Best Tankless Water Heaters: Endless Hot Water, Lower Energy Bills

If you have ever run out of hot water mid-shower, you already understand the appeal of finding the best tankless water heater for your home. These compact, wall-mounted units heat water on demand rather than storing 40 or 50 gallons in a tank that slowly loses heat around the clock. The result is lower energy bills, unlimited hot water, and a unit that lasts 20 years instead of 10.

But choosing the right tankless water heater is not as simple as picking the one with the highest GPM rating on the box. Gas and electric models serve completely different situations. A high-flow gas unit that powers a four-bathroom house is overkill (and a waste of money) for a small condo. An electric point-of-use heater that works perfectly under a bathroom sink will leave you freezing if you try to run two showers at once.

I compared seven tankless water heaters across gas and electric, whole-house and point-of-use, budget and premium categories. Whether you are replacing an old tank or building new, this guide covers the models I think are worth your money and the ones to skip.

Quick Picks: Best Tankless Water Heaters at a Glance

• Best Overall: Rinnai RX199iN. I'd pick this for most homes. Condensing gas, 11.1 GPM, 0.98 UEF, and a 15-year heat exchanger warranty. Check price|Review
• Best Electric (Whole House): EcoSmart ECOS 27. 27 kW with self-modulating technology, up to 6.6 GPM, and a slim 4.25-inch-deep wall-mount body. Check price|Review
• Best Gas Value: Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3. My value pick. Condensing design, 9.5 GPM, Wi-Fi built in, and a solid 12-year heat exchanger warranty. Check price|Review
• Best Premium Gas: Rinnai RXP199iN. Built-in recirculation pump with Smart-Circ scheduling, 0.98 UEF, and 11.1 GPM. Check price|Review
• Best Budget Gas: Rinnai RE160iN. Reliable non-condensing unit at 6.6 GPM for smaller homes on a budget. Check price|Review
• Best Electric (Premium): Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus. German engineering, Advanced Flow Control, and the most precise temperature regulation I found. Check price|Review
• Best for Durability: Noritz EZ111-DV-NG. 25-year heat exchanger warranty and dual stainless steel heat exchangers. Check price|Review

Gas vs. Electric Tankless Water Heaters: Which Do You Need?

This is the first decision you need to make, and it matters more than brand or model. Gas and electric tankless heaters are not interchangeable.

Gas tankless water heaters (natural gas or propane) produce significantly more BTUs than electric models. A gas unit rated at 199,000 BTU can deliver 8 to 11 GPM, enough to run multiple showers, a dishwasher, and a washing machine simultaneously. They require venting (either direct vent through a wall or power vent through a roof) and a gas line sized for the unit's BTU demand. Installation costs run higher because of the venting and gas line requirements, but the per-gallon operating cost is typically lower than electric, especially in areas with cheap natural gas.

Electric tankless water heaters are simpler to install (no venting, no gas line) and achieve 96 to 99% thermal efficiency since there is no combustion exhaust. However, they require serious electrical capacity. A whole-house electric unit like the EcoSmart ECOS 27 draws 112.5 amps at 240 volts, which means multiple dedicated double-pole breakers and heavy-gauge wire. Many older homes need a panel upgrade to handle this load. Electric units also produce fewer GPM than gas models, particularly in cold climates where the incoming water temperature drops below 50 degrees.

Choose gas if: You have an existing gas line, need high GPM for a large household, or live in a cold climate where incoming water is below 50 degrees.

Choose electric if: You do not have a gas line, want simpler installation, need a point-of-use solution, or are heating water for a smaller household in a mild climate.

For a deeper dive into the differences, check out our tankless vs. tank water heater comparison.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

01

Rinnai RX199iN

Best for: Whole-house applications in homes with 2 to 4 bathrooms

Brand

Rinnai

Type

Condensing gas tankless water heater (indoor)

Power

Natural Gas (120V electrical for ignition)

Weight

55 lbs

Size

18.5" W x 30.11" H x 11.4" D

Warranty

15-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor (5-year labor with registration)

View on Amazon

$1,532.79Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• 11.1 GPM handles large households with multiple simultaneous fixtures
• 0.98 UEF ties for the highest gas efficiency in this roundup
• Recirculation capable for faster hot water delivery
• 15-year heat exchanger warranty with strong parts ecosystem

Watch out for

• Premium price (unit only, installation extra)
• Wi-Fi module sold separately
• Requires a condensate drain and neutralizer

The Rinnai RX199iN earns my top spot because it combines class-leading flow rate, top-tier efficiency, and Rinnai's reputation for long-term reliability. It is the current flagship of Rinnai's Sensei line and replaces the long-running RU199iN. At 11.1 GPM maximum flow and 199,000 BTU input, this unit comfortably handles a four-bathroom home running multiple fixtures simultaneously.

