Are you looking for an easy and effective way to heat your home water supply? This is particularly important in the fall and autumn months. As the weather turns chilly, the water that comes out of the hot tap simply might not be warm enough.
The best electric hot water heater is sure to provide the extra heat that you need. However, there are numerous different models and types to choose from these days, which can make the selection process rather tricky. Therefore, we have created this review of the best electric water heaters to help make the process easier.
So, let’s go through them and find the perfect electric water heater for you…
Contents
Best Electric Water Heater In 2023 Reviews
1 EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater – Most Efficient Electric Water Heater
Are you looking for an effective and easy way to reduce your water heating bill? This can be a particular consideration during the chilly winter months. Fortunately, this energy efficient model promises to save up to 60% on your water heating costs
This means that you will never have to suffer through a cold shower simply to cut costs a little. The water temperature is designed to remain constant, no matter how long the water is running. EcoSmart’s patented self-regulating technology can be relied on to keep things running smoothly.
Enjoying endless hot water…
You won’t have to wait around for hot water when you choose this mighty model. The heating elements of the EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater heat up almost instantly. Once it goes to work, there is almost no limit to the amount of hot water you will be able to enjoy.
This is due to the impressive smart water heating technology that all EcoSmart models utilize. This model has been designed to work well in all types of climates. However, if you live in a particularly cold climate, you may find that the water pressure is reduced a little.
Goes the distance…
Unlike gas heaters, this model is also environmentally friendly and safe to use. It is also supplied with a comprehensive lifetime warranty. Therefore, you can be sure that it will not let you down when you need it most.
If you are looking for an electric heater that is virtually maintenance-free, this electric water heater is an excellent option. The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater promises to be almost effortless to install and is supplied with clear instructions. Even if you have never installed an electric water heater before, you are sure to find that the process is simple.
(4 / 5)Pros
- 99.8-percent energy efficient.
- Very easy to set up.
- Heats up very quickly.
- Supplied with a lifetime warranty.
- Reduces water heating costs by up to 60%.
Cons
- Reduces the water flow in cold climates.
2 Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29 kW
Among those in the know, Stiebel Eltron is sure to be the best electric water heater brand. The company has created a large selection of electric water heaters that are designed to meet a number of needs. The company has gained an excellent reputation for reliability over the years.
But is this model actually any good?
One thing you are sure to have noticed if you have used a water heater before is an interruption in the flow rate. This is caused by the water heater heating up the water to the desired temperature. However, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29 kW is designed to make this a thing of the past.
With 29 kW, you are treated to an impressive amount of heating power. The water is heated almost instantly, which is especially convenient in the winter months. There will no longer be a need to stand shivering in the shower while the water heater gets to work.
Simple and accurate…
Controlling the temperature of the water is designed to be especially easy. You are treated to a large color coded dial that serves as a visual aid. This is accompanied by a large digital display that provides a very accurate reading.
The fact that this model does not need venting makes this model very easy to maintain. Once you have completed the installation process, you can be sure that this model will run smoothly. The sleek and compact design helps to ensure that the installation will be especially smooth and simple.
The efficiency of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29 kW is ensured by its microprocessor technology. As an added bonus, you will be able to save a considerable amount of money on your water heating bills. In fact, you are likely to find that they are cut in half.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Comes with advanced flow control.
- Does not require venting.
- Boasts a sleek and compact design.
- Able to handle high volumes of water.
- Suitable for commercial use.
Cons
- Does not come with an alternative power source.
3 Stiebel Eltron 074050 120V, 3.0 kW DHC 3-1 Tankless Electric Water Heater
One of the main concerns you may have about an electric water heater is that it might be dangerous. This is especially important if you have young children running around the house. The last thing you want is for them to get accidentally burned by the water heater.
Safety first…
Fortunately, the Stiebel Eltron 074050 120V, 3.0 kW DHC 3-1 Tankless Electric Water Heater has been shown to be especially safe. It is set with a high limit switch that effectively prevents dry fires in a very simple way. If the heater becomes too hot, the switch will simply trip to prevent the heater from working.
