10 Best Electric Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is a tankless electric water heater designed to provide on-demand hot water without the drawbacks of traditional storage heaters. One of its standout features is the Advanced Flow Control technology, which maintains a steady water temperature, ensuring that showers or hot water tasks can be completed without interruption. This makes it highly suitable for households where multiple hot water needs are common.

In terms of size, its compact design allows for easy installation in various spaces, making it a great choice for homes with limited installation areas. The unit's energy efficiency is another strong point; it uses auto-modulation to save energy and even includes a savings monitor to track energy costs, appealing to environmentally-conscious users and those looking to reduce utility bills.

The Tempra 24 Plus also offers user-friendly operation with digital temperature controls and presets, making it easy for anyone to set their desired hot water temperature. With a decent warranty of 7 years for leaks and 3 years for parts, customers can expect reliable long-term performance. There are some considerations to keep in mind. The heater requires a minimum recommended electric service of 150 amps, which may necessitate electrical upgrades in older homes. Additionally, while it can provide hot water continuously, its maximum temperature limit of 140°F might not be sufficient for all users, especially in areas with colder climates or higher hot water demands. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, space-saving solution for hot water but may require additional considerations for installation and service requirements.

The Rheem RTEX-24 electric tankless water heater is a strong candidate for those seeking an efficient and space-saving solution for continuous hot water. With a maximum flow rate of up to 5.9 gallons per minute (GPM), it’s well-suited for smaller households or apartments where immediate hot water is a necessity. Its self-modulating power control ensures that the energy consumption aligns with your hot water usage, contributing to its impressive energy efficiency rating of 99.8%. This makes it a cost-effective choice for anyone looking to lower their utility bills while still enjoying ample hot water on demand.

The adjustable digital temperature display with ON/OFF dial control is user-friendly, making it easy to set the desired temperature. Additionally, the compact design (17.63" x 18.25") allows for wall mounting in tight spaces, a significant advantage for those with limited installation options.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The unit requires a considerable electrical installation, including a dedicated 240V outlet, which might entail additional setup costs if you don't already have the proper wiring in place. While the maximum flow rate is decent, larger families or homes with multiple simultaneous hot water demands (like multiple showers running at once) may find it insufficient. Also, it lacks a traditional tank, which means there’s no hot water storage; if the demand exceeds its flow rate, you might experience short interruptions.

The BOSCH Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon offers a compact and efficient solution for immediate hot water needs. With a 4-gallon capacity, it's ideal for small spaces like under-sink installations. Its 98% thermal efficiency ensures minimal energy waste, making it a cost-effective choice. The heater’s fast recovery rate is beneficial, providing quick access to hot water, and can supply up to two sinks simultaneously.

Installation is flexible and straightforward with options for shelf, wall, or floor mounting, and the unit plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet, avoiding complex electrical work. The heater’s glass-lined interior is designed for longevity, though regular maintenance of the anode rod is crucial to prevent leaks and maintain its durability. It’s important to note that neglecting this maintenance can void the warranty.

Bosch provides a 6-year coverage on the unit and 2 years on parts, which offers some peace of mind but requires attention to upkeep. In terms of size, the heater is compact with dimensions of 13.75 x 13.75 x 13.5 inches, fitting neatly in tight spaces, but potential users must ensure they have sufficient room for installation. Safety-wise, the heater supports a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and a maximum temperature of 140°F, suitable for typical household needs. This unit is ideal for individuals seeking an on-demand, space-saving hot water solution with low energy usage, though it may not be suitable for larger households or situations requiring higher flow rates or capacities. As a point-of-use heater, it's best suited for specific application areas rather than whole-home water heating needs.