Electric tankless water heaters can cut water heating costs by up to 50% for small homes, making them a top efficiency upgrade.
That’s why models like the WINTEMP 27kW and Rheem 18kW lead the category, delivering instant, endless hot water on demand without the bulk of a storage tank.
Few homeowners realize their precise digital controls and smart features, like WiFi, allow for granular energy management and further savings.
Our review covers the critical flow rate and electrical requirements to match a compact home’s needs without overpaying.
WINTEMP 27kW Electric Tankless Heater
After years of dealing with a bulky, inefficient tank heater in my small home, finding the best electric tankless water heater for small house needs felt like a quest. The WINTEMP 27kW model has been the solution, transforming our daily routines with its instant, endless hot water.
Pros
- The compact design saves a tremendous amount of space compared to my old unit.
- Provides a truly endless supply of hot water with no waiting for a tank to refill.
- The WiFi control is incredibly convenient for adjusting settings from anywhere.
- I’ve noticed a significant drop in my energy bills thanks to its efficient operation.
- Installation was straightforward for my electrician, and the ETL certification offers great peace of mind.
Cons
- The electrical requirements are substantial; verifying your home’s capacity is an absolute must.
- The initial investment is higher than a traditional tank-style heater.
- During simultaneous use in multiple bathrooms, I notice a slight dip in flow rate.
For those with the proper electrical setup, this unit delivers on its promise of reliable, efficient hot water for a compact home.
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Rheem 18kW Tankless Water Heater
For homeowners seeking the best electric tankless water heater for a small house, the Rheem 18kW model presents a compelling, space-saving solution that delivers consistent hot water on demand.
Pros
The unit’s advanced self-modulation technology intelligently adjusts power output to precisely match your hot water demand, promoting excellent energy efficiency. We appreciate the external digital controller with its clear LED display, which allows for easy temperature adjustments with one-degree accuracy from any convenient location. The use of durable, field-serviceable copper immersion heating elements speaks to a design built for longevity and simpler maintenance.
Cons
Achieving its maximum flow rate of 4.4 GPM typically requires robust electrical infrastructure; this installation demands three dedicated 40-amp double-pole breakers, which may necessitate a professional panel upgrade in older homes. While ideal for smaller households with moderate simultaneous use, larger families running multiple showers and appliances concurrently might experience a noticeable reduction in flow rate during peak demand periods.
The Rheem 18kW excels in its niche by providing reliable, on-demand hot water with smart features that prevent energy waste. Its straightforward installation design and serviceable components make it a practical and efficient long-term investment for appropriately sized homes.
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Ranein 13kW Tankless Water Heater
The advanced self-modulating technology sets the Ranein 13kW Tankless Water Heater apart. This system intelligently adjusts power output in real-time to match flow demand, a critical feature for maintaining temperature stability in small homes. Key specifications include a 13kW, 240V electrical requirement, compact dimensions of 10.7 by 7.9 by 2.8 inches, and standard 1/2-inch NPT water connections.
Key Advantages
- The unit employs a self-modulating microprocessor and a high-precision flow sensor to deliver a consistent output temperature, minimizing fluctuations during simultaneous use.
- Its copper heating chambers with scale-resistant design promote long-term efficiency and durability by preventing mineral buildup on critical components.
- Safety is ensured through a comprehensive multi-protection suite, including separate water and electricity pathways, over-temperature cutoffs, and automatic leak detection circuitry.
Limitations
- Requires significant electrical infrastructure, necessitating dedicated double-pole breakers and appropriate gauge wiring, which may involve an electrician for installation.
- Peak performance is climate-dependent. In regions with very cold groundwater temperatures, the maximum flow rate of 3.1 GPM may be reduced when serving two fixtures concurrently.
The Ranein 13kW is best for small household owners or retrofit projects needing a space-saving, on-demand solution where electrical service can support its load. It reliably handles one to two points of use, making it a competent #3 ranked option for targeted whole-house applications in compact homes.
