| Note: This article may contain affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase following our links won’t cost you extra, but we may earn a commission. Learn more |
Finding the best tankless water heater for a tiny house can be challenging due to the limited space available. Tankless water heaters are the ideal solution for tiny homes due to their small size and energy efficiency. With a tankless water heater, you’ll have access to hot water on demand without taking up valuable space in your tiny house.
Electric tankless water heaters are a popular option for tiny homes since they don’t require ventilation and can be installed inside. These units are compact, energy-efficient, and provide an endless supply of hot water, making them an excellent choice for small homes.
If you’re looking for a propane tankless water heater, be sure to select one that’s designed for outdoor installation to prevent any safety hazards.
A unit with a higher flow rate is ideal if you plan on using multiple fixtures simultaneously. Look for models with energy-saving features, such as self-modulating technology, to ensure optimal efficiency and lower utility bills.
Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for Tiny House
1. Airthereal Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Airthereal Electric Tankless Water Heater is a great option for those looking for an energy-efficient and space-saving solution for their tiny house.
With its 18kW power output and self-modulating feature, this heater can provide endless on-demand hot water while saving energy. The compact size makes it easy to install anywhere in your tiny house, even in tight spaces.
Its ability to provide enough hot water for two showers simultaneously. This is ideal for tiny house owners who live with a partner or have guests staying over. Another benefit is the adjustable temperature control, which allows you to customize the water temperature to your liking.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient and space-saving
- Endless on-demand hot water
- Can provide enough hot water for two showers simultaneously
- Adjustable temperature control
- Easy to install in small spaces
Cons:
- Water temperature may fluctuate during the use
2. Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater
The Rheem 11kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater is a great choice for small households looking for an energy-efficient and space-saving water heating solution.
This tankless water heater can provide hot water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank and saving energy in the process. It has an 11kW power output and is compatible with both indoor and outdoor installation.
Its compact size makes it easy to install in small spaces. It also features a digital temperature display, allowing you to easily adjust the water temperature to your liking.
The heater has a 0.93 energy factor, making it one of the most efficient electric tankless water heaters on the market.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient and space-saving
- Digital temperature display
- Can be installed indoors or outdoors
- One of the most efficient electric tankless water heaters
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Issues with leaks
- May not be suitable for areas with very cold
3. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
If you’re looking for an efficient and compact electric tankless water heater for your small house or apartment, the EcoSmart ECO 11 could be a great choice.
This model is capable of providing hot water for one bathroom in warm climates, and it features a patented self-modulating technology that ensures optimal energy use based on your hot water demand.
With its sleek and space-saving design, the EcoSmart ECO 11 can be easily installed under a sink or in a closet. It also offers digital temperature control in one-degree increments, allowing you to set the desired temperature easily.
This water heater is made of durable materials and comes with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring its longevity.
Pros:
- Patented self-modulating technology for energy efficiency
- Digital temperature control in one-degree increments
- Compact and easy to install
- Durable materials
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Some customers reported issues with no warranty
- Some Customers have negative experiences with customer services
Best Propane Tankless Water Heater for Tiny House
4. Rinnai V53DeP Tankless Hot Water Heater
If you are looking for an efficient and reliable propane tankless water heater for your tiny house, the Rinnai V53DeP is an excellent option. With a compact design, it can be installed outdoors, saving valuable space inside your home.
This water heater is capable of delivering up to 5.3 gallons of hot water per minute, ensuring that you always have a steady supply of hot water for your daily needs. It features a digital temperature control that allows you to set your preferred water temperature, ensuring that your showers and other hot water needs are always met.
The Rinnai V53DeP tankless water heater also features a freeze protection system, which helps to prevent damage to the unit during freezing temperatures. Also, it has a low NOx emissions rating, making it an eco-friendly option for your home.
Pros:
- Compact and outdoor installation design saves space
- The high flow rate of 5.3 gallons per minute
- Digital temperature control for precise temperature settings
- Freeze protection system for use in colder climates
- Low NOx emissions for eco-friendliness
Cons:
- Some customers report issues with electrical connections
5. Tankless Water Heater, Camplux Constant Propane Water Heater
The Tankless Water Heater from Camplux is an excellent option for those in need of a reliable, indoor propane tankless water heater. With its sleek black design, this water heater is compact and space-saving while delivering an impressive 3.18 gallons per minute of hot water on demand.
The constant propane water heater also features several advanced safety features, including a flame failure device, overheat protection, and anti-freezing protection.
This indoor propane tankless water heater is easy to install, and the compact size means it can fit in tight spaces. The water temperature can be easily adjusted with the LED display and touch screen controls.
The Camplux Constant Propane Water Heater is energy efficient and can help save on energy bills in the long run.