The condensing design captures heat from exhaust gases that non-condensing units waste, pushing the Uniform Energy Factor to 0.98. That ties for the highest gas efficiency rating in this roundup. It is also ENERGY STAR certified and approved for ultra-low NOx emissions, which matters in regions with strict air quality rules.

What I like most about the Rinnai is the flexibility. It is recirculation capable, so you can add a return line or crossover valve later for faster hot water at the tap. It is Wi-Fi capable with Rinnai's add-on module, letting you adjust temperature and receive maintenance alerts from your phone. The 15-year heat exchanger warranty is among the best in the industry, and registering within 90 days extends labor coverage to 5 years.

Best Electric, Whole House

02

EcoSmart ECOS 27

Best for: Whole-house electric heating in moderate to warm climates

Brand

EcoSmart

Type

Electric tankless water heater (whole house)

Power

Electric (240V, 112.5 amps)

Voltage

240V

Weight

10.9 lbs

Size

9.25" W x 19" H x 4.25" D

Warranty

5-year limited on leaks, 1-year parts

View on Amazon

$549.00Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• 96% thermal energy efficiency (no combustion or venting losses)
• Self-modulating technology reduces energy waste
• Compact, lightweight wall-mount design (10.9 lbs, 4.25" deep)
• Holds output within 1 degree of the set temperature

Watch out for

• GPM drops significantly in cold climates (as low as 2.7 GPM with cold inlet water)
• Draws 112.5 amps, so most homes need 200-amp service and dedicated circuits
• Short warranty (5 years on leaks, 1 year on parts) and few user reviews so far

The EcoSmart ECOS 27 is the updated version of EcoSmart's long-running 27 kW whole-house model, and it delivers the best combination of capacity and affordability in the electric category. At 27 kW, EcoSmart rates it for between 2.7 and 6.6 GPM depending on your incoming water temperature. In practice, that is roughly two simultaneous showers in a warm southern climate, but closer to one shower at a time where the incoming water is very cold.

The self-modulating technology is the standout feature here. The ECOS 27 continuously monitors water temperature and adjusts power based on how much hot water you are drawing, so you are never paying to heat water you do not need. EcoSmart says it holds output within 1 degree of the temperature you select (up to 140 degrees), a level of consistency that tank water heaters cannot match.

At 10.9 pounds and just 4.25 inches deep, this unit mounts on a wall and takes up almost no space. No venting is required. The trade-off is the electrical demand: it draws 112.5 amps at 240 volts, which means multiple dedicated double-pole breakers and heavy-gauge wire (follow the installation manual for exact sizes). Most homes need 200-amp service to support it, so if you have an older 100-amp or 150-amp panel, factor in the cost of an electrical panel upgrade.

One more thing to know: this listing is newer, so user feedback is still thin. It averages 4.1 out of 5 stars, but from only 14 ratings so far. The warranty is also modest at 5 years on leaks and 1 year on parts, so buy from a seller that makes returns easy.

Best Gas Value

03

Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3

Best for: Mid-size to large homes wanting condensing efficiency at a competitive price

Brand

Rheem

Type

Condensing gas tankless water heater (indoor)

Power

Natural Gas (120V electrical for ignition)

Weight

53 lbs

Size

18.5" W x 27.5" H x 10" D

Warranty

12-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor

View on Amazon

$1,459.12Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• Built-in Wi-Fi and EcoNet app integration at no extra cost
• 9.5 GPM handles most three-bathroom homes easily
• Water-saving mode reduces waste while water heats up
• Condensing design allows PVC venting

Watch out for

• 12-year heat exchanger warranty is shorter than Rinnai (15 years) and Noritz (25 years)
• 9.5 GPM may fall short for very large homes running 4+ fixtures
• EcoNet app has mixed user reviews for reliability

The Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3 delivers most of the Rinnai's performance at a lower price point. With 9.5 GPM and 199,900 BTU input, it handles three to four simultaneous fixtures without breaking a sweat. The condensing design with a stainless steel heat exchanger captures waste heat for a 0.93 UEF, only a few points behind the Rinnai on efficiency.

