body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0; padding: 20px; background-color: #f4f4f4; color: #333; }
.intro-container, .product-container, .guide-container { max-width: 800px; margin: 0 auto 40px auto; background-color: #fff; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; box-shadow: 0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.1); }
h1 { color: #333; text-align: center; margin-bottom: 20px; }
h2 { color: #333; margin-bottom: 20px; }
h3 { color: #444; margin-top: 20px; }
.product-image { display: block; max-width: 300px; height: auto; margin: 20px auto; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid #eee; }
.check-price-button { display: block; color: white; width: 200px; margin: 20px auto; padding: 10px 15px; background-color: #dc3545; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 4px; font-weight: bold; transition: background-color 0.3s ease; }
.check-price-button:hover { background-color: #c82333; }
p { line-height: 1.6; margin: 15px 0; }
ul { padding-left: 20px; margin: 10px 0; }
li { margin-bottom: 8px; }
When it comes to upgrading your home’s hot water system, choosing the best Rheem tankless electric water heater can make all the difference in performance, efficiency, and long-term value. Tankless water heaters are renowned for their energy savings and endless hot water supply, but selecting the right model requires careful consideration of quality, reliability, and features.
Rheem, a trusted name in the industry, offers a range of options designed to meet diverse household needs, from compact units for small spaces to high-capacity systems for larger homes. In this review, we’ll explore what sets the top Rheem tankless electric water heaters apart, helping you make an informed decision.
Whether you prioritize durability, smart technology, or cost-effectiveness, understanding the key factors ensures you invest in a solution that delivers consistent performance and peace of mind. Let’s dive into what makes these heaters stand out in a competitive market.
1. Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater
This tankless water heater is an energy-efficient option that only uses electricity when hot water is needed, unlike traditional tank heaters that constantly maintain hot water. However, it’s important to understand its requirements before purchasing. The unit needs two 40-amp circuits, so installation is easiest during new construction or for those with electrical expertise.
Handy homeowners or DIYers can handle the setup, but others should hire an electrician—ensuring sufficient amperage is critical, as many issues arise from inadequate home electrical capacity. Water temperature is another key factor. The heater works best where incoming water is moderately cold, like in central Texas, where winter temps average 60°F.
However, it may not suffice in colder climates like Chicago, where a larger unit would be needed. Checking your water temp with a thermometer (not just relying on charts) is recommended, as conditions vary even within the same city. For a household of three with two bathrooms, this model performs well, especially with flow limiters (2.5 GPM) on faucets—though it can still fill a large soaker tub in about 10 minutes at 7 GPM.
Maintenance is straightforward but essential: flushing the system with vinegar every six months keeps it running smoothly. The reviewer designed their installation for easy cleaning and found the process simple. They also noted that traditional tank heaters might last longer with similar maintenance.
After six months of use, the heater has no issues and delivers consistent performance. The reviewer highly recommends it—but only if the electrical and water temperature requirements are a match for your home.
Why We Choose
- High-efficiency 99.8% energy performance
- Powerful 18 kW heat output
- Compact wall-mounted design saves space
- LED display for easy monitoring
- Durable stainless steel finish
2. Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater
It sounds like this water heater is an excellent choice for smaller homes, particularly those around 450 square feet. The customer highlights its great price, making it an affordable option without compromising on performance. The unit meets all needs quickly and efficiently, indicating it delivers reliable hot water with minimal wait time.
This suggests the heater is well-suited for households prioritizing convenience and energy efficiency. The positive feedback underscores the product’s ability to balance cost and functionality, making it a practical solution for compact living spaces. The emphasis on efficiency implies it operates effectively without excessive energy consumption.
Overall, the review reflects a satisfying user experience, with the water heater fulfilling its purpose seamlessly. Its affordability and performance make it a standout option for those seeking a reliable, budget-friendly appliance.
Why We Choose
- High-efficiency 99.8% energy-saving performance
- Compact wall-mount design saves space
- LED display for easy temperature monitoring
- Fast 2.68 GPM hot water flow
- Durable stainless steel finish for longevity
3. Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater
Product Review: “Unfortunately, there are many factors to consider before buying an electric tankless heater.”
Groundwater temperature and location are critical for optimal performance. The reviewer, located in North Central Florida with a consistent 72°F (22°C) groundwater temperature, found this heater ideal. However, they caution that colder climates may struggle with performance during winter. Rheem’s provided map helps determine suitability.
Additionally, natural gas hookups may offer better efficiency or cost savings, so researching alternatives is recommended. Performance is highly satisfactory for compatible regions. The heater delivers consistent, endless hot water, a significant upgrade over tank units. While it takes ~25 seconds to reach max temperature (slightly longer than a tank heater), the unlimited supply eliminates time constraints.
The digital display accurately reflects output temperature, with a minor 2°F–4°F (1°C–2°C) drop in distant showers. The 24 kW model handles multiple simultaneous demands, like two showers and laundry, without issue. Installation requires professional electrical work. While plumbing is straightforward, 200-amp service is essential, and an auxiliary breaker box may be needed, adding to costs.
The reviewer paid $850 for professional installation, a potential consideration for buyers. Energy and water usage saw a slight increase due to longer showers, but the trade-off for comfort was deemed worthwhile.
Why We Choose
- High 99.8% energy efficiency
- Compact wall-mounted design saves space
- Powerful 24 KW heat output
- LED display for easy monitoring
- Durable stainless steel finish
4. Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater
That’s because the Rheem 240V RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater delivers reliable performance, even in cold climates. The user reports being “quite happy” with this unit, their first tankless heater, noting it provides hot water just as quickly as their previous tanked system. Even in Pennsylvania’s winter temperatures (as low as 10°F), the heater produces scalding-hot water at just under 1 GPM or a comfortably hot shower at 1–1.5 GPM when mixed with cold. The 13kW unit handles a single fixture like a shower efficiently, though it may struggle with simultaneous high-flow demands. The compact and lightweight design simplifies installation and future replacements, a standout feature compared to bulky tanked units.
