5 Best Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater for Cold Climates [In 2025]

In cold climates, having a reliable and efficient hot water heater is crucial for ensuring your home stays comfortable and your daily routines are uninterrupted. Electric tankless water heaters have emerged as a popular choice for their on-demand heating capabilities, energy-saving features, and space-saving designs. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore five top-performing electric tankless water heaters that are well-suited for cold climate conditions.

5 Best Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater for Cold Climates Review

VEVOR Electric Water Heater, 10 Gallon Tank Instant Hot Water Heater

Overview

The VEVOR Electric Water Heater is a 10-gallon tank-style instant hot water heater that delivers reliable hot water for your home. Its 1600W high-power heating element reduces wait time for hot water, making it a great choice for cold climates.

Specs

• 10-Gallon Water Capacity
• 1600W High-Power Heating Element
• Adjustable Temperature Range: 86°F to 167°F
• LED Heating Display and Rotary Temperature Control
• Enamel Glass Coating for Enhanced Safety
• 20mm Foam Insulation Layer for Heat Retention

Pros

• Ample hot water capacity for family needs
• Rapid heating reduces wait time for hot water
• Versatile usage in residential and commercial settings
• Safety features like enamel coating and insulation

Cons

• Larger physical footprint compared to tankless models
• May require dedicated electrical circuit installation

Customer Reviews

Customers report that the VEVOR Electric Water Heater effectively provides hot water for their homes, with some noting its suitability for use in cold climates. The unit’s safety features and easy temperature control are also highlighted as positive attributes.

Electric Tankless Water Heater, 11kW 240V on Demand Instant Endless Hot Water Heater

Overview

This electric tankless water heater from an unnamed brand offers a high-powered 11kW heating capacity and on-demand hot water delivery, making it a great choice for whole-house use in cold climates.

Specs

• 11kW Heating Capacity, 240V Operation
• Compact Dimensions: 7.9″ x 2.8″ x 11″
• Flow Rate: 1.0-2.6 GPM (Depending on Inlet Temperature)
• Temperature Range: 86°F to 131°F, Adjustable in 1°F Increments
• CSA-Certified for Safety and Reliability

Pros

• Compact, space-saving design for easy installation
• Highly efficient, up to 60% energy savings compared to tank heaters
• Powerful on-demand performance for whole-house use
• Precise temperature control for consistent hot water

Cons

• Requires a dedicated 60-amp electrical circuit
• May not provide sufficient hot water for multiple simultaneous demands

Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the fast heating and temperature precision of this electric tankless water heater, noting significant cost savings compared to their previous tank-style units. Some report the unit effectively meets their hot water needs in cold climates.

Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 20 Plus

Overview

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus is a high-end electric tankless water heater renowned for its German engineering and advanced features, making it a reliable choice for cold climate installations.

Specs

• 19.2kW Heating Capacity, 240V Operation
• Output Temperature Range: 68°F to 140°F
• Flow Rate: Supports 1-2 Showers in Warm Climates, 1 Shower in Cool Climates
• Exclusive German-Patented Flow Control Technology
• 7-Year Leakage and 3-Year Parts Warranties

Pros

• Automatic temperature maintenance for consistent hot water
• Highly energy-efficient with up to 34% savings on water heating costs
• Compact, space-saving design with no venting required
• Backed by Stiebel Eltron’s renowned German engineering and warranties

Cons

• Higher price point compared to some competitors
• May not provide sufficient hot water for large households in very cold climates

Customer Reviews

Customers praise the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus for its consistent hot water delivery, energy efficiency, and reliable performance, even in cold climate conditions. The brand’s reputation for quality and customer support is also highlighted.

Electric Tankless Water Heater, 18kW 240V on Demand Instant Endless Water Heater

Overview

This 18kW electric tankless water heater offers powerful on-demand hot water capabilities, making it a suitable choice for whole-house use in cold climates where higher heating capacity is required.

Specs

• 18kW Heating Capacity, 240V Operation
• Flow Rate: Up to 4.3 GPM
• Temperature Range: 86°F to 131°F, Adjustable in 1°F Increments
• Compact Dimensions: 13.8″ x 3.1″ x 18.7″
• CSA-Listed for Safety and Reliability

Pros

• Powerful heating capacity for whole-house use in cold climates
• High flow rate supports multiple simultaneous hot water demands
• Precise temperature control for consistent hot water
• Compact, space-saving design for easy installation

Cons

• Requires a dedicated 80-amp electrical circuit
• May be overkill for smaller households or limited hot water needs

Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the powerful performance and consistent hot water delivery of this electric tankless water heater, with some noting its suitability for use in cold climates. The unit’s safety features and easy temperature adjustment are also highlighted as positive attributes.

Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater

Overview

The Rheem Perfomance RTEX-11 is an 11kW electric tankless water heater designed for point-of-use applications, making it a good choice for supplementing hot water needs in cold climates.

Specs

• 11kW Heating Capacity, 240V Operation
• Flow Rate: Up to 2.68 GPM
• Temperature Range: Adjustable Digital Display
• Self-Modulating Power Control
• 1/2″ NPT Water Connections

Pros

• Compact, space-saving design for point-of-use installation
• Consistent hot water delivery with self-modulating technology
• Easy-to-use on/off dial and temperature display

Cons

• May not have sufficient capacity for whole-house use in cold climates
• Some customers report leakage issues

Customer Reviews

Customers generally find the Rheem Perfomance RTEX-11 effective for providing hot water in small bathrooms or kitchens, with some noting its suitability for use in cold climates. However, a few customers have experienced leakage problems with the unit.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for Cold Climates

Heating Capacity

• Consider the size of your home and the number of simultaneous hot water demands to determine the appropriate heating capacity, typically measured in kilowatts (kW).
• Higher heating capacities (e.g., 18kW or more) are generally recommended for whole-house use in cold climates to ensure sufficient hot water for multiple fixtures.
• Smaller capacities (e.g., 11kW) may be suitable for point-of-use applications or supplemental hot water needs in cold climates.

Voltage and Electrical Requirements

• Ensure the electrical service in your home can accommodate the tankless water heater’s voltage and amperage requirements.
• Many high-powered electric tankless heaters require a dedicated 240V circuit, which may necessitate electrical upgrades.
• Check the specific electrical specifications for each model to ensure compatibility with your home’s electrical system.

Flow Rate and Temperature Range

• Look for tankless water heaters with flow rates (typically measured in gallons per minute, or GPM) that can meet your household’s hot water needs.
• Consider the temperature range and adjustability, ensuring the unit can provide hot water at your desired temperature, even in cold climates.
• Pay attention to the inlet water temperature and how it may affect the unit’s flow rate and heating capabilities in cold climates.

Installation and Mounting

• Evaluate the physical dimensions and mounting requirements of the tankless water heater to ensure it can be installed in your desired location.
• Some models offer more compact, space-saving designs that may be better suited for tight spaces or point-of-use installations.
• Consider any special installation requirements, such as water connections, electrical wiring, or venting (if applicable).

Safety and Reliability

• Look for tankless water heaters with robust safety features, such as leakage protection, overheating safeguards, and damp-proofing.
• Check for third-party certifications (e.g., CSA) that indicate the unit has been rigorously tested and meets safety standards.
• Consider the manufacturer’s reputation and warranty coverage to ensure long-term reliability and peace of mind.

FAQ

1. How do electric tankless water heaters compare to traditional tank-style water heaters in cold climates?

Electric tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient and provide on-demand hot water, which can be particularly advantageous in cold climates where tank-style heaters may struggle to maintain water temperature. Tankless models also take up less space and eliminate the risk of standby heat loss associated with tank heaters.

2. What is the recommended heating capacity for a whole-house electric tankless water heater in a cold climate?

For whole-house use in cold climates, a heating capacity of 18kW or more is typically recommended to ensure sufficient hot water for multiple simultaneous demands. Smaller capacities around 11kW may be suitable for point-of-use applications or supplemental hot water needs.

3. Do I need to upgrade my home’s electrical system to install an electric tankless water heater?

Many high-powered electric tankless water heaters require a dedicated 240V electrical circuit, which may necessitate upgrading your home’s electrical service. It’s important to check the specific electrical requirements of the model you’re considering and ensure your home’s electrical system can accommodate it.

4. How do I determine the right flow rate for my electric tankless water heater in a cold climate?

When choosing an electric tankless water heater for a cold climate, consider the number of simultaneous hot water demands (e.g., showers, sinks, appliances) and look for a model with a flow rate that can meet those needs. Typically, higher flow rates (e.g., 4+ GPM) are recommended for whole-house use in cold climates.

5. What safety features should I look for in an electric tankless water heater for a cold climate?

Important safety features to look for in an electric tankless water heater for a cold climate include leakage protection, overheating safeguards, damp-proofing, and third-party safety certifications (e.g., CSA). These features help ensure reliable and worry-free operation, even in demanding cold climate conditions.

Conclusion

Choosing the best electric tankless water heater for a cold climate requires considering factors like heating capacity, electrical requirements, flow rate, temperature control, and safety features. The five models reviewed in this guide offer a range of options to meet the hot water needs of homes in chilly regions, from whole-house solutions to point-of-use supplementary heaters. By carefully evaluating your specific requirements and the features of each model, you can find the perfect electric tankless water heater to keep your home comfortable and your daily routines uninterrupted, even in the coldest of climates.