The best place to buy a tankless water heater is from reputable home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, or online retailers like Amazon for competitive pricing.
Struggling with cold showers, high energy bills, or limited space for a bulky water heater? A tankless water heater solves these problems—but where’s the best place to buy one?
The right tankless water heater can slash energy costs by 30% and provide endless hot water. In this guide, we’ll cover top retailers, insider buying tips, and how to avoid overpaying. For installation help, check our Titan water heater guide or compare hydronic boilers vs. heat pumps for alternative solutions.
Home improvement stores (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe’s) or online retailers (e.g., Amazon, SupplyHouse).
Key Takeaways
- Home improvement stores offer hands-on demos and professional installation services.
- Online retailers provide competitive pricing, detailed reviews, and doorstep delivery.
- Specialty plumbing suppliers stock high-efficiency models with extended warranties.
- Always verify UEF ratings and warranty terms before purchasing.
Top Retailers for Tankless Water Heaters
Choosing where to buy your tankless water heater impacts pricing, support, and installation options. Below are the top retailers ranked by selection, service, and value:
1. Home Improvement Stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s)
Big-box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s stock popular brands such as Rheem, EcoSmart, and Rinnai. Benefits include:
- In-store experts for sizing and troubleshooting
- Installation services ($500–$1,500)
- Price matching and seasonal discounts
For example, Home Depot’s Performance Platinum 9.5 GPM gas model is a bestseller for whole-home use. Lowe’s offers exclusive IRIS smart models with Wi-Fi controls.
2. Online Retailers (Amazon, SupplyHouse)
Amazon and SupplyHouse provide convenience and lower prices due to reduced overhead. Key advantages:
- Thousands of verified customer reviews
- Fast shipping (often free for Prime members)
- Wider selection of condensing vs. non-condensing units
SupplyHouse specializes in plumbing supplies, offering niche brands like Navien and Takagi. Amazon’s EcoSmart ECO 27 electric model is a top-rated budget pick.
3. Specialty Plumbing Suppliers
Local suppliers and sites like PlumbersStock cater to professionals but sell to homeowners. They excel in:
- Commercial-grade units (e.g., Noritz NRC98-DV)
- Extended warranties (up to 15 years)
- Bulk discounts for multi-unit homes
Comparison: Online vs. In-Store Purchases
| Factor | Online Retailers | Home Improvement Stores |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 5–15% cheaper | Higher but negotiable |
| Support | Limited to chat/email | In-person assistance |
| Returns | 30-day window (restocking fees may apply) | 90-day returns (no fees) |
FAQs
1. Should I buy a gas or electric tankless water heater?
Gas models (e.g., Rinnai RU199iN) suit larger households but require venting. Electric units (e.g., Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus) are easier to install but need 200+ amp electrical service.
2. What’s the average cost?
Expect $800–$2,500 for the unit, plus $1,000–$3,000 for installation. Energy.gov notes long-term savings offset upfront costs.
3. How do I maintain my tankless water heater?
Annual descaling (using solutions like this guide) prevents mineral buildup. Also, check our maintenance tips.
Final Thoughts
For most buyers, Home Depot or Lowe’s balances price and service, while online shoppers save with Amazon or SupplyHouse. Prioritize UEF ratings (≥0.90) and warranties (≥10 years). Need installation help? Explore our propane heater guide or recirculating pump tutorial.
