Top 5 Tankless Water Heater Brands Compared

Top 5 Tankless Water Heater Brands Compared

Choosing the right tankless water heater can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Let me help you narrow it down. Here are five standout brands you should know: Rinnai, Rheem, Navien, Stiebel Eltron, and EcoSmart. Each one brings something unique to the table. For example, Rinnai is famous for its reliability, while EcoSmart appeals to eco-conscious buyers.

When picking a tankless water heater, think about your household’s hot water needs, energy efficiency, and installation requirements. Don’t forget to weigh the upfront cost against long-term savings. Comparing these factors ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your home.

Looking for more details? Check out this guide on tankless water heaters.

Key Takeaways

  • Think about how much hot water your family uses daily.
  • Also, check how much energy the heater will save.
  • Rinnai and Rheem work well for big families.
  • They provide lots of hot water and work dependably.
  • EcoSmart is cheaper and good for saving money.
  • It’s a smart pick for smaller houses.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters

Standout Models

When it comes to Rinnai, their lineup has something for everyone. Here are some of their most popular models:

  • V53: Perfect for smaller homes, delivering up to 5.3 gallons per minute (GPM).
  • V65: A step up, ideal for medium-sized households with higher water demands.
  • V75: Handles simultaneous water usage with ease.
  • V94: The powerhouse of the HE series, offering a whopping 9.8 GPM.
  • RU and RUR models: These belong to the SE+ series and are packed with advanced features like recirculation technology.

Key Features

Rinnai tankless water heaters stand out for their innovative technology. Here’s what makes them special:

Feature Benefit
Intelligent Recirculation Learns your water usage patterns for efficiency.
Smart Home Integration Lets you control settings via your phone or voice commands.
Energy-Efficient Design Only heats water when needed, saving energy.
Compact Design Fits into tight spaces, freeing up room.
On-Demand Heating Provides endless hot water without running out.
Advanced Temperature Control Keeps water temperature steady.

Pros and Cons

Let’s talk about the good and the not-so-good:
Pros:

  • Reliable performance and energy efficiency.
  • Endless hot water for large households.
  • Space-saving design.

Cons:

  • Some users report long wait times for hot water.
  • Maximum temperature settings (140°F) may not suit everyone.
  • Installation can be tricky and may require professional help.

Ideal Use Cases

Rinnai tankless water heaters work best for families or homes with high water demands. If you’ve got multiple bathrooms or love long showers, these heaters won’t let you down. They’re also a great choice if you’re looking to save space and cut down on energy bills. However, if you’re in a smaller home or need instant hot water, you might want to explore other options.

Rheem Tankless Water Heaters

Standout Models

Rheem offers a variety of tankless water heaters that cater to different household needs. Based on customer feedback, here are some of their top-rated models:

Model Flow Rate (GPM) Dimensions Max. Number of Fixtures
Rheem RTGH-95DVLN 9.5 18.5″ x 9.8″ x 27.5″ 3-4
Rheem RTGH-RH11DVLN 11 15.5″ x 18.5″ x 27.5″ 4-5
Rheem RTGH-84DVLN 8.4 18.5″ x 9.8″ x 27.5″ 2-3

These models stand out for their high flow rates and ability to handle multiple fixtures at once. If you’ve got a busy household, these heaters can keep up with your demands.

Key Features

Rheem tankless water heaters are known for their energy efficiency and user-friendly design. Here’s what makes them shine:

  • Compact design saves space and fits in tight areas.
  • On-demand hot water supply reduces energy waste.
  • Precise temperature control lets you customize your water temperature.
  • High energy efficiency ratings ensure lower utility bills.

I love how Rheem combines performance with efficiency. It’s clear they’ve designed these heaters with both convenience and sustainability in mind.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break down the advantages and a few drawbacks:
Pros:

  • Reliable and efficient performance.
  • Handles multiple fixtures without losing water pressure.
  • Easy-to-use controls for temperature adjustments.