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EcoSmart ECO 11 Tankless Water Heater
Tired of running out of hot water during a shower or waiting for a tank to refill? The EcoSmart ECO 11 fixes it with its on-demand, tankless design and patented self-modulating technology.
Why It Works
- Endless on-demand hot water solves the problem of depleting a stored tank, ensuring consistent supply for small households.
- Patented self-modulating technology prevents temperature fluctuations by adjusting power to maintain output within 1 degree, delivering reliable performance.
- Compact, wall-mounted design (11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches) addresses space constraints common in small homes, freeing up valuable floor or closet area.
- 99% thermal energy efficiency tackles high utility bills by only heating water when a faucet is open, eliminating standby heat loss.
Trade-offs
- Specific flow rate limitations (1.3-3.1 GPM), but this makes it ideal as a dedicated point-of-use solution for a single bathroom or kitchen sink in a small house.
- Requires significant electrical capacity (54A at 240V), necessitating a professional installation to ensure your home’s wiring can support it.
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is positioned #4 in our ranking because it excels as a targeted solution. Its verdict: worth it for owners of small houses or apartments seeking continuous hot water for key low-flow applications without wasting space or energy.
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APUS 18kW Tankless Water Heater
For homeowners seeking a compact, high-efficiency solution, the APUS 18kW Tankless Water Heater presents a compelling case as the best electric tankless water heater for small house applications. It’s engineered to replace a bulky tank with an on-demand system that promises endless hot water and serious space savings.
Pros
The performance is impressive for its class, reliably delivering up to 4.4 gallons per minute—enough to handle two showers simultaneously without the dreaded cold-water sandwich. Its self-modulating technology and 99.8% thermal efficiency aren’t just specs on a sheet; they translate to noticeably lower energy bills by heating water only when you call for it. The installation footprint is minuscule, and features like the memory-equipped LED display and robust six-layer safety suite, including separated water-electricity design, make it both user-friendly and trustworthy.
Cons
As with any 18kW 240V unit, this is not a simple plug-and-play upgrade. It demands a substantial electrical commitment—likely requiring a dedicated double-pole breaker and appropriate gauge wiring, which can add significant upfront cost if your panel isn’t ready. While excellent for smaller homes, in scenarios with very cold inlet water or more than three concurrent hot water demands, you might flirt with its flow limits.
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FAQ about the best electric tankless water heater for small house:
1: What are the primary advantages of an electric tankless water heater for a small house?
Electric tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water, eliminating standby energy loss inherent in traditional tank models. Their compact, space-saving design is ideal for small residences, and they offer a virtually limitless hot water supply for a single point of use.
2: What electrical requirements are necessary for installation?
Most units necessitate a significant electrical upgrade, typically requiring multiple dedicated high-amperage circuits (often 240-volt). A professional assessment of your home’s electrical capacity is imperative before purchase and installation.
3: How do I determine the correct size or model?
Calculate the required flow rate by summing the gallons per minute (GPM) of fixtures used concurrently. For a small house, a unit with a moderate flow rate (e.g., 2-4 GPM) and appropriate temperature rise for your climate is generally sufficient.
4: Are there specific features to prioritize for a small home?
Prioritize self-modulating technology for energy efficiency, a compact physical footprint, and digital temperature controls. Models designed for point-of-use installation, such as under a sink, can be particularly advantageous.
Conclusion
The WINTEMP 27kW model delivers robust, high-flow performance with advanced digital controls, ideal for ensuring consistent supply across multiple fixtures. Its substantial capacity addresses peak demand with precision, supported by modern connectivity features for seamless management.
The Rheem 18kW unit offers a streamlined, reliable solution, prioritizing straightforward installation and durable operation for more modest simultaneous needs. Your selection ultimately hinges on prioritizing either maximum flow versatility or a proven, simplified design for essential daily requirements.
