When it comes to ensuring your home has a steady hot water supply, choosing the right water heater is critical. Whether you’re taking a morning shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry, a reliable water heater is a must.
But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose? Fear not, I’ve been in the business of evaluating home appliances for years, and I’ve put together a list of the best water heaters for 2024 to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Quick Overview
Rheem Performance Platinum 50-gallon
★★★★★
4.6/5
- Manufacturer: Rheem
- Heater Type: Electric, Tank
- Capacity: 50 gallons
- Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR-certified
Rinnai RL75iN
★★★★★
4.6/5
- Manufacturer: Rinnai
- Heater Type: Tankless, Natural Gas
- Capacity: Unlimited
- Energy Efficiency: High efficiency
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A.O. Smith Signature Premier
★★★★★
4.3/5
- Manufacturer: AO Smith
- Heater Type: Natural Gas, Tank
- Capacity: 50 gallon
- Energy Efficiency: High Energy Factor rating
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
Before we get into the water heater reviews, let’s break down what makes a water heater the best choice for your home. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
1. Types of Water Heaters
First things first, what type of water heater are you looking for? Here’s a quick rundown of the options:
- Tank Water Heaters: These are the traditional models that store hot water in a tank. They’re reliable and can provide a large volume of hot water, but they can be less energy-efficient due to heat loss.
- Tankless Water Heaters: These heaters warm water on demand, which means no energy is wasted keeping a tank of water hot. They’re more energy-efficient but often come with a higher upfront cost.
- Electric vs. Gas: Electric water heaters are generally easier to install and maintain, while gas models can be more cost-effective in the long run, depending on your local utility rates.
- Solar Water Heaters: If you’re looking to go green, solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat your water, making them highly energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
2. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a big deal when it comes to water heaters. Look for models with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings or Energy Star certifications. The more efficient the water heater, the lower your utility bills.
3. Capacity
The amount of capacity you need depends on the size of your household. For instance, the best electric hot water tank with a 50-gallon capacity might be perfect for a family of four, while a smaller home could get by with a 30-gallon model.
4. Durability and Maintenance
Investing in a water heater that’s built to last will save you time and money in the long run. Look for models with strong warranties and easy maintenance features like self-cleaning systems.
5. Installation and Space Requirements
Consider where you’ll install the water heater. Top-rated electric water heaters can be more compact and easier to install in tight spaces, while gas water heaters typically require venting and more space.
Best Water Heaters of 2024: Our Top 8 Picks
Now that you know what to look for, let’s jump into the top 8 water heaters that have made it to my list. I’ve included a mix of tank and tankless models, as well as both electric and gas options, to ensure there’s something for everyone.
1. Rheem Performance Platinum 50-gallon
The Best Smart Electric Water Heater
This water heater provides exceptional hot water delivery, offers energy-efficient operation, and comes with an intuitive control system. It features a durable design, self-cleaning functionality, and a long-lasting anode rod to ensure reliability. It is perfect for larger households.
Heater Type: Electric, Tank | Tank Capacity: 50 gallons | Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR certified, High Energy Factor rating | Key Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, Digital Display, Energy Usage Tracking, 12-year warranty
When it comes to the best electric hot water tanks, the Rheem Performance Platinum is a standout. With a robust 50-gallon tank, this model is ideal for medium- to large-sized households. What sets this water heater apart is its ENERGY STAR certification, which means it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines. The high Energy Factor (EF) rating ensures that you’ll save on utility bills without compromising performance.
One of the standout features of the Rheem Performance Platinum is its smart home compatibility. With built-in Wi-Fi, you can control and monitor your water heater remotely via a smartphone app. This means you can adjust the temperature, track energy usage, and even receive maintenance alerts, all from your phone. The self-cleaning feature is another bonus, as it reduces sediment buildup, prolonging the life of the unit. Although it comes with a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings and convenience make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking the best electric hot water tank.
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2. Rinnai RL75iN
The Best Tankless Water Heater
This tankless heater provides on-demand, endless hot water while saving energy by heating water only when needed. It features a compact design, making it perfect for homes with limited space. With advanced temperature control and a high flow rate, this unit ensures consistent water temperature for multiple outlets simultaneously.
Heater Type: Tankless, Natural Gas, Indoor Installation | Tank Capacity: Unlimited | Energy Efficiency: High efficiency with low emissions | Key Features: Wi-Fi connectivity, Compact design, High flow rate
The Rinnai RL75iN Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is a premium choice for homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency and endless hot water supply. Unlike traditional tank water heaters, this tankless model heats water on demand, so you’ll never run out of hot water, even during back-to-back showers. The compact design is perfect for homes with limited space, and it can be installed in different locations, including closets or small utility rooms.
