We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Tankless Hot Water Heaters 2026 in the United States

Rinnai RE180iP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Up to 8.5 GPM, Indoor Installation, 180,000 BTU

Flow Rate (GPM): 8.5 gallons per minute
Energy Efficiency: High efficiency
Fuel Type: Propane
Temperature Rise: 160 degrees Fahrenheit
Size and Installation: 14.05"W x 27.24"H, wall mount
Warranty and Support: 15yr heat exchanger, 5yr labor, 1yr parts

Rinnai RE199eP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Up to 9.8 GPM, Outdoor Installation, 199,000 BTU

Flow Rate (GPM): 9.8 Gallons Per Minute
Energy Efficiency: Meets SCAQMD 14 ng/J or 20 ppm
Fuel Type: Liquid Propane
Temperature Rise: Up to 140 Degrees Fahrenheit
Size and Installation: 14.05"W x 27.34"H, Wall Mount
Warranty and Support: Up to 15 years heat exchanger

Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, Gray

Flow Rate (GPM): 5.9
Energy Efficiency: 99.8%
Fuel Type: Electric
Size and Installation: 17.63"W x 18.25"H x 3.5"D

Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3 RTGH Series 9.5 GPM 199,900 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

Flow Rate (GPM): 0.4 to 9.5
Energy Efficiency: 0.93
Fuel Type: Natural Gas
Temperature Rise: 100 to 140°F
Size and Installation: 17.7"W x 23.7"H, 59.9 lbs
Warranty and Support: Heat Exchanger: 15 years

Rinnai RE199iN Non-Condensing Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater, Up to 9.8 GPM, Indoor Installation, 199,000 BTU

Flow Rate (GPM): 9.8 Gallons Per Minute
Energy Efficiency: High Efficiency
Fuel Type: Natural Gas
Temperature Rise: Max Temperature 140°F
Size and Installation: 14.05"W x 27.28"H, Wall Mount
Warranty and Support: 15yr heat exchanger, 5yr labor

Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater, Gray

Flow Rate (GPM): 4.4
Energy Efficiency: self-modulation technology
Fuel Type: Electric
Size and Installation: 14.5"W x 18.25"H, 3/4 inch NPT

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 36 Plus – Electric, On Demand Hot Water, Eco, White

Flow Rate (GPM): 1.5 Gallons Per Minute
Energy Efficiency: High
Fuel Type: Electric
Temperature Rise: 140 Degrees Fahrenheit
Size and Installation: 16.63"W x 14.5"H, Wall Mount
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NEW Rinnai RXP199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU, with Recirculation Pump

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,316
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
114 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Delivers prompt hot water flow even to distant bathrooms, significantly reducing wait times and water waste.
Energy Efficiency
The On Demand Bluetooth accessory enhances energy savings by controlling recirculation cycles precisely, avoiding unnecessary heat and water waste.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though some pre-planning for mounting and electrical setup is necessary.

The Rinnai RXP199iN is a versatile tankless water heater designed for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to its Versa Vent system. It runs on either natural gas or propane, which adds flexibility depending on your fuel preference. With a strong flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute, it can supply hot water to around seven fixtures simultaneously, making it suitable for medium to large households. Its energy efficiency is excellent, boasting a UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) of 0.98, which means it uses fuel very efficiently and can help reduce energy bills.

The built-in Smart-Circ recirculation pump is a smart feature that learns your hot water usage patterns and adjusts accordingly, improving efficiency and convenience by reducing wait times for hot water. The water heater is quite compact, about the size of a small suitcase, which helps save space during installation. However, it is fairly heavy at 58 pounds and requires professional installation, which could add to upfront costs. The maximum temperature is 140°F, which fits most household needs. While it offers WiFi connectivity through an optional Control-R module for remote monitoring and control, this is not included and must be purchased separately.

Customer reviews are positive, with a high rating around 4.6 out of 5, reflecting satisfaction with performance and reliability. This Rinnai model is a solid choice for those needing reliable, efficient, and flexible hot water delivery, especially if you want advanced features like smart recirculation and WiFi control. Be prepared for professional installation and consider the additional cost of the WiFi module if desired.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,316
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Size and Installation

Most important from
114 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Delivers prompt hot water flow even to distant bathrooms, significantly reducing wait times and water waste.
Energy Efficiency
The On Demand Bluetooth accessory enhances energy savings by controlling recirculation cycles precisely, avoiding unnecessary heat and water waste.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though some pre-planning for mounting and electrical setup is necessary.
#2

NEW Rinnai RX199iN Condensing Smart Sense Natural Gas or Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor or Outdoor Water Heater, Up to 11.1 GPM, 199,000 BTU

Rating
8.8
Flow Rate (GPM)
Fuel Type
Size and Installation

Most important from
131 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Adjusting the flow rate is straightforward, especially for high-efficiency appliances, thanks to the clear instruction manual.
Fuel Type
Switching to this tankless water heater has eliminated the need for propane, leading to cost savings.
Size and Installation
This water heater is easy to install, but additional purchases like a water polisher and condensate neutralizing capsule may be needed.

The Rinnai RX199iN is a powerful tankless water heater that stands out for its impressive flow rate of up to 11.1 gallons per minute, making it suitable for homes with multiple fixtures needing hot water simultaneously. It's designed to operate on either natural gas or propane, giving you flexibility depending on your fuel source. The energy efficiency is top-notch, boasting a UEF rating of .98, which means it uses energy very effectively, potentially saving you on utility bills.