If the switch does trip, you will find that it is especially easy to reset. There will be no need to spend hours reading through the instruction manual. This is just as well, because the instructions that come with this model are not especially easy to follow.
One of the great things about this model is that it is designed to be especially energy efficient. This is a real bonus if you are searching for an easy way to cut back on your energy bills. In fact, this model is up to 50% more energy efficient compared to a standard storage heater.
Quick as a flash…
This is ensured by the fact that this model only heats up when you actually need it to. There will be no electricity wasted by constantly keeping the water hot. However, this model heats the water up very quickly, so there will be no need to wait around.
You are sure to be pleased to discover that this electric water heater is quick and easy to install. In fact, the whole process can be completed in an hour or less. If you decide to hire a professional to complete the task, the bill you receive is sure to be minimal.
(4 / 5)Pros
- Delivers dramatically reduced installation costs.
- Resettable safety high limit switch.
- Uses up to 50% less power.
- Easy to install.
- Heats up very quickly.
Cons
- The instruction manual is not especially clear.
Best Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater
1 Ecosmart ECO MINI 2.5 2.5-Gallon 120V Electric Mini Tank Water Heater
If you have a compact home, you are likely to find that a regular water heater is too big and bulky. This model is designed to be installed under the sink to save space. This also means that it will be easily accessible, without the risk of it being in the way.
Small yet mighty…
However, you can be sure that the Ecosmart ECO MINI 2.5 2.5-Gallon 120V Electric Mini Tank Water Heater delivers plenty of power. Even after the switch has been turned off, you will be provided with plenty of hot water. This is because this model has an impressive recovery time of 24 minutes.
In fact, this compact electric water heater has the ability to store up to 2.5 gallons of water. The tank has been constructed of stainless steel for enhanced durability. It is also coated with anti-corrosion material, while the glass lining is fully bonded to help prevent rusting.
Tested and certified…
This model clearly proves that the top rated electric water heaters don’t have to be big and bulky. The 99.8 percent energy efficiency rating is sure to satisfy. This model has also been fully tested and certified by the CSA.
It should be noted that this model has been identified to have overheating issues. This could be a concern and even a little dangerous if you are not familiar with this type of water heater. However, the issue can be resolved by utilizing a condenser as well as a relief valve.
The installation process with this model is not as straightforward as competing options. It is essential to make sure that you get the job right, especially if you are a novice. Therefore, it is a good idea to enlist the services of a professional plumber.
(4.1 / 5)Pros
- 99.8 percent energy efficient.
- Boasts a sleek and compact design.
- Features a digital output temperature display.
- Certified by the CSA.
- Heats water quickly and efficiently.
Cons
- May be an overheating issue.
- Should be installed by a professional.
2 Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 2.5-Gallon (ES2.5)
Are you looking for an electric water heater for your RV? Setting off on the open road on an RV adventure can be a lot of fun. However, if the weather is especially chilly, it can turn into a real nightmare when you need to take a shower.
Hitting the road…
The Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 2.5-Gallon (ES2.5) boasts an especially compact design. In fact, it is small enough to fit inside an RV. It can be mounted in a wide range of different positions for optimum convenience. If you have limited space, you can mount this model on the wall, floor, or even the ceiling.
Of course, it is also possible to install this electric water heater in your home if you wish. It should be noted that the water capacity is not as impressive as some larger models. However, the tank refills in as little as ten minutes, so you won’t have long to wait around.
Built to last…
As an added bonus, this model comes complete with an impressive six-year warranty. This means that you can be sure it will provide you with hot water for a long time to come. If any of the parts do fail for any reason, you can have them replaced quickly and conveniently.
The Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 2.5-Gallon (ES2.5) is designed to be very easy to install. However, for the best results, it is best to get this model professionally installed. This will provide you with extra peace of mind and should ensure you enjoy hot water for a long time.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Offers a range of mounting options.
- Boasts 98% thermal efficiency.
- Designed to be easy to install.
- Features a sleek and compact design.
- Set with thick CFC-free foam insulation.
Cons
- Not the largest capacity around.
Best Tankless Electric Water Heater
1 Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater
If you live in a small apartment, you might simply not have enough space for a regular water heater with a tank. However, that shouldn’t mean that you have to suffer from cold showers or tepid tap water. The perfect option should provide plenty of hot water without taking up too much space.
