Best Tankless Water Heater’s benchmarks lie in its capacity (GPM), dimension, efficiency factor, warranty, etc. Tankless water heaters can be either gas-fired or take electricity as the power source. Generally, gas-fired Water Heaters perform better and heat water faster than electric water. The best water heater has higher warranty periods and excellent after-sales services. You do not want to stick with a company that never responds to your query or complaints. Features like a built-in recirculation pump, flow control valve, and microprocessor technology take a Tankless water heater to another level. Such devices pay a long way to eliminate the wait for hot water initially and balance the flow rate with different temperatures.
So let us look inside some market-leading on-demand water heater reviews and dig into their features.
Our Recommended Tankless Water Heater Models
The Tankless water heater is an on-demand type of water heater. They operate without a tank. So you can get on-demand hot water for all your needs. Two kinds of Tankless water heaters are available on the market. These heaters are energy efficient and cheap. They can be electric or propane/gas. The main difference between them is the fuel they use to provide instant hot water. There are a plethora of reasons to start using a Tankless water heater.
Eccotemp L5
More than 40 million people go camping every year in the USA. I wonder how many of them fancied the idea of a hot shower while camping! If you are one of them or have an RV or swimming pool and felt the need for a water heater for that unit, then Eccotemp L5 is your catch.
It weighs only 13 pounds, so very easy to carry wherever you need it. It has an easy installation process; you only need to attach it to a garden hose nozzle and propane tank for functioning. It has a relatively low flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute to 1.4 GPM. As the flow rate is too low, an anti-scalding device can be incorporated into it.
A 2 D Cell Battery Ignition makes it easy to use in off-grid areas. It has a 20-minute shut-off period to avoid accidents. One turn-off feature is a one-year limited warranty period. However, regular maintenance and a little cautiousness can let you forget about this worry for a longer time. Despite the low warranty period and a relatively low flow rate, 1064 satisfied Customers have ranked it 4.2 out of 5. And to do all these, you’ll need the instant water heater with a showerhead. This water heater’s prices are not too high for its usefulness.
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-LP
When you decide the right size for your home, you generally find it by adding up the flow rates of the appliances where hot water will be used. This is why most of the time, a higher GPM is preferred. Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG is one of the highest GPM providers globally, a well-known water heater for large homes. It gives you a 6.6 GPM35°F temperature rise and 3.3 GPM at 70°F height.
T-KJr2-IN-LP Indoor on-demand water heater propane can support homes up to 7500 feet altitude. It is a gas-fired water heater that guarantees a saving of gas bill up to 1/3rd if you choose to use it less than or equal to 131-degree temperature (pretty hot, right!). Takagi is one of the best tankless water heater brands in the world.
Tankless heaters are primarily famous for their small sizes, and with a dimension of 6.7 x 13.8 x 20.3, Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG is one of the smallest within this capacity. It requires gas inputs of 140,000 BTU. So for a home with 4-5 people and 2-3 fixtures to run at a time, this model is ideal. For the comfort of using and living, it comes with remote control.
Eccotemp i12-NG
I do not know about others, but I am an energy-conscious person. I like that the Eccotemp i12-NG Indoor tank uses only 2 watts when idle and 1.07 amps during operation.
With a horizontal vent kit system, this unit is elementary to install. It also has a sleek black acrylic glass casing and a digital display and touch screen. It looks no bigger than a big Ipad. It is beneficial if your home has a medium need for hot water. You can choose this model with two bathrooms, a dishwasher, and a washing machine.
Some complain about the vent pipe that comes with the system, but an easy solution is to invest a few dollars for a stainless vent pipe; this will be so cheap compared to the total investment for the heater, not worthy of considering a drawback.
This model has an automatic heat control mechanism and a child lock system. It is very safe for a home with children and older people. The outer shell never gets heated up, and an automatic heating system reduces the need for a minimum flow rate to activate the burner. It is suitable for homes with a 120-volt electric setting, so you do not need additional installation settings. It flows at a varying rate of Hot water range: 0.6 – 4.8 GPM with further temperature rises.
Eccotemp L10
We are nature’s fans but technology’s friend. On the one hand, we want to explore and be bewailed with nature’s beauty; on the other hand, we do not mind examining what is happening in the city by being updated by Facebook. This is why the intelligent manufacturer has invented technology like portable water heaters. Now where you will take it -to the campsite, poolside, forest, or mount it in your garden for a Bar B Que party that is up to you.
Eccotemp L10 Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater has a battery ignition system to equip you with the freedom of taking it to an off-grid area. It has an adjustable water pressure range and manuals temperature control switches. A low PSI requirement intends to free the travelers from seeking a high-speed water supply, which may be scant in a rustic ambiance.
Anti-dry combustion protection allows this portable tankless water heater to immediately shut off the gas supply if the water stops flowing through the heater.
The digital temperature control gives a range of 80-120°F heating capacity. If you think it is for a single application, as I mentioned, it is ideal for the campsite, and then I would like to add that it is perfect for at least two fixtures to run at a time. Thus it is also usable outdoor for a permanent purpose. So if you are looking for a medium capacity portable gas-fired, Eco-friendly tankless water heater, Ecco temp L10 can be shortlisted.
Rinnai RL94eP
Rinnai RL94eP needs 10,300 – 199,000 BTU. It has an 83% efficiency rate, meaning with 1 unit of gas consumption, it produces .83 electricity. It is suitable for a home with 6-8 people and can support 5-6 water appliances. However, its high capacity and durability have made it perfect for commercial usage. You will need to buy a separate regulator for commercial purposes, though.
With 9.3 x 14 x 23 inches dimension, Rinnai RL94eP Outdoor on-demand propane water heater is undersized, space-saving, and neat to look at. It has certification from Energystar, indicating its supreme efficiency in capacity and Eco-friendliness.
It has a scale of 98°F – 140°F for residential use; however, if your home is in a freezing place with high demand, you can buy the commercial controller and set the temperature as high as 185°F. A temperature lock option is there to save you from the risk of scalding. Did you ever come to look for a product and found it has an excellent rating of 5 stars? If not, you can visit the site for this propane tankless water heater, and the chances are excellent that it is what you are looking for.
Rinnai RL94eN
Another high capacity capable of supplying a water heater is Rinnai RL94eN tankless water heater propane. It has 9.4 Gallons per Minute capacity. It is suitable for 5-6 fixtures to run simultaneously and never run out of water. So when five people decide to shower in separate bathrooms, it does not let each other curse because of the fluctuating temperature of the water. Are you concerned about the temperature rise? Do not because, in residential use, it lets you enjoy the temperature from 98°F – 140°F; if you buy for commercial use with an additional controller, you can enjoy up to 185°F.
