The 10 Most Reliable Water Heaters, Tested And Researched

Scott Fisher By, Scott Fisher
Updated
Rinnai V53DeN Natural Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater
Image credit: Amazon.com

Summary

1. Best Overall: Rinnai V53DeN Natural Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater

Rinnai V53DeN is a natural gas tankless hot water heater designed to be installed in your existing home's gas line. It is compact, durable, easy to install and features professional installation. The space-saving design and enhanced scale detection lessens the possibility of serious, long-term damage to your unit. Guaranteed to last! Read Review

2. Runner Up: Stiebel Eltron 224198 Tankless Electric Water Heater

With a digital temperature controller, the Stiebel Eltron 224198 Tankless Electric Water Heater is all about convenience. No longer do you have to wait for hot water to heat up in the morning. Just switch on and the heater will automatically adjust to the current room temperature, then gradually increase it over time to provide consistent and reliable hot water. The sleek design fits anywhere, even in tight spaces without running an unsightly vent pipe. Read Review

3. Best Capacity: Rinnai RL94eN Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater

Rinnai RL94eN Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater. If you are interested in a water heater that doesn't need to be installed by a professional and is simple to install, this model is perfect for you. With an original design never run out of hot water with this compact propane unit. This propane tankless water heater has a durable design, professional installation recommended and will keep your home comfortable year round while saving you money on your utility bills. Read Review

4. Best Performance: Thermoflow 2.5 Gallons Corded Electric Mini Tank Water Heater

Thermoflow's Corded Electric Mini Tank Water Heater is designed to provide clean, safe, and reliable water for your home and office. With a stainless steel tank that's not easy to bump and crack, a sealed system that prevents corrosion from water, and an automatic thermostat that keeps the tank at the perfect temperature while simultaneously protecting against freezing, this mini tank heater has a lot to offer. Read Review

5. Best Reliable: Rinnai RU180iN Condensing Tankless Hot Water Heater

Rinnai RU180iN Condensing Tankless Hot Water Heater provides endless hot water and optimal water pressure. It is quick to heat up and features a Circ-Logic heating system that gives you maximum water flow with minimal energy consumption. Equipped with an external pump, the Rinnai RU180iN Condensing Tankless Hot Water Heater is the perfect solution for your home, apartment or office. Read Review

Do you have a water heater in your house? If so, you definitely need to know about the different types of water heaters out there. After all, it’s not just about knowing what kind of water heater you should get—it’s also about knowing which one is going to be best for your household and home. You may be surprised to hear that not all water heaters are created equal; some are more reliable than others.

And this is especially true if you live in an area that experiences extremely cold temperatures throughout the year (like northern states do). That’s why it’s so important to invest in an efficient home plumbing system. Luckily, there are plenty of reliable and affordable water heaters you can buy that will help protect against leaks and keep your pipes from freezing during the winter.

We think the most reliable water heaters available now is Rinnai V53DeN Natural Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater. If you were wanting another option, you can check the Stiebel Eltron 224198 Tankless Electric Water Heater as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Rinnai V53DeN Natural Gas Tankless Hot Water Heater
Our Score:
9.8
Rinnai

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

Enhanced scale detection lessens possibility of serious, long-term damage to unit

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

Optimal Water Pressure: High-performance up to 5.3 GPM hot water flow rate for a powerful, constant stream

Guaranteed to Last: 10-, 5-, and 1-year residential factory warranty for heat exchanger, labor, and parts, respectively

TOP Choice #2 Stiebel Eltron 224198 Tankless Electric Water Heater
Our Score:
9.6
Stiebel Eltron

No venting required

Proven reliability

Save at least 15-20% on the hot water portion of your electric bill

Digital temperature control

Sleek design fits anywhere

Find Your Rinnai: See our product guides, manuals, energy guide, warranty information, videos, and tables to find the right tankless water heater for your home; Check our Ground Water Temperature Map to see if this heater is optimal for your region

Professional Installation Recommended: Visit the Find a Rinnai PRO page on our website to locate a qualified technician in your area to install your tankless water heater; We do not recommend installing a water heater without a technician

Smart, Durable Design: Includes 12-, 5-, and 1-year residential guarantee and 5-, 5-, and 1-year commercial factory warranty for heat exchanger, labor, and parts, respectively; See Controlr module for WiFi control (not included)

Original Design: Tankless hot water heater's Circ-Logic technology offers recirculation patterns that match your habits; For the latest in non-condensing technology that speeds up service and installation, check out our new RE180eP model

Never Run Out of Hot Water with this Compact Propane Water Heater: Non-condensing tankless hot water heater from Rinnai is only the size of a small suitcase and fits in a wide variety of spaces, but provides up to 9.8 GPM (6 fixtures at once)

➤ Safe & Reliable - overheating protection, auto cut-off electricity, IPX24 Waterproof, simple knob is easy to operate, suit for the sink of the kitchen, bathroom, bar, school, hospital, office, RV or etc.

