traditional water heaters.
- Flow Rate Limitations: Depending on the size of the unit, you may not be able to use multiple water appliances simultaneously.
- Maintenance: Some units require periodic maintenance, such as descaling in areas with hard water.
Get the Best Tankless Water Heater Installed by Standridge Plumbing
Ready to upgrade your water heater and enjoy endless hot water? The team at Standridge Plumbing is here to help you choose and install the best tankless water heater for your home.
Our experts have years of experience in water heater installation and can recommend the perfect solution tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a gas or electric model, we’ll ensure a seamless installation process.
Let Standridge Plumbing handle your tankless water heater installation—contact us today for a consultation!