Best Smart Tankless Water Heaters for On‑Demand Hot Water
Looking for a smart tankless water heater that delivers instant hot water and remote control? This guide highlights five top options, each suited to different homes and use cases. The list covers electric and gas models, with smart features like WiFi, voice control, and app monitoring. Best for small apartments, whole‑house homes, or energy‑savvy households, these picks balance performance, efficiency, and ease of use. Compare dimensions, flow rates, and control options to choose the right model for your hot water needs.
The Westinghouse APOLO 14kW electric tankless water heater provides on‑demand hot water with smart WiFi control. It supports up to 3.38 GPM and works with 1 x 60 amp breaker and 6 AWG wiring, making it suitable for 1 shower plus a sink scenario. The device supports remote temperature adjustments from 86°F to 140°F in 1° increments, and real‑time status via an LED display. Best for compact spaces and smart‑home enthusiasts who want voice control via Alexa or Google Home.
Who it’s best for: small homes, apartments, or bathrooms where instant hot water at a single or dual fixture is sufficient. Why selected: strong compatibility with smart assistants and precise temperature control in a compact form. Caution: recommended electrical setup requires exact breaker sizing and proper wiring; consult an electrician before install.
The EcoSmart ECO 11 delivers on‑demand hot water with patented self‑modulating technology. It’s about 90% smaller than traditional tank heaters and is 99% thermal energy efficient, heating water only when needed. The unit is compact (11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches) and designed for wall or point‑of‑use installation. Best for energy‑savvy users in smaller homes or apartments who want space savings and predictable water temperature within 1 degree of the set point.
Who it’s best for: tight spaces and budget‑conscious buyers seeking energy efficiency. Why selected: significant size and energy advantages for households with modest hot water needs. Caution: may not support multiple simultaneous fixtures in larger homes; check your GPM requirements first.
The Rinnai RX199iN is a versatile gas condensing system designed for indoor or outdoor use with Smart Sense control. It supports up to 11.1 GPM and runs on propane or natural gas. Its compact design fits smaller spaces, while delivering high flow for larger homes. Best for households needing high hot water output with flexibility for indoor/outdoor installation.
Who it’s best for: homes with higher simultaneous hot water needs or where gas heating is preferred. Why selected: high GPM capacity with modern interface and potential for WiFi control via additional modules. Caution: outdoor installs require Versa Vent components; ensure proper venting and local code compliance.
The Mizudo model offers direct vent gas operation with a sealed combustion system, designed to preserve indoor air quality. It includes freeze protection, dry‑fire safeguard, auto‑relight, and other safety features. Rated up to 7.9 GPM, it supports multiple points of use with controlled temperature stability. Best for mid‑sized homes that require steady hot water with safety features.
Who it’s best for: families needing dependable hot water with robust safety protections. Why selected: CSA certification and multiple protective features. Caution: as a gas appliance, proper venting and installation are critical; professional setup advised.
The Rheem 18kW electric unit features external digital thermostatic control with an LED display and self‑modulation to match hot water demand. It uses durable copper immersion elements and is field serviceable. With a flow rate up to 4.4 GPM, it’s suitable for moderate household needs. Best for homeowners seeking straightforward electric operation with strong control features.
Who it’s best for: mid‑size homes where a simple, responsive electric tankless heater is preferred. Why selected: reliable electric option with easy temperature readouts. Caution: ensure your electrical system can safely handle higher amperage and install clearances according to code.
Buying Guide
Your hot water needs: Assess the number of bathrooms, fixtures, and peak simultaneous usage to determine required GPM. Higher GPM units suit larger homes; compact models fit apartments.
Power source: Electric models are easier to install where gas lines are limited; gas units are best for higher flow but require venting and ventilation considerations.
Smart features: Consider WiFi app control, voice assistants, and real‑time monitoring. Check compatibility with your preferred ecosystem (Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit, etc.).
Electrical and venting requirements: Electric models demand appropriate breaker capacity and wiring. Gas models need proper venting, gas supply, and clearances; verify local codes and hire licensed professionals where needed.
Space and installation: Measure available wall space and consider whether you want point‑of‑use installation or central mounting. Compact units save space but may have lower GPM ratings.
Maintenance and safety: Look for features like anti‑frost, dry‑fire protection, automatic relight, and easy flushing. Regular maintenance improves longevity and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a smart tankless water heater? A water heater that heats on demand and can be controlled via a mobile app or voice assistants for remote temperature settings and monitoring.
Do smart tankless heaters save energy? Yes, because they heat water only when there is a demand, reducing standby losses compared with traditional tanks.
Can I install a tankless heater myself? Some electric models are DIY‑friendly, but gas models require professional installation due to venting and gas‑line work.
What is GPM and why does it matter? GPM (gallons per minute) indicates how much hot water a unit can deliver concurrently. Match GPM to your household needs.
How do I choose between electric and gas? If your home lacks gas lines or you prefer easier wiring, choose electric. If you need higher flow and have gas access, a gas unit may be better.
Will a smart heater work with my current network? Most units support standard WiFi modes and major smart assistants; verify compatibility with your router and devices.
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