The stainless steel heating chambers are a plus for durability, though the user notes concerns about brass components in acidic well water. Despite minor build quality reservations, the heater performs well within its intended flow range, making it ideal for mindful users who adjust water usage to match the system’s capacity. A slight drawback is the minimum flow requirement to activate the heater, which may delay hot water for low-flow tasks like handwashing.
However, the unit excels in energy efficiency and targeted use, avoiding waste—a benefit for well and septic system owners. For those needing higher flow rates or multiple fixtures, a larger unit may be necessary, but the RTEX-13 is a solid choice for modest, controlled usage. Overall, it’s a practical solution for consistent hot water without the inefficiencies of a tank.
Why We Choose
- Highly energy-efficient at 99.8%
- Compact wall-mounted design saves space
- Fast 4.8 GPM hot water flow
- LED display for easy monitoring
- Reliable 13 KW electric heating power
5. Rheem RTEX-27 240V 3 Heating Chambers Residential Tankless Water Heater
In fact, this tankless water heater provides an unlimited supply of hot water, eliminating the frustration of cold showers or waiting for a tank to refill. The accurate and dependable digital temperature control allows for precise adjustments, offering a clear advantage over vague manual settings. While installation required a new 240V circuit, the process was straightforward for those with available breaker box capacity, and the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial setup.
The customer chose this unit for its competitive price, convenient home delivery, and Rheem’s trusted brand reputation. Opting for a higher capacity model ensured consistent hot water availability, with the added cost justified over the unit’s lifespan. The review also dispels common misconceptions, noting that concerns about low groundwater temperatures were unfounded and contradicted manufacturer data.
The reviewer emphasizes that misinformation should not deter potential buyers from modern tankless systems. While extreme winter climates may require additional research, the unit performs exceptionally well in moderate conditions. The critique of a plumbing contractor’s outdated advice highlights the importance of seeking accurate, up-to-date information rather than relying on unfounded claims.
Overall, this tankless heater delivers reliable, efficient, and convenient hot water, making it a worthwhile investment for modern households.
Why We Choose
- High-efficiency tankless design saves energy
- Powerful 27000 watts for instant hot water
- Compact wall-mounted saves space
- Made in USA for reliable quality
- Easy installation with included components
Buying Guide for Best Rheem Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters
Understanding Tankless Electric Water Heaters
Tankless electric water heaters provide hot water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank. They are energy-efficient, compact, and ideal for homes with limited space. Rheem models boast 99.8% energy efficiency, reducing utility bills. Consider your household’s hot water needs, as tankless heaters vary in flow rate (GPM) and heating power (kW).
Choosing the Right Size and Power
Select a unit based on your hot water demand. Smaller households (1-2 people) may suffice with an 11kW or 13kW model (2.68-4.8 GPM). Larger households (3+ people) should opt for 18kW, 24kW, or 27kW models (higher GPM). Performance depends on incoming water temperature—colder climates may require higher kW ratings.
Installation and Space Considerations
Rheem tankless heaters feature compact wall-mounted designs, saving floor space. Ensure your electrical system supports the unit’s voltage (240V) and power requirements. Professional installation is recommended for safety and compliance with local codes. Check for included components, like the Rheem RTEX-27’s easy-installation kit.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
All Rheem models offer 99.8% energy efficiency, as they only heat water when needed. This reduces standby energy loss common in tank heaters. While upfront costs are higher, long-term savings on energy bills make them a smart investment. Look for ENERGY STAR ratings for additional efficiency verification.
Durability and Maintenance
Rheem heaters feature stainless steel finishes for longevity and corrosion resistance. Regular maintenance, like descaling, ensures optimal performance. The LED display on most models simplifies monitoring and troubleshooting. Choose a model with a robust warranty for added peace of mind.
Additional Features to Consider
Prioritize models with user-friendly features like LED displays for temperature control. Some units, like the RTEX-27, offer multiple heating chambers for consistent performance. Made in USA models may assure higher quality standards. Compare flow rates and heating times to match your household’s usage patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best Rheem Tankless Electric Hot Water Heaters
How do I determine the right size for my home?
Assess your household’s peak hot water usage. Smaller households (1-2 people) can opt for 11kW-13kW models, while larger families (3+ people) should consider 18kW-27kW units. Factor in climate—colder regions may need higher kW ratings to maintain desired temperatures.
Are Rheem tankless electric water heaters energy-efficient?
Yes, Rheem models boast 99.8% energy efficiency, heating water only when needed. This reduces energy waste compared to traditional tank heaters, leading to significant cost savings over time. Look for ENERGY STAR ratings for additional efficiency confirmation.
What maintenance is required for these heaters?
Regular descaling (especially in hard water areas) is essential to prevent mineral buildup. Inspect the unit annually and clean the inlet filter. The LED display helps monitor performance, alerting you to potential issues. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines for optimal longevity.
Can I install a Rheem tankless heater myself?
While some models include easy-installation kits, professional installation is recommended. These units require 240V electrical connections and proper wiring to handle the load. A licensed electrician ensures compliance with local codes and safety standards.
How long do Rheem tankless water heaters last?
With proper maintenance, Rheem tankless heaters can last 15-20 years. Their stainless steel construction resists corrosion, and regular descaling prevents performance issues. Warranty coverage also varies, so check the terms for your specific model.