What gives the Rheem an edge in the value category is built-in Wi-Fi. While the Rinnai charges extra for its Wi-Fi module, the Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3 includes EcoNet connectivity out of the box. You can monitor hot water usage, adjust temperature, and receive diagnostic alerts from the Rheem app. The water-saving mode reduces flow at the tap until the set temperature is reached, which Rheem estimates saves up to 1,100 gallons of water per year.

The 12-year heat exchanger warranty is shorter than Rinnai's 15-year coverage, which is the main trade-off. But for most households, 12 years of warranty coverage is more than adequate, especially considering the lower upfront cost. If you want condensing gas performance without paying premium-tier prices, I think the Rheem is the smartest pick in this lineup.

Best Premium Gas

04

Rinnai RXP199iN

Best for: Homeowners who want the fastest hot water delivery to distant fixtures

Brand

Rinnai

Type

Condensing gas tankless water heater with built-in recirculation pump (indoor)

Power

Natural Gas (120V electrical)

Weight

58 lbs

Size

18.5" W x 30.11" H x 11.4" D

Warranty

15-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor (5-year labor with registration)

View on Amazon

$1,861.02Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• Built-in recirculation pump cuts the wait for hot water
• Smart-Circ learns your schedule instead of running the pump constantly
• 0.98 UEF ties for the highest gas efficiency in this roundup
• 11.1 GPM handles even large homes

Watch out for

• Most expensive gas unit in this roundup
• Wi-Fi module required for app-controlled on-demand recirculation
• Pump adds another component that can eventually need service

The Rinnai RXP199iN is the RX199iN with one big upgrade: a built-in recirculation pump. That is the headline feature, and in my opinion it justifies the premium label. A standard tankless unit needs an external pump or extra plumbing to recirculate. The RXP puts a 4-speed, high-efficiency DC pump inside the cabinet, so hot water reaches your farthest fixture faster and you waste less water waiting at the tap.

Rinnai pairs the pump with its Smart-Circ intelligent recirculation, which learns your household's hot water patterns and schedules recirculation around them. You are not running a pump 24/7, just before the times you usually need hot water. If you have a long run from the water heater to a primary bathroom, this is the feature that makes tankless feel instant.

Everything else matches the RX199iN: 11.1 GPM, 0.98 UEF, natural gas or propane, and the same 15-year heat exchanger warranty. The main trade-off is cost. You pay a meaningful premium over the standard RX199iN, and you still need the separate Wi-Fi module to control on-demand recirculation from your phone.

Best Budget Gas

05

Rinnai RE160iN

Best for: Small to medium homes (1 to 2 bathrooms) or tank-to-tankless upgrades on a budget

Brand

Rinnai

Type

Non-condensing gas tankless water heater (indoor)

Power

Natural Gas (120V electrical for ignition)

Weight

38.5 lbs

Size

14.05" W x 27.28" H x 10.77" D

Warranty

15-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor

View on Amazon

$842.54Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• Lowest gas tankless price in this roundup
• 15-year heat exchanger warranty matches premium models
• Compact, 38.5-pound body fits tight utility closets
• Recirculation and Wi-Fi capable

Watch out for

• Non-condensing design cannot use inexpensive PVC venting
• 6.6 GPM is not enough for large households (3+ bathrooms)
• Lower 0.81 UEF means higher operating costs over time
• Wi-Fi requires the optional module

The Rinnai RE160iN is proof that you do not need a premium condensing unit to enjoy the benefits of tankless hot water. This non-condensing RE Series model delivers up to 6.6 GPM at 160,000 BTU, which comfortably handles a one or two-bathroom home running a shower and a kitchen sink at the same time.

At roughly half the price of the RX199iN, the RE160iN sacrifices efficiency (0.81 UEF vs. 0.98) and maximum flow rate (6.6 vs. 11.1 GPM). The non-condensing design also means you cannot use cheap PVC vent pipe, which adds to installation cost. But if you are replacing an old tank water heater in a smaller home, the total project cost will still be significantly lower than a premium condensing model.