We discussed how stainless steel valves are better than plastic ones for durability. Still, the best in the industry is heavy-duty forged brass Webstone Isolator service valves which come with this Japan-made water heater.
It comes with a built-in Rinnai Circ-LogicTM. A recirculation program cycles an external pump at pre-set intervals and temperatures, and this feature maximizes efficiency and comfort.
People are always concerned about the installation, and after installation, labor services will be happy to hear that the Rinnai RL94iP Propane comes with 1 Year Labor for Residential Installations. It has a 12-Year Warranty on Heat Exchanges and 5 Year Warranty on Parts. So this is a wise choice for people with high needs.
Takagi T-K4-IN-LP
If you are looking for a non-condensing Propane fired water heater, then for a home with 2-3 bathrooms, you can look into Takagi T-K4-IN-LP Indoor Tankless Water Heater. With an input of 11,000 -190,000 BTU/hr, this unit can support 2-3 applications at a time in a warmer climate.
One safety feature of Takagi models is an overheat cut-off fuse system that will guard you against the risk of accidents. These small units are often combined with a central heater or other small heaters. The Japanese manufacturer provides enough provision to link it with four teams without visiting home depot or any accessory store. It has all the required ports you need.
This is the second one of these I have installed. The only demise, if any, is the stainless venting it requires. These heaters have kickass units and are more cost-effective than natural gas units. Another cool feature is the freeze protection. The unit plugs into your standard 120-volt outlet and has a small electric heater to protect against freezing. The units are perfect for mobile homes using the direct vent kit. This draws combustion air from the outdoors instead of pulling it from inside the dwelling. I would highly recommend this heater and do it to everyone I know.
If you are looking for a very long warranty period of 12 years, you would be glad to know Takagi T K4 IN LP Indoor Tankless Water Heater gives a 15-year limited warranty on the heat exchanger residential applications a 5-year limited warranty on all parts.
Rinnai RUC98iP
Rinnai, the acclaimed manufacturer with Energystar, claims they have an ultra-modern series of condensing tankless water heater models; Rinnai RUC98iP Ultra Series Propane Tankless Water Heater is one of them. It has effectively used thermal bypass technology to reduce wait time for hot water. One advantage of it is that it has a recirculation pump. It has an integrated pump encompassing an internal bypass line and a thermal bypass valve. Altogether it supplies you with hot water in less time.
It is propane-fired and takes 199,000 BTU maximum. With compliance with ultra-low NOx emissions, it has achieved Energystar. This is also a Japan-made heater, so warranty features are also lucrative.
For Residential use, it gives a limited 12-year warranty on heat exchangers, a 5-year warranty on parts, 1-year labor warranty. With a dimension of only 10 x 18.5 x 26 inches and 82.7 pounds, it is effortless to install and matches your interior seamlessly.
Whatever they say about the wait time and warranty, if not good enough for you, the GPM it offers will surely light your face, 9.8. It is pretty good and indicates that it is suitable for warmer and medium homes in icy areas. It can support four showers, so if you are in for a high-capacity tankless water heater, then this is it.
Chronomite SR-20L/240 HTR
You do not encounter an electric fixture with 99% energy efficiency every day. Still, Chronomite SR-20L/240 HTR 240-Volt 20-Amp SR Series Instant-Flow Low Flow Tankless Water Heater is one of those rare water heaters. It offers a flow rate of 5 GPM, suitable for two showers and a faucet at a time. It was specially designed for under-sink hard-wiring.
While installing and selecting the spot for it, you should know that it is made for only horizontal installation. Those who want to spend the least on building and have some DYI skill would love to hear that it has a rear electric knock-out system letting in or out of a wire or cable or pipe through a connector.
If you are not interested in buying a heater that needs frequent cleaning and maintenance, this heater from Chronomite is bliss. It has a self-cleaning feature. This does not allow calcification to build up and eliminates alkali.
The manufacturer also claims that it needs only 2 seconds to heat the water. These heaters have an anti-scalding feature reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring home safety. Another certification Chronomite SR-20L/240 Tankless Water heater has achieved is that of ADA. So for the lavatory, sink, and dishwasher or dual bathroom home.
What is the best tankless electric water heater?
Every company vows to sell top-rated electric tankless water heaters; however, one outstanding is detailed research. I have done some of it and found that every manufacturer has something unique. Eccotemp has EnergyStar certification and a lifelong guarantee; Stiebel Eltron has Advanced Flow Control technology with an intelligent microprocessor technology that controls flow and temperature to make a balance. Atmor has an advanced Thermo Pro self-modulating system that heats up first and reduces electric consumption. Some are electric tankless water heaters like EcoSmart ECO 27, Tempra Plus 29 kW, and Rheem RTEX-13. It is tough to say which one is the best on-demand water heater electric; let us look at yourself. Home Swanky presents the updated lists of an electric water heaters.
EcoSmart ECO 11
“Lifetime warranty” is those two magical words that make my eyes wide open. EcoSmart is one manufacturer that gives a lifetime warranty on faulty parts (conditions apply). But one turn-off is that it asks you to leave the installation to the professionals in a tongue that ensures that you will lose the warranty features if you do it yourself without any certification. Besides the warranty, this product has many exciting core features, such as weighing only 6.5 lbs. It needs only 125 amperages and runs on a 240 voltage supporting line.
If you have a shower with a flow rate of 1.5 GPM and a sink with 0.5 GPM, you can efficiently run them together at 67 Degree F. It can heat up to 2-Gallon per minute, suitable for a single bathroom home or dedicated for a sink or kitchen.
Be sure before buying that it is the proper heater with your electric wiring and voltage requirements. It needs 60 amp double pole breakers for support. The manufacturer terms it as a whole home heater for 67 degrees and above, which means it is more suitable for low usage and warmer temperature. Suppose you need a water heater for an area warm as 67 degrees and have 1-2 people to use it simultaneously, then this is a good option. Overall this Electric Tankless Water Heaters model is a great choice.
Ecosmart ECO 18
South Texas, New Mexico, South Florida, Arizona, southern California, or any place where the temperature is 62 ° F and above are a perfect fit for Ecosmart ECO 18. This is a very compact heater that can easily be wall-mounted.
If you want to enjoy the indulgent, luxurious bath of a constant hot water temperature, then Eco smart is ready for it. This heater has a 17″ x 14″ x 3.75″, which means it can save 12 cubic feet of your storage space. Also, the self-modulating technology lets you save 60% of your electric cost. It has a digital temperature controller from 80°F – to 140°F provision of heat increment at the 1-degree interval.
Ecosmart ECO 18 has a cosmetically pleasing outward that can seamlessly fit with your interior. With a 2.5 Gallon per minute flow rate, it is the water heater for medium category homes. The inlet temperature of 42 ° F -52° F and ECO 18 can simultaneously support one shower and sink.
