Heat Up Your Home: The Best Electric Water Heaters
Heat Up Your Home: The Best Electric Water Heaters
You don't want to spend your winters shouting for hot water all the time. Here's what you should be considering before buying any electric water heater.
The reviews of the products in this article are created by a team of experts that is independent from CTech's editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission.
Our Top Picks
If you've ever had to juggle between chores because the hot water ran out, you know how frustrating that can be. An electric water heater is one of those home upgrades that you don't realize you need until you have it. Imagine never having to wait for hot water again—whether it's for a quick shower, washing the dishes, or even just rinsing your hands. Compact space and budget constraints might be worrying you if you're out there looking for affordable options but if you have a look at our best picks with price and convenience in mind, you might save a lot of effort.
1 . GE Electric water heater
This 10 gallon electric water heater can save you in extreme weather with its dependable hot water in smaller areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, RVs or garages. Its installation process is very simple as it seamlessly connects to your plumbing system and can be plugged into any standard 120 volt outlet making it a convenient option. Whether used independently or as an additional support to another water heater, it guarantees a steady supply of hot water with an adjustable thermostat that lets you set your desired temperature. The robust stainless steel heating element and anode rod provide protection, against corrosion ensuring lasting peace of mind. Moreover with a warranty on both the tank and parts, this electric water heater is designed for convenience and durability.
Pros
Quick and easy installation, Compact design, Adjustable thermostat
Cons
Limited capacity for larger households
2 . Rheem Electric Water Heater
Space can be a issue when talking about water heaters but this product without a big storage tank solves this issue. What makes this electric water heater stand out is its clever self modulation feature that automatically adjusts power to match your hot water needs ensuring energy efficiency. The user friendly digital thermostatic control, complete with an LED display allows for precise temperature adjustments with an impressive accuracy of +/-1 degree giving you complete control over your comfort levels. With robust copper immersion heating elements this tankless electric water heater delivers up to 4.4 gallons per minute (GPM) making it well suited for households with multiple simultaneous hot water requirements. Installation is a breeze thanks to bottom 3/4 inch NPT connections that simplify replacement or setup in any configuration. Its design is ideal for those seeking to optimize space without compromising on performance.
Pros
Energy-efficient self-modulation, Precise temperature control, Durable copper heating elements
Cons
Requires 240V power supply, limiting compatibility in some homes
3 . Bosch Electric Water Heater
Say goodbye to the hassle of waiting for water with this electric water heater. Its a clever choice that delivers hot water to your sink exactly when you need it, streamlining your daily routine. You'll also find like its sleek design, that can be mounted on a shelf, wall or even placed on the floor making it perfect for tight spots like under the sink. With an impressive 98% thermal efficiency rating it ensures you get hot water quickly and efficiently without wasting any energy. The high quality glass lined tank offers lasting durability and installing it is a breeze – just plug it into any 120 volt outlet. This mini tank water heater is designed to serve up to two sinks simultaneously providing convenience and flexibility, in places like bathrooms, kitchens or garages where instant hot water is essential.
Pros
Compact and versatile installation, Quick hot water supply, Energy efficient
Cons
Limited capacity
4 . Stiebel Eltron Electric Water Heater
Real test for electric water heaters come when there is a high demand and everyone's looking for hot water in their taps. It's where this product comes to the rescue with its cutting edge flow control technology that ensures a constant stream of hot water even during peak usage. It’s designed to cater to the needs of an entire household automatically adjusting the water flow to keep a consistent temperature so you can enjoy uninterrupted hot showers. Its compact and sleek design not saves space but also energy making it an environmentally friendly option that doesn’t require venting. With features like modulation and controls it efficiently manages water flow and even comes with a savings monitor to help you keep track of energy expenses. The robust 24kW system provides a temperature range, from 68° to 140°F and has a safety limit feature to prevent scalding. It’s easy to use thanks to a quiet electronic switch and a durable copper heating system making this electric water heater both dependable and efficient.
Pros
Continuous hot water flow, 7 year warranty, Digital temperature control
Cons
Might not handle well water or water with high dissolved solids
5 . EcoSmart Electric Water Heater
Next water heater in our guide comes with a state of the art self modulating technology that fine tunes the energy output to match your hot water requirements. This ensures efficiency and substantial energy conservation. With the potential to reduce your water heating expenses by up to 60% it’s an environmentally friendly option that never compromises on performance. Additionally the compact design of this electric water heater saves up to 12 cubic feet of storage space making it perfect for homes with limited space. The digital temperature control feature allows for adjustments, giving you complete control over your hot water supply. Built for durability and user friendliness it’s compatible, with standard 2 X 40 AMP breakers and 2 X 8 AWG wiring ensuring long term reliability supported by a lifetime warranty for residential use.
