The Most Energy Efficient Water Heaters For 2023

Shannon Fricke By, Shannon Fricke
Updated
EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Image credit: Amazon.com

Summary

1. Best Overall: EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater

STAY WARM AND SAFE - Bring hot, safe water to your home with ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater. Use less energy than a traditional tank heater by heating the water directly by electrical resistance. Get endless on-demand hot water. No need to fill the tank with water and wait for it to heat up. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater is sleek enough to fit in any home. With no venting required, you can install and operate it with ease. The built-in pump provides continuous, unlimited supply of hot water on demand which saves space and is ideal for those living in small apartments or homes. Read Review

3. Best Reliable: RheemTankless Electric Water Heater

Personalized and efficient heating with a Rheem Tankless Electric Water Heater. You can instantly adjust temperature from cold to hot or anywhere in between and the digital thermostat provides plenty of versatility. The durable copper immersion two heating elements are designed for durability and efficiency, so you get optimal performance every time. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: Rinnai Condensing Tankless Hot Water Heater

Rinnai offers a wide range of water heaters with a variety of features to meet your needs. The Condensing Tankless Water Heater is the latest addition to our portfolio. With its space-saving design, optimal water pressure and Circ-Logic functionality, this tankless hot water heater will provide you with endless hot water. Read Review

5. Best Smart: MAREY Tankless Water Heater

Experience the convenience of tankless water heaters with Marey Tankless Water Heaters. With only one thermostat, you can enjoy the temperature you want with a touch of a button. The flow switch activation mechanism lets you know when your water is ready for use, so there's no need to keep checking the water levels. Read Review

When shopping for a new water heater, you may wonder what types of water heaters are more energy efficient than others. Water heaters come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all operate in the same way: they warm water by passing it through a metal tank. The type of water heater you choose depends on how much space you have, how often you use hot water, and your budget.

Some smaller water heaters are more energy efficient than larger ones because they have fewer working parts, making them more cost-effective to run. However, keeping an eye out for models with extra features such as timers or digital readouts can help you save money in the long run. This article outlines the main types of water heaters and their efficiency levels so you know what to look for when buying one.

Following extensive study and analysis, We think the most energy efficient water heaters of 2023 is EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
9.7
EcoSmart

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

EcoSmart ECO 11 Sizing; 13-kilowatt tankless electric water heater ideal for providing hot water for a bathroom, small sink, office breakroom and other point-of-use or low-flow applications; provides between 1.3 and 3.1 gallons-per-minute depending on the inlet water temperature; refer to the sizing guide to select the proper solution

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.

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

TOP Choice #2 Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
9.6
Stiebel Eltron

Sleek design saves space and no venting required

Requires 3 separate dedicated 40 amp breakers with 8 gauge copper wiring, and a minimum of 200 amp total service to the residence

On demand a continuous and unlimited supply of hot water

Requires hard-wired 240 or 208-volt electric service, with a maximum draw of 28,800 watts at 240 volts or 21,600 watts at 208 volts

TOP Choice #3 RheemTankless Electric Water Heater
Our Score:
9.4
Rheem

Simple installation – bottom 3/4 inch NPT water connections

Most advanced self-modulation, adjust power to meet hot water demand

External digital thermostatic control with LED display (+/1 degree accuracy)

Threaded for easy replacement, simple installation, digital temperature display

Durable Copper immersion two heating elements, field Serviceable. Flow Rate- up to 4.4 GPM

Optimal Water Pressure: Up to 7 GPM hot water flow rate for a powerful, constant stream

Endless Hot Water: Enjoy unlimited hot water flow throughout the house; compact, durable, and easy to install; professional installation recommended

Guaranteed to Last: 15-, 5-, and 1-year residential for heat exchanger, labor, and parts, respectively; Wifi monitoring

Energy and Space Efficient: Space-saving design conserves energy as it heats only when necessary

Instant Heating: Equipped with Circ-Logic - Pair with an external pump to reduce wait time for hot water via scheduled or on-demand recirculation

5 MAREY Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
9.1
MAREY

Smart technology: easy management and simple adjustments on a LCD panel allows you to program the exact desired water temperature thereby optimizing energy consumption

Unit requires 220v~240v and (1) 70 amp double pole breaker. Minimum Activation Rate 0.50 GPM

ETL approved

Flow switch activation mechanism allows the unit to produce constant temperatures with as little as . 5Gpm/5Psi

Tankless water heaters provide an efficient hot water solution eliminating the stand-by energy consumption of conventional tank units

The three years parts warranty is unique in the industry

Due to its small dimensions and attractive housing the DHC-E can be left unconcealed in many applications