This 99% energy-efficient instant water heater can give endless hot water supply to 2 showers and two sinks at hot places like 77° F. Some plumbing experts say ECO 18 is one of the best tankless water heaters. It can perform better in warmer conditions, like if the temperature is 57° F-62° F, it can support two faucets and a shower, meaning while you are taking a bath. Someone uses a washing machine; if another person decides to pour a pot with water or wash his hand, you will not feel any drop in temperature.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus
This 90-year-old German brand has some high-capacity tankless water heaters if you can trust German technology and engineering. With 21.5 x 19.5 x 8.8 inches, Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 plus Electric Tankless Water Heater weighs only 15 lbs. The feature I found worthy of highlighting most is that- It has a very high Gallon per minute capacity; in 240 volts, with a 20-degree rise, it can give 8 GPM, while at a 90-degree rise, it gives 1 GPM flow. It also supports a setting of 208 volts.
This is an all-electric tankless water heater requiring no ventilation. You can easily install it inside your home near where most hot water consumption is needed. Like many modern tankless heaters, it has a digital scale, and It offers a scale of 30°C (86°F) to 60°C (140°F).Ideal for a 2-3 bathroom home with 4-5 people.
One turn-off is its 3-year limited warranty (when installed by licensed personnel); it seems pretty less than some heaters, which offer 10-15 years of warranty; installation, faulty parts assembly, and dissembling costs in most cases are not covered, though. However, separate parts of the heaters are attached with screws, so though you may not get it covered under warranty, the cost and the level of effort for repairing and uninstalling those parts will not be extensive.
Ecosmart ECO 36
I find it ambitious when someone says a water heater can save 50% energy cost; Ecosmart is one of them with their intelligent ECO Eco 36, 36kw 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater. They claim to reduce your energy cost by up to 50%. You can use it for purposes like washing machine, dishwasher, bathroom. It also serves- large Roman-style Jacuzzi tubs.
It is easy to handle and install with 17 x 19 x 3.8 dimensions and 17.4 lb weight. However, like all Eco intelligent water heaters, you will risk voiding the lifetime warranty clause if you do not use a licensed plumber or electrician for installation. It has a digital scale marking from 80°F – to 140°F heat, offering a change in temperature at the 1-degree interval. Installation of ECO 36 means it will require additional fixtures for supporting it like- four double-pole (240V) 40A circuit breakers, #8 copper wiring, 12 wires-8 “hot” wires, and four ground wires.
Most people deserve hot water with a higher GPM, even with relatively low incoming water temperature. It is sarcastic. EcoSmart has essential information about the capacity of this unit. But we often make mistakes by not getting our heads straight around that wealthy indication. For example, if you want 4-Gallon water per minute, the water heater’s best effort is to heat the water to 46-degree. Or, if you want a 110-degree shower at 4-Gallon per minute, you must ensure that the incoming water temperature is 64-degree. You have already summarized the relationship between the flow rate and the climate, so to solve those problems, as mentioned earlier, you will need a low-flow head shower which might cost $20.
This is one of the highest-capacity water heaters from the Ecosmart group. It is made to support four showers and a sink at a time at a temperature of 37°F; before you decide, be sure of your requirements and specifications.
Bosch T 2.5-Gallon Electric Mini-Tank under Sink
This is not a tankless water heater; Bosch T 2.5-Gallon Electric Mini-Tank under Sink Water Heater is still in the reviews of tankless water heaters because of its size and easy installation. It comes in 3 sizes, 2.5 liters, 4 liters, and 7 liters; if you are fond of a line water heater but cannot be at peace with the wait time for hot water after opening the faucet, the best thing to go for.
It is almost as small as a tankless unit – 13.75 W x 13.75 H x 10.75 Dimension for 2.5 liter, 13.75″ W x 13.75″ H x 13.5 “D for 4 liter and 17.5″ W x 17.5″ H x 14.5” D for 7 liter. Weight is 15.5 lbs, 17.4 lbs, and 29.5 lbs. It is the Smallest in the Tronic 3000 T series and can support three faucets or showers at a time. It needs 150 PSI minimum to activate and 10 minutes to heat the tank full of water.
This water heater has LED, which indicates when the tank has reached the set temperature. It has knobs for easy temperature adjustments. It refers to be a good option for pre-heating water at distant faucets and thus reducing water usage.
You may want to buy a tank-less heater for longevity and energy efficiency. As the name suggests, it can be wall-mounted under the sink or over the cabinet and hidden. A bracket is also included for hanging purposes. These two purposes are also well served with Thick CFC-free foam insulation of Bosch T 2.5-Gallon Electric Mini-Tank under Sink Water Heater.
Eccotemp EM-4.0 Electric 4.0-Gallon Mini Tank
It is not a tankless heater; it comes with a mini tank of 4 gallons to bypass the cold water sandwich problem. It has a digital scale with 50 Degree-140 Degree F adjustable temperature control.
The tank feature ensures instant hot water and zero waiting period for any fixture. It has a Temperature/Pressure relief valve included in the package, so there is no fear of water leaks or hot water going back into the cold water tank. The point-of-use feature is not to worry about the minimum flow rate to enable the heater.
It is made for residential, commercial as well as industrial environments. Though it is not tankless, it has a space-saving feature of 14.5 x 14.5 x 12.9 inches. Perhaps a 4-gallon tank is not that big after all. It can be wall or floor-mounted. If you do not want to display it, you can easily hide it inside the cabinet with such a manageable size. One thing you need to remember is -that it can handle up to 150 psi. Beyond that, you may need a flow valve to reduce your water pressure.
So if you want a water heater that is small yet overcomes the barrier of the wait for hot water at the beginning, or if you want an assistant heater with the central water heating system of your home, then these 22.9 pounds weighted 4.0-Gallon Mini Tank Water Heater from Eccotemp is perfect.
Stiebel Eltron DHC-E12
Suppose you live in a place with an inlet water temperature of 32 degrees f and looking for a whole house electric tankless water heater. Then you can go for it; if you buy this German-made tank-less unit, it can support you with hot water in 2- 4 bathrooms. It comes with a digital scale from 86 Degree F (30 Degree C) and 125 Degree F (52 Degree C)
I talked about the cold weather; if you reside in a warmer climate like 65 degrees or above, Stiebel Eltron tankless water heater can support five faucets with 0.5 GPM and two showers if GPM is 1.5. How many people can use this mainly depends on how often your faucets are busy at the same time and what is your inlet water temperature? Still, you can guess it is suitable for the high needed home with the capacity stated. But it has a relatively low flow rate, so if you use it for many fixtures, you will need a flow rate controller to reduce GPM enough to fit into it.
