If you are reading this right now, perhaps you want to know what’s the best small tankless water heater on the market right now.
The world is full of incredible small tankless water heaters, the options seem endless. Perhaps you’re looking for something a little more specific.
In this article, I’ll review 13 best electric, natural gas or propane small tankless water heater options from 6 famous brands; for both indoor and outdoor installation.
For each option, I’ll explain tech details, regional information, installation, and possible applications for small/big home, apartments, cabins, camping, single or multiple point-of-use, etc.
Finally, I’ll provide an actionable Buyers Guide including a helpful FAQ section to help you make a well-informed buying decision.
If in a hurry, see our Editors Pick and Comparison Table at first!
Yes, tankless water heaters are smaller than their counterparts in big, clunky tanks.
Yet, tankless water heaters themselves range in size, and they range in the size of homes that they serve.
If you want a smaller tankless water heater, it’s likely you want to have as small a size water heater as possible, to serve a small living space, or both.
Lucky you, there’s plenty of small tankless water heaters that fit all your needs. Lots of choices with lots of benefits to you.
Not all small tankless water heaters will serve best in all situations. So, let’s figure this out together in this Review & Guide article.
You bring all your questions about your specific situation. You bring your grocery list of all the things you need in a small tankless water heater.
I’ll bring all the details of multiple options for you to purchase. I’ll help you sort through the details.
After that, we can determine which one of these is the best small tankless water heater.
Let’s start with the Editors’ Picks then….
Best Overall Small Option
Rinnai RL75
A great option from Rinnai that allows you the choice of any of the four following types: indoor and natural gas, indoor and propane, outdoor and natural gas, outdoor and propane.
It’s Circ-Logic Capable and Control-R Wi-Fi Capable. So, with an extra pump, you can take advantage of Rinnai’s excellent hot water recirculation technology!
And the Wi-Fi! Tell your phone or tablet to get the hot water running for you or for the kids… or even the whole family.
See the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Budget & Portable Option
Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
A nice budget yet powerful and portable option especially suitable for camping trips or point-of-use situations.
Can help you out with a quick car wash, dog bath… even a quick shower session for your horse!
With Oxygen Depletion Sensor protection, you can also use it indoors as long as it’s well-ventilated. Very flexible option!
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Budget option for Single Point-Of-Use
Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 Tankless Water Heater
This is a great budget, point-of-use option, which is not only claiming to be 99% energy efficient but also quite compact and light (5.3 lbs)!
It’s actually designed to be very reliable and also extremely quiet. With its small size and almost no noise… you won’t even know it’s there!
Refer to the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Budget option for Multiple Appliances
Eccotemp FVI12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater
This is a budget, indoor, propane option, which is so easy to operate with a digital thermostat and temperature display and easy-to-use manual temperature controls.
Being quite energy-efficient, the estimated yearly energy costs for this model are fairly low, generally around $220.
It also doesn’t make much noise, so even with indoor installation, you won’t be worried about annoying noises ruining your good time.
Take a look at the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Option for Cabins
Eccotemp FVI12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater
Eccotemp i12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater
Both models are quiet, highly energy-efficient, indoor/propane options, great for camping, cabin use, and especially if your cabin vacation may require a couple of fixtures to be run at once.
You’ll be saving more money and wasting less energy in the long run.
Read the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Option for Natural Gas or Propane
Rinnai RL75
A great Rinnai option, perfect for indoor and outdoor use, which can efficiently work by both natural gas and propane. Very flexible!
It’s Circ-Logic Capable and Control-R Wi-Fi Capable. So, with an extra pump, you can take advantage of Rinnai’s excellent hot water recirculation technology!
It has Wi-Fi! So, just tell your phone or tablet to get the hot water running for you or the whole family.
See the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
Best Small Electric Tankless Water Heater
Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW Tankless Water Heater
An electric 24 kW option from a reliable brand with much to love. Lots of different options and fantastic features.
Most important are the Advanced Flow Control design of the Tempra Plus models as well as the self-modulation control feature!
With such nice features, you’ll never have a shocking temperature drop in the middle of a shower while paying less for energy in the long run!
Refer to the review section for in-depth tech details and regional information!
2021 will be a fantastic year to be living in. How to heat your water for your home is something you get to think about in totally different terms than how you used to think about it.
With technological advancements in this area, you’re asking yourself more questions, no doubt. But you’re only asking yourself more questions because there are so many more options and so many more details to benefit you.
You want the best small tankless water heater this year, because you deserve the best. So, let’s find you the best option or options.
But what is “BEST” going to be for you?
There’s a variety of things to consider. We need to consider what your exact living situation is. Is it a small home you want serviced? Small apartment? A studio?
Perhaps it’s a cabin you’ve got on your mind. Maybe you’re a camper extraordinaire, and you’re looking to bring something along with you.
Maybe you want something that’s a more point-of-use tankless water heater. Just a bathroom or maybe something under a kitchen sink.
We also have to consider what region you’re in. Since this is all about heating water, the temperature of your region, and your region’s ground water, is an important piece.
If you live far north in the U.S., like Montana, Minnesota, Maine or if you live in Canada, you’ll have a very different situation from someone else who lives in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Miami.
Someone looking to service a cabin they have just outside of Los Angeles will possibly come away from this article with a very different answer than someone who has a small home in New York City.
So, let’s take everything into consideration. We’ll be answering the question for everyone and all their different scenarios.
Keep your specific details in mind, keep your region in mind, and I’ll make sure we cover all the bases. Yours included. So, let’s answer that question for you.
The question: What’s the best small tankless water heater in 2021?
Let’s start with a short overview of the selected small water heaters and a helpful table comparing their specifications.
Read also: Best Indoor Tankless Water Heaters
Read also: Best Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heaters
Read also: Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters
Read also: Best Outdoor Tankless Water Heaters
What is the Best Small Tankless Water Heater in 2021?
Quick Answer:
- Rheem RTEX-13 | Well-suited for a small apartment or studio with one bathroom
- Rheem RTEX-18 | More powerful than the RTEX-13
- EcoSmart ECO 11 | Smaller & Cheaper than the two Rheem options
- EcoSmart ECO 27 | Powerful & great for larger apartments, condominiums and townhomes
- Rinnai V65IN | Powerful to run quite a few fixtures at once; Great for Canadians
- Rinnai RUCS65iN | Great for small homes in Canada
- Rinnai RL75IN | Best Overall Option Ever
- Eccotemp FVI12 | Best Budget option for Multiple Appliances, Camping and Cabin Use
- Eccotemp i12 | Best Ever for Camping and Cabin Use
- Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM | Best Budget & Portable Option
- Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW | Best Electric Option Ever
- Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 | Great Budget Electric Option for Single Point-Of-Use
- Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 | Nice Budget Electric Option
Comparison Table for the Best Small Tankless Water Heaters in 2021
| Tankless Water Heater | View on Amazon | Type | Max GPM | Weight | Dimensions in inches (Depth, Height, Width) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rheem RTEX-13 |
 
|
Electric | 2 GPM | 8.5 lbs. | 3.63 x 12.63 x 8.25 |
| Rheem RTEX-18 |
 
|
Electric | 4 GPM | 14.8 lbs. | 3.5 x 18.25 x 14.5 |
| EcoSmart ECO 11 |
 
|
Electric | 2.6 GPM | 6.65 lbs. | 3.75 x 11.5 x 8 |
| EcoSmart ECO 27 |
 
|
Electric | 6.5 GPM | 14.7 lbs. | 3.625 x 17 x 17 |
| Rinnai V65 |
 
|
Natural Gas or Propane | 6.5 GPM | 43.6 lbs. | 9.27 x 26.9 x 14.04 |
| Rinnai RUCS65 |
 
|
Natural Gas or Propane | 6.5 GPM | 57.3 lbs. | 10.1 x 31.1 x 18.5 |
| Rinnai RL75 |
 
|
Natural Gas or Propane | 7.5 GPM | 43.6 lbs. | 9.27 x 26.9 x 14.04 |
| Eccotemp FVI12 |
 
|
Propane | 4 GPM | 33 lbs. | 6 x 24.75 x 15.25 |
| Eccotemp i12 |
 
|
Propane | 4 GPM | 29 lbs. | 11 x 29 x 17 |
| Camplux 5L |
 
|
Propane | 1.32 GPM | 14 lbs. | 4.33 x 14.8 x 11.42 |
| Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 |
 
|
Electric | 5 GPM | 15.5 lbs. | 4.6 x 16.6 x 14.5 |
| Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 |
 
|
Electric | 4 GPM | 6 lbs. | 4.1 x 14.25 x 7.9 |
| Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 |
 
|
Electric | 3.6 GPM | 5.3 lbs. | 4.1 x 14.25 x 7.9 |
Best Small Tankless Water Heater in 2021
1. Rheem RTEX-13 | Well-suited for a small apartment or studio with one bathroom
Let’s start with the brand Rheem, which makes some models you’re bound to love. The RTEX-13 definitely fits the build… the small build… of a small tankless water heater.