Cons:

  • Installation might require professional help.
  • Some models can be pricey upfront.

Ideal Use Cases

Rheem tankless water heaters are perfect for medium to large households. If you’ve got several bathrooms or appliances running at the same time, these heaters won’t disappoint. They’re also a great choice if you’re looking to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to explore other brands.

Navien Tankless Water Heaters

Standout Models

Navien has built a reputation for combining efficiency with innovation. Some of their standout models include:

  • NPE-240A: A high-performance unit with ComfortFlow technology for consistent hot water.
  • NPE-180S: Perfect for smaller households, offering a compact design without sacrificing power.
  • NPE-210A: Balances energy efficiency and flow rate, making it ideal for medium-sized homes.

These models cater to a variety of needs, whether you’re looking for something compact or a unit that can handle multiple fixtures.

Key Features

Navien tankless water heaters stand out for their advanced technology and eco-friendly design. Here’s a quick look at what makes them unique:

Feature Description
Condensing Technology Maximizes heating while conserving energy.
Eco Pre-mixed Burner Reduces NOx emissions by up to 75%.
ComfortFlow Technology Ensures a consistent supply of hot water.
Integrated Control System Allows easy system management and troubleshooting.
Compact Design Saves space without compromising performance.

I love how Navien focuses on both performance and sustainability. Their features make them a great choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Pros and Cons

Let’s break it down:
Pros:

  • Highly energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run.
  • Eco-friendly design reduces harmful emissions.
  • Compact units fit easily into tight spaces.

Cons:

  • Installation can be complex and may require professional help.
  • Some models come with a higher upfront cost.

Ideal Use Cases

Navien tankless water heaters are perfect for homeowners who value energy efficiency and sustainability. They’re ideal for medium to large households that need a reliable hot water supply. If you’re looking for a tankless water heater that’s both powerful and eco-friendly, Navien is a solid choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to explore other brands.

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heaters

Standout Models

Stiebel Eltron offers a range of models designed to meet different household needs. The Tempra Plus series is a fan favorite, especially the Tempra 24 Plus and Tempra 29 Plus. These models are known for their reliability and energy efficiency. If you’re looking for something compact yet powerful, the DHC-E series is another great option. It’s perfect for smaller spaces or point-of-use applications.

Key Features

What sets Stiebel Eltron apart? Let me break it down for you:

  • Electronic Temperature Control: Delivers precise heating for consistent comfort.
  • Self-Modulating Technology: Adjusts power usage based on demand, saving energy.
  • Advanced Flow Control™: Prevents cold water surprises by slightly reducing flow to maintain the desired temperature.
  • Memory Preset Feature: Lets you quickly return to your preferred water temperature.
  • Eco-Friendly Design: Reduces energy consumption by up to 50% and minimizes landfill waste.

Pros and Cons

Here’s what I love about Stiebel Eltron:
Pros:

  • Highly energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
  • Compact design fits into tight spaces.
  • Long-lasting with excellent warranties (seven years for leakage, three years for parts).

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost compared to some competitors.
  • Installation might require professional expertise.

Ideal Use Cases

Stiebel Eltron tankless water heaters are perfect for eco-conscious homeowners. They’re ideal for small to medium households or anyone looking to save energy without sacrificing performance. If you want a reliable, long-lasting unit with advanced features, this brand is worth considering.

EcoSmart Tankless Water Heaters

Standout Models

EcoSmart offers some of the most affordable and energy-efficient tankless water heaters on the market. Here are a few popular models:

  • EcoSmart ECO 27: A compact unit with self-modulating technology, perfect for smaller homes.
  • EcoSmart ECO 18: Delivers a flow rate of 5 GPM and a heat capacity of 18 kW, making it ideal for larger households.
  • EcoSmart ECO 11: Designed for small households, this unit provides a flow rate of 2 GPM and endless hot water for one or two people.

