When it comes to creating a comfortable, energy-efficient home, the water heater can often be overlooked. Yet, a reliable, cost-effective water heater system is crucial, especially in colder climates. That's where electric tankless water heaters shine. They're an excellent choice for homeowners and renters alike, offering numerous advantages over traditional tank water heaters. We'll guide you through the top-notch models in the market in this comprehensive guide, helping you find the best electric tankless water heater to meet your specific requirements.
What is an Electric Tankless Water Heater?
An electric tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, heats water only when it's needed. Unlike traditional tank heaters that keep a supply of hot water ready at all times, tankless models save energy by not heating water until you turn on the tap. They use high-power electric coils to heat the water instantaneously as it flows through the heater.
Benefits of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
- Energy Efficiency: Electric tankless water heaters are typically more energy-efficient compared to the tank-type models as they only heat water on demand. Consequently, they can help in reducing your utility bills.
- Space-Saving Design: The compact, wall-mounted design saves significant floor space in your house.
- Longer Lifespan: Most tankless heaters have a lifespan of around 20 years, nearly twice as long as traditional tank heaters.
- Unlimited Hot Water: Since the water is heated as it flows through the unit, you can have endless hot water, ideal for large families or households with high hot water demand.
Considerations when Buying an Electric Tankless Water Heater
Selecting the best electric tankless water heater involves factoring in several crucial considerations, such as:
- Size and Output: The unit's size and water flow rate should be appropriate for your home's size and your household's water usage patterns.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings to save on energy costs in the long run.
- Installation Costs: While electric tankless water heaters generally have lower upfront costs than gas models, remember to factor in the potentially significant installation costs.
Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters
EcoSmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Known for its self-modulating technology, the EcoSmart ECO 27 can adjust energy usage based on the amount of hot water needed, which helps in reducing energy costs. It can provide a continuous supply of hot water for a whole house, even in colder climates.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus
With an impressive warranty, sleek design, and advanced flow control technology, Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus stands out among other models. It adjusts water flow to ensure consistent temperature, reducing instances of scalding water when demand exceeds capacity.
Rheem RTEX-13 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Rheem RTEX-13 is considered one of the top-rated electric tankless water heaters due to its user-friendly operation, compact design, and quick heating response. Perfect for small homes or apartments, it provides a consistent supply of hot water.
Maintaining an Electric Tankless Water Heater
Your electric tankless water heater will require regular maintenance to extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. Regular descaling is essential to prevent a buildup of minerals and maintain an optimal flow rate. Furthermore, an annual inspection by a professional is recommended to ensure the unit is functioning effectively.
Selecting the right electric tankless water heater for your household can significantly enhance your home's comfort levels and the efficiency of its energy usage. Take into account factors such as the size of your home, your hot water needs, energy efficiency and the heater's warranty. With the assistance of this guide, finding the best electric tankless water heater for you should be a breeze!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
How does an electric tankless water heater work?
An electric tankless water heater works by directly heating water on demand when you turn on the hot water tap. It does this without the use of a storage tank. Once you turn the tap on, the cold water travels through a pipe into the unit where it's heated by electric elements. This means that you'll have a constant supply of hot water, and you won't need to wait for a storage tank to fill up.
What is the best brand for an electric tankless water heater?
There are many excellent brands of electric tankless water heaters available, and the best one for you depends on your specific needs. Some of the most well-known and highly-rated brands include EcoSmart, Stiebel Eltron, Rheem, and Rinnai.
How long do electric tankless water heaters last?
On average, electric tankless water heaters can last between 20 to 30 years, which is much longer than traditional tank-style heaters. This is because they have fewer mechanical parts that can fail and their components can often be replaced individually, increasing the lifespan of the unit.
How much does a good electric tankless water heater cost?
The cost of electric tankless water heaters can vary widely depending on the size, brand, and specific features of the unit. Smaller, single-point units can range from $150 to $400, while larger, whole-house units can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more. Remember, installation costs are separate and can also vary.
What size electric tankless water heater do I need?
The size of the electric tankless water heater you need will depend on your hot water demand. This includes factors such as how many people live in your home, how many hot water devices you expect to use simultaneously, and the groundwater temperature in your area. Typically, larger households or homes with higher hot water usage will require a larger unit.
Are electric tankless water heaters good for large families?
Electric tankless water heaters can be a good choice for large families as they can provide a continuous supply of hot water. However, it's important to choose a model that is capable of handling the high hot water demand that often comes with larger families. Therefore, a larger, whole-house unit will likely be the best fit.
Can I install an electric tankless water heater myself?