The dimensions for the RTEX-13 per depth, height, and width are: 3.63 inches, 12.63 inches, 8.25 inches, respectively.
It’s barely higher than a ruler and around as wide as a standard piece of notebook paper. And it only weighs 8.5 lbs.
So, if you have a small place, and want a tankless water heater that only takes up a small space, maybe try this model.
It’s well-suited for a small apartment or studio with one bathroom.
And for just about $300, that’s a pretty good deal. It’s not the cheapest option on this list of 13 best, but it’s definitely in the bottom half in terms of cost.
TECH SPECS
This small tankless water heater is electric, and it runs at just 13 kW.
It has a maximum Gallons Per Minute (GPM) of 3.17. Since shower heads often run at around 2 GPM and water-saver types are closer to 1.5 GPM, you can easily run either of those with this model.
Additionally, the Rheem RTEX-13 heats up your water in just about 15 seconds. No more playing the waiting game of sticking your hand under the running water every 15 seconds to see if your shower will be running at a temperature acceptable for you.
Turn it on, wait 15 seconds, and you should be ready to go!
And it has an LED display, with a simple ON/OFF dial and adjustable digital temperature display.
It’s easy to use, and it’s easy to install yourself if you want to go that route and save additional money.
The temperature can be adjusted between 80 and 140 degrees Farenheit.
Oh, and self-modulating power control!
If it isn’t set to a power that works perfectly with your appliance of choosing, you’re able to adjust it yourself!
REGIONAL INFO
For those of you in living in colder climates, say Canada, or northern and colder cities in the U.S. like Minneapolis, Pittsburgh and Denver, perhaps one appliance at a time is ideal with the Rheem RTEX-13.
But if you live in a warmer climate, cities like L.A., San Diego, Miami, Honolulu, this could be a nice buy for you as you could effectively support your bathroom and a faucet at the same time.
Pros
- One of the cheaper options
- Easy Installation
- One of the smallest options, also very light
- Great point-of-use water heater that can also handle multiple appliances in some conditions
Cons
- Northern areas can only support one appliance
- Not the most powerful or highest GPM
User Experience:
It’s now time to take a look at some of the top user reviews for this water heater on Amazon.
1) I bought and installed it in my cottage over a month ago.
It heats up the bathroom shower and sinks, toilet, and kitchen sink.
Sometimes the water can run too hot and fluctuate.
Overall, nothing to complain about.
2) I knew about tankless water heaters for a long time but didn’t switch until recently.
After our old giant water heater messed up the floor, we just went for this one.
There’s something inherently cool about not having to worry about your water heater and its tank.
Joyful experience.
3) My last one worked for about 2.5 years.
Thought this one was supposed to be an upgrade but it’s been torture to take showers with this thing.
You have to PLAY a lot with the settings to get the water on the right temps.
4) My complaint is that this machine doesn’t have the star energy certificate.
That’s bad news if you’re going to put this in with the green rebate with your electricity utility.
The product itself ain’t bad.
5) I replaced this with my 5-year-old RTE 13 that had technical issues.
I bought this because it was in the same price and power class as my old water heater.
It was easy to install and got quite a lot of power.
6) I’m in love with this little thing.
I bought it for a small garage condo which has a bunch of stuff for living inside.
I get hot water all the time pretty fast.
Expert Opinion:
2. Rheem RTEX-18 | More powerful than the RTEX-13
How about another model from Rheem? A step up to the RTEX-18.
This is another great small tankless water heater, though a little larger than the RTEX-13.
The depth, height, and width of this model measure at: 3.5 inches, 18.25 inches, 14.5 inches, respectively. So, this model takes up a bit more room. About one and a half times as high and as wide.
And it weighs about 14.8 lbs. Around one and a half times the weight too.
You’d likely be looking to the RTEX-18 instead of the RTEX-13 if you needed some more power, and could afford for your water heater to take up a tad more space.
And as long as you can afford a bit more, this model does cost about $405. But with extra cost, comes extra power!
TECH SPECS
The first thing to note is you’re now going to be working with 18 kW of power. This is still an electric model, and you’ll also be afforded a maximum GPM of 4.
This will allow you to run some appliances more effectively, and possibly a couple of appliances at once.
Here, you also have an LED display, with a simple ON/OFF dial and adjustable digital temperature display, ranging from 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
And even more advanced self-modulation so you can adjust the power for whatever your hot water demands are.
And this model too will heat your water up in just about 15 seconds. Quick and simple, no long wait times for you with the Rheem RTEX-18.
And if you wish to install this yourself and save some money, Rheem has made self-installation quick and simple as well.
REGIONAL INFO
Similar to the RTEX-13, with warmer climates you’ll be able to run multiple appliances at once more easily.
But with the RTEX-18, even in climates that aren’t quite the warmest, but still warmer than far north U.S. and Canada, it can still be possible.
In places like San Francisco, Portland, Washington D.C., Nashville, running a shower and a sink simultaneously should work for you most times out of the year.
Both models from Rheem can serve as excellent point-of-use water heaters. Serving one appliance is very easy for these models.
The extra cost of this larger model can feel better if you avoid the cost of installation. You’ll even feel like an expert, setting this up yourself as it tends to be a quick process for most.
And you’ll feel like you made a great choice once you begin using this product.
For a small studio in a city in the southern United States, using multiple appliances at once should be a breeze.
And if that sounds like you, maybe you should opt in to buy this small tankless water heater.
Pros
- 4 GPM higher than previous Rheem model
- Easy installation
- Great for point-of-use and also multiple appliances even in some cold climates
Cons
- One of the lower GPMS of all the more powerful options here
- On the slightly more expensive side
User Experience:
Let’s see what users on Amazon have to say about this small tankless water heater.
1) Didn’t work for me
Evidently, it had an internal part failure.
People say it’s a common problem so I refunded it.
2) If you use this type of water heater, do some research beforehand.
For example, there’s a chance that size won’t be the answer to all your needs.
Check everything before the purchase.
3) This unit was the biggest disappointment of my life.
Despite the provided specs, it can barely even keep up with my kitchen sink, let alone the shower.
4) I had to take my time before leaving a review.
It’s a very good water heater, BUT if you need a lot of hot water, don’t buy this one.
This just won’t be enough for big families with big houses.
5) We had all sorts of problems with getting the water temps right.
It seems like the water is moving too fast to get hot, so we have to lower the pressure but this will be a problem when taking showers.
6) It couldn’t handle the cold temperatures of November.