With its compact design, the Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater is ideal for small spaces. It allows you to adjust the water temperature easily from 80°F to 140°F. The large digital display on the front makes it easy to see the temperature of the water you are receiving.
But is it powerful enough?
If you live alone, you are sure to find that this model fits the bill. Even couples will have the power they need for a shower and to do the dishes. However, large families may find that they need something a little bit more powerful enough.
When the water heats up, you will find that you have enough hot water for a couple of people to use. However, the water heats up very quickly and efficiently. Even when the water runs out, you will only have to wait ten or twenty minutes for the next batch.
Easy installation…
As an added bonus, this model promises to be 99.8% energy efficient. This makes it almost effortless to save a significant amount of money on your monthly bill. The straightforward design also helps to make this model very easy to install and replace when needed.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- External adjustable digital thermostatic control.
- Boasts a clear LED display.
- Features a compact design.
- Easy to install and replace.
- The heating elements are especially durable.
Cons
- Not sufficient for multiple showers.
2 Rheem 240V 3 Heating Chambers RTEX-24 Residential Tankless Water Heater
If you have a large family, a regular water heater simply might not be sufficient. Trying to supply enough hot water for several family members to use at the same time can be challenging. This can result in running out of hot water when you need it most.
Going with the flow…
With its impressive flow rate, the Rheem 240V 3 Heating Chambers RTEX-24 Residential Tankless Water Heater really stands out from the crowd. With this especially robust model, you are treated to a flow rate of seven gallons. This will be more than sufficient to run two showers at the same time, do the dishes, and even the laundry.
The large digital display on the front makes it very easy to determine the temperature of the water. You are also provided with a dial right underneath the display. If the water is too hot or cold, simply turn the dial until you receive the desired temperature.
Fits in just about anywhere…
This model is fitted with robust copper immersion heating elements to make it especially durable. The compact design enables a wide range of different installation positions. This model will fit easily underneath a kitchen or bathroom sink or on top of a counter if you prefer.
With the Rheem 240V 3 Heating Chambers RTEX-24 Residential Tankless Water Heater, you are treated to a full installation kit. This includes three feet of electrical cable and NPT water connections. This helps to make the overall installation process especially quick and easy to complete.
(4 / 5)Pros
- Supplied with a five-year warranty.
- 99.8 percent energy efficient.
- Features robust copper immersion heating elements.
- Delivers seven gallons per minute.
- Boasts a digital temperature display.
Cons
- Important to check the specifications carefully.
3 Marey ECO150 220V/240V-14.6kW Tankless Water Heater with Smart Technology
Are you fed up with waiting for your water to heat up? This can be a real issue first thing in the morning. If you are running late for work, this might mean that you have to skip your shower altogether.
Fortunately, this will not be a problem with the Marey ECO150 220V/240V-14.6kW Tankless Water Heater with Smart Technology. The water that flows through this mighty model does not require pre-heating. This means that you will be able to enjoy plenty of hot water straight away.
Low energy use…
This eliminates the wasteful stand by energy that many electric water heaters use. As a result, you will discover that your energy bills are dramatically reduced. Compared to other solutions, you are likely to find that this model uses up to 60% less energy.
The digital display on the front is large and easy to read. It shows you the current temperature of the water that is being provided. You can easily adjust this temperature any time you want by pressing the up or down button.
Want to know the best part?
The Marey ECO150 220V/240V-14.6kW Tankless Water Heater with Smart Technology is suitable for two simultaneous points of use. This means that one family member can take a shower while someone else does the dishes. You will not have to worry about running out of hot water or having the flow interrupted.
While this model promises to be easy to install, you will need to purchase the wiring and breaker separately. This may give you pause for thought if you have never installed an electric water heater before. If you are concerned, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to take on the task.
(4 / 5)Pros
- Uses up to 60% less energy.
- Controlled by a microcomputer.
- Set with a large digital panel.
- Does not require pre-heating.
- Boasts over-temperature protection.
Cons
- Does not come with a full installation kit.