These models are well-loved for their efficiency and ability to save space.

Key Features

EcoSmart tankless water heaters stand out for their innovative design and energy-saving capabilities. Here’s what makes them special:

  • Self-Modulating Technology: Adjusts energy use based on water demand, reducing waste.
  • Compact Design: Saves space and fits easily into tight areas.
  • Energy Efficiency: Can save up to 60% on water-heating costs.
  • Lifetime Warranty: Available if installed by a licensed plumber and registered within 30 days.

I find these features especially appealing for anyone looking to cut down on energy bills while enjoying reliable performance.

Pros and Cons

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks:
Pros:

  • Affordable and energy-efficient.
  • Compact and easy to install.
  • Lifetime warranty (with conditions).

Cons:

  • Customer support has mixed reviews, with reports of long wait times.
  • Some users experienced malfunctions due to corrosion of copper components.
  • Warranty claims can be challenging to process.

Ideal Use Cases

EcoSmart tankless water heaters are a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners. They work well in small to medium households, especially where space is limited. If you’re looking for an affordable, energy-efficient solution, EcoSmart is worth considering. However, if customer support is a top priority, you might want to explore other brands.

Comparison Table of Tankless Water Heaters

Comparison Table of Tankless Water Heaters

When comparing tankless water heaters, I always focus on a few key metrics. These include price, energy efficiency, flow rate, and warranty. Let me break it down for you so you can see how the top brands stack up.

Key Metrics Compared

1. Price

Tankless water heaters come in a wide price range. Here’s a quick look at the average costs for some popular brands:

Brand Average Cost Energy Efficiency Rating
Rinnai $1,000 – $6,000 2.5/5
Navien $900 – $1,500 2/5
Rheem $400 – $2,300 5/5
EcoSmart $250 – $600 4/5
Stiebel Eltron $500 – $2,000 4.5/5

If you’re on a budget, EcoSmart offers affordable options. For premium performance, Rinnai and Stiebel Eltron are worth the investment.

2. Flow Rate

Flow rate determines how much hot water a unit can provide at once. It’s measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Here’s a handy guide:

Appliance Flow Rate (GPM)
Showerhead 2 – 3
Kitchen Sink 1.5
Washing Machine 1 – 2

Most households need a unit with at least 5 GPM to handle multiple fixtures. Rinnai and Rheem models excel in this area, offering up to 9.5 GPM.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a big deal. Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings. Rheem leads the pack with a 5/5 rating, while EcoSmart and Stiebel Eltron also perform well. These brands can save you up to 60% on water-heating costs.

4. Warranty

A good warranty gives peace of mind. Stiebel Eltron offers one of the best warranties, covering leakage for seven years and parts for three years. EcoSmart provides a lifetime warranty, but only if you meet specific conditions.

Pro Tip: Match the flow rate to your household’s needs. A higher GPM ensures you won’t run out of hot water during peak usage.


Each brand has its own strengths, making it easier to find the right fit for your home.

  • Rinnai stands out for its performance and reliability.
    • Continuous hot water supply
    • Energy-efficient design
    • Compact size
    • Advanced features like Smart-Circ™ and Control-R™ WiFi Module
  • EcoSmart is the best budget option. Its compact size and energy savings make it perfect for small households.
Feature Specification
Flow Rate 2 GPM
Heat Capacity 13 kW
Size 90% smaller than traditional tank heaters
Energy Efficiency Up to 60% savings on water-heating costs
  • Stiebel Eltron is the eco-friendly choice. It saves up to 50% on heating costs and eliminates bulky tanks.

If you’re on a budget, go with EcoSmart. For high performance, Rinnai is unbeatable. Want to go green? Stiebel Eltron is your best bet.


Post time: Feb-04-2025

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

For inquiries about our products or pricelist, please leave your email to us and we will be in touch within 24 hours.

Follow Us

on our social media
  • sns01
  • sns02
  • sns03
  • youtube