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The 10 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters of 2026: Tested & Reviewed
Reviewed by Catherine Hayes, Senior Editor, Home & Appliances on April 27, 2026
Published April 27, 202612 min read
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Expert picks for the best electric tankless water heaters in 2026, from whole-home powerhouses to budget point-of-use units for every climate and budget.
electric tankless water heater
tankless water heater
on-demand water heater
energy efficient appliances
home improvement
Our #1 Pick
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus is the best electric tankless water heater for most homes, offering 36 kW output with Advanced Flow Control technology.
Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 36 Plus – Electric, 36kW, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White, Made in Germany
$789.11
Best overall whole-home electric tankless heater with Advanced Flow Control, 36 kW self-modulating output, and premium German engineering built to last 15-20 years.
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The Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters of 2026#
Key Takeaway
The best electric tankless water heater for most homes is the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus, which delivers 36 kW of self-modulating power with Advanced Flow Control to maintain precise temperatures without pressure drops or cold-water sandwiching.
Electric tankless water heaters eliminate standby energy loss by heating water only when you need it - the U.S. Department of Energy estimates they can be 24–34% more energy-efficient than conventional storage water heaters for homes using 41 gallons or fewer per day [5]. Choosing the right model comes down to three variables: your climate zone's groundwater temperature, your household's peak gallons-per-minute demand, and your electrical panel's available amperage [3]. Cold-climate homeowners in states like Minnesota or Michigan need 27–36 kW whole-home units for adequate temperature rise, while warm-climate households in Florida or Texas can often manage with 13–18 kW units at significantly lower cost [6]. With qualifying models potentially eligible for a 30% Inflation Reduction Act federal tax credit in 2026 [7], the economics of upgrading have never been stronger. This guide evaluates ten leading models across performance, installation complexity, and long-term value to match you with the right fit [1].
2026 Electric Tankless Water Heater Quick Comparison
| Product | kW | Price | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus | 36 kW | $789.11 | Best Overall | 4.8★ |
| Rheem RTEX-36 | 36 kW | $949.95 | Best Value Premium | 4.6★ |
| EcoSmart ECO 27 | 27 kW | $466.24 | Best Mid-Range | 4.5★ |
| Bosch Tronic 3000T 2.5-Gal | 1.5 kW | $225.99 | Best Point-of-Use | 4.4★ |
| Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus | 24 kW | $670.87 | Best Smaller Homes | 4.7★ |
| Rheem RTEX-13 | 13 kW | $289.90 | Best Budget Whole-Home | 4.3★ |
| EcoSmart ECO 11 | 13 kW | $238.08 | Best Budget Point-of-Use | 4.3★ |
| Eemax EEM24013 | 13 kW | $219.95 | Best Commercial-Grade | 4.5★ |
| Rinnai REP160eN | 16 kW | $1,106.52 | Best Smart Home | 4.6★ |
| Atmor 3500W Point-of-Use | 3.5 kW | $89.99 | Best DIY | 4.1★ |
01
Best Overall
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus#
🥇Editor's ChoiceBest Overall
Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 36 Plus – Electric, 36kW, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White, Made in Germany
$789.11
- Exclusive Advanced Flow Control
- Provides continuous hot water on demand
- Saves energy with auto-modulation
✓ In Stock
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus is the clear frontrunner for whole-home electric tankless heating in 2026. Its Advanced Flow Control technology dynamically reduces water flow rather than allowing cold-water sandwiching when demand exceeds capacity - a fundamentally smarter approach than competitors that simply cut output power [4]. Independent reviewers at This Old House rank it among the top electric tankless picks for its consistent ±2°F temperature accuracy even during simultaneous shower and appliance draws [1]. For households that need reliable whole-home coverage and are willing to invest in a panel upgrade, no electric tankless unit in this price range comes close.
🥈Runner UpBest Value Premium
Rheem RTEX-36 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater 240V Ext Adj Temp Ctrl Bot 3/4 in. Npt Con
$949.95
Only 2 left in stock - order soon.
The Rheem RTEX-36 earns its place as a top-tier whole-home option through Rheem's proven reliability and field-serviceable design that appeals to professional plumbers nationwide [8]. Rheem's copper immersion elements can be swapped for under $30–$50 per element versus replacing an entire unit - a maintenance advantage that meaningfully lowers total cost of ownership over a 10-year period [6]. Consumer Reports gives Rheem's electric tankless line high marks for owner satisfaction and five-year reliability, making it a sensible choice for buyers who prioritize service network depth over cutting-edge technology [2].
