Electric tankless water heaters can provide hot water on demand while eliminating standby heat loss and the footprint of a storage tank. The right model depends less on headline wattage than on your incoming water temperature, desired flow rate, electrical capacity, and installation setup.
This roundup compares 10 popular options ranging from compact point-of-use units to higher-output models designed for multiple fixtures. Use the guide below to narrow your choices before checking compatibility with your home’s plumbing and electrical system.
Best 10 Electric Tankless Water Heaters Picks for 2026
Best High-Capacity Pick
Rheem RTEX-24 24kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Up to 5.9 GPM output
- 1-degree digital temperature control
- Requires three 40-amp breakers
Best For: Higher-demand whole-home applications
Best Compact Point-of-Use Option
Kweetle 11kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Up to 2.68 GPM flow rate
- Self-modulating energy control
- Built-in dry-burn and overheat protection
Best For: Smaller point-of-use installations
Best Serviceable Mid-Range Pick
Rheem RTEX-13 13kW Tankless Water Heater
- Up to 3.17 GPM flow rate
- Field-serviceable copper elements
- External 1-degree digital control
Best For: Focused residential hot-water demand
Best Smart Whole-Home Pick
Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Up to 5.55 GPM output
- WiFi, Alexa, and Google Home control
- Compact wall-mounted design
Best For: Connected whole-home hot-water systems
Best Whole-Home Pick
Rheem 18kW Tankless Water Heater
- 18kW output with up to 4.4 GPM flow
- Self-modulating power and LED thermostat
- Field-serviceable copper heating elements
Best For: Whole-home use with suitable 240V electrical service
Best Compact Budget Option
ORBEK 14kW Electric Tankless Heater
- Compact wall-mounted 14kW design
- Up to 3.38 GPM for moderate demand
- ETL certified with multiple safety protections
Best For: Two to three points of use in a smaller home
Best Smart-Connected Pick
WINTEMP 18kW WiFi Water Heater
- 18kW output with up to 4.3 GPM flow
- Remote WiFi temperature control
- Self-modulation and multiple safety protections
Best For: Homes wanting connected control and continuous hot water
Best Space-Saving Pick
Rheem 11kW Multi-Fixture Heater
- Up to 2.68 GPM for multiple fixtures
- Precise 80°F–140°F digital controls
- Compact, vent-free design
Best For: Smaller homes needing compact on-demand hot water
Best Whole-House Value
18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
- 18kW capacity for 3–4 usage points
- 99.8% thermal efficiency
- 1°F LED temperature control
Best For: Homes with several simultaneous hot-water demands
Best Smart-Home Pick
- WiFi, app, Alexa, and Google Home control
- Up to 3.4 GPM under stated conditions
- ETL-certified multi-layer safety protection
Best For: Smart-home users needing hot water at two points
Best High-Capacity Pick – Rheem RTEX-24 24kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTEX-24 is a high-capacity option for shoppers comparing electric tankless water heaters for whole-home use. Its 24kW output supports up to 5.9 GPM, while digital controls let you adjust the temperature in 1-degree increments.
Best For: Homes needing higher on-demand output for multiple fixtures.
Pros:
- Up to 5.9 GPM flow rate for multiple fixture applications
- Digital thermostatic controls adjust from 80°F to 140°F
- Compact wall-mounted design requires no venting
- Includes a 5-year leak warranty and 1-year parts warranty
Cons:
- Requires three 40-amp double-pole breakers and three sets of #8 AWG copper conductors
- Recommended for homes with a minimum 200-amp electrical service panel
The RTEX-24 offers strong capacity and convenient temperature control, but its substantial electrical requirements should be confirmed with a qualified installer before purchase.
Best Compact Point-of-Use Option – Kweetle 11kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
This 11kW Kweetle model is a compact choice among electric tankless water heaters for point-of-use installations. It delivers up to 2.68 GPM, uses self-modulating control, and displays operating temperature on an LED screen.
Best For: Point-of-use applications serving two or three fixtures.
Pros:
- Compact wall-mounted design measuring 10.86 inches wide and 2.95 inches high
- Self-modulating operation adjusts energy use based on incoming water temperature and flow
- Includes dry-burn, overheat, and water-leakage protection
- Temperature can be adjusted from 86°F to 131°F
Cons:
- Limited to 2.68 GPM, so it is less suited to high-demand whole-home use
- Requires hardwiring, a 50-amp double-pole breaker, and 6 AWG wire
- Maximum temperature is 131°F
With its small footprint and built-in safety features, this unit can fit targeted installations well. Verify the circuit and water-demand requirements before installation.
Best Serviceable Mid-Range Pick – Rheem RTEX-13 13kW Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTEX-13 is a compact electric tankless water heater with external digital controls and self-modulating power control. Its 13kW heating system is rated for up to 3.17 GPM in the supplied product notes, making it a practical fit for more focused residential hot-water needs.
Best For: Smaller residential installations that value adjustable controls and serviceable heating elements.