This Rinnai model is particularly known for its impressive flow rate, delivering up to 7.5 gallons per minute. This makes it ideal for larger households or homes with high hot water demands. The Rinnai RL75iN is also equipped with advanced technology that reduces energy consumption by only heating water when needed, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. Additionally, its low NOx emissions make it an environmentally friendly choice. While the initial cost and installation can be higher than tank models, the long-term savings and performance make it one of the best gas water heaters on the market.
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3. A.O. Smith Signature Premier 50-gallon
The Best Gas Water Heater for Large Households
This water heater offers a generous 50-gallon capacity, ensuring a steady hot water supply for larger households. It features a self-cleaning dip tube to reduce sediment buildup and improve efficiency over time. With a quick recovery rate, this unit provides consistent hot water, even during peak usage periods.
Heater Type: Tank, Natural Gas | Tank Capacity: 50-gallon | Energy Efficiency: High Energy Factor rating | Key Features: Fast recovery rate, Durable construction, 12-year warranty
A.O. Smith is a top-brand water heater manufacturer, and their Signature Premier 50-gallon Gas Water Heater is one of their flagship models. This unit is designed for durability and efficiency, making it a solid choice for large families or homes with high hot water needs. With a 50-gallon tank, this gas water heater can easily handle multiple showers, laundry, and dishwashing at the same time.
What makes this model stand out is its fast recovery rate. The water heater can replenish hot water almost as quickly as it’s used, reducing the waiting time between uses. The robust construction includes a glass-lined tank that helps prevent corrosion, extending the unit’s lifespan. Additionally, the A.O. Smith Signature Premier is equipped with a self-diagnostic safety system that monitors the unit’s performance and alerts you to any potential issues. While gas water heaters generally consume more energy than their electric counterparts, the high efficiency and reliable performance of this model make it a top choice for those seeking the best residential water heater.
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4. EcoSmart ECO 27
The Best Energy-Efficient Electric Water Heater
EcoSmart’s ECO 27 is a popular choice among the top electric water heaters, delivering endless hot water on demand while saving energy. This compact tankless model is perfect for smaller homes or apartments.
Heater Type: Tankless, Electric, Wall mount | Tank Capacity: Unlimited | Energy Efficiency: 99.8% efficiency | Key Features: LED display, Adjustable temperature control
The EcoSmart ECO 27 is a compact and energy-efficient solution for homes that require a reliable source of hot water but lack the space for a traditional tank water heater. This electric tankless model is designed to heat water on demand, which means you only use energy when you need hot water, resulting in lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
One of the most impressive features of this water heater is its 99.8% energy efficiency rating, one of the highest in its class. The unit includes digital temperature control, allowing you to adjust the water temperature in 1-degree increments to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and energy savings. The compact size also makes it ideal for smaller homes and apartments, or even for use as a point-of-use heater in larger homes. While the flow rate may be lower than larger tankless models, the EcoSmart ECO 27 is a great option for those looking for a space-saving, efficient, and best electric tankless water heater.
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5. Bradford White RG240T6N 40-gallon
The Most Reliable Gas Water Heater
The Bradford White RG240T6N gas water heater delivers reliable hot water with a 40-gallon capacity, ideal for medium-sized households. It features a durable design with corrosion-resistant components for long-lasting performance.
Heater Type: Tank, Natural gas | Tank Capacity: 40-gallon | Energy Efficiency: High Energy Factor rating | Key Features: Resettable Thermal Switch, Advanced Temperature Control System
The Bradford White RG240T6N is a robust and reliable 40-gallon gas water heater that is well-suited for medium-sized households. Bradford White is known for manufacturing durable and long-lasting water heaters, and this model is no exception. It features a powerful gas burner that provides a quick recovery rate, ensuring that you have plenty of hot water available when you need it.
The tank is lined with a durable enamel coating to prevent corrosion, and the unit is designed with advanced safety features, including a pressure relief valve and a safety shut-off system. One of the standout features of the Bradford White RG240T6N is its Hydrojet Total Performance System, which reduces sediment buildup and increases the efficiency and lifespan of the water heater. While it requires more space and professional installation due to its venting requirements, the high performance and reliability make this model one of the best water heaters for home use, particularly for those who prefer a gas-powered option.
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6. Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus
The Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
This electric tankless heater delivers endless hot water on demand while conserving energy by heating water only when needed. It features advanced flow control technology to maintain a constant temperature, even when multiple outlets are in use.