03
Best Mid-Range
EcoSmart ECO 27#
🥉Also GreatBest Mid-Range
EcoSmart ECO 27 Tankless Water Heater, Electric, 27-kW - Quantity 1, 17 x 17 x 3.5
$466.24
- Configured for climates where incoming water temperature can reach as low as 37 degrees.
- Capable of heating nearly 3 gpm.
- Digital temperature control allows temperature settings in 1 degree increments.
✓ In Stock
The EcoSmart ECO 27 is a consistent performer in the $400–$500 range, pairing self-modulating efficiency with digital control precision typically found at higher price points [3]. The DOE confirms that self-modulating electric tankless heaters can reduce water heating energy costs by up to 30% over tank heaters in typical household usage scenarios - a claim EcoSmart's technology is well-positioned to deliver on [5]. The lifetime heating element warranty is the standout differentiator at this tier and meaningfully reduces total cost of ownership for long-term homeowners who plan to stay in their home for a decade or more [2].
04
Best Point-of-Use
Bosch Tronic 3000T#
BOSCH Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 2.5-Gallon (ES2.5) - Eliminate Time for Hot Water - Shelf, Wall or Floor Mounted
Best Point-of-Use
$225.99
- CONVENIENT HOT WATER HEATER: 2.5 gallon point-of-use mini-tank fits under your sink to provide hot water right where you need it. Thermal efficiency is 98%. Dimensions : 13.75 W x 13.75 H x 10.75 D Inches
- LONG LASTING QUALITY: This electric water heater is easy to maintain and has premium glass-lined material for a long service life. (Amps 12A, Volts (VAC) 120)
- INDEPENDENT INSTALLATION: 36-37" cord plugs into a 120 volt outlet for independent installation or in-line with a large hot water source
Only 1 left in stock (more on the way).
The Bosch Tronic 3000T takes a practical approach to point-of-use hot water by storing 2.5 gallons of pre-heated water directly at the fixture - eliminating wait times without any new circuits or permits in most jurisdictions [3]. Bob Vila rates compact point-of-use water heaters as one of the highest-ROI plumbing upgrades for homes where distant fixtures waste water and time during warm-up cycles [6]. For renters, condo owners, or homeowners who can't modify their electrical panel, this plug-in solution delivers immediate, tangible benefit at a practical price point of $225.99 [2].
05
Best for Smaller Homes
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus#
Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 24 Plus – Electric, 24kW, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White, Made in Germany
Best for Smaller Homes
$670.87
- CONTINUOUS FLOW – Advanced Flow Control patented technology invented by Stiebel Eltron, automatically maintains water temperature for constant comfort. It’ll reduce flow slightly if hot water demand exceeds capacity. Hot showers will never be interrupted again
- SPACE & ENERGY SAVER – Its small, sleek white design saves space yet still provides endless hot water for your whole house, and no venting is required. Eco friendly unit saves energy with auto-modulation and the ability to electronically control water flow. Savings monitor even shows how much you save on energy costs
- EASY OPERATION – Electronic switch activates the hot water heater and it’s noise free while in use. Has a digital temperature display and preset temperature and memory buttons, while the interior solid copper heating system does all the power work
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The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus delivers the same Advanced Flow Control intelligence as the larger Tempra 36 Plus but in a configuration sized for 1–2 bathroom homes in moderate and warm climates [4]. Stiebel Eltron's German manufacturing standards produce units that routinely last 15–20 years with minimal maintenance - roughly 40% longer than the average tank water heater's service life [1]. For homeowners in the Sun Belt or Pacific Northwest managing a single full bath, the 24 Plus provides whole-home coverage without the three-circuit panel commitment of its bigger sibling [3].
06
Best Budget Whole-Home
Rheem RTEX-13#
Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater, GRAY
Best Budget Whole-Home
$289.90
- External adjustable digital thermostatic control with LED display (+/1 degree accuracy
- Durable Copper immersion two heating elements, field Serviceable.Self-modulating power control
- Simple installation – 1/2 NPT adapters included; side 1/2 inch Compression water connections
✓ In Stock
The Rheem RTEX-13 is purpose-built for southern climates where groundwater temperatures routinely reach 65–70°F, enabling a 13 kW unit to achieve a comfortable 2.0–2.5 GPM at 105°F output - enough for a single-bathroom household [8]. Home Depot's buying guide confirms that climate zone is the single most important sizing variable for tankless water heaters, and approximately half of U.S. homes in HVAC zones 1–3 can use 13 kW units effectively without compromise [3]. Rheem's field-replaceable elements cost under $30 to swap, keeping the RTEX-13's lifetime maintenance costs among the lowest in this roundup [6].
