Best Water Heaters for Residential of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Water heaters for residential use are an essential appliance for any household. They provide hot water for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. There are several types of water heaters available on the market, including tankless, electric, and gas-powered models. Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and compact size. Electric water heaters are also a popular choice for their ease of installation and low maintenance. Gas-powered water heaters are a reliable option for those looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to heat their water. Regardless of the type, choosing the right water heater for your home is crucial for ensuring your comfort and convenience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater Cover #TOP 1
Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Orbek 80,000 BTU Propane Tankless Water Heater Cover #TOP 2
Orbek 80,000 BTU Propane Tankless Water Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Ranein 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Cover #TOP 3
Ranein 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Water Heaters for Residential

#TOP 1

Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater

RTEX-13
Gray
Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater Cover
Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater, GRAY

The Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater is a compact and energy-efficient unit suitable for both single point-of-use and multiple applications. Its external adjustable digital thermostatic control with LED display allows you to adjust the temperature in increments of 1°F, while its 99.8% energy efficiency ensures you save on electricity bills. Its durable copper immersion two heating elements are field serviceable and self-modulating, making replacement and installation a breeze. Additionally, the heater comes with a water-saver shower head that delivers 1.5 GPM, and its simple installation process includes 1/2 NPT adapters and side 1/2 inch compression water connections.

What We Like
Compact and energy-efficient design
External adjustable digital thermostatic control with LED display for precise temperature adjustment
Durable copper immersion heating elements that are field serviceable and self-modulating

Orbek 80,000 BTU Propane Tankless Water Heater

Orbek
HW080
White
Orbek 80,000 BTU Propane Tankless Water Heater Cover
80,000 BTU Residential Indoor Propane Tankless Water Heater, ORBEK 120 Volt On-demand Instant Hot Water Heater, Up to 3.6 GPM, CSA Certified Multiple Points of Use Water Heater

The Orbek Propane Water Heater delivers a reliable source of hot water on demand, providing up to 3.6 gallons per minute. This means you can comfortably use multiple fixtures at once, ensuring everyone in your home enjoys hot water when they need it. Safety is a priority with this model, featuring advanced protections against issues like dry combustion and overheating, giving you peace of mind. Its energy-efficient design utilizes high-quality materials to conserve energy and reduce costs. Plus, its compact size allows it to fit snugly in smaller spaces, making it a practical choice for any home.

What We Like
Endless hot water supply
Advanced safety features
Energy-efficient design
Compact and space-saving
#TOP 3

Ranein 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater

Ranein
RE18K
Starry sky gray
Ranein 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Cover
Ranein Electric Tankless Water Heater, 18kW 240V on Demand Instant Endless Water Heater with LED Temperature Display for Residential Whole House Shower, Space Saving

The Ranein Tankless Water Heater offers a powerful and efficient solution for your hot water needs. With its 18 kW capacity, this unit heats water on demand, eliminating the need for preheating and significantly reducing energy costs by up to 60%. Its impressive thermal efficiency of 99% ensures you get ample hot water with a flow rate of up to 4.3 gallons per minute, perfect for multiple outlets in your home. You can easily set your desired temperature between 86°F and 131°F using simple knob controls and an LED display, providing you with convenience and peace of mind.

What We Like
Energy-efficient operation
Compact and space-saving design
On-demand hot water
Easy temperature control
#TOP 4

Orbek 14KW Electric Tankless Water Heater

Orbek
14KW
White
Orbek 14KW Electric Tankless Water Heater Cover
Electric Tankless Water Heater,ORBEK 14KW 240V On Demand Instant Water Heater, Endless Hot Water for Residential House Use, with LED Digital Display, 2-3 Point of Use Hot Water

The Orbek Tankless Water Heater offers a reliable solution for your hot water needs. With professional installation recommended, it connects easily to your home's electrical system. You'll enjoy endless hot water on demand, eliminating the standby energy consumption typical of traditional tank heaters. The unit is ETL certified, ensuring it meets rigorous safety standards for your peace of mind. It also features smart operation, adjusting energy use based on water temperature and flow, which helps maintain consistent temperatures while conserving power. This means you can enjoy hot water without worrying about energy waste.

What We Like
Endless hot water supply
Energy-efficient operation
ETL certified for safety
Easy installation
#TOP 5

Rheem RTEX-27 Tankless Water Heater

RTEX-27
Gray
Rheem RTEX-27 Tankless Water Heater Cover
Rheem RTEX-27 240V 3 Heating Chambers Residential Tankless Water Heater

The Rheem RTEX-27 Tankless Water Heater features an external digital thermostatic control with LED display, advanced self-modulation, and durable copper heating elements for field serviceability. The installation is simple with bottom 3/4 inch NPT water connections and threaded replacement. The digital temperature display provides accurate readings.