I’m really pissed because I can no longer return it.
Expert Opinion:
3. EcoSmart ECO 11 | Smaller & Cheaper than the two Rheem options
Here, we check out an option from the brand EcoSmart, the ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater.
An even cheaper option than the previous two, just about $250. Definitely on the low end of this list.
How does it compare in size? Well, the dimensions for depth, height, and width are 3.75 inches, 11.5 inches, and 8 inches, respectively.
Overall, it’s about the same size as the Rheem RTEX-13, a little shorter and a little less wide. It also just weighs 6.65 lbs.
If small is the operative word here, and every inch and every pound matter, then this is the smaller option.
The ECO 11 is another great point-of-use tankless water heater, or one to be used for small apartments or studios. It does differ somewhat.
TECH SPECS
Here, you’ll be operating under 11.8 kW, slightly less than the RTEX-13.
Depending on where you live and your intended use, this could make a big difference, or maybe not much of a difference at all.
The ECO 11 can support up to 2.6 GPM on average. That’s definitely less than the previous two. This means you’re likely only using it for one appliance at a time.
The warmest climates can sometimes produce a slightly higher GPM around 3.
The durable ECO 11 is easy to install and easy to use!
It has a digital display showing output temperature and you can adjust it in one-degree increments. And its activation flow is only 0.3 GPM.
It has self-modulation technology, so you’ll be saving yourself a load of cash, as it is only operating when hot water is needed.
REGIONAL INFO
No matter where you live in North America, the ECO 11 will definitely be able to support a bathroom faucet at the very least.
If that’s all you’re looking for, then this could be your best option at this price.
Places like New Hampshire, Maine, Montana, Minnesota, and all of Canada, that’s just about all the ECO 11 could handle in those climates.
Looking to power more of the likes of a kitchen faucet?
As long as you don’t live too far north, you can still make that happen. In cities such as New York City, Boston, Seattle, Chicago, this model will keep your kitchen sink nice and hot.
If you’re looking to power a shower, you’ll have to be located more in the likes of South Carolina, Mississippi, Texas, and so on.
Parts of southern Arizona, San Antonio, and most of Florida, for example, can even afford to run a bathroom faucet or low-flow faucet as well as a shower.
All in all, this is a great option for operating a sink’s hot water needs in cooler climates, and in warmer climates, you can get continuous hot water from a shower or even your entire small bathroom.
Pros
- Much cheaper option for a point-of-use type
- High 2.6 GPM for a point-of-use type
- In warmer climates, can possibly handle a whole bathroom
Cons
- Can’t handle more than just a small bathroom
- 11 kW is slightly lower for power in comparison to some other point-of-use options
User Experience:
These are some of the things users have said about the EcoSmart ECO 11 on Amazon.
1) After only 16 months, my unit started acting weird.
After contacting the support and even changing my home circuit breaker, nothing got better.
Even if I glossed over these issues, this thing could never heat my water to the point I would call it “hot”.
Absolutely hated it.
2) Ordered back in 2017 and was installed a month after I received it.
Worked great for about a week before all the dripping issues and other technical problems showed up.
Customer support never got back to me!
3) My unit is over 5 years old.
We are a family of 2 with a moderately large house.
We never run water at 2 different places at the same time and we’ve never had any issues with this.
4) The unit worked very well.
However every 4 months I had to disassemble the whole unit and clean everything.
This wasn’t really units fault tho as our water here is heavy on minerals.
5) The performance is perfect.
The installation was super simple.
It’s been working great for over 2 years now.
6) Gets the hot water going very fast.
Sometimes it can take up to a minute but it’s not really an issue.
Expert Opinion:
4. EcoSmart ECO 27 | Powerful & great for larger apartments, condominiums and townhomes
Another model from EcoSmart, the ECO 27 is the big brother to the ECO 11. Same family, a bit bigger, a bit more powerful!
The dimensions for depth, height and width are: 3.625 inches, 17 inches, 17 inches, respectively. Bigger than the ECO 11 by a good amount, so this is a model you’d choose if you can afford for your water heater to take up some more space.
This is more comparable to the Rheem RTEX-18 in size. A little shorter and a little wider.
Clocking in at around 14.7 lbs., it weighs just about as much as the RTEX-18 as well.
This is the most expensive tankless water heater we’ve taken a look at so far, running you around $465. Far from the most expensive of all 13. Far from the cheapest.
Let’s talk about why it costs a little more.
TECH SPECS
It has an impressive 27 kW power, which is the most we’ve seen so far. This power will go a long way, no matter where you live.
EcoSmart gives you the easy-to-read and simple-to-use digital display. It shows the output temperature which can be adjusted in one-degree increments so you can get that hot water right in the sweet spot.
And, as per usual with EcoSmart, self-modulating technology means you’ll be saving yourself money in the long run. The model saves energy itself, only using energy when water needs to be heated.
REGIONAL INFO
There are many different climates in North America. No matter which climate you live in, the ECO 27 will, at the very least, be able to handle a shower and a low-flow faucet simultaneously.
This model is still considered a small tankless water heater, and still serving smaller living situations than larger houses.
But this is also a small step up from small apartments, studios, and point-of-use situations. Use this more for larger apartments, condominiums and townhomes.
As mentioned, simultaneous use with a shower and a low-flow faucet is possible with the ECO 27 if you live in the likes of Canada, Alaska, The Dakotas, Wisconsin, and even Buffalo.
Is your situation calling for simultaneous use of a shower and a bathroom faucet that isn’t low-flow?
The northern cities in the U.S., so long as they aren’t the most northern, can achieve this. The likes of Philadelphia, Cleveland, Detroit, and even states like Nebraska and Iowa would be happy with the ECO 27.
For those that would like to be able to operate at least two showers, or equivalents to that, you’ll be loving the ECO 27 if you live in most of Texas, much of Southern California, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and anywhere south of those places.
Miami, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, you can even live like kings with the ECO 27. Running three showers simultaneously along with a low-flow faucet. Sacrifice no hot showers, sacrifice no power.
If you’re living in Hawaii with two other roommates, say Aloha to the ECO 27, your third roommate that makes the morning routine go a lot smoother.
Pros
- One of the more powerful options among the bigger options here
- 6.5 GPM is a great hot water flow rate
- In warmer climates, can possibly handle three showers at once
Cons
- More expensive than some other similar options
- Isn’t the best and most powerful option for colder climates
User Experience:
Down here, you can read some of the Amazon reviews people have left for this small tankless water heater.
1) I have a 5-year warranty on this unit.
I’ve only had it for 4 years now and the occurred damage to the unit wasn’t even my fault.
They denied my warranty.
2) There’s lots of info on this water heater.
The problem is that they’re mostly scattered and there’s lots of false info everywhere.
You’re better off heading to the convenience store and gathering info on the device in person.
3) I bought this some time ago but didn’t install it immediately.
I installed it a few days ago to find out I have to lower the water pressure if I want it to get hot enough.
Too bad the return period is over.
4) Over the past 3 years, I’ve had to replace so many elements.
At about $250 apiece, they’re not cheap at all!
I regret ever buying this.
5) I’ve had to deal with corrosion in several parts of the unit.
The problem is that these are all made of copper which corrodes so easily.
Why didn’t they use stainless steel?
6) I am very very old but I still fix everything in the house myself.
I bought and installed this myself.
It’s been heating up the whole house very well.
Expert Opinion:
5. Rinnai V65 | Powerful to run quite a few fixtures at once; Great for Canadians
Hopping on over to Rinnai’s list of best small tankless water heaters.
Rinnai is an excellent brand. With that excellence comes a higher cost. The three models I’ll be reviewing from Rinnai are in the top 4 of most expensive models on this list.
To start with, being reviewed here is the indoor, natural gas option with the Rinnai V65.
