When it comes to choosing a water heater for your home, efficiency is key. Not only does an efficient water heater save you money on your energy bills, but it also reduces your carbon footprint. One of the most popular options for efficient water heating is the electric tankless water heater. These units heat water on demand, eliminating the need for a bulky storage tank and ensuring that you have access to hot water whenever you need it.
In this guide, we will explore what makes an electric tankless water heater efficient and how to choose the most efficient option for your home.
How Does an Electric Tankless Water Heater Work?
Unlike traditional water heaters that continuously heat a large tank of water, electric tankless water heaters only heat water when you turn on the faucet. When you open a hot water tap, cold water flows through the unit and is heated by an electric element. This means that there is no standby heat loss, as there is with a traditional tank water heater.
The main advantage of an electric tankless water heater is that it only uses energy when hot water is being used, making it more efficient than a tank water heater that is constantly running to keep a large tank of water hot. However, it is important to note that the efficiency of an electric tankless water heater can vary depending on factors such as the climate in which you live, the size of your household, and your hot water usage habits.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the most efficient electric tankless water heater
1. Energy Efficiency Rating: Look for an electric tankless water heater with a high energy efficiency rating. The Energy Factor (EF) is a measure of a unit’s efficiency, with higher numbers indicating better efficiency. Additionally, look for units that are Energy Star certified for maximum energy savings.
2. Flow Rate: The flow rate of a water heater refers to the amount of hot water it can deliver per minute. Make sure to choose a unit with a flow rate that meets the needs of your household. Consider factors such as the number of bathrooms in your home and your peak hot water usage times.
3. Size: The size of an electric tankless water heater is important for efficiency. A unit that is too small for your household will struggle to meet your hot water needs, while a unit that is too large will waste energy heating excess water that is not needed. Consider the size of your household and your hot water usage habits when choosing a unit.
4. Installation Costs: While electric tankless water heaters can be more expensive to install than traditional tank water heaters, they can save you money in the long run through lower energy bills. Consider the installation costs and potential savings when choosing the most efficient option for your home.
Top Picks for the most efficient electric tankless water heater
1. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 36 kW: This unit is Energy Star certified and has a high energy efficiency rating. With a flow rate of up to 7.5 gallons per minute, it is suitable for households with multiple bathrooms. The Tempra Plus also features advanced flow control technology to ensure a consistent water temperature.
2. EcoSmart ECO 27: The EcoSmart ECO 27 is another highly efficient option for electric tankless water heating. With a flow rate of up to 6.5 gallons per minute, it is suitable for smaller households. The unit is also self-modulating, meaning it adjusts its energy usage based on hot water demand.
3. Rheem RTEX-24: The Rheem RTEX-24 is a reliable and efficient option for electric tankless water heating. With a flow rate of up to 5.9 gallons per minute, it is suitable for households with moderate hot water needs. The unit is also easy to install and has a digital temperature display for precise control.
In conclusion, an electric tankless water heater is a great choice for efficient water heating in your home. By considering factors such as energy efficiency rating, flow rate, size, and installation costs, you can choose the most efficient option for your household. With top picks like the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 36 kW, EcoSmart ECO 27, and Rheem RTEX-24, you can enjoy hot water on demand while saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.