Buying Guide for the Best Electric Tankless Water Heater
Choosing the right electric tankless water heater can significantly impact your comfort and energy efficiency at home. These devices heat water on demand, which means you won't run out of hot water and you can save on energy costs since there's no need to keep a large tank of water hot at all times. However, selecting the right model involves understanding several key specifications to ensure it meets your household's needs.Flow RateFlow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicates how much hot water the heater can produce at a time. This is crucial because it determines whether the heater can supply enough hot water for your household's simultaneous needs, such as running a shower and a dishwasher at the same time. For small households or single applications, a lower GPM (around 2-4 GPM) might suffice. Larger households or those with higher simultaneous hot water demands should look for higher GPM ratings (5 GPM and above). Assess your household's peak hot water usage to determine the appropriate flow rate.
Power RatingThe power rating, measured in kilowatts (kW), indicates the heater's capacity to heat water. Higher kW ratings mean the heater can heat water more quickly and to higher temperatures. This is important for ensuring that the water reaches the desired temperature, especially in colder climates where incoming water temperature is lower. For warmer climates or lower hot water demands, a unit with a lower kW rating (around 10-15 kW) may be sufficient. In colder climates or for higher demands, look for units with higher kW ratings (18 kW and above). Consider your climate and hot water needs to choose the right power rating.
Temperature RiseTemperature rise refers to the increase in water temperature that the heater can achieve. This is important because it affects how hot the water will be when it reaches your tap. The required temperature rise depends on the incoming water temperature and the desired output temperature. For example, if your incoming water is 50°F and you want it to be 120°F, you need a temperature rise of 70°F. Units with higher temperature rise capabilities are better suited for colder climates or higher hot water demands. Determine your incoming water temperature and desired output temperature to select a heater with the appropriate temperature rise.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency, often expressed as a percentage, indicates how effectively the heater converts electrical energy into hot water. Higher efficiency ratings mean less energy waste and lower operating costs. This is important for reducing your energy bills and environmental impact. Most electric tankless water heaters have high efficiency ratings (around 90-99%), but even small differences can add up over time. Look for units with higher efficiency ratings to maximize energy savings. Consider your long-term energy costs and environmental goals when evaluating efficiency.
Size and Installation RequirementsThe physical size of the heater and its installation requirements are important for ensuring it fits in your available space and can be installed properly. This includes considerations like electrical requirements, ventilation, and mounting options. Smaller units are easier to install in tight spaces but may have lower capacities. Larger units require more space and may need professional installation. Assess your available space and installation capabilities to choose a unit that fits your home and can be installed safely and efficiently.