But, like all models from Rinnai, the V65 can also be propane. It can also be an outdoor tankless water heater, either natural gas or propane.
Keep this flexibility in mind. The models don’t vary much from one kind to another, other than slight size changes.
Four different options give you a lot more wiggle room. Place the Rinnai V65 wherever you like on your property… and pick your fuel type.
The indoor models have dimensions of 9.27in x 26.9in x 14.04in, while the outdoor models have dimensions of 9.6in x 24.3in x 14.04in (depth, height, width).
The weight of the indoor models is 45.6lbs and the outdoor models clock in at 43.6lbs.
So, this is a smaller option from Rinnai, but as you can see it’s a bigger option on this list.
Where it won’t be the option that takes up the least space, it will be a small option that gets a lot done.
See also: Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters
TECH SPECS
The domestic hot water flow rate reaches up to 6.5 GPM. It has a 10,300 BTU minimum, and 150,000 BTU maximum and it works fine for 2 to 4 fixtures.
Costing around $680, this is more expensive than other models on this list, but it’s able to handle quite a lot at once.
The V65 uses Non-Condensing technology, which means it isn’t the most energy-efficient. Though, it still has an energy efficient rating between 0.79 and 0.82 which is quite nice.
The maximum of 6.5GPM is the highest we’ve seen so far. So, this model will be able to handle a lot more than the previous ones. Granted it always depends on where you’re running this tankless water heater.
REGIONAL INFO
Perhaps one of the better options we’ve reviewed so far for all Canadians.
The V65 should be able to handle a shower and another appliance simultaneously, most times of the year.
Calling all those from Vancouver, Quebec City, Winnipeg… need to run the dishwasher and shower? The V65 is here for you in a plethora of options.
Calling out to the Midwest, want to run two showers at once? Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Des Moines… the V65 should be able to help you out with that.
And if you’re living in the south, like Baton Rouge, Jacksonville, Houston, Phoenix… you could run three showers with ease, perhaps even four!
The southern U.S. can love this model as it’s still a fairly small option but could even power quite a few fixtures at once!
Pros
- One of the best options in colder climates for multiple appliances at once
- 6.5 GPM is a great hot water flow rate
- Of the great, though expensive options from Rinnai, this is the cheapest one
Cons
- More expensive than some other similar options
- Isn’t the most energy efficient option
- One of the heavier and larger options here
User Experience:
Let’s take a look at user opinions on this product on Amazon.
1) I’ve had mine for over 2 years now.
I have it installed in my house with only 1 shower.
It manages to heat up enough water to run both the shower and the kitchen sink at the same time.
2) Installing this product was very easy even though I’m not a technical person.
It has only increased my monthly electric bill by around 40 bucks which aren’t bad.
Very pleased.
3) Worth all the money I’ve spent on it.
I can’t literally praise it enough.
You won’t need any other massive useless water heater in your basement with this unit.
4) I installed it as per the manual but it doesn’t work.
I even hired someone to get it running for me and they still couldn’t do it.
I’m convinced it’s broken.
5) Nobody had said anything about this thing needing an exhaust and intake vent.
I’m not gonna waste any more money to change the whole room architecture to fit this in there.
6) I ordered this online 2 times and both times it got here broken.
Had to buy it in person.
Luckily it works well.
Expert Opinion:
6. Rinnai RUCS65 | Great for small homes in Canada
Now, we have the RUCS65iN from Rinnai.
For this option, you can choose natural gas or propane for an indoor model.
For an outdoor model that also uses natural gas or propane, you can choose its equivalent in the RUS65.
These models sizes by depth, height, and width are 10.1 inches, 31.1 inches, and 18.5 inches for the indoor model and 10.5 inches, 27 inches, and 18.5 inches for the outdoor model. And they both weigh 57.3 lbs.
As you can tell, they’re larger and weigh more. Definitely tipping the scales as larger options among all the small tankless water heaters being reviewed here.
Additionally, the cost of around $880 makes these the second most expensive options on the list. But let’s see what they can do.
See also: Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters in 2020
TECH SPECS
Recommended for 2 to 3 fixtures per house, this is a great option for small homes, large apartments, condos, etc.
Though it may not be recommended for up to 4 fixtures like the V65 from Rinnai, and is more expensive up front than the V65, it’s going to save you money in the long run.
The RUCS65 uses Condensing technology. This makes it more energy efficient, less greenhouse gases to keep our planet cleaner, less wasting of energy, less money coming out of your pocket each month, each year.
The energy efficient rating of 0.85 – 0.90 is much better with this series.
This model also has a maximum GPM of 6.5. And it has a 10,300 BTU minimum, and 130,000 BTU maximum, meaning its minimum power is equal to the V65, but its maximum power is a shade lower.
REGIONAL INFO
Similar to the V65, this is a tankless water heater small home-owners in Canada can rejoice for!
Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton… want to shower and run the dishwasher?
Or shower and someone else wants to use a kitchen sink at the same time?
Want to also be saving energy and money in the long run?
RUCS65 is here for you!
If it’s a small house you have, you desire to conserve energy and money, but you often have two showers running at once… even the likes of Topeka, St. Louis, and Charlotte can achieve just that with this model.
Though the south won’t quite be able to pull off four fixtures at once with this model, they could do three at once.
Most of Texas, Florida, New Mexico… a small house with three roommates all using hot water at the same time is not a problem.
Pros
- One of the best options in colder climates for multiple appliances at once
- 6.5 GPM is a great hot water flow rate
- More energy efficient than other options from Rinnai
Cons
- More expensive than some other similar options
- Handles multiple fixtures not as well as other Rinnai options
- One of the heavier and larger options here
User Experience:
Now go ahead and read users’ opinions on this unit on Amazon.
1) I bought this as a gif for fathers day.
No more dealing with those ugly big water heaters here.
2) I do all the technical stuff myself.
The whole installation process was as smooth as butter.
Very pleased with it.
3) I had to spend a few days getting it running.
But once it started running, it’s perfect.
7. Rinnai RL75 | Best Overall Option Ever
Here is a small option from Rinnai’s RL series, the RL75.
The indoor models have dimensions of 9.27in x 26.9in x 14.04in and the outdoor models have dimensions of 9.6in x 24.3in x 14.04in (depth, height, width).
The weight of the indoor models is 45.6lbs and the outdoor models weigh 43.6lbs.
So, the size and weight of this model is the same as the V65.
It is the most expensive tankless water heater on this list at about $930, but it’s also going to get a lot done for you!
Another option from Rinnai that allows you the option of any of the four following types: indoor and natural gas, indoor and propane, outdoor and natural gas, outdoor and propane.
Yes, it’s small, but it isn’t the smallest of the small.
Desire this model but can’t quite find a spot for it in your house? Install it outside!
See also: Best Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters in 2020
TECH SPECS
This model uses Non-Condensing technology, so it isn’t as energy efficient as the RUCS65. However, it’s generally more efficient than the V65 with an energy efficient rating of 0.81 – 0.82.
A little more consistent with energy conservation as well.
An advantage it does have over both the other Rinnai models, is that it is Circ-Logic Capable and Control-R Wi-Fi Capable.
Meaning, with a purchase of an extra pump, you can take advantage of Rinnai’s excellent hot water recirculation technology, so the hot water gets where it’s needed faster than ever!
And you can hook it up to Wi-Fi. Oh, the wonders!
Tell your phone or tablet to get the hot water running for you or for the kids… or hey, even both. You’ll be able to get things running with ease, you won’t even need to get up from out of the bed!
And its maximum 7.5 GPM is also higher than both other Rinnai models. More hot water per minute, who wouldn’t love that?
Also, recommended for 2 to 4 fixtures, but with a 10,300 BTU minimum, and 180,000 BTU maximum, that’s the highest maximum power serving the same number of fixtures.