Pros
Self-modulating technology, Life time warranty, Durable metallic exterior
Cons
Requires specific electrical setup (2 X 40 AMP breakers)
6 . FOGATTI Electric Water Heater
You may be tired of the traditional water heaters with similar cubic tanks. If you desire one with a smart design, this product with its efficient L-shaped heating rod is designed to maximize heat exchange, ensuring you get instant hot water when you need it. The design actually maximizes heat exchange, ensuring you have hot water whenever you need it. Its compact and space saving design makes it ideal for installation under sinks or on walls in tight spaces such as RVs, bathrooms or kitchens. What really sets this unit apart is its smooth enamel coated tank that provides excellent protection against corrosion and rust, prolonging the lifespan of the water heater. Moreover the built in magnesium rod adds an extra layer of defense against tank damage. Safety features include a high temperature limit device and a T&P valve that guard against overheating and excessive water pressure. Installation is a breeze with flexible mounting options and a straightforward plug in setup for 120V power.
Pros
L-shaped heating rod, Enamel-coated tank for durability, CSA certified.
Cons
Sealing washer and external water hose needs separate buying
7 . ECOTOUCH Electric Water Heater
For those concerned about safety, this electric tankless water heater is designed with multiple layers of protection to give you peace of mind. It features advanced leakage protection, overheating protection, and an automatic shutoff system, all ensuring that the water heater operates safely at all times. The internal design separates water and electricity lines to minimize any risk of leakage or scale buildup, making it a highly reliable option for long-term use. Perfect for users who prioritize safety without sacrificing performance, this 14kW heater provides instant hot water while maintaining high energy efficiency. Its compact, sleek design fits in small spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, or salons, and the digital display makes operation easy and intuitive.
Pros
Advanced safety features, Digital touch control panel, Available in 5 models
Cons
Can only be wired from the side of the unit
FAQ
Q: How do electric water heaters work compared to gas water heaters?
A: Electric water heaters use electrical elements to heat water stored in a tank, while gas water heaters use a burner powered by natural gas or propane. Electric heaters typically heat water more slowly than gas models but are often easier to install since they don't require a gas line or venting. Electric models are more energy-efficient in homes with renewable energy sources, and they tend to have fewer emissions compared to gas heaters. However, gas models tend to recover more quickly, making them better for larger households with higher hot water demands.
Q: What is the difference between a tank and tankless electric water heater?
A: A tank water heater stores a large quantity of heated water in a reservoir, typically between 40 to 80 gallons, ready for use at any time. This design provides instant access to hot water but requires constant energy to keep the water warm, even when not in use. In contrast, tankless water heaters heat water on demand as it flows through the unit, which can save energy by only heating water when needed. Tankless systems are more energy-efficient, especially in smaller households, but they may struggle to provide enough hot water for simultaneous high-demand uses, such as multiple showers.
Q: How can I determine the right size of electric water heater for my home?
A: The size of an electric water heater depends on the number of people in the household and your daily hot water usage. A 40 to 50-gallon tank is generally sufficient for a family of two to four people, while larger families may need a 60 to 80-gallon tank. For tankless electric water heaters, the key factor is the flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). You'll need to calculate your peak usage, such as running two showers and a dishwasher simultaneously, to ensure the unit can provide enough hot water without a drop in performance.
Q: Are electric water heaters energy-efficient?
A: Yes, electric water heaters, especially newer models, are designed to be energy-efficient. Some models, like heat pump water heaters or hybrid systems, can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% compared to conventional electric units. These systems pull heat from the surrounding air to heat the water, making them highly efficient. Additionally, tankless electric water heaters avoid standby energy loss by heating water only when needed, offering even greater efficiency for households with lower demand.
Q: How long do electric water heaters typically last?
A: The average lifespan of an electric water heater is about 10 to 15 years, depending on the model, usage, and maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment, inspecting and replacing the anode rod, and ensuring the elements are functioning correctly, can help extend the unit’s lifespan. Tankless electric models tend to have a slightly longer lifespan because they don’t store water, which reduces the risk of corrosion.
Article Contributors
Ctech Shopping Team
CTech's Shopping team brings you the latest in tech through carefully crafted reviews and guides, independent of their editorial team. As a reader-supported entity, our tech-savvy writers and editors sometimes incorporate AI in their analyses to verify the precision of product dimensions, availability, and pricing.
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