Rinnai's reliability carries across price tiers, and the warranty is unusually strong for a budget unit: 15 years on the heat exchanger, the same as Rinnai's flagship. The RE160iN is also recirculation capable and Wi-Fi capable with Rinnai's add-on module, so you can add app control later.

Best Electric, Premium

06

Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus

Best for: Households wanting the most precise electric temperature control available

Brand

Stiebel Eltron

Type

Electric tankless water heater (whole house)

Power

Electric (3x 40-amp breakers)

Weight

19 lbs

Size

16.6" W x 14.5" H x 4.6" D

Warranty

7-year leak protection, 3-year parts

View on Amazon

$775.99Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• Advanced Flow Control maintains temperature even at high demand
• Solid copper heat exchanger for consistent heating
• 99% thermal efficiency with zero standby losses
• German engineering with exceptional build quality

Watch out for

• 5.66 GPM maximum limits it to smaller households in cold climates
• Higher price than the EcoSmart ECOS 27 for similar capacity

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is the electric category's equivalent of buying a German luxury car. The build quality, temperature precision, and engineering are a clear step above the competition. The Tempra 29 Plus holds its set temperature with remarkable consistency thanks to the solid copper heat exchanger and advanced microprocessor controls.

The Advanced Flow Control feature is unique to the Tempra Plus line. When hot water demand exceeds the unit's capacity (for example, someone turns on a third fixture), the Tempra automatically reduces flow to maintain the set temperature rather than delivering lukewarm water. You get less volume, but the water stays hot. This is a smarter approach than what cheaper units do, which is simply let the temperature drop.

The digital display shows real-time water temperature, and the dial selector lets you set output between 68 and 140 degrees. At 99% thermal efficiency and under 19 pounds, the Tempra 29 Plus is a compact powerhouse. The 7-year warranty against leaks is the best in the electric category.

Best for Durability

07

Noritz EZ111-DV-NG

Best for: Buy-it-once homeowners who want the longest warranty and easiest tank replacement

Brand

Noritz

Type

Condensing gas tankless water heater (indoor)

Power

Natural Gas (120V electrical)

Weight

76 lbs

Size

18.5" W x 27" H x 13" D

Warranty

25-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor

View on Amazon

$1,890.11Amazon price as of Oct 13, 3:49 PM EDTProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What we like

• Industry-leading 25-year heat exchanger warranty
• Dual stainless steel heat exchangers resist corrosion and scale
• Top-mounted connections simplify tank-to-tankless replacement
• 0.97 UEF is near the top of the gas efficiency range in this roundup

Watch out for

• Less brand recognition means fewer specialized installers in some areas
• 76 lbs makes wall mounting a two-person job
• Bluetooth only (no Wi-Fi without additional accessories)

If you plan to stay in your home for decades, I believe the Noritz EZ111 makes the most compelling case of any unit here. The 25-year heat exchanger warranty is the longest in this roundup by a wide margin, more than double what most competitors offer. Noritz backs this up with dual stainless steel heat exchangers that resist corrosion and scale buildup far better than single copper heat exchangers.

The "EZ" in the name refers to the installation design. Noritz specifically engineered this unit with top-mounted hot and cold water connections to simplify replacing an old tank water heater. The connections line up where a traditional tank's plumbing typically sits, reducing the amount of pipe rework needed during installation. This can save several hundred dollars in labor costs.

At 11.1 GPM and 0.97 UEF, the Noritz matches the Rinnai RX199iN on flow rate and comes within a point on efficiency. The condensing design allows PVC venting, and the unit supports Bluetooth connectivity for diagnostics. The main drawback is brand recognition: Noritz is less well known than Rinnai or Rheem in the U.S., which can make finding a familiar installer more challenging in some areas.

Sizing Guide: How Many GPM Do You Need?

Choosing the right size tankless water heater comes down to two numbers: the total GPM of fixtures you will run simultaneously, and the temperature rise required based on your incoming water temperature.

