Best Water Heaters of 2022 – Complete Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated: August 23, 2021

Hot water is one of the primary needs at home, isn’t it? Nobody wants to have their hands frozen while working around the house. So, there should be a highly efficient water heater to make sure you have hot water all the time.

This is why we have brought you a complete review and buyer’s guide for this year’s best water heaters. Choosing a water heater is integral to keeping a stable source of hot water in your home. Ensuring you choose a brand that produces high-quality products will stop you getting caught short.

The problem is that while many brands boast a high reputation, their prices are off the charts, making them entirely unaffordable to the average buyer. In this article, we will be running through some of the ideal brands that supply water heaters and what they have to offer. Equally, this will give you a quick guide to the maintenance involved to help you choose a brand that suits your needs.

Comparison Chart of the Best Water Heaters

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Comes with a very compact size
  • Point of use mini tank can fit any place
  • Uses 12 A current on 120 volts
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  • Unit comes with an eco-friendly working
  • Tankless frame provides a consistent hot water supply
  • Has a uniform energy factor of 0.98
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  • Best for the money
  • Very suitable for residential use due to quick heating
  • Has 2 distinct heating chambers
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  • Best Bradford White water heater
  • Has 4500-watt elements for heating
  • Runs on 240 volts voltage supply
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  • Best Rheem water heater
  • Comes with an exclusive water-saving technology
  • Has a recirculation ready pump kit
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  • Best AO Smith water heater
  • Sleek circular construction for residential use
  • Side-mounted plumbing allows for indoor use
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  • Best Navien water heater
  • Has a gas pipe of 24 feet
  • Dual heat exchangers with stainless steel construction
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What Size Water Heater Do I Need?

The size of a water heater that you need depends upon the number of people in your family. It also depends on the kind of activities you perform in your house throughout the day. If you have a family of four, then a 40 to 50-gallon water heater is perfect for you. However, if your family has six or more members, then you have to get a heater with a 60 to 80-gallon capacity. 

The amount of space available also affects the size of the water heater you should have. If you have a small house, then you have to go with a very compact water heater. But, you can choose a bigger one if you are going to place it in a large space like a basement or rooftop. 

Why Did These Water Heaters Make Our List?

We have carefully put together a list of this year’s best water heaters for you. They met our basic criteria to get selected for this list. While choosing the heaters, we kept the following in mind, and you should consider them too while buying one. 

Size

All of these heaters have an appropriate size for an average household. We kept size a priority because it has a major effect on the customer’s choice. These heaters surely have a diverse range of sizes, but all of them serve their purpose well. 

Placement

The placement of a water heater is an important aspect to consider, as well. It depends on the free space you have for a heater in your home. These heaters are easy to place, considering they have a sidewall, rooftop, or wall mount type of placement. 

Fuel Consumption

We give the credit due to to fuel consumption too, as it determines the cost of heating water. These heaters have high energy efficiency and they do not let any fuel go to waste. 

Reliability

The water heaters on our list are highly reliable, as they have a manufacturer’s warranty. This makes sure they will serve users for a long time, so they are more trustworthy. 

What We Look For in a Brand 

When considering the purchase of a new water heater, there are a few important considerations to take into account, especially when deciding between brands.

Fuel Type 

There are a few general considerations, such as the fuel type with which you wish to power your water heater. With oil, gas, and electricity all posing as options, you will want to consider the availability of these fuels, the cost of installation, and the cost of running a water heater on each of these fuels. Electricity is the most widely available fuel source and can be used with tankless (on-demand), conventional storage and heat pump water tanks. You will also find that electricity can power a combination of water and space heating systems.

Natural gas is another way to power your water heater. Natural gas is cheaper than electricity and is also widely available and can be used to power the same kind of water heaters as electricity.

Oil-powered water heaters are not so efficient. Fuel oil is only available in certain areas, and it cannot power a tankless water heater.

As we progress into green technologies, you’ll also find that companies are producing solar-powered and geothermal pump water heaters. These use renewable resources, but their installation is often a little more pricey.