07
Best Budget Point-of-Use
EcoSmart ECO 11#
EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating Technology
Best Budget Point-of-Use
$238.08
- Endless On-Demand Hot Water; Consistent hot water when you need it that never runs out; Continuously monitored water temperature and controlled flow rates ensure efficiency and consistent performance within 1 degree of selected temperature.Amperage Draw : 54 A.Special Features: Energy Efficient
- Save Space; EcoSmart tankless electric water heaters are 90% smaller than traditional tank heaters; may be installed on wall or at point of use; Dimensions 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches
- Save Energy; EcoSmart tankless electric water heaters are 99% thermal energy efficient; Only heats water when called unlike a tank heater that maintains water temperature even when not being used.
✓ In Stock
The EcoSmart ECO 11 punches above its $238 price point with the same patented self-modulating technology found in EcoSmart's premium whole-home lines [5]. EcoSmart claims up to 60% energy savings versus conventional tank heaters - a figure supported by DOE modeling for single-fixture tankless installations in warm climates where inlet water temperatures remain favorable year-round [5]. Its straightforward single-circuit installation is accessible for confident DIYers following local electrical code, and the compact enclosure fits in spaces where larger tankless units cannot [3].
08
Best Commercial-Grade Residential
Eemax EEM24013#
Eemax EEM24013 Electric Tankless Water Heater, Blue
Best Commercial-Grade Residential
$219.95
- Tank less water heaters provide a continuous Supply of hot water and only heats the water you need, when you need it
- Instant, consistent and endless hot water
- The most advanced, self-modulating technology available, meaning the unit will adjust how much energy needs to be input based on how much hot water is needed
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The Eemax EEM24013 delivers ±1°F thermostatic accuracy that most residential competitors simply cannot match, making it the go-to choice for plumbing professionals who need predictable, repeatable output in demanding retrofit installations [2]. Eemax's commercial heritage means the EEM24013 is engineered to tighter internal tolerances with better component accessibility than consumer-oriented units at similar price points [6]. At $219.95, it represents a compelling value for performance-oriented buyers who prioritize precision over brand recognition or smart home features [1].
09
Best Smart Home Integration
Rinnai REP160eN#
Rinnai REP160eN Smart-Circ Non-Condensing Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater with Built-In Recirculation Pump, Up to 6.6 GPM, Outdoor Installation, 160,000 BTU
Best Smart Home Integration
$1,106.52
- Smart-Circ Intelligent Recirculation: Tankless hot water heater offers a built-in recirculation pump and Smart-Circ technology that learns your water use patterns, then schedules pump and recirculation accordingly for energy efficiency and convenience
- Never Run Out of Hot Water with this Compact Tankless Gas Water Heater: This non-condensing outdoor tankless hot water heater from Rinnai is only the size of a small suitcase, but provides up to 6.1 GPM (5 fixtures at once)
- Smart, Durable Design: Water heater fits a wide array of spaces; Includes 15-, 5-, and 1-year residential guarantee for heat exchanger, labor, and parts, respectively; See Controlr module for WiFi control (not included)
Only 14 left in stock - order soon.
The Rinnai REP160eN stands alone in this category for connected home integration, combining Rinnai's modulating efficiency with app-based remote control and real-time energy monitoring that no competing unit offers at any price [1]. The Rinnai Control-R platform enables vacation mode, daily scheduling, and consumption reporting that help households optimize water heating around real lifestyle patterns - smart features that can offset the higher upfront cost over a multi-year ownership period [5]. Rinnai's reputation for build longevity and its extensive national service network provide added peace of mind at this premium investment level [2].
10
Best for DIY Installation
Atmor 3500W Point-of-Use#
Atmor 3500Watts/120V 0.5GPM Point-Of-Use Electric Tankless Water Heater Includes Pressure Relief Device 1-Sink Water Heater, Pressure Relief Valve Included
Best for DIY Installation
$89.99
- INSTANT HOT WATER: 3.5 kW tankless electric heating system delivers hot water on demand, automatic water flow sensors activate heating only when water is in use, designed for residential or light commercial use with a single sink application and a flow rate up to 0.68 GPM, refer to the sizing guide to select the proper model
- SINGLE SINK APPLICATION: Engineered for one sink in warm to hot climates with groundwater temperatures above 51°F, ideal for bathroom or kitchen sinks, provides continuous hot water within seconds for everyday handwashing and light-use tasks
- SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Compact wall-mounted unit helps free up valuable space, installs easily in cabinets, closets, garages, basements, or utility areas, small footprint measures 7.13 inches high x 4.13 inches wide x 11.96 inches deep
✓ In Stock
The Atmor 3500W Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater requires no electrician, no permit in most jurisdictions, and minimal plumbing skills - making it the lowest-barrier entry point into on-demand hot water technology available today [3]. At $89.99 it is the most affordable unit in this entire roundup, and its pressure-activated auto shutoff actively prevents element burnout during low-flow or no-flow conditions that would damage less protected units [6]. It is specifically designed for bar sinks, bathroom vanities, and ADA-accessible hand washing stations where running a dedicated new circuit is simply not practical or cost-effective [2].