That means, no problems with hot water flow for your family.
REGIONAL INFO
Oh Canada! You’ll definitely be able to run a shower and another appliance simultaneously with this tankless water heater.
And as long as you don’t live too far north, for instance, Ottawa, Toronto, even Nova Scotia… you can probably even run two showers at once, most times of the year!
The RL75 may just be the best small tankless water heater in 2020 for those small home-owners in Canada that want to run a couple appliances at once.
Excluding Alaska, the rest of the U.S. should be able to run two showers at once with much ease if they use the RL75. Montana to Mississippi, New England to New Mexico, the RL75 will get it done.
And once again, southern states, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, three and four fixtures being used simultaneously will be all too common for your new life with a new RL75.
Pros
- The best option in colder climates for multiple appliances at once
- 7.5 GPM is the best hot water flow rate on this list
- Wi-Fi ready and best recirculation technology available
Cons
- Most expensive option but for good reasons
- Isn’t the most energy efficient option available
- One of the heavier and larger options here
User Experience:
Let’s check out a select few of the Amazon reviews for this tankless water heater.
1) This isn’t something you want to install yourself.
Call someone and tell them to bring all their tools.
The installation process made me think I was doing open-heart surgery.
But once set up, it ran smoothly.
2) You should prepare the installation location beforehand.
Get all the input and output water lines and gas lines ready for when it arrives.
3) I was lucky to have the required gas pipe lying around in my house.
After the installation is done, you can enjoy the fruit of your labor with a hot shower.
4) At first I was happy that it arrived early.
But upon opening the box and seeing the dents on the body and the corroded pipes and parts, I’m convinced someone is trying to prank me here.
5) It works very fast.
I am actually amazed that it works at all after the long and complicated setup process.
6) I have no complaints about the unit itself.
But man, the process of changing parts using the warranty makes you age 20 years in a few minutes.
Not worth the hassle.
8. Eccotemp FVI12 | Best Budget option for Multiple Appliances, Camping and Cabin Use
Taking a look now at the brand Eccotemp, we have the FVI12.
This is an indoor, propane option. The dimensions for this model in depth, height, and width are: 6 inches, 24.75 inches, and 15.25 inches, respectively.
It’s a bit smaller than some of the Rinnai options, fairly close in size though.
This isn’t the smallest option on the list. But at roughly $270, it’s definitely a much cheaper option.
Its weight is around 33 lbs. A good deal lighter than the Rinnai models, still heavier than some other models on this list.
This model seems to find itself floating around the middle in several categories. And perhaps something floating in the middle is what you’re looking for!
TECH SPECS
Perhaps you’re also looking for a digital thermostat and temperature display with easy-to-use manual water temperature controls. The Eccotemp FVI12 has just that, simple to operate.
It also has a stainless-steel horizontal vent kit, ranges from 30 – 80 PSI water pressure, and 25,000-74,500 BTU. Less power than the Rinnai’s… but not too shabby, especially when you’re looking at what you spent on it.
It generally only pulls 2 watts and 1.07 amps during operation, so it’s quite energy efficient.
Estimated yearly energy costs for this model are fairly low, generally around $220.
It also doesn’t make much noise, so even with indoor installation, you won’t be worried about annoying noises ruining your good time.
It has a maximum 4 GPM flow capacity which is pretty good. Pre-emptively comparing it to the other Eccotemp we’ll review next (the i12), the FVI12 wins the battle in GPM for given temperature rises.
REGIONAL INFO
If you need to rise the temperature 80 degrees Farenheit, which could be needed in much colder climates, say a nice cabin in Banff in Canada, the FVI12 can give you a 0.9GPM as opposed to the i12’s 0.7GPM.
If you need to rise the temperature just 60 degrees Farenheit, which might be the case in a nice cabin near Boise or perhaps in northern California, the FVI12 can give you 2.7GPM vs. just 2.1GPM from the i12.
That can be the difference of just a shower running, and a shower running while also running a sink.
Why all the mentions of cabins? Well, the Eccotemp FVI12 has been tested at elevations of up to 2,000 feet!
It is not recommended for use above 5,000 feet, but this is clearly a great option for camping, cabin use, and especially if your cabin-vacation may require a couple fixtures to be run at once.
Pros
- Great option for cabins, especially at somewhat high elevation
- Cheaper option of the two best “cabin-options”
- Better GPM of the two best “cabin-options”
Cons
- Display is decent, but not the best available
- Isn’t the most energy efficient option available among the two best “cabin-options”
- Not quite the smallest or lightest option
User Experience:
It’s time to take a look at some of the user reviews for the Eccotemp FVI12-LP on Amazon.
1) It has a very incosistent performace.
It’s only gotten worse as time went on.
Had to replace it.
2) I’ve had this in my trailer for 3 months.
I’ve been traveling with it.
This is not the best use case for it, but I’m really happy with it.
3) We live in the middle of nowhere.
Having super hot water in a matter of seconds is a blessing, especially where we live.
4) The product was working very well but I made a huge mistake.
On a very cold winter night, I forgot to close the basement door.
The unit EXPLODED like it was a nuke!
Don’t make my mistake and be safe.
5) We can’t use the water anywhere else in the house if we want hot water in one spot.
This is truly insufferable.
6) Buy this if you’re a single person or a family of 2 at most.
If someone even touches the faucet in the kitchen sink, you’ll quickly turn into an ice sculpture under the shower.
Expert Opinion:
9. Eccotemp i12 | Best Ever for Camping and Cabin Use
Now for the Eccotemp i12, a more expensive model from the same brand at about $350.
A little bigger than the previous Eccotemp with depth, height, and width dimensions being 11, 29 and 17 inches, respectively, it’s remarkably weighing a tad less at 29 lbs.
This is another option that’s not the smallest, but still fits in the overall small category of tankless water heaters.
It’s another indoor option, so make sure you have room in your place. It also uses propane, just like that last Eccotemp.
TECH SPECS
With the same 30 – 80 PSI water pressure and the fact that it also generally only pulls 2 watts and 1.07 amps during operation, you’ll wonder why it’s more expensive than the FVI12.
Well, it has slightly better maximum power with 25,000 – 80,000 BTUs. Slightly better maximum GPM at about 4.8. And it’s even more energy-efficient than the last model.
You’ll be saving more money and wasting less energy in the long run.
It also has a more advanced digital display. Fully automatic temperature controls give you more accurate precision. The easy-to-read LED touch screen has a display that shows output temperature and GPM flow.
Also, technology to keep it locked from your child so there are no surprises from any little ones accidentally changing some settings!
REGIONAL INFO
Yes, you’ve seen in the previous review that the FVI12 allows you more GPM with higher temperature rises needed.
But you can still use this model for your cabin in Banff. Your cabin outside of Boise. Your cabin in northern California, and wherever else.
This model has also been tested at up to 2,000 feet elevation. Also not recommended for use at over 5,000 feet.
Perhaps, it’s less of the model you want if you’re going to be in cold, cold climates in a cabin and multiple people need to shower or use a sink.
If you’re in your cabin in cold areas, but typically one fixture is used at a time, this could be the better choice. Especially if you plan on spending a lot of time at the cabin, as this is the model that will save you money over time.
The Eccotemp i12 may be your best small tankless water heater in 2020 if you’re a lover of your cabin in Canada, and a lover of conserving energy and saving money.
The lone cabin-dweller enjoying some solitude in nature… this is definitely an excellent choice.
Pros
- Great option for cabins, especially at somewhat high elevation
- More energy efficient option of the two best “cabin-options”
- More advanced digital display of the two best “cabin-options”
Cons
- Not the cheapest of the two best “cabin-options”
- Not the cheapest option available among the two best “cabin-options”
- Not quite the smallest or lightest option
User Experience:
These are some of the user reviews we could find for this product on Amazon.