Capacity

There are two main things to think about with tank capacity. First, you also need to think about the amount of water your family uses. While some brands produce water tanks of all capacities, others are limited to smaller or larger models. Think about how much water will be heated in a given day and this will steer you in the right direction.

Secondly, think about the space you have. If you don’t have space for a tank, an on-demand water heater is going to be far more appropriate.

Energy Efficiency

Both in regards to the capacity of your water heater and the fuel type you use, determine how energy efficient your water heater will be. In this sense, the type of water heater will help determine this. Tankless water heaters tend to be more energy efficient than those that lose heat by running hot water through pipes.

When looking to work out the energy efficiency of each brand’s water heater, look for their Energy Star rating. If they are rated as Energy Star efficient, they will have a Uniform Energy Factor of more than 2.00 for electricity, 0.68 for gas, and 0.80 for instantaneous water heaters.

Durability

When deciding between brands, try to consider the durability and reliability. Reviews from other customers will help you determine which brands provide longevity and consistent performance, and which ones won’t last.

Water Heater Maintenance 

To improve the longevity and efficiency of your water heater, you need to make sure you are maintaining it correctly and frequently.

Insulation is the first key. Insulating both the pipes and the tank (do not cover the top of the heater) will prevent heat from escaping while the water is hot. Equally, insulating the cold pipes will prevent the appearance of condensation in the summer. Doing this will keep your bills down and ensure that all the hot water reaches the outlets.

Testing the temperature pressure-release valve is important, as this is responsible for ensuring the pressure doesn’t get too high. All you have to do is lift the tab on the valve to let some water out. If the water keeps going when you let go, then you need to replace it.

The anode rod is very important in determining the life of your water heater, as it protects the water heater from rusting. You need to remove the rod to check this and see whether it is covered in calcium or whether it has eroded. If you find a thick coating of calcium or that the rod is less than 0.5 inches thick, you need a new one.

Draining the tank to wash out the sediment will also protect the tank from eroding due to the build-up of this sediment. Drain the tank and then open the cold water valve and drain again. Keep doing it until the water comes out completely clear.

Review of the Best Water Heaters

We have already told you the size of the water heater that you need and other important aspects to consider. Now, let’s go through the description of some of our favorite models to help you choose the right one.

Best Overall:
Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000

Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4) - Eliminate Time for Hot Water - Shelf, Wall or Floor Mounted

PROS

  • Easy mount due to a simple design
  • 4 gallons of hot water can work with 2 sinks
  • Has 13.75 x 13.75 x 13.5 inches dimensions
  • 36-37-inch long cord for an easy connection
  • Premium glass-lined body to keep heat trapped

CONS

  • Anode rod wears out quickly
  • Minor leakage from the bottom

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers found this heater quite useful, as it has a small body and heats the water quickly. They reported having placed it under their sink to save both installation costs and space. The buyers also liked that it has a cord long enough to plug it into the nearest socket easily. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater is one of our favorites because of its compact size. The 13.75 x 13.75 x 13.5 inch dimensions make it perfect for use in the kitchen. It heats the water quickly and has a capacity of four gallons. Moreover, it has a six-year warranty from the manufacturer, which increases its reliability.

Who Will Use This Most

You will find it highly useful if you want something small and cost-effective. The water heater is easy to adjust in small spaces and runs on lesser energy, too. This, along with the premium glass-lined body, makes it energy efficient, as it does not let the heat seep out of the tank.

Bottom Line

So, getting this water heater will be a great decision, as both its exterior and interior are amazing. The water flow is great for household use as well, so the heater will help you a lot. In addition, its compact size makes it easy to integrate into your house. 

Runner-up:
EcoSmart ECO 11

EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating Technology

PROS

  • Comes with a lifetime warranty
  • Helps in saving 60% on heating costs
  • High energy efficiency of 99.8 percent
  • Very compact size due to tankless heating
  • Patented self-modulating technology for smooth functioning

CONS

  • Not fully corrosion-resistant
  • Needs a little modification for proper working

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers are very happy with their purchase, as this water heater helped them a lot. They liked its fuel consumption the most, as it is so efficient that there is almost no wastage. The energy efficiency of 99.8 percent helped them enjoy better heating at a lesser fuel expense.  