Pros:
- External LED control adjusts temperature in 1-degree increments
- Copper immersion heating elements are field serviceable
- Rated at least 99.8% energy efficient
- Includes 1/2-inch NPT adapters and a water-saver shower head
Cons:
- 13kW capacity and up to 3.17 GPM flow may not suit simultaneous high-demand use
- Requires 240V electrical service and draws 54 amps
The RTEX-13 combines a compact format with accessible controls and serviceable copper elements. Its lower capacity makes careful application matching and electrical planning especially important.
Best Smart Whole-Home Pick – Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Westinghouse 24kW model adds WiFi and voice-control compatibility to the whole-home electric tankless water heater format. It provides up to 5.55 GPM and is designed for residential use across bathrooms, kitchens, and other hot-water locations.
Best For: Smart-home users wanting remote temperature control and whole-home capacity.
Pros:
- Up to 5.55 GPM of on-demand hot water
- WiFi control works with an app, Alexa, and Google Home
- Compact 17-by-13-by-4.3-inch wall-mounted design
- ETL certified and compatible with three 40-amp double-pole breakers
Cons:
- Requires 240V hardwiring and a listed 100-amp current supply
- Installation requires three 40-amp breakers and three 8 AWG wires
- Maximum pressure is listed at 120 psi
This Westinghouse unit stands out for adding connected controls to a high-output design. Its demanding electrical setup should be evaluated before choosing it for an apartment or home.
Best Whole-Home Pick – Rheem 18kW Tankless Water Heater
If you need a dependable option among electric tankless water heaters, the Rheem RTEX-18 offers 18kW of power, self-modulation, and a digital thermostat for precise adjustment. Its 4.4 GPM maximum flow rate makes it a practical choice for whole-home use, provided your electrical service and installation setup can support it.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a high-output, serviceable electric tankless water heater with straightforward controls.
Pros:
- Self-modulates power to match hot water demand.
- LED temperature display with stated ±1-degree accuracy.
- Copper immersion heating elements are field-serviceable.
- Provides up to 4.4 GPM and uses 3/4-inch NPT water connections.
Cons:
- Its 240V, 18kW design requires an appropriately equipped electrical system.
- Maximum flow depends on incoming water conditions and household demand.
The Rheem stands out for its combination of capacity, precise controls, and serviceable components. It is a strong fit when you want whole-home electric tankless performance and have confirmed the installation requirements.
Best Compact Budget Option – ORBEK 14kW Electric Tankless Heater
The ORBEK 14kW is a compact choice among electric tankless water heaters, delivering up to 3.38 GPM of on-demand hot water. Its digital controls, stable temperature management, and multiple safety protections make it suited to smaller demand scenarios, but installation requires a 240V/60A two-pole breaker and compatible wiring.
Best For: Smaller homes or installations serving two to three points of use, such as a bathroom and kitchen.
Pros:
- Compact 14.2-by-9.5-by-3.1-inch wall-mounted design.
- Adjustable temperature range from 86°F to 140°F.
- Claims temperature stability within 1°F and heating in about three seconds.
- Includes ETL certification and leakage, over-temperature, and dry-heating protection.
Cons:
- Lower 3.38 GPM output than the 18kW alternatives in this roundup.
- Requires a household panel with at least 150 amps according to the supplied note.
- Hard-wiring and a 240V/60A two-pole breaker are required.
The ORBEK prioritizes a small footprint and precise digital operation. It can work well for moderate demand, but buyers should verify panel capacity and electrical requirements before purchase.
Best Smart-Connected Pick – WINTEMP 18kW WiFi Water Heater
The WINTEMP WN18 combines 18kW electric tankless performance with WiFi control and self-modulating operation. It offers up to 4.3 GPM, a compact wall-mounted form, and multiple safety features, making it worth considering for homes that want remote temperature adjustment and continuous hot water.
Best For: Two- to three-bathroom homes in mild to moderate climates that want WiFi-enabled control.
Pros:
- WiFi control allows temperature adjustments remotely.
- Self-modulates based on water flow and incoming temperature.
- Provides up to 4.3 GPM of on-demand hot water.
- Includes LED display, temperature lock, leakage protection, overheat protection, and dry-fire protection.
Cons:
- Requires two 40A double-pole breakers and 2 x 8/2 AWG wiring.
- The supplied note recommends 150A household service and consulting a qualified electrician.
- Its 4.3 GPM maximum is slightly below the Rheem model’s stated 4.4 GPM.
The WINTEMP is the most convenient choice here for connected control, while its self-modulation helps manage power use during changing demand. Confirm the substantial electrical requirements before installation.
Best Space-Saving Pick – Rheem 11kW Multi-Fixture Heater
For shoppers comparing electric tankless water heaters, the Rheem RTEX-11 is a compact 240V option designed for multiple-fixture applications. It provides up to 2.68 GPM, offers precise digital temperature settings, and requires no venting, but buyers should confirm the electrical service and installation requirements first.
Best For: Smaller homes or installations needing compact, on-demand hot water for multiple fixtures.
Pros:
- Compact design is about 90% smaller than a traditional tank water heater.
- Digital controls adjust temperature from 80°F to 140°F in 1-degree increments.
- Uses energy only when hot water is needed and requires no venting.