Set the knob on the front cover and enjoy water temperatures between 86DegreeF (30DegreeC) and 125DegreeF (52DegreeC)

7 Eemax Electric Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
8.8
Eemax

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

Instant, consistent and endless hot water

Before purchase and installation, Please verify that this EEM24018 is the correct size for your hot water needs.Rated Pressure: 25psi minimum; 150psi maximum

Compact size saves valuable storage space; Resistant and stylish with digital temperature control in increments of 1°F ranging from 80°F to 140°F

Tankless water heaters provide a continuous Supply of hot water and only heats the water you need, when you need it

8 TAKAGI Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
8.7
TAKAGI

Satisfies the 2012 SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 for Ultra-Low NOx Emissions

Computerized safety features, No pilot light to have to worry about

Endless hot water, On-demand usage, Compact, Space saving, Energy conservation

Primary heat exchanger utilizes commercial-grade copper alloy for 25 times better heat transfer than stainless steel, Integrated controls and power cord as standard features

Safety features include freeze, overheat, surge protection, and troubleshooting diagnostic codes

Endless Hot Water: Enjoy unlimited hot water flow throughout the house; compact, durable, and easy to install; professional installation recommended

Optimal Water Pressure: High-performance 7.5 GPM hot water flow rate for a powerful, constant stream

Multiple venting options available including PVC/CPVC using the Ubbink Concentric to Twin Pipe adaptor allow for an easy installation

Guaranteed to Last: 12-, 5-, and 1-year residential factory warranty for heat exchanger, parts, and labor respectively

Energy and Space Efficient: Space-saving design conserves energy as it heats only when necessary

ON/OFF Dial Control with adjustable digital temperature display

11kW Model Flow Rate: up to 2.68 GPM

On demand, consistent and continuous hot water

Side 1/2" NPT water connections

Self-modulating power control

Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a most energy efficient water heaters?

Until now, numerous customers trust the information and advice we offer them, which means our offers to you are accurate and up to date all the time. This objective is being pursued with tremendous zeal and attention. 

It's necessary to keep in mind the following points for selecting most energy efficient water heaters:

Tankless Or Tank

A tank water heater stores a set amount of hot water and is ready to be sent to several appliances simultaneously. The tankless heaters heat the water quickly and require less space than water heaters with tanks. One unit might not heat enough water for multiple fixtures simultaneously, so it is possible to purchase multiple water heaters.

Efficiency Rating

Efficiency ratings are a measure of how efficient water heaters actually heat water. An efficiency rating of.70 for hot water heaters means that 70% of energy used by them heat water.
The difference between electricity and gas rates means that this rating doesn't give a good indication of the cost you could expect to pay for the unit. A gas heater with a lower efficiency rating will be more efficient than one that uses electricity. However, gas heaters are mucher than electric ones.
Because they don't have to run constantly to heat water, tankless heaters are significantlyer than storage tanks heaters. A tankless water heater can cut down on your energy bills by up to 40% depending on how much hot water you use. To determine the impact on your budget, it is better to calculate the annual operating cost for the hot water heater.

Venting Needs

Electric water heaters do not require venting, so they can be placed in any place in your home. When they heat up, gas hot water heaters emit carbon monoxide and other harmful gases. These heaters use a ventilation system made up of pipes and conduits that removes these byproducts. Gas heaters require venting, take up more space, and are less suitable for homes than electric water heaters.

Digital Displays

Modern water heaters have digital controls, which allow homeowners to set up the heater to turn off when they are away from home. Although a digital display can increase the initial price of the heater, it also increases the heat efficiency, which ultimately saves money.

Tank Capacity

You should make sure your tank heater has enough hot water storage to provide heat for your entire family. Although tank heaters are capable of heating water at multiple locations simultaneously, they will require more time to heat the water. This could lead to unexpectedly cold showers.

Brass Vs. Plastic Drain Valves

A tank water heater has a drain valve located at the bottom that allows for the proper drainage of the tank. The valves can be used with standard garden hoses and made from brass or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A brass drain valve is better than using plastic for hot water heaters, as brass is more resilient than plastic.

Anti-Scale Devices

Some companies advertise that they can reduce mineral scale buildup by swirling water. Although scale may reduce the heater's life expectancy, it doesn't mean you have to spend a lot on fancy options. Look for one that comes with a 122023 warranty. This usually includes an element of a greater or lesser thickness.

Space

A lowboy, or shorter water heater might be the best option if you don't have a lot to heat. They are smaller than average and can be used in small homes. You could also consider mini-tank or tankless water heaters. Although gas water heaters are bulky and heavy, it's possible to get smaller models. The size of electric water heaters is generally smaller. If you have limited space, tankless electric water heaters will be the most suitable option.