With 240 volt and 12000-watt requirements, this unit is suitable for tiny homes or supporting water heaters. The product is minimal with only 4.1 x 7.9 x 14.2 inches and extremely light weighted, only 6 pounds. I wonder how Germans do that; it weighs half than its contemporary other branded items.
Electric SCR2 Titan N-120
A home with two bathrooms in a tropical climate where water temperatures are above 65 F can use this tankless unit. It has a dimension of 12 x 10 x 5 inches and weighs only 7.3 lbs. It comes with a ten-year warranty on water components and one year on electric elements.
You can easily run it for two faucets at a temperature above 55 degrees F. It has Copper heating elements that help the water heat very fast; it also protects against galvanic corrosion. It requires 0.5 GPM for activation. It needs a 60 amp fuse and six gag wiring.
However, Titan has this distribution channel named Niagara Industries, responsible for all the repayment solutions, and no other licensed technician can open the heater as it is sealed. This can be a good thing for those who do not want to take the hurdle of looking for an electrician when a fixture malfunctions. On the other hand, if you are not interested in mailing it to Niagara Industries and want help from your diary of licensed technicians or want to DYI, you may not like this restraint.
Stiebel EltronTempra 29 Plus
TEMPRA 29 PLUS is another product from Stiebel Eltron under the series of Tempra. The specialty of the Tempra series is that it has Advanced Flow Control technology. This Advanced Flow Control technology encompasses a smart microprocessor technology that ensures a steady output temperature, even if the flow rates of the faucets vary significantly. Most electric tankless water heaters do not have this technology and need a flow control valve to steady or downsize the faucet flow.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is an Electric Tankless Water Heater running at 240 V or 28.8 kW. It is a compact yet whole house solution with 22.4 pounds. One downside of the product is -that this German-made tankless heater has a strict policy for warranty; they give a Three-year limited warranty only when installed by licensed personnel.
Like other tankless water heaters, it takes await when you open the faucet and reach the minimum activation rate of flow. However, unlike tank water heaters, it will not need another waiting period if you have a long-term need for hot water or if two faucets are running at a time. It can supply endless hot water for 3-4 showers with 1.5 to 2 GPM. At a 90-degree rise, it gives 2.5 GPM, and at a 20-degree angle, it can provide 8 GPM flow.
Ecosmart ECO 24
Ecosmart ECO 24, 24 KW at 240-Volt, is another advanced creation from the Ecosmart group. It is ideal for flaunting or hiding inside a sleek cabinet with a 17 x 17 x 3.8 inches dimension and 11 pounds. It has 99.8% energy efficiency like other heaters from this manufacturer. Before buying it, you need to look inside the electric requirements and match your home’s standards. It requires an Electrical Panel of 200 Amps and Three 40 Amp Double Poles.
If you are skeptical about China-made products, you would think twice as this confident manufacturer offers you a lifetime warranty (for licensed installation and electronics, exchanger, and element).
This Energy-efficient water heater has Energystar certification and a point-of-use heating system. It works fine with two showers between 120-140 degrees or three faucets at a time. At colder temperatures, it can support one faucet and a shower at a time. In my calculation, it is enough even if four people live in that home because rarely do you use two taps at a time. Still, you can check your flow rates and compare other manufacturers’ products if you are unsure.
Ecosmart ECO MINI 2.5-Gallon
Much advanced self-modulating technology and microchips of tankless water heaters have come a long way to stabilize water flow and supply a constant temperature over a prolonged time. Still need for recirculation pumps has not worn off; one reason is that tankless water units cannot bypass the wait time at the start. ECO MINI 2.5 | 2.5-gallon electric mini tank is an ultimate solution to zero wait time opening the faucet.
The only alternative to date is a small tank with a heater. This 2.5-gallon electric mini tank stores the hot water to eliminate the waiting period. With a total dimension of 17 x 17 x 3.8 inches, It is such a small tank that you will feel like installing a tankless unit.
It is hugely Energy-efficient like other water heaters of the Ecosmart group. It has five years limited warranty on leaks and two years on parts if installed by a licensed professional.
The tank will need 15 minutes of recovery time to heat up. I can run on 120 volts and an amperage capacity of 12. The cherry on top is that it has a Pressure Relief Valve Included. If you have two bathrooms and other water fixtures like a washing machine and dishwasher, it can support them at a temperature above 45 degrees. From 37 degrees and above, it can keep two faucets at a time.
Atmor AT-D24TP-AZ
For Atmor AT-D24TP-AZ Thermo Pro, the manufacturer claims an advanced Thermo Pro self-modulating system; this system regulates the amount of energy used to heat the water and saves electric consumption. This medium-capacity tankless water heater gives 4,6 gallons per minute. It can support four applications at Once when 2 Showers have 1.5Gpm/shower head each and two sin faucets with .5 GPM. So how many applications can operate under this is decided by what GPM your shower head or faucets have.
The manufacturer gives a specific demonstration on how many faucets can run at different temperatures, like in north inlet 37-50 degrees f two water fixtures can run from 2.45-3 GPM at a time. At Center America, an inlet temperature of 51 to 60-degree Fahrenheit, one shower, and two more faucets can run from3-3.6 GPM. At the South inlet, two batteries and one to two taps can run on 3.6 to 5 GPM.
This China-made tankless water heater has 17.4 x 5.2 x 13.4 inches and weighs 17 pounds. It has a space-saving design is IP54 certification, which means it has safe internal components, won’t get wet, and needs no venting. It can be a smart choice for your home with a warranty of 7 years against leakage and two years on parts.
Tempra 36 Plus
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus electric water heater tankless is another water heater from the Tempra series. Water heaters from this series have advanced Flow Control technology, which encompasses intelligent microprocessor technology. This intelligent technology claims to ensure a steady temperature of output even though the flow rates of the faucets vary from time to time.
If you wonder about your water pressure, you should get it tested. It works under some constraints like it cannot work if your water pressure exceeds 150 psi. Because most instant water heater has such restraint of maximum and minimum water pressure, some tankless units do not function at high altitudes. It would help if you had this information before buying any tankless water heater.
The unit needs 240.00 voltage and an amperage capacity of 300 A. With 21.5 x 19.5 x 9.5 inches dimensions, it weighs 22 pounds and has a 3-year warranty under professional installation. So if you have the DYI skill and want to experiment with it, I recommend you hold the yearning.
It can produce 4.5 Gallon of hot water per minute. With a showerhead of 1.5 and a faucet of .5 GPM, it can support two showers and two taps at a time.