While it's possible to install an electric tankless water heater yourself, it's usually recommended to hire a professional. This is due to the complexities involved, such as electrical work and potentially adjusting your home's plumbing. An incorrectly installed water heater can be unsafe and may void your warranty. Therefore, it's usually worth the cost to hire a professional.
How often should I maintain my electric tankless water heater?
For the best performance and extended lifespan, it's recommended that you maintain your electric tankless water heater at least once a year. Maintenance tasks typically include flushing the unit to remove any mineral buildup and checking all the electrical connections and components for any signs of wear or damage.
Can I use an electric tankless water heater in a cold climate?
Yes, you can use an electric tankless water heater in a cold climate. However, because the incoming water will be colder, it may take longer for the unit to heat the water to the desired temperature. Therefore, you may need a unit with a higher flow rate or consider installing multiple units.
Pros & Cons of the Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Pros of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Endless Supply of Hot Water
One of the top benefits of the best electric tankless water heaters is the constant availability of hot water. Unlike traditional water heaters which run out once the stored water is used up, a tankless water heater heats water on demand. This ensures the supply won’t run out, even with extended use.
Energy Efficiency
- Electric tankless water heaters only heat water when it's needed, which significantly cuts down on energy consumption. Unlike traditional water heaters which continually heat stored water, tankless water heaters bring about a reduction in energy bills over time.
- Various models of top-rated electric tankless water heaters are labeled with high energy factor ratings symbolizing their heightened energy efficiency.
- Electric models are generally considered more energy-efficient than gas ones. Although the cost of electricity is higher than gas, the energy savings over the lifespan of the unit compensate for this disparity.
Longer Lifespan
Well-maintained electric tankless water heaters typically have a significantly longer lifespan in comparison to traditional models. Most of the best-quality electric tankless water heaters offer a lifespan of 20 years or more, which is approximately twice the average lifespan of traditional water heater models.
Space-Saving Design
The compact size of electric tankless water heaters permits flexible installation in small spaces such as under the sink, in closets, or even on the wall. This feature is particularly advantageous for homes or buildings with restricted space.
Cons of Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Initial High Costs
The upfront costs of the best electric tankless water heaters are higher than traditional models. Installation costs may also be substantial, particularly if electrical upgrades are required. However, these costs can be offset by the long-term energy savings and lifespan of the unit.
Limitations in Output
- While best electric tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water, they may struggle if multiple outlets are used simultaneously. This can be a potential drawback in large households.
- Depending on the model of the electric tankless water heater, climate and the temperature of incoming water can affect the unit's heating capacity. Cold climatic conditions demand the heater to work extra hard to heat the water to desired temperatures which can impact the efficiency of the unit.
Dependency on Electricity
Electric tankless water heaters are reliant on electricity which means in the event of a power outage, you may lose access to hot water. Additionally, if electricity rates are high in your area, it could potentially impact your monthly utility bills, despite the energy efficiency of the unit.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Regular maintenance involving element cleaning and occasionally, replacement parts, can contribute to the overall cost of electric tankless water heaters. Also, repairs might be more complex and expensive compared to traditional tank models.
In conclusion, the choice of the best electric tankless water heater hinges on individual considerations such as household hot water demands, budget, and availability of space, along with careful assessment of the advantages and potential drawbacks.
Summary
Choosing the best electric tankless water heater involves considering a variety of factors including your budget, household needs, and energy efficiency. This seemingly simple appliance can reduce your utility costs and provide a steady stream of hot water with minimal waiting, making it a valuable investment. It's clear that picking the right model can drastically impact your home's comfort and energy usage.
All the hassle of buying and maintaining the best electric tankless water heater is usually worth it in the end, thanks to their long-term benefits. However, it's important to remember that not just any unit will do. One needs to balance factors such as energy efficiency, size, and features to ensure that the heater they choose is really the best for them. Research and compare before making a final decision.
No more wasting water waiting for it to heat up, and say goodbye to the dreaded cold shock in the middle of a shower. That’s the kind of flexibility and convenience you get with the best electric tankless water heater. And with the latest models being more energy-efficient and easier to install, it's becoming increasingly easier to enjoy these perks in your own home. So, dive into the world of tankless water heaters and discover a new level of convenience and efficiency.
About KYPD Plumbing
Welcome to KYPD Plumbing, your go-to provider of superior plumbing solutions in Nicholasville, KY. Backed by a dedicated team of experienced professionals, we take immense pride in delivering top-notch services that exceed expectations. Our commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction, while offering professional plumbing services, is what truly sets us apart. So, the next time you're faced with a plumbing crisis, know that you can count on KYPD Plumbing to get the job done right.
Tags: tankless water heaters, electric heaters, home appliances,