- Stainless-steel construction and a 5-year leak warranty add useful durability coverage.
Cons:
- Requires 240V power, a 50-amp double-pole breaker, #8 AWG copper conductors, and a recommended 100-amp household service panel.
- The 2.68 GPM output may be limiting for heavier simultaneous demand.
The Rheem is a practical space-saving choice when its electrical requirements and flow capacity match the home. Professional installation and correct sizing are important for reliable performance.
Best Whole-House Value – 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
This 18kW model is among the more powerful electric tankless water heaters in this roundup, with output intended for three to four simultaneous usage points. Its LED controls, compact wall-mount design, and built-in safety features make it worth considering, provided your electrical system can support two 40-amp circuits.
Best For: Homes seeking higher-capacity electric hot water for several kitchen and bathroom fixtures.
Pros:
- 18kW heating power and up to 99.8% thermal efficiency support multiple usage points.
- LED controls provide 1°F temperature adjustments from 86°F to 131°F.
- Compact design can be installed under a sink or on a wall.
- Includes leakage, overheating, and automatic shut-off protection.
Cons:
- Requires 240V power and two 40-amp circuit breakers.
- The listed maximum temperature of 131°F provides a narrower range than some competitors.
With more heating capacity than the 11kW option, this unit is better suited to simultaneous demand. Confirm circuit capacity, connections, and installation space before purchase.
Best Smart-Home Pick – Westinghouse 14kW WiFi Heater
The Westinghouse 14kW is a smart electric tankless water heater for buyers who want app and voice control alongside on-demand performance. It reaches hot water in about three seconds under the stated conditions, supports up to two water points, and includes multiple safety protections, though its dedicated electrical requirements should be planned carefully.
Best For: Smart-home users in apartments, houses, cabins, or similar residential settings.
Pros:
- WiFi, Alexa, and Google Home compatibility allow remote and voice temperature control.
- Temperature memory restores the last preset after a power outage.
- Compact wall-mount design takes no floor space and delivers up to 3.4 GPM under stated conditions.
- ETL certification, IPX4 protection, and leakage, overheat, dry-fire, and over-voltage safeguards improve peace of mind.
Cons:
- Requires a dedicated 60-amp double-pole breaker and 6 AWG wire at 240V.
- The stated 3.4 GPM output depends on inlet and outlet temperature conditions.
- Regular inlet-filter and rotor cleaning is recommended every six months.
This Westinghouse stands out when connected controls and safety features matter as much as hot-water delivery. Its 14kW capacity is best matched to the stated two-point application rather than unusually heavy simultaneous demand.
How We Picked These Electric Tankless Water Heaters
We focused on models with practical household power ratings, commonly useful flow-rate ranges, and features that simplify everyday use. The selection includes compact 11kW and 14kW units, midrange 18kW heaters, and larger 24kW systems for higher demand. We also considered self-modulation, digital temperature controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, safety certifications, and suitability for point-of-use or whole-home installation.
Because performance varies with water temperature and plumbing conditions, wattage alone does not determine whether a heater will meet your needs. Installation requirements and local electrical service are equally important.
Quick Comparison
- 11kW: Best suited to a single sink, bathroom fixture, or modest point-of-use application.
- 14kW: A useful middle ground for limited multi-fixture demand in warmer climates.
- 18kW: Better for a bathroom plus another light-duty fixture, depending on incoming water temperature.
- 24kW: The strongest option in this group for larger demand, but it requires substantial electrical capacity.
- Wi-Fi models: Useful for remote monitoring and adjustments when app connectivity is reliable.
Key Buying Factors for Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Electrical Capacity
Electric tankless heaters draw significant current. Confirm the voltage, breaker count, wire size, and available service capacity with the installation manual and a qualified electrician. A high-output unit may require multiple dedicated circuits, and an older 100-amp service may not support it comfortably.
Flow Rate and Temperature Rise
Look for the heater’s gallons-per-minute rating at your expected temperature rise, not just its maximum advertised flow. Colder groundwater requires more energy, reducing the flow a unit can deliver. Add the flow rates of fixtures likely to run simultaneously.
Controls, Modulation, and Safety
Self-modulating units adjust power to demand, which can improve temperature stability and energy use. Digital displays make adjustments easier, while overheat protection and recognized safety certification are important indicators of a more complete installation design.
Installation and Maintenance
Verify inlet and outlet sizes, required clearances, water-pressure limits, and whether a service shutoff or scale-control system is recommended. Hard-water areas may require periodic descaling to preserve performance.
Who Should Buy Which Electric Tankless Water Heaters?
Choose an 11kW model for a compact point-of-use installation or a single low-flow fixture. Choose 14kW when you need somewhat more capacity without moving to a larger electrical load. Choose 18kW for moderate household demand, such as a bathroom and occasional secondary fixture. Choose 24kW when multiple fixtures may operate together and your electrical service can support the installation.
Wi-Fi models make the most sense for homeowners who value remote controls or usage monitoring, while a simpler digital unit may be preferable when reliability and straightforward operation matter most. Before purchasing, have an electrician confirm that the selected heater matches your home’s service and local code requirements.