Tempra 20 Plus
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 plus Electric Tankless Water Heater is a Whole House water heater. Though the company is German, Amazon says this model is made in China. It comes with a three-year warranty period and the tempra effect. Tempra effect is my version of categorizing these Tempra water heaters of Stiebel Eltron, which give constant temperature and constant flow despite your inlet temperature and varying water pressure. The manufacturer claims they have this advanced Flow Control technology with a microprocessor to balance the flow and maintain the temperature for an extended period.
It is an intelligent alternative to tank water heaters with 21.2 x 19.4 x 8.5 inches in dimension and 16 pounds in weight. At 90 degree rise, it gives 1.5 GPM; on the other hand, at 37-40 degree rise F, it can provide 4.5 GPM. You are making it ideal for a small to medium home in cold temperatures like that in North America, where an a1.5 GPM shower and a .5 GPM faucet will be used at a time. Also, if you choose to use it in tropical nature, you can use three showers and a faucet combination.
It has been tested and certified by WQA against NSF/ANSI 372 for lead-free compliance. It needs 0.5 GPM to be activated, and the working pressure is 150 PSI. It seems like a compliant and efficient choice for a small-sized home.
Eemax EEM24018
Eemax EEM24018 Electric Tankless Water Heater can be run at a minimum of 25 psi pressure and a maximum of 150 psi. It requires 240 Volts of Energy to achieve an output of 18 KW units in the form of heated water. The compact design and 11.25 pounds make Eemax EEM24018 mountable anywhere in your house. It includes solid, hand-welded NPT exchanger adapters that are easy to install.
Features
- Advanced Energy Saving Technology
- Sleek and Compact Design
- Sturdy Built
- Easy to Install
- Precise Choice For Commercial And Residential Uses
- Five Years Long Warranty
Once you install the Eemax 18KW tankless water heater, you will get an instant, consistent, and endless hot water supply at your faucet.
What is the best gas tankless water heater?
The gas tankless water heater has high GPM, low BTU intake, high energy efficiency, easy installation, good ventilation, and a lengthy warranty. Many manufacturers give almost all of them. Going for the gas-fired tankless water heater to know about the ventilation details is essential for your home and environment. A propane tankless water heater is a plus point because you can take it to the off-grid area or install it at a home where electrical wiring does not support your preferable electric tankless water heater. Here are some Exclusive gas water heaters reviews for you to decide which one to pick.
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG is a product of the Japanese manufacturer Takagi. It has a high capacity of 6.6 GPM, ensuring four applications at a time with moderate inlet temperature. A house with three bathrooms and additional fixtures like a washing machine and dishwasher can choose this instant water heater. If you live at a very high place from sea level, you may know that many tankless heaters cannot support high altitude. However, Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG can supply hot water up to 7500 altitudes. A dimension of 6.7 x 13.8 x 20.3 can save up to 12 cubic feet that would otherwise be lost if a tank water heater is installed.
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG can supply a maximum flow rate of 6.6 GPM at 35°F temperature rise and 3.3 GPM at 70°F rise thus, which is good enough for even people in North USA. Takagi has used category III stainless steel in its venting system, making it durable and state-of-the-art.
It is the best tankless water heater for a home of 4-5 people. This gas-fired heater needs gas inputs of 140,000 BTU and complies with ultra-Low NOX regulations. Regarding warranty Takagi is giving 15 years limited warranty on the heat exchanger and five years limited warranty on parts, in case of residential use only when installed by a Takagi certified electrician.
Takagi T-H3-DV-N Natural Gas Indoor
Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a Highly Efficient Natural Gas fired condensing Indoor water heater. Amazon termed it highly efficient because of its high GPM of 10 and 95% efficiency. This means that it can support three showerheads in cold weather, and in warmer conditions, it supports four showerheads. The good news for people living at high altitudes is that it can run up to 10,100 ft. It has Energystar certification for high GPM and compliance with Ultra-Low NOx regulations.
It is a 100% natural gas-fired heater with gas inputs of 199,000 BTU. Japan provides safety features like Freeze, overheat surge protection, and troubleshooting diagnostic codes.
It has two heat exchangers. The primary heat exchanger utilizes commercial-grade copper alloy. The good thing about copper alloy is that it is 25 times better at transferring heat than stainless steel. Another feature of the Takagi T-H3-DV-N is that it can also be used for commercial purposes. It gets a 6-year limited warranty for commercial purposes and a 15-year limited warranty for residential purposes. It has a Maximum flow rate of 10.0 GPM at 35°F temperature rise and 5.4 GPM at 70°F rise, so it is perfect for a big home with 6-9 people if you are looking for a large capacity environment-friendly tankless water heater than this.
Rheem RTG-64XLN
Rheem RTG-64XLN is a “Mid-Efficiency Outdoor water heater” that provides an inline water heater. It has 84% efficiency, producing an 84% hot water unit when it consumes a gas unit. It is also suitable for the hilly area or a place far above sea level as it supplies hot water to places up to 9,840 ft. elevation above sea level. It needs 120V AC and has to be installed outdoor on the wall. Though installed outdoors, you need not worry much about the maintenance and freezing issue because the manufacturer gives Freeze protection to -30°F.
Rheem is a very modern company and understands your concern about choosing the right sized tankless unit. They offer this EZ- Spec™ Sizing Software – an advanced online tool that will play the role of a guide for you to find the right size and model for your home at Rheem.
It is a medium-capacity water heater that supplies 6.4 GPM at 35° F rise and 5.6 GPM at 45° F rise allowing two showers and a faucet to run simultaneously. It heats water after sensing a flow; it activates the burner at a 0.40 GPM minimum flow rate. This can work if you need a whole-house tankless water heater for 4-6 people, no matter the inlet temperature.
Takagi T-KJr2-OS-NG
Have you ever used the original Takagi T- OS-NG Outdoor Tankless Water Heater? This was a popular version, but manufacturer Takagi believed in making it perfect by taking some feedback. Hence, some changes in the location of inlets and outlets result in the new Takagi T-KJr2-OS-NG. The name says that it is only for outdoor installation, so install it at a suitable place close to most of its points. A proportional gas valve heats water after sensing a flow of 0.75 GPM. This will reduce the wait time and won’t let the hot water get lukewarm throughout the travel.
It comes with a wired remote control well, it is not as good as wireless, yet when you are in the middle of shower or washing clothes, this wired remote can be a rakish comfort.
This Outdoor Tankless Water Heater is one of the top-rated in the market. It is 82% energy efficient and offers a 6.6 GPM. That means three showers of 2 GPM and a faucet of 0.5 GMP can run simultaneously. The digital scale has a range of heat between 113-140 degrees F, so if you are a resident of a freezing place and have a two-bathroom house with four people and other water fixtures, you can blindly depend on it.
