10 Best Electric Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Westinghouse 24kW tankless water heater is designed for large homes needing a steady flow of hot water without the wait typical of tank heaters. It delivers up to 5.55 gallons per minute, which can comfortably handle two showers and a sink at once, making it a strong fit for busy households. Because it's tankless, it provides endless hot water and saves floor space by mounting directly on the wall with a compact size of about 13 by 17 inches. Energy efficiency is good here, as it heats water on demand rather than keeping a tank hot all day.

The product is equipped with smart WiFi control, allowing you to adjust water temperature precisely and control the unit remotely via an app or voice commands with Alexa or Google Home—this adds convenience especially if you want to manage settings without going near the unit. Safety is well covered with ETL certification and multiple protections against leaks, overheating, and electrical issues, plus an IPX4 rating that guards against water splash. Installation requires a 240V supply and appropriate breakers, which might need professional setup considering the high current involved.

Note that the activation flow is 0.79 gallons per minute, meaning very low water flows might not trigger heating immediately. The unit carries a respectable 4.3 out of 5 rating from users, reflecting reliable performance. For large households looking for a modern, space-saving, and smart-controlled electric water heater, this Westinghouse model offers strong performance alongside good safety features, though installation complexity and electrical requirements might be factors to consider.

The Rheem 18kW Tankless Electric Water Heater is a solid choice for those looking for an efficient and space-saving solution to hot water needs. Its compact size (14.5"W x 18.25"H) makes it ideal for homes with limited space, and the wall-mount design allows for easy installation. With a maximum flow rate of 4.4 gallons per minute, it can adequately serve smaller households or apartments, meeting the demands for showers and other hot water needs simultaneously.

One of the key strengths of this model is its impressive energy efficiency, boasting a 99.8% efficiency rating. This not only helps reduce energy bills but also makes it an eco-friendly option. The external digital thermostatic control with LED display allows for precise temperature adjustments, which can be a great feature for users who value control over their hot water supply.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. While the recovery rate is decent for its size, larger families might find the output insufficient during peak usage times. Additionally, installation might require a professional, especially if your existing plumbing does not match the specifications. Some customers have also noted that while the unit is generally reliable, it may not handle extremely high volumes of hot water demand as effectively as larger tank systems.

The warranty and customer service provided by Rheem is a plus, offering peace of mind should any issues arise. Safety features are also included, which is essential for households with children. The Rheem 18kW Tankless Electric Water Heater is best suited for smaller homes or apartments focused on energy efficiency and compact design, but larger families may need to consider their hot water demands before making a decision.

The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a compact, tankless electric water heater designed to provide endless hot water on demand, making it a great choice for smaller applications like a single bathroom, office sink, or breakroom. Its 13 kW power supports a flow rate of 1.3 to 3.1 gallons per minute, which means it can supply enough hot water for low-flow needs but might struggle if you want to run multiple showers or large appliances at once. One of its biggest strengths is energy efficiency—it only heats water when you use it, saving you money compared to traditional tank heaters that keep water hot all day. The product is also very small, about 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches, and can be mounted on a wall or near the point of use, saving valuable space in tight areas. It has a user-friendly LED display to help you control water temperature within 1 degree, ensuring consistent performance.

Safety is supported through its design and certifications, and you get a lifetime warranty on key components, although labor or extra damages aren't covered. On the downside, it requires a 240-volt power supply with a high amperage draw (54 A), which might mean upgrading your electrical system if it's not already compatible. Also, its limited first hour rating and flow rate mean it's best suited for individual or small-scale use rather than whole-house heating. If you need a reliable, energy-saving water heater for small spaces, the EcoSmart ECO 11 offers strong value, but it’s not ideal for larger homes or heavy simultaneous water needs.