What We Like
Accurate temperature control with LED display
Self-modulation meets hot water demand
Easy installation and replacement
Durable copper heating elements for field serviceability
#TOP 6

Rheem RTGH Series Tankless Water Heater

RTGH-84DVLN-3
Gray
8.4 GPM
Rheem RTGH Series Tankless Water Heater Cover
Rheem RRTGH84DVLN3701171 Rheem RTGH Series 8.4 GPM 157,000 BTU 120 Volt Residential Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Stainless Steel

The Rheem Tankless Water Heater offers a versatile flow rate between 0.4 and 8.4 gallons per minute, ensuring you have hot water when you need it. You can easily adjust the temperature settings from 100 to 140°F, allowing you to customize your comfort with a default of 120°F. With electric ignition, you won't have to worry about pilot lights going out, making it safer and more convenient. Additionally, the product comes with comprehensive warranties, providing peace of mind with 1 year of labor coverage, 15 years for the heat exchanger, and 5 years for parts.

What We Like
High flow rate
Adjustable temperature settings
Safe electric ignition
Comprehensive warranties
#TOP 7

thermomate 18 Gallon Electric Water Heater

ES2000
White
thermomate 18 Gallon Electric Water Heater Cover
thermomate Tank Water Heater Electric, 18 Gallon Small Point of Use Hot Water Heater for Washing & Shower, 120Volt 1500W Compact Residential Water Heater, Adjustable Thermostat, UL Listed

The thermomate Electric Water Heater is a compact solution that provides 18 gallons of hot water, perfect for your washing needs or showers lasting 20 to 25 minutes. With adjustable settings from 90°F to 150°F, you can easily customize the water temperature to your preference. Its low-profile design allows for versatile installation in kitchens, bathrooms, or even RVs and boats. The INCOLOY-800 heating element enhances durability and efficiency, ensuring you enjoy long-lasting hot water without compromising on energy savings.

What We Like
Ample hot water supply
Adjustable temperature settings
Compact and versatile design
Durable heating element
#TOP 8

AMZCHEF 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater

Q2227
White
AMZCHEF 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Cover
AMZCHEF Tankless Water Heater Electric 27kW 240V on Demand Instant Endless Water Heater with LED Temperature Display for Residential Whole House Shower, Space Saving,CSA Certificated, Ipx4

The AMZCHEF Tankless Water Heater delivers hot water in just 3 seconds, ensuring you never have to wait for a shower again. With a remarkable thermal efficiency of 99%, it can support multiple outlets at once, making it perfect for family use. You can easily adjust the temperature between 86°F and 131°F using a simple knob, allowing you to enjoy hot water at your preferred comfort level. Plus, its compact design means it can fit seamlessly into your home without taking up much space, all while providing endless hot water for your daily needs.

What We Like
Instant hot water
High thermal efficiency
Easy temperature adjustments
Compact and stylish design
#TOP 9

Thermomate Tankless Electric Water Heater

ET270
Gray
240V/27kW
Thermomate Tankless Electric Water Heater Cover
Tankless Water Heater Electric 27kW 208~240 Volt, thermomate On Demand Instant Endless Hot Water Heater, Digital Temperature Display for Residential Whole House Shower, 114A GRAY

The Thermomate Tankless Electric Water Heater is a high-performance, energy-efficient water heating system. With self-modulating power, it only heats water when needed, saving up to 60% on water heating costs compared to traditional tank water heaters. Its instant unlimited hot water feature provides hot water in 3 seconds, eliminating wait time and ensuring you never run out of hot water again. The digital temperature display allows you to adjust the temperature in 1° increments from 80°F to 140°F, ensuring stable water temperature. It is easy to install, fits into tight spaces, and requires no maintenance for heating elements. Safety features include overheat protection and automatic shut-off when there is no water.

What We Like
Instant unlimited hot water
Self-modulating power saves up to 60% on water heating costs
Stable water temperature with digital temperature display
Easy to install and fits into tight spaces
No maintenance required for heating elements
#TOP 10

Keoslpy Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW

Keoslpy
24018G
Gray
Keoslpy Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW Cover
Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW 240V, On Demand Instant Endless Hot Water Heater with LED Temperature Display for Residential Whole House Shower, Save Space & Energy, ETL Certified

The Keoslpy Tankless Water Heater provides an efficient solution for your hot water needs. With an intelligent heating system, it adjusts power based on water flow, achieving up to 98% efficiency and significantly reducing your energy costs. You’ll enjoy instant hot water within seconds, with a flow rate that supports multiple showers at once, ensuring your family stays comfortable without waiting. The user-friendly knob control and LED display allow you to easily set your desired temperature, giving you the perfect hot water experience every time. Safety features like overheating and leakage protection ensure peace of mind while using this compact unit.

What We Like
High energy efficiency
Instant hot water supply
User-friendly controls
Multiple safety features
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the average life of a residential hot water heater?

While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.

2. What are the 3 types of water heaters?

There are five main types of water heaters; conventional, tankless, heat pump, solar, and condensing.

3. What size water heater do you need for your home?

For 1 to 2 people: 30-40 gallons. For 2 to 3 people: 40-50 gallons. For 3 to 4 people: 50-60 gallons. For 5+ people: 60-80 gallons.

Editor's Notes

During our water heater for residential research, we found 24 water heater for residential products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,672 customer reviews through our big data system to write the water heaters for residential list. We found that most customers choose water heaters for residential with an average price of $327.48.

The water heaters for residential are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of water heaters for residential, including Rheem, Orbek, Ranein, thermomate, amzchef. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 148 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.