Rheem RTG-84XLN
If you are looking for a high-capacity tankless gas water heater -Rheem RTG-84XLN 8.4 GPM Low NOx Outdoor Tankless Natural Gas Water Heater is a good choice. What excited me most about this unit is -that it gives 8.4 gallons per minute at a 35-degree rise and 6.6 gallons per minute at a 45A-Degree F rise. Thus a home with 2-3 bathrooms and 4-6 people can choose this tough boy.
If your fixtures have a low flow rate and are not sure about them functioning with a gas-fired tankless unit, you would be happy to know Rheem RTG-84XLN can work with only a 0.26 GPM Minimum Flow Rate. This gas-fired heater takes 180,000btus and a 20 amp circuit for support.
Rheem RTG-84XLNis complies with Energystar, one of the industry’s best parameters to evaluate efficiency and capacity. With 14 x 10 x 26 inches dimensions and 54 pounds, it is not as lightweight as some electrical water heaters but is definitely ten times smaller than tank water heaters.
If you wonder about the hassle of controlling an outdoor tankless water heater, you can shrug the sweat off. Rheem RTG-84XLN comes with a UMC-117 remote control and 10-Feet of thermostat wire for your ease of use.
Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM
Complex 5L Outdoor 1.32GPM has the industry’s lowest activation PSI of 2., So where you take it, if that place has a low flow inlet, it will not be a barrier for this heater to work. With 1.32GPM, it has a relatively low flow rate. The low flow rate keeps the water hot for longer and downside because it does not allow more than one fixture to run at a time unless the fixture has a flow rate of .6 GPM.
The manufacturer supplies a 5 feet propane gas pipe with the unit. It serves the purpose of carrying 34,000 BTU/hour. The minimum pressure to operate the propane chamber is 0.4 PSI.
If you are looking for a portable water heater that you can take to tours, campsites and also use as a permanent solution on your lawn for bathing the pet or throwing a Bar B Que party, then choose Camplux 5L Outdoor 1.32GPM Portable Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater will be a clever pick. One feature is that you need CSA approval for a propane gas supply to run the heating process for safety reasons (In most cases, it is available wherever a gas supply is available). If you do not have 12-volt water supply pumps in the middle of a campsite, you can still run the unit with 2 D cell batteries.
Related: How to Convert RV Water Heater to Tankless
Rinnai RUR98iN 9.8
Rinnai RL94eN is a high-capacity condensing water heater with Gallons per Minute as high as 9.4. It is a brilliant choice for those who want to go tankless but are initially afraid of hot water weight. It has a Built-in circulation pump. If you wonder what that is, the information I have from all my research is an integrated system with a thermal bypass technology. This gas tankless water heater technology includes an integrated pump, internal bypass line, and thermal bypass valve; together, they work less to heat the water on the flow. It does not need another line for the recirculation pump, which means less money to install extra features.
This unit comes with MC-195T remote controller. The 96% Energy-efficient water heater has dual heat exchangers to provide maximum efficiency. It has a small dimension of12.5 x 10 x 26 inches and weighs 81.6 pounds. I found it a bit heavy compared to other tankless units, perhaps attributed to all the built-in pumps and valves that gauge its efficiency.
It needs 120 volts and 10 A to operate. If you are worried about durability, then the limited 12-year warranty on heat exchangers, 5-year warranty on parts, and 1-year labor warranty can help you be stress-free. Warranty clauses are almost identical for commercial usage except for a limited 5-year warranty on the heat exchanger. I do not know about you, but I would go for it if I had to buy a water heater for a 3 to 4 bathroom where occasionally four showers and two faucets need to work simultaneously.
Camplux 10L Portable
Camplux 10L is another outdoor Portable tankless Water Heater. It has 2.64 GPM capacities allowing for a powerful shower and two faucets to work simultaneously. It has a Digital Display for temperature control from 46.4℉(8℃) to1 23.8℉ (51℃). It needs gas pressure to be 0.4PSI with a maximum power output of 68,000btu/hour. It saves 12% of your fuel cost; for example, if you fill a BBQ propane of 20lb tank, you can take 50-60 showers with it. Using an off-grid area requires alkaline 2D batteries. It works with a very little water pressure of 3.6 PSI and cannot deal up to 110.0 PSI.
Another plus side of the Camplux10L water heater comes with every spare part you need for installation, like- adapters, CSA approval gas hose & regulator, gas inlet connector, garden hose, and accessories package-included water tape & screws, ON/OFF shower head, and pedestal. As it is to be set, outdoor manufacturers incorporated anti-freezing protection.
With Camplux 10L, you can go camping or set it by the pool for open-air showers and pet showering and forget about safety issues. Because the air safety manufacturer has adapted innovative combustion technology, Oxygen levels throughout the complete burner firing will be lower than 3%. It has a 20 Minuit automatic safety device and a flame failure protection device that guarantees complete safety for the home and people.
Rinnai RL75iN
Rinnai RL75iN is ideal for mobile homes and traditional homes. Easy to install and have ENERGY STAR® certification. It is 82% energy efficient, meaning with a 1 unit input receipt, it produces 82% output.
Rinnai is a very safe choice when it comes to the question of dealing with hazards. It has a Temperature lock function, so you are guarded against accidental or unauthorized changes to water temperature. With enhanced scale detection technology, Rinnai RL75iN lessens the possibility of severe and long-term damage to the unit, and you can take prevention beforehand.
The warranty period gives a limited 12-year on heat exchanger, 5-year on parts, 1-year on labor, same for commercial except for a reduced 5-year warranty for heat exchanger. It runs on both natural gas and propane. A minimum of 10,300 BTU and a maximum of 180,000 BTU input are needed to run it. It is suitable for both residential and commercial usage with a scale of Residential: 98°F – 140°F (37°C – 60°C)and Commercial: 98°F – 160°F (37°C – 71°C).
Before installing it, you need not know your flow rate because it is activated at a shallow flow rate of 0.4 GPM (1.5 pm). At 4.3 GPM, it gives rise to 70°F at 6.0 GPM, giving rise to 50° Temperature. If you are looking for a water heater for a home of 4-6 people, where 2-3 showers can be run at a time, then Rinnai RL75iN is a safe choice.
Rinnai RL94eN
Rinnai RL94eN is another high-capacity natl gas tankless water heater with a maximum of 9.4 Gallons per Minute capacity. It is ENERGY STAR® Qualified and has 82% EF (Energy-efficient factor). It has to be installed outdoor for the best ventilation. So my concern for energy preservation and maximum efficiency is established.
Other than GPM, this model is different than the previous model of its inbuilt Circ-LogicTM recirculation program. This program cycles an external pump at pre-set intervals and temperatures to maximize efficiency and wait for hot water to zero. It has a scale detection technology that identifies the risk of long-term damage and lessens the possibility of severe malfunctioning and shut down. SO you can contact an electrician early and not be left with a water heater less home for long.