Why it Stands Out to Us

Its Uniform Energy Factor of 0.98 makes it the runner-up water heater on our list. The distribution of heat is quite even and thorough with just the right amount of fuel used. The heater helps in minimizing heating costs up to 60%, and that makes it even more likable. 

Who Will Use This Most

This is the best water heater for those who prefer energy efficiency and want to keep the heating price low. The heater has a great functioning mechanism that prevents the loss of heat. Tankless heating is also cheaper and has no energy loss.

Bottom Line

To sum up, this is one of the best water heaters on the market, as it has the right pricing and function. The limited lifetime warranty means you lose nothing by investing in it. So, get this one and enjoy a supply of hot water to help you, even in harsh winters. 

Best for the Money:
Rheem 240V 2 Heating Chambers RTEX-18

Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater, Gray

PROS

  • Has a great flow rate of 4.4 GPM
  • LED display has a 1-degree accuracy
  • NPT water connections for an easy installation
  • Self-modulation for a quick adjustment of temperature
  • Has an external thermostat for effective control of heat

CONS

  • Displays an E5 error frequently
  • The LED lights consume excessive power

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers found this water heater worth way more than its price. They did not expect it to turn out to be so good, considering its price. But the water heater surprised them with its quick heating. They also liked the flow rate of 4.4 GPM that it offered. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us due to its low price and high usability. The water heater has two heating chambers in it, which help it save more energy. The thermostat is also on the external side of the heater, which helps in changing the heat settings. 

Who Will Use This Most

This is most useful for people who want an easier installation and a compact design. It does not take much space and has an LED display for them to keep an eye on the settings. It is also great for those who want an automatic adjustment of temperature, as it has self-modulating technology.

Bottom Line

The final verdict on this heater is that it is the most budget-friendly option in the market. The price is easily affordable and there is no compromise on its heating or working. This heating unit also has high reliability due to its manufacturer’s warranty.

Best Bradford White Water Heater:
Bradford White BWC RE350S6-1NCWW

Bradford White BWC RE350S6-1NCWW 50GAL 240V

PROS

  • Has a warranty of 6 years
  • Water storage capacity of 50 gallons
  • Has dimensions of 24 x 24 x 48 inches
  • Magnesium anode rod to prevent rusting 
  • Does not require any batteries for operation

CONS

  • Needs a plumber for fixing
  • Weighs 150 pounds, so it’s hard to carry

What Recent Buyers Report

Bradford White has won over recent buyers of this heater with its incredible functioning. Buyers reported having a considerable improvement in their water heating experience. They found its size appropriate for the amount of water that it stores, as well. So, there wasn’t much they did not like about this water heater. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us due to its simple and reliable functioning. The heater is easy to configure and its water flow is great, as well. It runs on a voltage of 240 volts and a wattage of 4500. This can be easily adjusted with a plug adapter if you have different power supply specifications. 

Who Will Use This Most

The water storage capacity of 50 gallons makes it ideal for an average family. The dimensions of 24 x 24 x 48 inches make it an even better match for this amount of  water storage capacity. This is why every family can get it as long as they want to keep things economical and safe. 

Bottom Line

This Bradford White heater works as well as it looks. The magnesium rod in it makes the heater less prone to water damage and makes it last longer. So, buy this one if you want something reliable and less expensive. 

Best Rheem Water Heater:
Rheem RTGH-95DVLP-2 Tankless Water Heater

Rheem RTGH-95DVLP-2 Tankless Water Heater, Grey, Grey

PROS

  • Hot Start Programming for quick heating
  • Consumes 199, 900 BTUs of energy per hour
  • Effective reduction in cold water burst risk
  • Conservation of 1,000 gallons of water per year
  • Stainless steel construction provides high durability

CONS

  • Hard to switch to propane
  • Has a lot of small internal components

What Recent Buyers Report

The people who bought this Rheem water heater recently found it highly useful. They liked its energy efficiency the most, as it helped them keep the cost of water heating low. They also found it helpful in keeping a steady supply of hot water with the recirculation pump.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Hot Start Programming in this water heater makes us like it the most. Usually, it takes 2 to 3 minutes for the hot water to replace cold water in the pipelines and faucets. But, this unit does not waste time and water in doing that. It starts providing hot water as soon as you turn on the tap. 