Heater Type: Tankless, Electric | Tank Capacity: Unlimited | Energy Efficiency: 99% efficiency | Key Features: Advanced flow control, Energy-saving mode, LED Display
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus is a high-end model that delivers both energy efficiency and advanced features. As the best electric tankless water heater, this unit is designed to provide continuous hot water on demand, making it perfect for homes with high hot water needs. The Tempra Plus uses advanced flow control technology to ensure consistent water temperature even when multiple taps are in use, eliminating the risk of sudden temperature drops or “cold water sandwiches.”
This model boasts an impressive 99% energy efficiency rating, which means almost no energy is wasted during operation. Additionally, the compact design allows for flexible installation options, making it ideal for homes where space is at a premium. One of the standout features is the digital temperature control, which allows for precise adjustments to water temperature, ensuring maximum comfort and energy savings. While it comes with a higher price tag, the performance, efficiency, and durability of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus make it a worthwhile investment for those looking for a top-of-the-line tankless water heater.
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7. Bosch Tronic 3000 T
The Best Compact Water Heater
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T is perfect for tight spaces or point-of-use applications. With a 4-gallon capacity, it’s ideal for under sinks in bathrooms or kitchens, or even in garages or RVs.
Heater Type: Mini-Tank, Electric | Tank Capacity: 4-gallon | Energy Efficiency: High efficiency | Key Features: Lightweight, Compact size, Fast recovery rate, Space-saving
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T is a compact and efficient solution for those who need a reliable source of hot water in small spaces. With a 4-gallon capacity, this mini-tank water heater is ideal for point-of-use applications, such as under sinks in bathrooms or kitchens, or in remote locations like garages or RVs.
Despite its small size, this water heater is built to last, with a durable glass-lined tank that resists corrosion and a fast recovery rate that ensures you won’t have to wait long for hot water. The unit is easy to install and can be mounted vertically or horizontally, depending on your space requirements. While its limited capacity makes it unsuitable as a primary water heater for a whole house, it excels as a supplementary unit, providing quick and easy access to hot water exactly where you need it. Its energy efficiency and space-saving design make it one of the best hot water storage tanks for specific needs or small spaces.
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8. Takagi T-H3-DV-N
The Best High-Flow Rate Water Heater
This high-efficiency tankless water heater provides endless hot water while significantly reducing energy consumption. It features condensing technology to maximize efficiency and lower utility costs. Designed for larger homes, this unit delivers a high flow rate and consistent water temperature for multiple outlets at once.
Heater Type: Tankless, Natural Gas | Tank Capacity: Unlimited | Energy Efficiency: ENERGY STAR certified, High efficiency | Key Features: Computerized safety features, No pilot light, Freeze protection, Overheat protection, Surge protection,
The Takagi T-H3-DV-N is a high-efficiency natural gas tankless water heater that is designed for large households or commercial applications. Known for its robust performance and energy efficiency, this model is one of the best water heaters for those who require a reliable source of hot water on demand. This water heater features condensing technology that captures heat from the exhaust gases, improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
With a flow rate of up to 10 gallons per minute (GPM), this tankless water heater can easily handle multiple showers, faucets, and appliances simultaneously. The compact design allows for flexible installation, and its advanced safety features, including a built-in freeze protection system, ensure reliable operation in various climates. While the initial investment and installation costs are higher than traditional tank models, the long-term savings on energy bills and the endless supply of hot water make the Takagi T-H3-DV-N a top choice for those seeking a best-rated water heater in the tankless category.
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How to Maintain Your Water Heater
Even the best water heaters need regular maintenance to keep running smoothly. Here are some tips to ensure your heater stays in top shape:
- Flush the Tank Annually: Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Flushing the tank once a year helps prevent this.
- Check the anode rod: This rod prevents corrosion inside the tank. If it’s heavily corroded, replace it.
- Test the Pressure Relief Valve: This safety feature releases excess pressure. Make sure it’s functioning properly.
- Insulate Your Water Heater: Adding an insulation blanket to your tank can improve energy efficiency.
- Monitor for leaks: Regularly check for leaks, especially around fittings and valves.
Conclusion
There you have it: the top 8 water heaters and more for 2024. Whether you’re looking for the best electric tank water heater or a top electric water heater for your home, this list has something for everyone. Remember, the best water heater for you depends on your specific needs, so consider your household size, energy source, and budget before making a decision.
I hope that you find this guide helpful. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments section below. Also, check out our guide on the best places to buy a water heater.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more energy-efficient: a tank or a tankless heater?
Tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient because they only heat water on demand. However, tank models can still be efficient with the right insulation and regular maintenance.
How Often Should I Service My Water Heater?
It’s recommended that your heater be serviced at least once a year. This includes flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, and inspecting for leaks.
What size water heater do I need?
The size of the water heater you need depends on your household size and hot water usage. A 50-gallon tank is generally sufficient for a family of four, while smaller households may only need a 30-gallon model.