At 4.7 GPM, it gives rise to 70°F; at 6.6 GPM, it gives rise to 50° Temperature, it has a minimum activation rate of .4 GPM, so it is not susceptible to low flow rates. It is also suitable for both residential and commercial usage with a digital scale of Residential: 98°F – 140°F and Commercial: 98°F – 185°F.
If you need a water heater for high altitudes, this can help as it works Up to 10,200 ft. above sea level. With a 9.8 flow rate, it can support four showers and two faucets, and at the colder place, with 6.6 GPM, it can support three showers of 2GPM and a faucet of 1 .5 GPM. This is a great choice if you live in the North with a family of 3-4 members or 6-7 people in a warmer climate.
Rheem RTG-95XLN
Rheem RTG-95XLN is a mid-efficient Natural Gas Outdoor Whole House Condensing Tankless Water Heater. It complies with the low NOx, and according to Amazon, it has a 95% efficiency factor.
It is suitable for outdoor, but digital remote control will remove the frustration of frequent visits to the heater for temperature control. A 10 ft. long thermostat wire that comes with the package will eliminate the need to buy a longer pipe for installation. Also, Freeze protection to -30°F will help you survive in a cold climate without frequent maintenance.
It gives 9.5 GPM at 35° F rise and 7.4 GPM at 45° F rise. 4 showers and two faucets can work simultaneously in a warmer climate, two showers and a faucet run at a time in cold Northern weather.
The best thing apart from the 9.5 GPM is Rheem RTGH-95XL’s hot-start programming technology. This system helps to minimize fluctuation in water temperature during periods of repeated on/off operation. This takes care of the “cold water sandwich” problems. It has a Digital display that shows temperatures. This display also shows the user’s maintenance codes and notification alerts by flashing a warning code to call for a service check.
If you are looking for a medium to a high capacity water heater that can function at high altitudes, this might be your take as it works up to 8,400 ft. elevation above sea level.
Takagi T-D2-OS-NG
Takagi D2-OS-NG is an Outdoor Water Heater that needs 199,000 BTU of Natural gas. It has a copper alloy for heat exchanger tubing that protects and enhances efficiency. This model was designed for heavier-residential usages such as space heating or domestic recirculation systems. It can also be used for commercial usage like beauty parlors and restaurants.
It has a maximum flow rate of 8.0 GPM at 35°F temperature rise and the lowest of 4.4 GPM at 70°F rise. Thus four showers in a warmer climate with 2 GPM and three in colder places with 2 GPM can run at a time without running out of hot water.
If you already have any other modeTakagi model, link it with this one and enjoy indulgent lavishness; you can add such four units together with existing settings.
It is an outdoor unit with all accessories that can reduce outdoor water heater use. For example, it has a remote control for you to use indoors, and it has built-in safety features against- freeze, overheating, and surge. Also, the digital display for temperature and GPM will occasionally flash troubleshooting diagnostic codes to handle the problem yourself or consult an electrician.
EZ 202
EZ 202 water heater is aesthetically pleasing with a simple design and excellent features. The EZ tankless is over twenty years old, mainly designing, testing, and perfecting tankless water heaters related to its accessories according to national standards. EZ 202 is a step up from EZ 101, which is expected to be more efficient than the old version. We can keep the hope that it will meet the expectations.
Considerations before buying a tankless hot water heater
If you want to buy the best tankless water heater for your home use, you should keep in mind some valuable points –
1 ) Water Flow
When deciding which tankless water heater to buy, you will receive many information and keywords like flow rate, GPM, etc. If you are not aware of this term or need a better understanding to make an informed decision, a demo guide chart shows what is usually required as a flow rate and average temperature for different purposes and fixtures. However, it can vary based on personal preferences. One thing is to remember that the minimum flow rate is also significant and whatever the highest flow rate is, do not buy a Tankless water heater with a flow rate less than your house’s average flow rate.
Typically tankless water heaters can give 5 GPM at a rise of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This covers a usual home’s needs effortlessly. Some tankless water heaters have the feature of thermostatic control. Such heaters can control output water temperature according to the flow rate and inlet temperature.
2) Warranties
A water heater warranty and warranty clauses are essential for a durable fixture like tankless. Mainly manufacturers offer a warranty of
- Minimum one year
- Maximum lifetime coverage (conditional)
Other clauses the manufacturer attach are-
- No labor
- With labor
- Replacement of faulty parts only
- Replacement of the whole system within a short time if found it was faulty from the beginning.
- Warranty on burner only or heat exchanger
- In case of replacement with mailing charge or without mailing charge
- Lifetime warranty on maintenance specialists of parts.
Conditions typically suffixed are-
- Warranty void if not installed by a licensed electrician and plumber.
- Warranty void if codes of plumbing are violated.
- Warranty void if found used for other purposes beyond the scope or a stipulated hour of use.
So what is the best?
In my understanding, ‘More the Merrier‘ that is more years of warranty is better. It gives a sense of security for a longer time and a conviction that the unit is designed for long years without complaints. Longer years of warranty also come with strict and expensive conditions like void if not installed by a licensed electrician and plumber. Such clauses ask you to spend 300-900 dollars extra; however, if you are not an expert or have a previous record of DYI skills, you better not risk voiding the warranty clause and hiring an expert.
3) Size
- Based on the peak hour demand of your house’s hot water, you have to decide the size of the tankless water heater.
- Here is a worksheet Adapted from information from the Federal Energy Management Program Energy Cost Calculator. To find out the actual maximum demand of GPM at an hour of the day.
- Worksheet for Estimating Peak Hour Demand/First Hour Rating
- This worksheet can help you decide the flow and Fahrenheit rise combination you are looking for.
- In determining the flow rate,
- Add up the flow rate of the fixtures you believe will be running simultaneously, or use the worksheet above.
- In determining the rise of temperature, the formula you need to follow is
- Desired water temperature – Inlet water temperature.
4) Endless Hot Water
When you go through the tankless water heater reviews, you will touch the word ‘endless hot water. This has become more of a tankless water business jargon, so you can run multiple fixtures without worrying that hot water will finish. Once you have successfully figured out the suitable tankless water heater for your home, you can easily enjoy less hot water.
For this purpose, gas-fired tankless water heaters are more efficient and less power-consuming. You need to figure out the perfect size; still, you go through the trauma of what if water finishes! It takes time to pour and reheat the whole tank. In a tankless water heater, you can enjoy a hot shower and another 1 or 2 applications at a time because the GPH for your tankless water heater and flow rate will balance it out and keep providing hot water as long as you need. Water gets hot immediately through the heat exchanger mechanism, so there is neither a tank nor a chance of water in the tank end.
5) Save Space
The tank water heater has a good supply of instant hot water, but the downside is many. One of them is the lionized Space it eats up.