Who Will Use This Most

This is the right water heater if you do not like to waste any water. The exclusive water-saving technology helps you save water by recirculating it in the pipeline when not used. This, along with Hot Start Programming, makes sure that there is not even half a liter of wasted water. 

Bottom Line

In our opinion, it is a great water heater which not only serves the purpose of heating water but also of saving it. You do not have to leave the water running to wait for hot water when you have this. So, make sure you get it if you hate wasting water or energy. 

Best A.O. Smith Water Heater:
A.O. Smith EJC-6

AO Smith EJC-6 Residential Electric Water Heater

PROS

  • Only 1 element for simple construction
  • Brass drain valve has tamper resistance
  • Side electrical connections for a clean layout
  • Very lightweight, as it weighs only 25.6 pounds
  • Limited 6-year warranty to ensure reliable use

CONS

  • Valves could be tighter
  • Needs frequent flushing
  • Quicker deposition of sediments

What Recent Buyers Report

The recent buyers came up with mixed reviews about this water heater. Most of them loved its working due to the side mount, which helps in connecting the electricity supply. They also liked its circular construction, which has a well-distributed array of valves and vents. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us with its low weight and high efficiency. The water heater weighs only 25.6 pounds, which helps in reducing the shipping price, as well. This makes it easy to carry and helps in minimizing plumbing costs. Furthermore, the drain valve has brass material, which makes it resistant to tamper and corrosion.

Who Will Use This Most

This water heater is going to serve you best if you want a single element heating unit. The heater has a simple and practical construction, which makes it best for use indoors. The warranty of six years makes sure you do not have to replace it and ruin the paint on your walls. 

Bottom Line

Keeping the features in mind, we can safely pronounce it to be the best water heater for light domestic use. It does not make any mess at all and there are hardly any leakages in it. The issue is a sedimentary deposit, but you can take care of it by frequent flushing.

Best Navien Water Heater:
NPE-180A

PROS

  • 2-inch PVC vent for air intake
  • Has high condensing efficiency
  • 5-year limited warranty on parts
  • Very low NOx emissions at 20 ppm
  • Field convertible gas system allows for fuel diversity

CONS

  • Has a noisy operation
  • LED display is difficult to read

What Recent Buyers Report

Navien has a huge client base which trusts the company a lot. This is primarily due to the high quality of their products, and this heater did not disappoint them. They loved the stainless steel construction of the heat exchangers. They have a high rate of heat transfer and durable construction, so buyers recommend this water heater.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The heater makes it to our list due to its dual heat exchangers, which heat up water within no time. Its 24-foot gas pipe and two-inch PVC vent for air intake make it a great water heater. They make sure that there is a consistent flow of gas and air for effective heating. This prevents pressure build-up, which could cause damage to the unit.

Who Will Use This Most

The heater is most useful for you if you like to use different gas-based fuels. The field convertible gas system allows them to use the fuel, which is easily accessible. In addition, it is suitable for those who want condensed water heating, as its condenser is very competitive. 

Bottom Line

The bottom line on this one is that it is a future-oriented water heater with high reliability. The emission of NOx radiation is negligible, and it causes no harm to the environment. The warranty of five years is another big plus that you get with this it, making it more worthy.

Best Rinnai Water Heater:
Rinnai V Series HE Tankless Hot Water Heater

Rinnai V65iN Tankless Hot Water Heater, 6.5 GPM, Natural Gas, Indoor Installation

PROS

  • 10-year warranty on heat exchanger
  • High efficiency with V65iN HE model
  • Uses natural gas as a fuel for heating
  • Vacation mode when hot water not needed
  • Has a Control-R 2.0 mobile app for remote control

CONS

  • Manual has tricky instructions
  • Seems slightly overpriced compared to other models
  • Requires a different venting from other heaters

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers found this water heater by Rinnai to be best for indoor installation. As they found no leaks in the vents or the faucets, they found its use quite impressive. The buyers liked the heater also due to the flow rate of hot water. 6.5 GPMs is really a great flow rate for residential purposes. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us with its Control-R 2.0 mobile app, which helps in controlling its settings easily. Even if you are away from home, you can monitor the temperature and change the settings. This even lets you shut off the water heater with vacation mode when you are away for days.