➤ NOTES - Please verify that this model is the right size for your hot water needs and electrical requirements before purchase & installation. Dimensions: 18"H x 12.2"W x 11"D inches; Tank: 2.5 gallons; Connections: 1/2 inch NPT; 1.5 kW, 120 Volts. 13A. Cord plug-in.

➤Long Life - Stainless Steel tank do prevent corrosion from water, is not easy to bump and crack, is not easy to leak water, and be lighter, stronger, more durable.

➤Under Sink Heater- for the small place under the sink, it helps produce lasting stable water follows in the place where you need it. Temperature range 45°F-167°F (Relief Valve has been upgraded)

➤Save Energy - advanced thermostop technology from Germany results in low cost of standby loss power consumption and money. EPS foaming technology for better insulation. 1.5KW low-power.

Optimal Water Pressure: Up to 10 GPM hot water flow rate for a powerful, constant stream

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

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

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

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

6 Eccotemp i12-NG Tankless Water Heater
Our Score:
8.9
Eccotemp

Whole home indoor, gas powered tankless water heater, rated at 3 GPM that activates only on demand and no pilot light needed, reducing energy consumption

Features fully automatic temperature controls with an energy saving mode and child lock technology

Uses standard 1/2" NPT water fittings and comes with horizontal venting allowing for a convenient and quick installation

Sleek, modern design with black tempered glass front panel featuring an easy to use LED display controls

Safe electronic ignition system; Plugs into standard 110v electrical outlet with UL-listed cord. Field tested to 5500 ft. elevation (not recommended to be used any higher)

7 Tankless Water Heaters Outdoor
Our Score:
8.8
CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE

Lightweight, Compact & Portable Design: The 14 pounds lightweight portable water heater's folding handle keeps it out of the way and enables easy setup outside.

6-in-1 Protection & CSA Safety Approved: This tankless water heater is CSA Approved with anti-freezing protection, over-heating protection, low water flow protection, dry combustion protection, high water pressure protection and flame failure device.

Safety Tip: To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. Read the directions before installation check for gas leaks at all times before operating.

Flow Rate & Temperature Specification: The temperature raise is 114.8℉ (46℃) at its highest point and 46.4℉ (8℃) is at its lowest point of 1.58 GPM. Also, 1.58 gallons of hot water can be produced per minute at the flow rate of 1.58 GPM.

Versatile Applications: The lowest water pressure at beginning for the water heater is 3.0 PSI. For off-grid and rural areas, this hot water generator powered by two size D batteries is ideal. No more chilly outdoor shower anymore.

Installation Instruction & Package Content: This Camplux BD158N heater comes with 1-year guarantee, 5 feet premium on/off shower head, 5 feet gas regulator, 1 set US-standard garden hose, and 1 installation hardware pack. Setting up this propane water heater simply takes 10 minutes.

Warm Maintenance Tips: It must be properly drained if the water heater stored in cold climate, Freeze damage can occur in the heat exchanger or water valves. To drain the device properly, please open the drain stern located at the bottom right of the water heater . You can do so by turning in a counter clockwise direction. Please disconnect all incoming and outgoing water lines to ensure proper drainage from the water heater. When not in use, fully disconnect gas, incoming and outgoing waterlines. Store in a warm dray place.

ON/OFF Dial Control with adjustable digital temperature display

Bottom 3/4" NPT water connections

24kW Model Flow Rate: up to 5.9 GPM for RTEX-24

Self-modulating power control

On demand, consistent and continuous hot water

Instant, consistent and endless hot water

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

Before purchase and installation, Please verify that this EEM24013 is the correct size for your hot water needs

Compact size saves valuable storage space

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

Provide endless hot water on demand only as needed

Includes a gas hose with csa approved regulator for attaching to a standard liquid propane tank

Serves to a variety of applications, since washing your car, windows cleaning, wash your horse or your dog and take a hot shower

Portable water heater by Marey has a compact design and light weight saves space and is easy to carry anywhere

Perfect for campsites, cabins, remote areas or just around the house. BTU/h - 35000 BTU/h. Fuel Type - LPG(liquid propane gas). pipe fittings - 1/2 inch NPT, incoming/outgoing water and gas

No electrical connection is required

Naturally vented outdoors: you don't need to buy a extra venting

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

What to Look For in a most reliable water heaters?

The most reliable water heaters is influenced by a multitude of factors, including all those stated below. Depending on the sort of product, the learning process differs. We'll be ready to aid you and propose solutions since we're here to support you.

It's necessary to remember the following ones before selecting most reliable 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Overall, we will research and update new info for the list of most reliable water heaters regularly. On a frequent basis, please check our websites for the latest changes and updates.

Aside from most reliable water heaters, we can bail you up. If you want further support, please do not hesitate to contact us.


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About Scott Fisher

Scott Fisher
Scott Fisher is a professional in-home renovation and elegant designer. He is highly interactive on Sanford Artedventures's website as editor. In his role, He provides valuable insight and feedback and approaches each article with the passion to followers who need it most. Scott also has worked on countless projects throughout the United States, and he prides himself on his ability to work with practically any client.

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