Gas Or Electric

There are many factors that influence the choice of electric or gas-powered water heaters. These include local utility costs and personal preferences. People who want to save money upfront and those who don't have natural gas in their homes prefer electric water heaters. Gas heaters can be more costly upfront, but they will save you many hundreds of dollars per year depending on the energy cost in your region.

FAQs

Can You Still Shower If Your Water Heater Is Leaking?

You can still take a hot shower even if your water heater is leaking. You can shower even if the leak becomes severe. It will just mean that you won't get hot water.

What Are The Signs Your Hot Water Heater Is Going Out?

A failing water heater can be identified by a series of telltale symptoms, such as banging sounds inside the tank and a decrease in temperature.

Can Water Heaters Explode?

Electric and gas hot water heaters are susceptible to explosions. Explosions are rare, but can be caused by increased pressure in the heater, poor installation or maintenance, failure to set the temperature and relief valve (T & P), gas heaters, flammable liquids, or gas leaks.

How Long Does A Water Heater Last?

Although water heaters come with varying lifespan expectations, many can last for between 8-12 years. Some water heaters can last up to 20 years. Your water quality can make a difference in how long your heater will last. Over time, corrosion can occur from heavy minerals or sediment.
Depending on which model you select, the manufacturer may offer different warranty terms. The most common warranty period is usually between 6 and 9 years.

How Often Should I Replace My Water Heater?

According to professionals, your water heater should be replaced every 10 years. A water heater cannot be guaranteed for this long. It is possible that your water heater will need to be replaced sooner than expected.

What Is A Water Heater?

A boiler is often confused with a water heater. What is the difference between a boiler and a water heater? A water heater heats water to be used for showering, cooking, cleaning, or other purposes. The water heater heats cold water coming from the water supply pipe. It then gives you hot water ready to use for washing your clothes or running a faucet. Water heaters use water that's suitable for cleaning and cooking (potable). A boiler, on the other hand is designed to heat your home and heat water from the taps.

How Do Water Heaters Work?

A tank-style water heater uses a dip tube that has an outlet in the bottom to heat the cold water. The tank's temperature is monitored by an internal thermostat which activates either a heating element, or a burner that warms water to the desired temperature.
Dual heating elements are used in electric water heaters to heat the water. The bottom heating element heats the coldest water faster, while the top one warms the water if it becomes too hot.
A pilot light, or electronic ignition system for gas water heaters ignites the gas that is flowing to a burner. Before shutting off, the burner heats water in the tank until it reaches a desired temperature. The exhaust is then vented outside.
Water heaters that are tankless don't keep water. They heat the water by using either electric or gas heating elements. The temperature of the hot water is a factor in how fast it flows, however most units are capable of providing hot water at a flow rate between 2 and 7 GPM.

How Do You Drain A Water Heater?

First, drain the hot water heater by flushing it with water at full pressure. After connecting the drain line, open the drain valve and close it again. The valve will dislodge any sediment, allowing the system to drain faster.
Then, disconnect your water heater from either the electric or gas power supply and shut down the main water supply. Next, disconnect the drain hose from the quick flush and open the drain valve. Once you let air in the tank, water will not flow out. You will need to remove the hot water pipe from the top of the water heater, and then move the pipe to the side. You will see the tank begin to drain.

What Is The Best Compact Water Heater For Saving Space?

Mini-tank or tankless water heaters are compact and light, which makes them great for small homes that have less space.

Gas Vs Electric Water Heaters: Which Is Right For You?

It's not cheap to install a water heater in your house. This is why it's important that you take some time thinking about how to charge your appliances. First, electric heaters offer the most sustainable option for the environment. If you choose one, it will be a better choice for your planet. Although electric water heaters work better, the price of electricity is higher than that of traditional gas options. You can still use your gas heater even if there is no power, so you have less to worry about during a crisis.

In general, we keep collecting and researching new information for most energy efficient water heaters. Please pay more attention to checking our website regularly or subscribe to our newsletter to read the latest updates.

Along with product-related issues, we can also support you more. So please give us your feedback and response whenever you need it. It will be a significant motivation for us to improve everything


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About Shannon Fricke

Shannon Fricke
Shannon Fricke is an editor for Sanford, where she oversees home improvement and design content. Shannon has a wealth of experience in the home improvement space, having remodeled her own home twice. She loves to share her knowledge and help others learn about new products, trends, and techniques in the industry. When she's not writing or editing, Shannon enjoys spending time with her family and her pets.

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