Who Will Use This Most

This is best for the people who value energy efficiency more than anything else. The V65iN HE model helps the heater in heating more water on low fuel consumption. This then satisfies modern users by saving both energy and heating cost.

Bottom Line

All in all, it is a great water heater for use at home. The size is just small enough to cover less space and big enough to let more water flow through it. The construction and the efficiency of working make it worth all the cents you spend on it. Moreover, it has a limited warranty of ten years, which ensures a longer usage. 

Best State Water Heater:
ProLine® XE High Efficiency Flue Damper

PROS

  • Has a Uniform Energy Factor of 0.69
  • Comes with a limited warranty of 6 years
  • Has multiple advanced settings to save fuel
  • Automatic flue damper increases its efficiency
  • Safe for the environment with low NOx emission

CONS

  • Has a bulky frame
  • No LED display to track settings
  • Lacks a thermostat for active heat control

What Recent Buyers Report

State has impressed the people who bought this amazing water heater lately. The buyers found it great with its fuel consumption of 40,000 BTU per hour. This helped them in saving money, as well as in cutting down the need for natural gas. They also liked the Uniform Energy Factor of 0.69, which increased the evenness of its working.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater distinguishes itself from us with its electronic gas configuration. This enables users to use the kind of fuel they want to heat water at their house. The heater has advanced settings to allow for enough water for a shower to save water and fuel both. This way, it increases the conservation of the environment, and we love it for this.

Who Will Use This Most

People who believe in conserving the environment will find this heater the most useful. It has the least possible emission of NOx radiation. This makes it safer for the environment and your home. Moreover, the flue damper increases the efficiency of this heater, which makes it better for present-day customers. 

Bottom Line

Summing up, it is one of the best choices for modern users who want to leave a smaller carbon footprint. It has the right features in place to avoid any kind of pollution while keeping the pricing low. Hence, you can invest in this one without any reservations about its reliability and safety.

Best Hybrid Water Heater:
EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater

EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with Patented Self Modulating Technology

PROS

  • Has a limited lifetime warranty
  • High Uniform Energy Factor of 0.98
  • Comes with an energy efficiency of 99.8%
  • Helps in saving 60 percent on water heating costs
  • Patented self-modulating technology for better configuration

CONS

  • Maximum amperage is 33A
  • Water inlet valve is smaller than needed

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers of this hybrid water heater have given positive reviews mostly. They loved the LED display, which helps them in monitoring the settings easily. They also liked the digital control of settings, which provided them with higher accuracy. The size of the water heater is also a success among buyers.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This water heater has impressed us with its energy efficiency the most. The energy efficiency of 99.8 percent ensures an almost non-existent loss of energy. This helps in reducing the need for fuel, and you get to enjoy cheaper heating of water. The UEF of 0.98 is also quite likable. 

Who Will Use This Most

This water tank is most useful for people who want smart heating at the lowest cost. This heater helps them save up to 60% of what they would spend on heating water usually. The tank is also great for those who want simple, yet modern control of temperature via the LED display.

Bottom Line

Overall, this is a nice water heater with eco-friendly functioning. The strain on your pocket and natural resources are minimal, making it an ideal water heater. So, get this one if you want to enjoy smart heating by a small heater. 

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Water Heater?

A water heater is sure to make your life easier and more comfortable. But, you have to buy a reliable water heater to enjoy its proper functioning. This is why you should keep the following in mind while you are buying one for yourself.

Water Storage Capacity

Water storage capacity is the primary concern of every water heater buyer. The storage capacity lets you know if the heater can keep up with your hot water needs or not. Water heaters usually have a capacity of 40 to 80 gallons for household use. We prefer a 50-gallon water heater, you can get one with greater storage if you have a large family. 