For Example-
This table compares two companies (American standard and Eco temp) with different models for different water tank sizes. Tank water heaters are twenty times heavier and five times more enormous than tankless water heaters. So the space-saving effect is evident from the chart.
6) More Energy Efficient
Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient in 3 ways –
- It has no stand by loss-
Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless water heaters do not run when not in use. In other words, it consumes power only when someone opens the faucet and requires hot water. This causes less power consumption and less cost of electricity. A house with a need of 41 gallons of water daily can enjoy 24%-34% energy efficiency daily. For a home with an 86 gallon need of hot water, enjoy up to 51% efficiency.
- Use of copper heat exchanger-
Tank-less water heaters generally use a copper heat exchanger. Like aluminum, nickel-copper also has this excellent corrosion resistance. A copper heat exchanger in the heater improves heat conductivity and reduces corrosion. The result of it is increased energy efficiency.
- ENERGY STAR®
ENERGY STAR® certified tankless water heaters are estimated to save 100$. ENERGY STAR® has the vital requirement of high energy efficiency
Other criteria include a warranty higher than six years on parts and safety features. With such criteria, this trademark ensures more energy efficiency. EF stands for energy efficiency. 87% EF means with 1 unit of power consumption, the heater transforms 87% of it into hot water, and emission is minimal. Higher efficiency also signifies high environmental friendliness.
7) High Quality/Longer Lasting Product
Tankless water heaters are more durable than traditional tank water heaters. Tankless water heaters have 20 years or more of life expectancy in general. All Tankless water heaters are detachable; therefore, every faulty part can be detached and changed, increasing longevity.
8) Increase Home Resale Value
If you are a homeowner and have a tankless water heater installed, you would be glad to know-According to the Chicago Tribune, a home with tankless water heater prices more than the same type of home without it. Why? The answer is home users perceive tankless water heaters as an added value to a home. More people buy it every day and proffer it because tankless water heaters are a new addition to the green home appliance. They emit negligible carbon monoxide (gas-fired tankless water heaters only). They save energy, save the cost of electricity and leave the environment with a detrimental footprint. Today intelligent users prefer tankless over traditional water heaters. Moreover, a home with a tankless water heater installed means saving 300-900$ on installation costs along with the price of the water heating unit.
Risks of accidents are minimal with tankless units. Many of them have a shut-off option in case of any error diagnosed internally. Scalding risk is also close to zero with anti-scalding options and child lock in many tank-less units.
When conscious homeowners compare these options, they prefer a home with an installed tankless water heater.
9) Consider capacity
The capacity of a tankless water heater is based on the following three (3) things-
- How many people will be using the hot water in a home?
If your home has six people, you will need a unit with more capacity and cost.
- How distant is the point of use
If your home is big like 2000sft, your washrooms are located on different stairs and heater is at outdoor or at a distant place, it may happen that when you go for a shower hot water coming from a distant place lukewarm after reaching your faucet. Effective Absolution is placing the water heater at a place nearer to all bathrooms and laundry room or adding two heaters for two floors or east wing and west wing (or any way you can find is suitable to divide your home according to your need equally)
- How much does the temperature rises?
This feature determines how powerful the water heater is. Generally, 70-degree rise on 5 GPM. Looks for a heater that matches your demand.
Also, factors like the desired flow rate and the inlet temperature of your water can significantly impact the water heater’s capacity. High inlet water temperature will require a relatively low capacity tankless unit.
10) Anti-Scald Devices
Anti-scald devices are synonymous with an automatic mixing valve, compensation valve, and tempering valve. The job of such a device is to mix both hot and cold water so that a person who uses the fixture does not get scaled or burnt due to too much hot water flow or too much cold water flow until 2014. Anti-scalding devices were not much in the plumbing industry. Homes did not have any such fixture installed in their mainline. But the emergence of tankless water heaters, low flow rate valves, and raising awareness to be protected from domestic accidents have accelerated the use of anti-scald devices.
If you are wondering why someone will get burnt and need such protection that the typical scenarios are mentioned here-
- If the set water temperature is too high
- The use of tankless water heaters can increase the risk
- Use low flow rate vale or devices for increasing water use efficiency.
Using a tankless water heater that heats water in the faucet, a little more water used from another fixture, like simple a toilet flush or starting a dishwasher, can cause the cold water flow to go down significantly. As a result, the imbalance between the low flow of cold water and the high flow of hot water may cause you to get scalded. In such cases, you do not have the option to use the hot water faucet manually, so control of it goes away, making you prone to severe accidents.
Solutions are three –
- Buy a tankless water heater within a built anti-scald device
- Install anti-scald devices at the fixtures like shower faucet where chances of direct heat exist
- Manually install an anti-scald device in the opening of your tankless water heater.
Many manufacturers are offering tankless water heaters with anti-scald devices. This added feature surely adds a bit extra price tag to the product. However, the decision is yours to buy the heater with this feature of installing anti-scald devices manually.
11) Brass vs. Plastic Drain Valves
Drain valves hold on to the extra water that comes back to the cold water inlet from hot water pressure. Drain valves do not let them go back and hold them inside. Bras and plastic are two types of metal used to make drain valves. Bras drain valves are more durable than plastic ones. A tankless water heater hooked outdoors needs these drain valves properly cleaned before freezing weather. Otherwise, they can simply get frozen and break.
12) Glass-Lined tankless water vs. Stainless steel tanks
Glass-Lined tankless water heaters give the benefit of low corrosion. Depending on the ph level of your area, water, mineral, and chlorides can store up in your tank more minor unit valves. Glass-lined tankless water heaters are less prone to chlorides and resist their storage. However, other options like Stainless steel tank water heaters are more durable, less heavy, and give a limited lifetime warranty. Before choosing between these two, you should consult a plumber If your area is suitable for this type.
13) Digital Displays
Most tankless water heaters come with a digital display feature. Some come up with multiple remotes. The digital display is a convenient feature that lets you know what is happening inside the unit. Generally, they show the temperature & GPM. Some also show internal error signs or problem warnings. Some are touch-sensitive. Some have switches. It depends on your choice which one you would choose.
Final Verdict
The water heater consumes 20% of the total energy a house consumes. So price is not the only factor when you are making a choice. Maintenance, efficiency, safety, energy-saving feature, size, weight installation cost, and ease of existing infrastructure support are crucial points. You may need to spend extra money to fix the issue, like you can choose a heater without a flow rate controller, then buy a low flow rate fixture later and install it. Suppose your house has wiring that does not support your specific model of the tankless unit. You have no other option than to change the model because replacing the installation is impossible. Please do not risk using a less powerful breaker or less numb switch; this will shut off the whole system. Also, be very sure to maintain the amp guide.