Best Hybrid Electric Water Heater
AO Smith 50 Gallon Voltex Residential Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater
AO Smith has created a wide range of different types of water heaters to meet different needs. This company is known for creating reliable, efficient, and durable products in various categories. They are also especially noted for their dedicated and knowledgeable customer service team.
But is this model any good?
The AO Smith 50 Gallon Voltex Residential Hybrid Electric Heat Pump Water Heater boasts an impressive first house rating of 66 gallons. This is likely to be sufficient for around three to four people. Even if every family member needs to take a shower in the morning, there should be enough hot water available.
This best electric water heater is also known for being especially energy efficient. In fact, it boasts a 3.24 Energy Factor, compared to the average of 75-95. This means you should be able to reduce your energy bills by up to 71%.
This is ensured by the innovative heat pump technology that this model utilizes. This mighty model also comes complete with a number of other top of the range features. You are treated to a large, user-friendly digital display that presents the exact water temperature.
Going on vacation?
If you are looking to save even more money on your energy bills, you will appreciate the vacation mode. This water heater is also set with a heavy-duty anode that is designed to protect the tank. There are two different heating elements installed, meaning that the water will heat up especially quickly.
The fact that there is no warranty information with this model may give you pause for thought. It is not immediately obvious how long you can expect this water heater to last for. However, if you have any doubts, you are sure to get the information you need from the customer support team.
(4.4 / 5)Pros
- Provides a first house rating of 66 gallons.
- 3.24 Energy Factor.
- Delivers excellent customer service.
- Reduces water heating costs by up to 71%.
- Features a user-friendly display.
Cons
- No warranty information available.
Best 50 Gallon Electric Water Heater
1 Rheem MR50245 Marathon Tall Electric Water Heater
With its robust cylindrical design, the Rheem MR50245 Marathon Tall Electric Water Heater certainly looks the part. This innovative 50-gallon electric water heater has been made of especially durable plastic material. This electric water heater also comes with one of the most impressive warranties of any model in its class.
The seamless design of this tank is designed to be leak-proof, helping to make it especially durable. The upper heating element is specially protected against dry-firing to help make it especially safe. This is accompanied by a lower element that is made of stainless steel for a longer life.
Keeps the water warm…
As an added bonus, you will be able to save money on your heating bills with this model. It has an especially impressive energy factor of just 0.94.
Once the desired water temperature has been reached, you can be sure that it will remain consistent. This model has been shown to lose just 5°F over a period of twenty-four hours. This means that there will be no need to adjust the temperature every time you take a shower.
Want to know the best bit?
The Rheem MR50245 Marathon Tall Electric Water Heater is supplied with a limited lifetime warranty. This includes a six-year warranty on all types of replacement parts. This means that you can be sure this model will truly go the distance.
It should be noted that the Rheem MR50245 Marathon Tall Electric Water Heater is a bit on the heavy side. You may find that this limits your installation options to a certain extent. It might be a good idea to enlist a professional plumber to complete the installation process for you.
(4.1 / 5)Pros
- Set with a brass drain valve.
- Supplied with a limited lifetime warranty.
- 20 gallon GPH recovery rate.
- Includes a six-year warranty on replacement parts.
- Features durable polyurethane insulation.
Cons
- This model is rather heavy.
2 Reliance 6-50-EORT 100 Electric Water Heater
With its cylindrical design and bland beige color, this best electric water heater is not likely to win any beauty prizes. In fact, you could be forgiven for passing straight over this electric water heater. However, this durable and robust model has been made by Reliance, which has a good reputation for reliability and performance.
Let’s take a closer look…
The Reliance 6-50-EORT 100 Electric Water Heater is set with a durable glass lined tank. This tank contains a special anode rod that is designed to protect the tank against rust. This means that it can be relied on to be especially long lasting.
If you choose this water heater, you can be sure that you will be treated to plenty of power. This model works on 4,500 wattage power as well as a 240 volts electric source. However, it has been shown to provide an energy efficiency of 95% and can help to reduce energy bills dramatically.
But, there’s a catch…
However, it should be noted that the Reliance 6-50-EORT 100 Electric Water Heater does not come with a digital display. This can make it a little tricky to work out the exact temperature of the water. You may also find that it is not especially easy to control the water temperature.