Energy Efficiency

Now, energy efficiency is something you should never compromise on. The energy efficiency of a water heater affects us in two ways. It helps in minimizing the burden on resources and keeps the environment protected. Moreover, it reduces the amount of fuel consumption and helps you save more money. 

Warranty

While buying a water heater, you must keep its warranty on your list of priorities. The warranty helps you ensure that a water heater is worth trusting. The better the warranty of a water heater, the more reliable it is. 

How to Flush a Water Heater

Flushing a water heater is important to increase its working life and heating efficiency. So, you should do it twice a year, at least. Here is the complete procedure of flushing a hot water heater. 

  1. First of all, you have to disconnect the electricity supply to your water heater. Turn off the gas supply, as well.

  2. Then, open the drain valve of the heater and let the excess water flush out for a full minute.

  3. Once you have power flushed it, turn off the valve which supplies cold water to the heater.

  4. After turning off the cold water supply valve, open a hot water faucet. 

  5. Then, flush out all the remaining water from the tank. 

  6. You will have to open the cold water valve twice or thrice to let out all the sedimentary deposits. This will ensure thorough cleaning of the tank.

  7. When all of the water is drained out, close the drain valve and open the cold water supply valve.

  8. Now connect electricity and the gas supply again to let the heater resume its working.

    9. You can also watch the following video to get a better idea of what we just described here. 

A Look at the Major Players

Take a look at these major brands. They’re well known on the market and offer a variety of options for replacing your water heater.

Rheem

An American company, founded in California in 1928, they are the largest manufacturers of water heating products in the U.S.A. Working on both residential and commercial heating and cooling products, Rheem has received countless awards for the innovative energy-efficient designs.

While Rheem was started in the U.S.A., today they are part of Paloma Industries in Japan, along with the family of brands that trade under the Rheem banner, including EcoSmart, Eemax, Richmond, and Ruud.

Rheem tends to market mid-level water heaters that are generally affordable. In line with their reputation for being dynamically energy efficient, Rheem products are Energy Star rated, meeting all requirements for the Universal Energy Factor. The warranty improves when you upgrade to the higher series of water heaters, however, so does the cost.

They sell gas, electric, solar, combination, and tankless water heaters. They are easy to install and most of their heaters can be installed as part of your smart home, with the option to operate them from the smartphone app or from the EcoNet WiFi kit that comes with the products. Rheem is known for durability and longevity and offers great customer service if there is ever a problem. Due to this, they receive very good customer feedback.

A.O. Smith

Over 70 years old and headquartered in Ashland City, Tennessee, A.O. Smith is one of the most well-known names for producing water heaters. Not only that, they have the largest water heater factory in the world, as well as four other manufacturing plants in the United States, and two international plants in China and the Netherlands. Producing residential and commercial hot water products, A.O. Smith is known for high energy efficiency, good value, and durability.

A.O. Smith is best known for the glass-lined tank innovation, which has been the industry standard for protecting steel ever since A.O. Smith introduced it. They have kept up to date with this cutting-edge technology, with the introduction of their patented Blue Diamond Glass Coating installed on their best water heaters. This technology provides twice as much resistance to corrosion as regular glass used by other companies. This improves the durability of A.O. Smith water heaters.

If you’re looking for energy efficiency, the A.O. Smith products are Energy Star rated and offer remarkable energy efficiency. Equally, the durability is second to none, from the Blue Diamond glass to the brass drain valves.

Bosch

Founded in Stuttgart, Germany in 1886, Bosch is an internationally recognized leader in technology and services in regards to industrial technology, consumer goods, automotive, and construction. In the U.S.A., they are renowned for their thermotechnology products, both in water heating and comfort heat systems. They offer tankless, point-of-use, and heat pump electric water heaters, as well as boilers for floor or wall installation, gas-powered heaters, FHP geothermal systems, and much more.

Bosch is dedicated to environmental stewardship. With this in mind, they aim to reinvent energy efficiency, creating products that are ultra-efficient. They aim to reduce the consumption of fuel in their products while reducing any emissions associated with the use of their products.