Take a look at them.
1) It’s not even been a year and it’s leaking.
I called the company and they shifted the blame to cold weather.
They won’t accept the warranty.
2) I had to return this.
It can not handle any house bigger than 2000 ft.
Bought this under the wrong impression.
3) I’ve been sick of tanked gas heaters for years.
Gong tankless was the best thing I could do and this was the best option I could pick.
4) Needs some adjustments but nothing complicated.
Get a plumber and you’ll be happy with the results.
5) Installed manually and it’s been going strong so far.
It takes less than 1 min for hot water to reach any faucet in the house.
6) Got rid of my old tanked water heater.
Installed this using the old heaters equipment and hopped in the shower.
There’s a big smile on my face that’s not going anywhere.
Expert Opinion:
10. Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM | Best Budget & Portable Option
And here we have the Camplux 5L 1.32GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater. As you may notice by the name, this is definitely an option that’s going to be best suited as a portable option and especially for camping trips.
Something you’ll love immediately about this option is the cost, just about $120! Of course, this isn’t necessarily one to use for small homes, more so for camping trips or point-of-use situations.
The dimensions in depth, height, and width are: 4.33 inches, 14.8 inches, 11.42 inches, respectively, and it weighs about 14 pounds.
It’s not actually the smallest or lightest option, but it’s in competition with the lightest models.
And it has a convenient handle for you, so you can carry it around with great ease.
TECH SPECS
For its small size it has a fairly impressive 28,000 btu/hour. The maximum 1.32 GPM isn’t so high, but it’s enough for any one appliance you may need while camping.
It’s also enough to help out with a quick car wash, dog bath… even a quick shower session for your horse!
It can operate on as low as 3.0 PSI and works up to 110.0 PSI!
The operating propane gas pressure is 0.4 PSI, so it really doesn’t require much to be used. And it can also work great with a modified water system with a 12-volt water pump.
This is generally going to be used for outdoor use. However, with Oxygen Depletion Sensor Protection equipped on this high-powered small tankless water heater, you can also use it indoors as long as it’s well-ventilated.
All these features really make this a flexible option for you!
REGIONAL INFO
Now, you’ll probably want to take this thing everywhere with you. It is said to operate up to 2,000 feet in elevation, but is not recommended above that.
So, take it on all your outdoor excursions that don’t go above 2,000 feet.
Whether you’re planning a camping trip in Eureka Springs, Arkansas or near Wichita, Kansas… or maybe you’re going to be heading to Coachella for the weekend… the Camplux is an excellent little travel mate for you!
And for those of you with a farm or perhaps just a large outdoor area on your property… need to wash up the horses, the dogs, cows, goats, whatever… the Camplux is an excellent choice for your neck of the woods.
Pros
- Great portable option for camping
- Fantastic point-of-use option, especially for giving your dogs and horses a bath!
- Cheapest option available
Cons
- Not suitable for elevations above 2,000 feet
- 1.32 GPM is quite low
User Experience:
And we get to the part where users talk about their experience with this small tankless water heater.
Keep reading to find out more.
1) An excellent product for those who travel a lot or those living in tiny apartments.
I was worried about having this indoors, but haven’t really had any issues so far.
2) I hate how confusing the instructions are.
It’s like they’re making it so that you’d have to hire someone else to do it.
It doesn’t even come with Teflon tapes for God’s sake!
3) It developed a leak in one of the lines.
Luckily I easily replaced it and never had issues with it again.
4) It wasn’t a smart choice to buy a returned unit.
It was clearly a unit that someone had returned because it was literally missing the bottom part!
5) Installed near the shower in our camp.
Although it was intended for guests, we soon started using it ourselves and we love it.
6) Be very careful with where and how you install it.
It’s a real fire inside, so you’re literally playing with fire!
This can be deadly if you make the smallest mistake during installation.
Expert Opinion:
11. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW | Best Electric Option Ever
Now, let’s take a look at some Stiebel Eltrons.
From the Tempra line, the Tempra Plus 24 kW Tankless Water Heater. A pricier option at about $690, but well worth it.
This comes from a reliable brand with much to love. Lots of different options, fantastic features.
The dimensions of this model in depth, height and width are: 4.6 inches, 16.6 inches, and 14.5 inches, respectively. And it weighs about 15.5 lbs.
You’ll probably notice this is larger than some of the smallest options on this list, but smaller than the larger more powerful sizes.
Comparing the sleek, small design of this more powerful small tankless water heater to the other powerhouses on the list, may speak to you. Let’s see why.
TECH SPECS
Stiebel Eltron’s own proprietary Advanced Flow Control design is a standard feature with the Tempra Plus models.
If the demand of hot water is higher than what can be handled by the model, rather than altering the temperature of the water, the amount of water flowing through will be limited slightly.
Where you may have moments of a little less water being delivered to you… you’ll never have a shocking temperature drop in the middle of a shower!
You’ll also get self-modulation control with this model. That means it will always use the least amount of energy possible to get the required job done.
And for you… less energy wasted means… less money of yours is wasted.
This 24-kW beauty also has preset temperature memory buttons. That’ll be nice for you so you don’t have to always remember the perfect temperature for your shower vs. someone else’s.
This Tempra Plus can do it for you. And it also has an energy monitor that shows your cost savings. How nice!
REGIONAL INFO
Now, let’s think about where you live and how this model will best serve you.
Even in the coldest climates in North America, the ground water temperature would be 42 degrees Farenheit on average. Canada, Montana, Maine, Minnesota… you can achieve 2.6 GPM, enough for a shower and a bathroom sink to be used simultaneously.
In areas farther north, but with slightly warmer ground water temperature, say 52 degrees Farenheit, you can be afforded 3.1 GPM. So, places like New York City, Seattle, Cleveland and Denver, you can run two showers at once.
Large portions of the southern part of the U.S. has an average ground water temperature of around 62 degrees Farenheit, and those places can achieve roughly 3.8 GPM with the Tempra Plus 24.
So, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Santa Fe, and Oklahoma City… you’ll love how little space this model takes up while allowing you to run up to two showers and bathroom sink!
As people who live deep in the South of the U.S. are realizing, small tankless water heaters can do a lot for them!
Areas where the ground water temperature is on average 72 degrees Farenheit, you can reach an impressive 5 GPM.
Cities like Phoenix, Houston, Orlando and Atlanta… you could run up to three showers at once!
If morning traffic in your apartment gets hectic, the Tempra Plus 24 will make sure the hot water situation is good.
Pros
- Impressive 5 GPM
- Able to run up to three showers in warmer climates
- Can be used for multiple fixtures even in the coldest climates in North America
Cons
- Though, not the best GPM of all the more powerful options
- One of the more expensive options
User Experience:
Let’s see what the past owners of this water heater have to say about it.
1) It’s a budget tankless water heater with easy installation and very high power output.
This thing is a small yet feral beast!
2) It can run 3 hot showers at the same time!
Where else have you seen this much raw power?
It hasn’t even increased my electrical bill.
It’s unbelievable.
3) Somebody said this was the Mercedes of tankless water heaters.
I thought it sounded legit so I bought it.
It died in less than 2 years.
No one answers my calls.
4) I run this with a solar panel in my house.
It’s an amazing piece of architecture and ensures very hot water temps and doesn’t pollute the air.
5) After 3 years it still runs like a champ.
I’ve relocated multiple times and have taken this with me everywhere,
It’s a part of our family now!
6) I paid a professional to install it.
I can’t tell if the guy messed it up or it’s the unit but the water temps are not consistent at all.
One minute you’ll get a second-degree burn and the next, you’ll freeze to death in the shower.