One of the great features is its compact size, comparable to that of a small suitcase, making it easier to fit into various spaces. The Smart Sense gas control system adds convenience, allowing for easier operation. However, the installation of this unit is recommended to be done by a professional. While this ensures safety and proper functionality, it could increase your expenses if you don’t have a technician readily available.

While its high efficiency is a significant advantage, it may not be the best choice for all water temperature needs depending on your region’s groundwater temperature. Additional considerations include the need for the RX-OVC vent cap for outdoor installation, which adds to the installation complexity and cost. Also, the Controlr module for WiFi control is sold separately, which might be a drawback for those looking for smart home integration right out of the box. If you are looking for a tankless heater that offers high performance and efficiency, the Rinnai RX199iN is a strong contender. Just ensure you’re prepared to handle the installation requirements and additional features you may want to consider.

Rating
8.8
Flow Rate (GPM)
Fuel Type
Size and Installation

Most important from
131 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Adjusting the flow rate is straightforward, especially for high-efficiency appliances, thanks to the clear instruction manual.
Fuel Type
Switching to this tankless water heater has eliminated the need for propane, leading to cost savings.
Size and Installation
This water heater is easy to install, but additional purchases like a water polisher and condensate neutralizing capsule may be needed.
#3

Rinnai RE180iP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Up to 8.5 GPM, Indoor Installation, 180,000 BTU

Rating
8.2
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Rise

Most important from
15 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Delivers excellent water flow and consistently stable temperatures with quiet operation.
Energy Efficiency
Offers efficient heat transfer and capacity, with available external pump and timer controls.
Temperature Rise
Features intuitive temperature controls with options to override for hotter settings.
Size and Installation
Compact design frees up space, turning the water heater closet into additional storage.

The Rinnai RE180iP tankless water heater is a solid choice if you want a propane model that delivers hot water consistently without taking up much space. It can supply up to 8.5 gallons per minute, which means it can handle multiple fixtures running at once—great for medium to large households. Being propane-fueled, it’s efficient and powerful with a 180,000 BTU rating, but since it’s a non-condensing model, it isn’t as energy-efficient as condensing units. However, its smart design helps conserve energy by heating water only when needed.

The unit is fairly compact—about the size of a small suitcase—and mounts on the wall, saving floor space. It also features an easy-to-read LED display that alerts you to maintenance needs or errors, which can simplify troubleshooting. Installation does require a professional technician, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a DIY setup. The heater comes with good warranty coverage: 15 years on the heat exchanger, 5 years on labor, and 1 year on parts, giving peace of mind for long-term use. If you want WiFi control, you’ll need to add the optional controller.

This Rinnai model is well suited for those who want reliable propane heating with a strong flow rate and compact size, provided that professional installation is acceptable and you can accept the slightly lower efficiency compared to condensing heaters.

Rating
8.2
Flow Rate (GPM)
Energy Efficiency
Temperature Rise

Most important from
15 reviews

Flow Rate (GPM)
Delivers excellent water flow and consistently stable temperatures with quiet operation.
Energy Efficiency
Offers efficient heat transfer and capacity, with available external pump and timer controls.
Temperature Rise
Features intuitive temperature controls with options to override for hotter settings.
Size and Installation
Compact design frees up space, turning the water heater closet into additional storage.

Buying Guide for the Best Tankless Hot Water Heaters

Choosing the right tankless hot water heater can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and ensure you have a reliable supply of hot water. Unlike traditional water heaters that store hot water in a tank, tankless models heat water on demand, which can save space and reduce energy costs. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your household's requirements.
Flow Rate (GPM)Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the unit can produce at a given time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can meet your household's hot water demands. For example, a flow rate of 3-4 GPM is suitable for small households with one or two fixtures running simultaneously, while larger households with multiple fixtures may require a flow rate of 7-10 GPM. To choose the right flow rate, consider the number of people in your home and the number of hot water fixtures you expect to use at the same time.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is measured by the unit's Energy Factor (EF) or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF). This spec indicates how efficiently the heater converts energy into hot water. Higher EF or UEF values mean better efficiency and lower energy costs. For example, a unit with an EF of 0.8 is less efficient than one with an EF of 0.95. To pick the right one, look for models with higher efficiency ratings, especially if you are concerned about reducing your energy bills and environmental impact.
Fuel TypeTankless water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. The fuel type affects installation costs, operating costs, and performance. Electric models are typically easier to install and maintain but may have higher operating costs. Gas models, on the other hand, often provide higher flow rates and are more cost-effective in the long run but require proper ventilation and may have higher upfront installation costs. Choose the fuel type based on your existing infrastructure, availability of fuel sources, and long-term cost considerations.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise refers to the difference between the incoming water temperature and the desired output temperature. This spec is important because it affects the heater's ability to provide hot water in colder climates. For instance, if the incoming water temperature is 50°F and you want it heated to 120°F, the unit needs to handle a 70°F temperature rise. To choose the right model, consider the average temperature of your incoming water and ensure the heater can achieve the desired output temperature, especially during colder months.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the tankless water heater and its installation requirements are important factors to consider. Tankless units are generally more compact than traditional tanks, but you still need to ensure you have enough space for installation. Additionally, some models may require specific venting or electrical upgrades. To pick the right size, measure the available space and check the installation requirements of the unit. If you have limited space or specific installation constraints, look for models designed for easy installation in tight spaces.
Warranty and SupportThe warranty and support offered by the manufacturer can provide peace of mind and protect your investment. Warranties typically cover parts and labor for a certain period, and longer warranties often indicate higher quality and reliability. To choose the right model, compare the warranty terms and consider the availability of customer support and service centers. Opt for a unit with a comprehensive warranty and good customer support to ensure you can get help if any issues arise.

FAQ