They are working on green technologies, with special attention paid to solar, geothermal, and gas-powered heating systems. They are known for their Therm and Greentherm gas tankless water heaters, which have exceptional energy efficiency, as the gas is condensed. They are also more compact for residential users.

Bosch is also well-known for its reliability. The company puts its products through high levels of stress tests to ensure the durability and longevity of its products. Due to this, Bosch is highly revered by customers for providing durable products that last a long time. This is also reflected by their very accommodating warranties.

Ecosmart

In the same brand family as Rheem, EcoSmart aims to produce energy efficient and economical products. By producing cutting-edge technology, they aim to reduce energy bills by breaking away from outdated methods of water heating.

With this idea of energy efficiency in mind, EcoSmart entire line of products is tankless water heaters for residential and commercial use. They are known for their patented self-modulating technology, which has the ability for customers to save up to 50% on bills for water heating. This technology enables the tanks to work at 99.8% energy efficiency to enable products to work at their full capacity.

Eco Smart is also praised for their customer service. Most of their products come with a limited lifetime warranty, so you do not have to worry about the cost of replacing it if it breaks. Equally, their high level of troubleshooting enables customers to feel as though they are in safe hands if they ever have an issue.

There is a technical support department on hand to help with installation, maintenance, and sizing. Customers who are having a very tough time can also request the help of an EcoSmart engineer to come and assist in person.

Geospring

Geospring is a brand of heat pump water heater made by GE Appliances. GE Appliances is one of the largest appliance companies and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Originally started by General Electric, GE Appliances is now owned by the Chinese conglomerate, Haier.

Geospring is best known for its energy efficiency and its easy installation process. It uses up to 70% less electricity than other water heaters on the market. It is Energy Star rated, which makes it a little more costly upfront, but this is saved by the running such an efficient product.

Since it has the same electricity and hot water connection, it is very easy for the average person to install at home.

The customer service for this product was not rated very highly. As it is a very large company, some customers found themselves being bounced from call center to call center when trying to get hold of a technician to ask questions about repair.

However, Geospring offers a limited one-year warranty on labor, enabling customers to have a technician available to solve any issues if the installation is incorrect. There is also a ten-year limited warranty on parts.

Stiebel Eltron

Stiebel Eltron was founded in 1924 and has been a family business ever since. Their focus was on manufacturing immersion water heaters, but through the years they have expanded to produce tankless electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters, solar thermal equipment, and much more.

They have a huge focus on customer service. Stiebel Eltron prides itself on offering services that replicate the way we treat our friends and family. Customers often comment on the excellent level of customer service they receive, whether from a telephone representative or a technician.

Stiebel Eltron puts a great deal of emphasis on energy efficiency without compromising the ease of use for the customer. Their products are designed to use pump systems in the most efficient manner to produce a large amount of hot water quickly without using great quantities of energy.

With this in mind, their insulation technology prevents standby loss on the products to ensure the best energy savings. Other efficient design features include the placement of a single booster element, located nearest to the place from which the water is drawn. All these features put Stiebel Eltron high in the efficiency rankings.

Rinnai

Headquartered in Japan, Rinnai has been making innovative products for water heating for nearly 100 years in both the residential and commercial arena. Although their main office is in Japan, they have locations scattered globally in 13 different countries. These widespread services have led it to become the top-selling brand of tankless water heater systems worldwide.

Rinnai prides itself on its manufacturing expertise and creating high-quality water heaters with impeccable durability. They have over 600 research and development engineers who are dedicated to providing the highest level of quality in the design of the product and in its manufacturing process.

The manufacturing processes incorporate cutting-edge automation and precision assembly to ensure each and every product is made to the highest standard. Before reaching customers, every product undergoes a whole host of live testing to make sure it does not fall short of Rinnai’s level of quality. In fact, it is one of the few providers who has its own testing laboratory with accredited technicians.

Rinnai products tend to have between 82% to over 90% efficiency. While not the best on the market, they still tend to save you up to 40% on water bills in comparison to older and less innovative technologies.