Expert Opinion:
12. Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 | Great Budget Electric Option for Single Point-Of-Use
Checking out some more options from Stiebel Eltron… let’s look at the DHC-E12 Tankless Water Heater.
This model costs around $280 and is more of a point-of-use or multiple-point-of-use type water heater.
The same great brand of Stiebel Eltron, you’ll still get their incredible proprietary technology.
They also boast best warranty in the industry, for those of you who may be the cautious type when making these types of purchases.
It also touts seismic proof construction. Good to know for anyone living near or on a fault line.
The compact and sleek design have this model sizing up at 4.1 inches deep, 14.25 inches high, and 7.9 inches wide.
Weighing just under 6 lbs., this light option isn’t much bigger than a ruler and about as wide as a standard piece of notebook paper. Slide it in anywhere!
TECH SPECS
For a small, point-of-use tankless water heater, the DHC-E 12 has an impressive 12 kW output and is a very energy efficient option. Claiming over 99% energy efficiency!
It comes with an easy-to-read and easy-to-use temperature dial that ranges between 86 and 140 degrees Farenheit.
Set it to your desired temperature and it will stay there as long as you want. Alter it at any time you please.
The advanced electronics of the DHC-E 12 guarantee you 100% accuracy in temperature setting.
A 110-degree shower you set up for yourself won’t surprise you with a cooler 100-degree output, or scald you with a hotter 120. 110 means 110.
REGIONAL INFO
Now, let’s talk about your regions’ details when it comes to the DHC-E 12.
If you’re living in the very north of North America, with an average ground water temperature of 42 degrees Farenheit… you should be getting somewhere between 1.2 – 1.7 GPM.
The likes of Alaska, New Hampshire, most of Wisconsin… the DHC-E 12 could easily power a single bathroom sink. Multiple low-flow sinks at once, and perhaps even a low-flow sink along with a water-saver shower head.
How about a little less north? Large portions of fairly northern U.S. have ground water temperatures averages around 52 degrees Farenheit.
Those areas should be able to get 2.1 GPM most times out of the year. From Boston to Portland, including Philadelphia and Detroit and many others… easily run most kitchen sinks and most utility/janitor’s sinks if this is more of a commercial desire for you.
Residential users, multiple low-flow sinks at once or a low-flow shower and typical bathroom sink simultaneously are easy to power.
Most of the southern U.S. has average ground temperatures of at least 62 degrees Farenheit. If that’s you… you could be working with up to 2.9 GPM.
The likes of the Carolinas and most of Virginia, cities like Nashville and St. Louis… your residents can use the DHC-E 12 and power multiple sinks, low-flow or not. Any shower, whether water-saver or not, and any kitchen sink, can be easily operated here.
Now, let’s go even deeper south… where the ground water temperature is on average 72 degrees Farenheit. You could be getting up to 4.5 GPM, though typically more in the 3 – 4 GPM range.
Places such as Tampa Bay, Baton Rouge and San Antonio could simultaneously operate any shower and any sink regardless of water flow in the best conditions.
This could be a great multiple-point-of-use option if you live that far south in the U.S.
Pros
- Great point-of-use option that can be used for multiple appliances in some situations
- Fairly cheap option from this list
- Seismic proof and has advanced electronic design guaranteeing 100% accuracy
Cons
- Colder climates generally can only support one appliance
- Not the cheapest point-of-use option here
User Experience:
It’s time to once again take a look at the user reviews for another tankless water heater on our list.
1) We live in a very cold state.
2 of these beauties always keep us warm in the house no matter how cold it gets outside.
Still, you’ll sometimes face issues like the water temps dropping as soon as someone runs the faucet somewhere else.
2) It’s an exceptional product.
Never had any of the old issues after installing this at home.
Be cautious that you might have to do some electrical wiring so you might as well get some help from someone professional.
3) It works as expected; very well.
With 2 of these, we have absolutely 0 issues with water temps in our household.
4) It draws a shocking (get it, because it was electric!) amount of power and yet doesn’t manage to heat the water enough for a hot bath.
We live in the hottest part of the UK and this unit still struggles.
Wow!
5) Gets me hot water.
That’s all I care about.
No more dealing with the old water heater and all the headaches it gave me.
6) Perfect instructions, easy installation, and awesome performance.
No reason not to buy.
13. Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 | Nice Budget Electric Option
Now, let’s take a look at one more option from the Stiebel Eltron brand, the DHC 10-2 Tankless Water Heater.
This is a great point-of-use option at just about $170. One of the cheapest options we’ve reviewed here!
It’s quite compact, measuring at 4.1 inches deep, 14.25 inches high, and 7.9 inches wide.
And it weighs just 5.3 lbs. So, it’s the same small size as the DHC-E 12 reviewed before, but even a little lighter!
TECH SPECS
It operates at about 9.6 kW and has a maximum water pressure of 150 PSI. The activation flow rate is 0.79 GPM.
And this is another amazingly energy efficient option, claiming to be 99% energy efficient.
The DHC series, unlike the DHC-E series, are better suited for a situation where you have a more constant flow rate, as opposed to something that may be changing quite often. Consider this option for your more consistent situations.
And this has a heating element which is controlled by a flow switch so you’ll never have a premature failure with this model.
It’s designed to be very reliable and also extremely quiet. With its tiny size and next to no noise… you won’t even know it’s there!
REGIONAL INFO
As this is designed to mainly be just a single point-of-use type tankless water heater, you’ll be limited in your use you get from it. Especially depending on where you live.
The northern-most areas of the U.S. and Canada with average ground water temperatures of 42 degrees Farenheit will likely be getting just over 1.3 GPM with this model.
So, areas like Vermont, Northern Michigan, The Dakotas and most of Wyoming will be able to efficiently operate a standard bathroom sink, or a couple low-flow sinks.
Consider this for your guest bathroom sink, or perhaps a sink in an employee bathroom for your small business!
Keeping it in the north, but a little less north, areas where the ground water temperature typically floats around 52 degrees Farenheit, the DHC 10-2 can achieve up to 1.7 GPM.
Places like Pittsburgh, Chicago, Indianapolis and Des Moines to name a few, you can also run a couple low-flow faucets, one bathroom faucet, and even many kitchen sink models.
This could be a good option for a small break room in your business!
In areas of the U.S. that get ground water temperatures that tend to be around 62 degrees Farenheit, you’ll be working with a maximum GPM of around 2.3.
Easily run any kitchen sink, any bathroom sink, and multiple low-flow faucets at once most months of the year, if you’re living in southern regions like Memphis, Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Santa Barbara.
And finally, the hottest climates in the U.S., those with ground water temperatures that usually sit around 72 degrees Farenheit, you’ll be quite pleased with a maximum GPM of around 3.6! Run multiple low-flow sinks, even run two standard bathroom sinks!
If you’re trying to keep this to a single point-of-use, you’ll have no problems any time of the year, running a standard kitchen sink and even a janitorial or utility sink if you’re set up in locations like Tallahassee, New Orleans or Dallas.
Pros
- One of the cheapest options here
- Great little point-of-use option
- Fantastic design, reliable and very energy efficient
Cons
- Colder climates generally support only low-flow options better
- Can’t really support more than one appliance at once
- Not good for situations in which demands and flow rates change
User Experience:
At last, we get to the user reviews for the final entry on the list.
These reviews are all from Amazon users.
1) It’s very well designed.
Works well enough on medium settings.
It’s also easy to use.
2) I unboxed and installed it very easily.
I use it for my office bathroom and it’s saved my life after many long exhausting workdays.
3) It’s really powerful even when not set to the highest settings.
Lower the settings and save some money on your bills.
4) As others said, it’s really easy to install.
My personal recommendation to friends and relatives.