Step 1: Add Up Your Simultaneous Fixtures

Every hot water fixture in your home has a flow rate. Here are the common ones:

Add up the flow rates of every fixture you expect to run at the same time. If you typically run two showers (5.0 GPM) and a kitchen faucet (1.5 GPM) simultaneously, you need at least 6.5 GPM of capacity.

Step 2: Factor in Your Climate

The GPM rating on a tankless water heater assumes a specific temperature rise. A unit rated at 11 GPM at a 35-degree rise delivers far fewer GPM at a 60-degree rise.

If you live in Minnesota with 40-degree incoming water, a gas unit rated at 11 GPM will deliver closer to 5 to 6 GPM at the temperature rise you need. Size accordingly.

Quick Sizing Recommendations

For more details on how these systems work, read our guide on how tankless water heaters work.

Installation Considerations

Gas Units

Gas tankless water heaters require professional installation. The main requirements include a properly sized gas line (many homes need a gas line upgrade from 1/2" to 3/4"), appropriate venting (PVC for condensing, stainless steel for non-condensing), a condensate drain for condensing models, and a 120V outlet for the electronic ignition. Budget $1,000 to $2,000 for installation depending on your home's existing infrastructure.

Electric Units

Electric models are simpler to install but still require an electrician in most cases. You will need a panel with enough capacity (200 amps for whole-house units), dedicated circuits with the correct breaker size (typically two to three 40-amp double-pole breakers for whole-house models), and the correct wire gauge run to the unit location. Installation typically runs $500 to $1,000.

Permits

Most jurisdictions require a plumbing and/or electrical permit for tankless water heater installation. Your installer should pull the appropriate permits. Skipping permits can void your warranty and create problems when you sell your home.

Common Questions About Tankless Water Heaters

How long do tankless water heaters last?

Gas tankless water heaters typically last 20 years with proper maintenance, roughly double the lifespan of a tank water heater. Electric models last 15 to 20 years. Annual descaling (flushing with vinegar) extends the life of the heat exchanger, especially in areas with hard water.

Do tankless water heaters really save money?

Yes, but the savings depend on your usage patterns. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that tankless water heaters are 24 to 34% more energy efficient than tank heaters for households using 41 gallons or less per day. For high-use households (86+ gallons per day), the savings drop to 8 to 14%. The higher upfront cost means payback typically takes 6 to 12 years.

What is the "cold water sandwich" problem?

When you turn on hot water shortly after a previous use, the pipe may contain a slug of heated water followed by cold water, then hot water from the heater. This creates an uncomfortable temperature fluctuation. Units with recirculation pumps (like the Rinnai RXP199iN) or buffer tanks minimize this issue.

Can I install a tankless water heater myself?

Electric point-of-use models are within reach for experienced DIYers. Whole-house electric and all gas models should be installed by licensed professionals. Gas installations involve venting, gas line sizing, and combustion safety that require expertise and code compliance.

Do tankless water heaters work in cold climates?

Yes, but you need to size appropriately. In northern climates, incoming water temperatures drop to 35 to 45 degrees, which means the heater works harder and delivers fewer GPM. A gas unit rated at 199,000 BTU is strongly recommended for cold-climate whole-house applications. Electric units struggle to deliver adequate flow rates when the temperature rise exceeds 70 degrees.

Final Thoughts

The best tankless water heater for your home depends on three factors: your fuel source (gas vs. electric), your household size (how many fixtures run simultaneously), and your climate (which determines the required temperature rise).

For most homes with a gas line, I'd recommend the Rinnai RX199iN as the best combination of flow rate, efficiency, and long-term reliability. If you want the fastest hot water delivery to distant fixtures, the Rinnai RXP199iN and its built-in recirculation pump justify the premium. For a more budget-friendly gas option, the Rheem RTGH-95DVLN-3 gives you condensing performance and Wi-Fi at a lower price.

On the electric side, the EcoSmart ECOS 27 is the value leader for warm-climate whole-house applications, while the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is worth the upgrade if you want the most precise temperature control and Advanced Flow Control technology.

No matter which model you choose, proper sizing is the most critical step. Use the GPM sizing guide above, account for your climate, and hire a qualified installer. I can not stress this enough: a well-sized tankless water heater will deliver endless hot water for 20 years. A poorly sized one will frustrate you every day.

For a full breakdown of whether tankless is right for your situation, check out our tankless vs. tank water heater comparison.