Takagi

With over 60 years under the belt, Takagi was the first company to specialize in tankless water heating products in North America. They offer both residential and commercial tankless water heaters with very high-quality manufacturing and an extremely diverse range.

A leader in innovation, Takagi was not only the first company to specialize in tankless water heaters, but also the first company to offer a tankless product with an energy efficiency rating of over 95%, and to offer a direct vent convertible tankless model. They are also the first company to use the air-fuel rod ratio as an important safety device.

They have a special emphasis on eco-friendly production and appearance to make the most environmentally-friendly products with high-quality energy efficiency to help deal with global warming issues.

With offices worldwide, Takagi has customer service available at all hours and is highly praised for their helpful service.

Other Top Water Heater Brands

  • Richmond
  • American Standard
  • Kenmore
  • State Water Heaters
  • Bradford White

Conclusion

Summing it all up, your house needs a hot water heater to stay fully functional in the cold. From bathing to doing dishes and cleaning, you need hot water. So, it is better to invest in a water heater which provides you the right amount of hot water. To do this, compare the products mentioned on our list with your requirements and get the perfect water heater. 

When purchasing a water heater, there are a myriad of brands to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a homegrown company or one that has a penchant for energy efficiency, there is a whole host of options to decide between.

Make sure you think about your needs in terms of a heater before approaching different brands. While some offer a diverse range of products, others focus on tankless water heaters or on commercial products. Think about your needs first, and you’ll have a better idea of where to look.

People Also Ask

Having a water heater at home is just one of the basic necessities. As these heaters do so much work for people, they worry about getting the best one. However, you do not have to worry about it anymore. Here are answers to your most commonly asked questions to help you have a clearer view of the picture. 

How to Drain a Water Heater

In order to drain a water heater, you have to follow these basic steps. 

  1. Turn off the gas supply to the heater and unplug the switch for electric supply to the heater, as well.

  2. Then turn off the valve which supplies cold water to the heater.

  3. After this, you have to connect a hose pipe with the drainage valve of the water heater.

  4. Now open the drainage valve and let all of the water drain out through the pipe.

How to Light a Water Heater

Lighting a water heater is not at all difficult. You just have to be a little careful while following these steps.

  1. Begin by opening the door to the burner and finding the burner using a flashlight.

  2. Now hold down the “pilot” button and let the gas flow to the burner.

  3. While still pressing this button, ignite the burner and continue pressing it for over a minute.

  4. Then, slowly release pressure on the button and turn the knob to “On”.

How to Test a Water Heater Element

In order to test a water heater, you have to perform the usual test for checking wire connectivity. Just uncover the side of the water heater by removing the metal cover, insulation, and plastic covers. Then check if the element is intact using a continuity test with a tester. 

How Long Does a Hot Water Heater Last?

The life of a water heater depends on the company which manufactures it. It varies from brand to brand and even from model to model. But the average life of a water heater is from 6 to 12 years. You can prolong the life of your unit by using it carefully. 

How Do You Know a Water Heater is Going Bad?

In order to know if a water heater is going bad or not, you just have to look at the hot water faucet of the heater. If it looks rusty, then most likely, the heater is undergoing damage. A heater is also prone to damage if you notice a sediment deposit in the base of the water tank. 

Why is My Hot Water Not Hot?

The reason for your water not being hot enough can be a sediment deposit in the tank. As the burner lies in the base of a heater, a muddy deposit in the base of the tank can be problematic. The sediment does not let much heat get to the water and acts as a heat insulator. Thus, it does not let your hot water get as hot as you wish. 

Should You Flush Your Hot Water Heater?

Yes, you should absolutely flush your hot water heater. This is to let out any sediment and excessive water to avoid rusting. Flushing your heater once every six months is enough. But you will have to do it more frequently if you have hard water in your area.



My name is Bob Wells and I am a retired HVAC tech from Washington state. I am currently retired and no longer do much with HVAC, however, I feel like I have a lot of knowledge in the subject and I wanted to create a website where I could talk about what I've learned and help upcoming HVAC techs. Find more info about me and HVAC Training 101.