5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for Large Family [In 2025]

As the demand for energy-efficient and space-saving home solutions continues to grow, the search for the best electric tankless water heater for large families has become increasingly important. Tankless water heaters offer a range of benefits, from continuous hot water supply to significant energy savings, making them a popular choice for modern households. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore five top-rated electric tankless water heaters, analyzing their features, performance, and customer feedback to help you make an informed decision for your family’s needs.

5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for Large Family Reviews

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 24 Trend

Overview

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Trend is a powerful and energy-efficient electric tankless water heater designed to provide continuous hot water for large families. With its compact design and intelligent self-modulating technology, this unit ensures maximum energy efficiency and precise temperature control.

Specs

• Voltage: 240V
• Power: 24kW
• Water Flow Rate: 2-3.5 GPM (depending on inlet water temperature)
• Temperature Range: 68°F to 140°F
• Dimensions: 14.25 x 8.86 x 3.94 inches

Pros

• Continuous hot water supply for large households
• Intelligent self-modulating technology for energy efficiency
• Compact and space-saving design
• Digital temperature display for accurate control
• Backed by a 7-year leakage and 3-year parts warranty

Cons

• Requires a minimum recommended electrical service of 150A
• Can be more expensive compared to some competitors

Customer Review

Customers generally praise the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Trend for its reliable performance, energy-saving features, and ability to provide hot water for large households. Many users report a noticeable reduction in their energy bills and the convenience of having an endless supply of hot water. However, some customers note that the unit may require a more complex installation due to its higher power requirements.

Westinghouse 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater

Overview

The Westinghouse 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, also known as the Apolo-18kW, is a smart and efficient solution for providing instant hot water to homes with multiple bathrooms and sinks. With its WiFi connectivity and voice control capabilities, this unit offers a seamless and technologically advanced user experience.

Specs

• Voltage: 240V
• Power: 18kW
• Water Flow Rate: 4.2 GPM
• Temperature Range: 86°F to 140°F
• Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 4.3 inches

Pros

• Provides instant hot water for up to 2 showers and 2 sinks simultaneously
• Smart WiFi and voice control capabilities (compatible with Alexa and Google Home)
• Efficient 18kW performance engineered for homes with 75A electrical demand
• ETL certified with comprehensive safety features
• Compact and space-saving design

Cons

• Requires 2 x 40 AMP (DP) breakers and 2 x 8 AWG wiring
• Some customers report issues with temperature control and reliability

Customer Review

Customers generally find the Westinghouse 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater to be a functional and efficient unit, praising its ability to provide continuous hot water for multiple simultaneous uses. The smart features, such as WiFi and voice control, are also well-received. However, a few customers have reported problems with the temperature control and reliability of the unit, which may be a concern for some users.

Midea 13KW Electric Tankless Water Heater

Overview

The Midea 13KW Electric Tankless Water Heater is a powerful and technologically advanced unit designed to provide instant hot water for larger homes and small whole-home applications. With its touch control panel, WiFi connectivity, and automatic power modulation, this heater offers a user-friendly and energy-efficient experience.

Specs

• Voltage: 240V
• Power: 13kW
• Water Flow Rate: Not specified
• Temperature Range: Up to 130°F
• Dimensions: Not specified

Pros

• Provides instant and endless hot water for showers, sinks, and appliances
• Smart WiFi control and touch control panel for easy temperature adjustment
• Automatic power modulation for energy-efficient operation
• Compact and space-saving design
• ETL, NSF, and DOE certified for safety and reliability

Cons

• Some customers report issues with functionality and temperature control
• Limited information on specific flow rate and dimensions

Customer Review

Customers generally find the Midea 13KW Electric Tankless Water Heater to be a capable and energy-efficient unit, with many praising its instant hot water delivery and smart control features. However, a few customers have reported issues with the functionality and temperature control of the unit, which may be a concern for some users.

Airthereal Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW

Overview

The Airthereal Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW is a powerful and compact solution for providing endless hot water on demand. With its self-modulating technology and comprehensive safety features, this unit aims to deliver a reliable and energy-efficient performance for larger households.

Specs

• Voltage: 240V
• Power: 18kW
• Water Flow Rate: Not specified
• Temperature Range: Not specified
• Dimensions: Not specified

Pros

• Provides endless hot water on demand with no preheating or temperature fluctuations
• Self-modulating technology for energy-efficient operation
• Compact and space-saving design
• Comprehensive safety features, including high-temperature protection and dry heating protection

Cons

• Requires specific electrical setup (240V, 2 x 40 AMP breakers, 2 x 8 AWG wires)
• Limited information on flow rate, temperature range, and dimensions

Customer Review

Due to the limited customer review information available, it’s difficult to provide a comprehensive assessment of the Airthereal Electric Tankless Water Heater 18kW. However, the unit appears to offer the expected benefits of a tankless water heater, such as endless hot water and energy efficiency, with a focus on safety and compact design.

EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater

Overview

The EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater is a smart and energy-efficient unit designed to provide hot water for homes in warmer climates or where the incoming water temperature is 62°F or above. With its patented self-modulating technology, this heater aims to deliver consistent hot water while minimizing energy consumption.

Specs

• Voltage: 240V
• Power: 18kW
• Water Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM (with 62°F inlet water temperature)
• Temperature Range: Digital temperature control in 1-degree increments
• Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 3.5 inches

Pros

• Patented self-modulating technology for energy efficiency
• Digital temperature control for precise temperature settings
• Compact and space-saving design

Cons

• Limited to warmer climates or areas with 62°F or higher inlet water temperature
• May not be suitable for large households or colder climates

Customer Review

Due to the limited customer review information available, it’s difficult to provide a comprehensive assessment of the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater. However, the unit appears to be a capable and energy-efficient option for homes in warmer climates or areas with relatively warm incoming water temperatures.

Buying Guide

Sizing and Power Requirements

• Determine the appropriate kW rating and water flow rate required for your household’s hot water needs, considering factors like the number of bathrooms, simultaneous usage, and inlet water temperature.
• Ensure your electrical panel can accommodate the power requirements of the tankless water heater (voltage, amperage, and wiring).
• Consider the installation complexity and any additional electrical work that may be needed.

Features and Functionality

• Look for features like smart control, WiFi connectivity, and voice control for enhanced convenience and customization.
• Prioritize energy-efficient technologies, such as self-modulating power, to optimize energy usage and reduce utility costs.
• Ensure the unit offers comprehensive safety features, including temperature, leakage, and dry-fire protection.

Design and Installation

• Choose a compact and wall-mountable unit to save valuable floor space in your home.
• Consider the overall dimensions and weight of the tankless water heater to ensure it can be easily installed in your desired location.
• Determine if the unit requires any special venting or plumbing requirements, which may impact the installation process.

Warranty and Customer Support

• Look for manufacturers that offer extensive warranties, covering both the unit and its components, for peace of mind.
• Research the brand’s customer support services, including the availability of technical assistance and repair services, in case any issues arise.

Cost and Energy Savings

• Compare the upfront cost of the tankless water heater, including any installation expenses, against the potential long-term energy savings.
• Consider the unit’s energy efficiency ratings and the impact on your monthly utility bills, as this can significantly affect the overall cost-effectiveness of the investment.

FAQ

1. How do tankless water heaters compare to traditional tank-style water heaters?

Tankless water heaters offer several advantages over traditional tank-style heaters, including endless hot water supply, improved energy efficiency, and a more compact design. They only heat water on demand, rather than continuously maintaining a full tank of hot water, resulting in significant energy savings.

2. What is the typical lifespan of an electric tankless water heater?

With proper maintenance and care, most high-quality electric tankless water heaters can last between 15 to 20 years, significantly longer than the typical 8-12 year lifespan of a traditional tank-style water heater.

3. How do I determine the right size tankless water heater for my home?

The appropriate size of a tankless water heater is determined by factors such as the number of bathrooms, the desired flow rate, and the incoming water temperature. It’s recommended to consult with a professional or use an online sizing calculator to ensure you select a model that can adequately meet your household’s hot water needs.

4. Are there any special installation requirements for electric tankless water heaters?

Yes, electric tankless water heaters typically require a dedicated high-voltage electrical circuit and appropriate wiring to handle the high power demands. It’s essential to ensure your home’s electrical system can support the required voltage, amperage, and circuit breaker size for the selected model.

5. Can I use a tankless water heater for both indoor and outdoor applications?

While some tankless water heater models are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it’s important to carefully review the manufacturer’s specifications and installation guidelines. Outdoor use may require additional weatherproofing or considerations to ensure reliable and safe operation.

Conclusion

In the quest for the best electric tankless water heater for large families, the options reviewed in this comprehensive guide offer a range of features and capabilities to meet diverse household needs. From the energy-efficient Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Trend to the technologically advanced Westinghouse 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, each model presents its own unique strengths and considerations. By carefully evaluating factors like sizing, functionality, design, and cost-effectiveness, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your family’s hot water requirements and long-term sustainability goals.