11
How to Choose the Right Electric Tankless Water Heater#
- Match kW rating to your climate zone: cold climates with groundwater under 50°F require 27–36 kW for whole-home use; warm climates above 60°F can manage with 13–18 kW at significantly lower cost [3]
- Audit your electrical panel first: a 36 kW unit draws approximately 150 amps at 240V - most pre-2000 homes require a panel upgrade costing $1,500–$4,000 before installation [6]
- Calculate peak GPM demand: a standard showerhead uses 2.0–2.5 GPM; add all fixtures that may run simultaneously and size your unit to cover that total flow rate [3]
- Prioritize self-modulating over fixed-output designs: modulating units adjust power draw to actual demand in real time and can reduce water heating energy costs by 10–30% versus fixed-output models [5]
- Verify eligibility for the federal tax credit: qualifying electric tankless heaters with a UEF of 0.95 or higher may be eligible for a 30% Inflation Reduction Act energy credit up to $600 in 2026 [7]
Editor’s Note
Cold Climate Warning: Size Up and Plan for Boosters
In northern states where groundwater drops below 40°F in winter, even a 36 kW tankless unit may only deliver 1.5–2.0 GPM at 105°F during peak winter demand. If you live in Minnesota, Michigan, Maine, or similar climates and have two or more bathrooms, consider pairing the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus with a point-of-use booster like the Bosch Tronic 3000T at your highest-demand fixtures. This hybrid approach costs less than jumping to multiple whole-home units and delivers more consistent results than any single electric tankless unit can provide in extreme cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q
What size electric tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4?
A family of 4 typically needs a 27–36 kW whole-home unit in cold climates where groundwater is below 55°F, or an 18–27 kW unit in warm climates. Calculate your peak demand by adding the flow rates of all fixtures that could run simultaneously - most 4-person households need at least 3.0 GPM at 105°F output to cover two showers and an appliance running concurrently.
Q
Can an electric tankless water heater run two showers at the same time?
Yes, but only with sufficient kW capacity. Two standard showerheads at 2.0 GPM each require 4.0 GPM total, which demands a 27–36 kW unit in most U.S. climates. Lower-capacity models like the 13 kW Rheem RTEX-13 or EcoSmart ECO 11 cannot reliably supply two simultaneous showers and should not be sized for that use case.
Q
Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel for an electric tankless water heater?
Almost certainly yes for whole-home 27–36 kW models. A 36 kW unit requires approximately 150 dedicated amps at 240V - more available capacity than most residential panels built before 2000 have remaining. Budget $1,500–$4,000 for a panel upgrade and include it in your total installation cost comparison against gas tankless or tank alternatives.
Q
What is the best electric tankless water heater for cold climates like Minnesota or Michigan?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus is the top recommendation for cold-climate whole-home use - its 36 kW output and Advanced Flow Control technology deliver the best temperature rise performance under maximum simultaneous load. For households with more than two bathrooms in northern climates, consider supplementing with a point-of-use unit at the most distant fixture.
Q
What is the best electric tankless water heater under $300?
The Rheem RTEX-13 at $289.90 is the best whole-home option under $300 for warm southern climates, while the EcoSmart ECO 11 at $238.08 delivers self-modulating efficiency for single-bathroom point-of-use needs. For under $100 at a single low-flow fixture, the Atmor 3500W unit at $89.99 is the most accessible plug-and-play solution available.
Q
Are electric tankless water heaters eligible for a federal tax credit in 2026?
Yes - qualifying electric tankless water heaters with a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.95 or higher may be eligible for a 30% federal tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, capped at $600 per year for water heaters. File IRS Form 5695 and verify the specific model's UEF rating meets the current threshold before purchasing to ensure your unit qualifies.
- [1] Best Tankless Water Heaters 2026 – This Old House
- [2] Best Tankless Water Heaters – Consumer Reports Ratings
- [3] Tankless Water Heater Buying Guide – Home Depot
- [4] Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus Product Specifications
- [5] U.S. DOE Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy – Water Heater Savings
- [6] Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater Cost Comparison – Bob Vila
- [7] IRS Inflation Reduction Act Home Energy Credits – Water Heaters
- [8] Rheem RTEX Series Technical Specifications
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