Best Small Tankless Water Heater — Buyers Guide
As you can see… lots and lots of choices are available to you. It may seem difficult to make a decision on which tankless water heater will be best for your needs.
But as we continue to comb through all the details of each choice, you’ll see each model serves a different purpose better than the others.
Some models excel in one or two areas. Some models are good for multiple scenarios.
And you, of course, have to come to this article because you have your own specific scenario. So, that’s what we want to address.
Make sure you keep in mind what exactly you want.
Are you leaning more towards point-of-use?
Do you have a situation in which you need to take up as little space with this water heater as possible?
Is it that you have a smaller home but want to get the most out of a smaller tankless water heater?
Also, you should keep in mind where you are.
Where you plan to use this tankless water heater.
The best small tankless water heater in 2021 also depends on which region you’ll be using it.
Do you live far north? In the southeast U.S.? Are you a Midwesterner?
Maybe after reading this article, new questions have arisen for you. New details have emerged that you didn’t realize you would need to take into consideration when making this purchase.
That’s alright. We’re going to cover a lot of ground in this section.
I’ll be going through lots of frequently asked questions that people have when searching for the best small tankless water heater in 2021.
There will be plenty of questions we will answer that will vary in specificity.
In doing so, we’re going to cover every area that we can so that we can be sure you have all the answers you need.
Let’s put all that information to good use. Let’s answer some questions then!
Which one is the best small tankless water heater if I'm on a budget?
I’ll break this down into three sub sections:
The absolute cheapest option here is the Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater at around $120. But this is also more of a portable, camping type.
The cheapest option for general single point-of-use is the Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 Tankless Water Heater at about $170.
The cheapest option for something that generally handle more than one fixture at a time, you’ll probably be looking at the Eccotemp FVI12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater at around $270.
Plus, you can even use it in a cabin at slightly high elevations!
If money is no concern, what’s the absolute best small tankless water heater that money can buy?
I’d certainly choose the Rinnai RL75. You get the most maximum GPM and you get Wi-Fi readiness.
If I live alone in a small apartment in Canada, what’s the best small tankless water heater for me?
I could give a few answers here as well.
The Rinnai V65IN is good enough to run any shower in Canada. Of all the Rinnai’s models, it’s also the cheapest option, so you don’t need to spend any extra money unnecessarily.
Say, while you shower, you also like to run the dishwasher simultaneously. Maybe you’re saving time during your morning routine. Then, maybe you could go with the Rinnai RUCS65iN as that will allow you to run both.
(Additionally, both the above Rinnai options can come as your choice of indoor or outdoor, natural gas or propane, totally four options)
If all you want to do is shower, and you’re looking to not spend more money than is necessary… the Rheem RTEX-18 Tankless Water Heater only costs about $400 and should be able to get the job done.
If I’m in Canada and don’t want to spend too much money to service a bathroom sink, what’s the best small tankless water heater for me?
At about $170, you can get that job done with the Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 Tankless Water Heater.
If I live in a small place in the Midwest, and my roommate and I often run showers at the same time, what would be the best small tankless water heater in 2021?
It depends a bit on where in the Midwest you live. For certain, the Rinnai RL75IN will be able to get it done in any Midwestern town or city.
Most of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and parts of southern Michigan and Southern Wisconsin should also be able to pull this off with the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW Tankless Water Heater.
Though Minnesota, the Dakotas, northern Michigan and northern Wisconsin may not be able to pull this off year-round.
If I’m most concerned with the highest possible GPM, then what’s the best small tankless water heater in 2021?
With a maximum GPM of 7.5, that would certainly be the Rinnai RL75IN.
If I want to avoid an electric or propane model, what’s the best small tankless water heater that uses natural gas?
You have three great options here from Rinnai. The absolute best of them is the Rinnai RL75IN.
The best on a budget is the Rinnai V65IN.
And the best one to save you energy and money in the long-run is the Rinnai RUCS65iN.
If I want the lightest in weight, then what’s the best small tankless water heater for me?
The Stiebel Eltron DHC 10-2 Tankless Water Heater is the lightest option at about 5.3 lbs. Good for single point-of-use.
If you want something light that can handle a little bit more at once… the Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 Tankless Water Heater is the second lightest option on the list, weighing just under 6 lbs.
What’s the best small tankless water heater if I want the model that will take up the least space?
The Rheem RTEX-13 Tankless Water Heater measures at 3.63 inches, 12.63 inches, 8.25 inches (depth, height, width), respectively.
The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater measures at 3.75 inches, 11.5 inches, and 8 inches (depth, height, width), respectively.
The ECO 11 is shorter and skinnier. The RTEX-13 is slightly larger in height and width, but is a tad less deep. Both are very compact choices.
For a couple living in the San Francisco area in a studio with overlapping schedules, we like to use the shower and bathroom sink at the same time, what’s the best small tankless water heater for us?
You’re in luck! You can choose the Rheem RTEX-18 Tankless Water Heater for only about $400 and it can accomplish just that.
Same goes for those in similar situations in the likes of Portland, Seattle, Boston, NYC, Philly, and anywhere south of those places.
If I want the most technologically advanced option, what’s the best small tankless water heater?
I’d say the Rinnai RL75IN is your best bet.
On top of everything it does so well, either on par or exceeding other options, it’s also Wi-Fi ready. Siri… start my hot water for a shower please. Yup; That could be you!
What’s the best small tankless water heater if I want to take it camping?
If you’re going camping and you’ll be staying under 2,000 feet elevation, then choose the Camplux 5L 1.32 GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater.
If you’ll be camping more in that 2,000 to 5,000 feet range in elevation, then I’d choose the Eccotemp FVI12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater or the Eccotemp i12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane one.
What’s the best small tankless water heater I can currently for my cabin?
You’ll definitely want to choose either the Eccotemp FVI12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater or the Eccotemp i12 Indoor 4.0 GPM Liquid Propane one.
The best way to decide between the two… choose the FVI12 if you’re wanting to get more gallons per minute. No matter the climate, it will provide more than the i12. This will be important in colder areas as it can make the difference between one and two appliances. It’s also cheaper at about $260.
The i12 is more expensive at about $350, but it has a more advanced digital display and is more energy efficient.
So, if you’re more interested in saving money in the long-run, plan to spend as much time at your cabin as you want with the i12!
If I live in a small home in the south with my spouse and kids, but we tend to have 3 or 4 appliances requiring hot water at once, what’s the best small tankless water heater for me?
This will depend where in the south and what exactly the 3 to 4 fixtures are. For some tips, find out what the average ground water temperature is for your area.
If you live in the likes of Miami, Phoenix, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, southern parts of Texas, you could definitely run three showers at once with the EcoSmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater. If one or two appliances aren’t showers, you could run four fixtures at once.
These areas could also do the same with the Rinnai RUCS65iN and the Rinnai V65IN.
Now, the Rinnai RL75 can do the same in these areas. It can even handle four showers at once, in these areas. And three to four fixtures at once, as long as they aren’t all showers, can even be handled with the Rinnai RL75 in other southern areas throughout Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and southern California.
Best Small Tankless Water Heater — Conclusions
There are so many fantastic options for your small tankless water heater needs.
We covered a lot of different areas, so you likely have all the information you need.
There’s plenty to consider. It’s good to know your budget ahead of time if you do have one.
It’s helpful to figure out which details are things you need, things you just want, and things you could live without.
Plenty of these options fulfill multiple different desires you may have when shopping for tankless water heaters.
Some of these options are specialists in certain areas. And if that’s your area, then that’s just fine.
It’s a wide variety of options on this list, so they aren’t all likely to be the best match for you.
No matter what your desire is though… it’s on this list above.
You can now go out and pick out your appropriate small tankless water heater.
Just remember, it’s all about what you need, what you want, and where you live.