(4.4 / 5)Pros
- Boasts a durable glass lined tank.
- Produces an energy factor of 0.95.
- Set with especially thick insulation.
- Contains a rust protective anode rod.
- Recovery rate of 21 gallons per hour.
Cons
- Does not have a digital display.
- No warranty information available.
Best Electric Water Heater Buying Guide
As you are sure to have noticed, not all electric water heaters are created equally. They can vary widely in terms of efficiency, capacity, and a number of other factors. If you are searching for the best electric water heater around, here are some of the key factors to look for.
The Energy Efficiency
It goes without saying that this type of heater will use electricity to heat the water. However, the amount of energy that different models consume can vary widely. Unless you want your energy bills to sore, it is a good idea to choose a model that is as energy efficient as possible.
Models that are especially energy efficient only heat the water when it is actually needed. This prevents wasting energy by keeping the water permanently warm. Therefore, it is a good idea to make sure that the model heats the water quickly.
Hot Water Capacity
The amount of hot water that you require will depend on your specific needs and usage. If you have a large family, make sure that the model you choose has the capacity to suit. A best electric water heater that boasts a 40 or 50 gallon capacity is sure to be sufficient to serve the whole family.
The Flow Rate
In order to provide hot water, some heaters significantly reduce the water flow rate. This can be rather frustrating if you are taking a shower, and water starts to dribble out. Therefore, check the flow rate of the model you have set your sights on carefully.
The flow rate of different electric water heater brands is indicated by gallons per minute. Naturally, the higher the number, the better the flow rate is going to be. A flow rate of five gallons per minute (GPM) is likely to be sufficient, even for large households.
Digital Display
A water heater that displays the temperature on the front is sure to be especially useful. This will allow you to see what temperature the water is at a single glance. Ideally, the display should feature numbers that are easy to read from across the room.
Temperature Control
If you do need to change the temperature of the water, it should be a smooth and easy process. There should either be a dial or buttons on the front of the unit. This will allow you to turn up or down the temperature very quickly and conveniently.
Storage Space
Some water heaters take up considerably more room than others. Before making a purchase, take the time to work out where you will install the heater. It is essential to make sure that you have enough space for the model you have set your sights on.
Durability
There are certain elements that reflect how durable your new best electric water heater is likely to be. The model should be set with an aluminum anode rod to protect the water heater from corrosion. Take a close look at the materials your water heater is made of and the overall build quality.
Going the Distance
The warranty that is supplied with the electric water heater is a good indication of how long it will last. It is important to check the details of the warranty carefully before making a purchase. Some warranties only include certain parts, while others cover the whole electric water heater.
It will be a real bonus if the model you choose comes complete with a lifetime warranty. This means that you can be sure the heater will be with you for the rest of your life. If anything goes wrong at any time, the company will fix or replace it free of charge.
Installation and Maintenance
Last but not least, spare a thought for the overall installation process. Some models tend to be much easier to install than others. If you are planning to complete the installation process alone, make sure you are provided with everything you need.
It will be an added bonus if the instructions that come with the water heater are very clear and detailed. A step by step guide is likely to be the easiest to follow. The process should be very quick so that if all else fails, you can contact a professional to complete the job.
It is also important to note that some electric water heaters require quite a bit of maintenance. If you have a busy schedule, you might find that constantly maintaining your water heater is a real chore. Therefore, you might prefer to choose a model that requires little or no maintenance.
Other Options
Not sure if electric is the best choice for your water heating needs? Probably not, or you wouldn’t have got this far. However, if you’re not 100% sure, then it’s well worth checking out our in-depth Best Gas Water Heater reviews and our Best Tankless Water Heater reviews.
So, what is the Best Electric Water Heater?
If you are searching for the best electric water heater, energy efficiency is a key consideration. You will also want to choose a model that is especially reliable so that it simply runs in the background. With its patented self-regulating technology, the…
EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
…is one of the most reliable models around.
When you install this model, you are likely to find that your water heating bill drops by up to 60%. There will be no need to adjust the temperature, as the heater will keep it constant. The lifetime warranty that this model comes with also provides pure peace of mind.