Pros:
- Compact and space-saving design
- Delivers 3.18 gallons per minute of hot water on demand
- Advanced safety features, including flame failure device and overheat protection
- LED display and touchscreen controls for easy temperature adjustment
- Energy efficient and can help save on energy bills
Cons:
- Some customers reported issues with leaks
- A few customers mentioned that the unit was noisy during the operation
6. Rinnai RL94IN Tankless Hot Water Heater
The Rinnai RL94IN Tankless Hot Water Heater is a high-performance natural gas unit designed for indoor installation. With an impressive 9.8 gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate, this unit can easily supply hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously, making it ideal for large households with high hot water demands.
Thanks to its innovative technology, this unit can provide hot water even when the incoming water temperature is as low as 37°F. The unit’s compact design makes it an excellent space-saving option for those with limited installation space.
The Rinnai RL94IN also boasts an impressive Energy Factor (EF) of up to 0.82, making it a highly efficient option that can help reduce energy costs over time.
The unit is also equipped with multiple safety features, including an overheating cut-off sensor and a flame failure detection system.
Pros:
- High 9.8 GPM flow rate
- Able to operate in cold climates
- Compact design for space-saving installation
- High energy efficiency with up to 0.82 EF
- Multiple safety features for peace of mind
Cons:
- Loud
- Expensive
The Advantages of Using a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are an ideal solution for tiny houses as they offer several advantages over traditional water heaters. One of the most significant advantages is their compact size, which is essential in small living spaces. These water heaters are significantly smaller than traditional tank-style models, allowing for more space and flexibility in the layout of a tiny house.
Unlike traditional water heaters that continuously heat and store hot water, tankless models only heat water on demand. This means that energy is not wasted on heating and storing water that may never be used. As a result, tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient and can save homeowners money on their utility bills.
Tankless water heaters are also more durable than traditional models. They have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand, so there is no risk of running out of hot water, unlike traditional models.
This flexibility allows homeowners to choose the best option for their individual needs and preferences.
Key Features to Look for When Purchasing
With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make a choice. Here are some critical factors to consider when purchasing a propane or electric tankless water heater for your tiny house:
Capacity
The size and capacity of the water heater are significant considerations. As tiny houses have limited space, it’s crucial to choose a unit that is compact and can fit into the available space. The water heater’s capacity should also be considered to ensure it can meet your hot water needs.
Fuel Source
Tankless water heaters can be powered by propane or electricity. Propane-powered units are ideal for off-grid living and are more energy efficient than electric units. Electric units are easier to install and have lower upfront costs.
Flow Rate
The flow rate of the water heater is the rate at which hot water is delivered. It’s crucial to choose a unit with a flow rate that can meet your hot water needs, especially if you have multiple fixtures in your tiny house.
Temperature Range
Different tankless water heaters have different temperature ranges. It’s essential to choose a unit that can deliver hot water at the desired temperature.
Energy Efficiency
Look for a tankless water heater that has a high energy efficiency rating. This will help you save money on your energy bills in the long run.
Durability
The tankless water heater should be made of high-quality materials and be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Maintaining Your Tankless Water Heater for Optimal Performance in a Tiny House
To keep your tankless water heater running at optimal performance in your tiny house, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. One of the most important tasks is flushing the system to remove any mineral buildup, which can reduce efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your unit. It’s recommended to flush the system every 6-12 months, depending on the hardness of your water.
Another critical maintenance task is checking the air intake and exhaust vents for any obstructions. Blockages can lead to reduced airflow, which can cause your unit to shut down or even create a hazardous situation. It’s important to keep the area around your vents clear and to inspect them periodically.
Also, check the pressure relief valve for any leaks and test it to ensure it’s functioning correctly. If the valve isn’t working correctly, it can cause damage to your unit or even create a dangerous situation.
Key Points
1. Flushing the system every 6-12 months is crucial for optimal performance.
2. Check the air intake and exhaust vents regularly for obstructions.
3. Inspect the pressure relief valve periodically and test it to ensure it’s working correctly.
How Tankless Water Heaters Work in Tiny Houses and Their Limitations
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand and can be an excellent choice for tiny houses with limited space. Unlike traditional water heaters, tankless units heat the water as it’s needed, which can save energy and money. There are limitations to tankless water heaters in tiny houses.
1. It’s important to choose the right size unit for your needs. A unit that’s too small won’t provide enough hot water, while a unit that’s too large can waste energy and money.
2. Tankless water heaters may not work as efficiently in extremely cold climates or with hard water.
3. If your tiny house has low water pressure, a tankless unit may not work correctly.
Key Points
1. Choosing the right size unit is crucial for adequate hot water.
2. Tankless units may not work efficiently in extremely cold climates or with hard water.
3. Low water pressure can affect the performance of a tankless unit.
Installation Requirements for a Tankless Water Heater in a Tiny House: What You Need to Know
Installing a tankless water heater in a tiny house requires specific considerations to ensure optimal performance and safety. You need to ensure that your electrical or gas supply can handle the demand of the unit. Secondly, you need to consider the size and location of the unit, as well as venting requirements.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and any local building codes during installation. Hiring a professional plumber or electrician can ensure that your installation is safe and up to code. It’s crucial to perform regular maintenance to keep your unit running smoothly.
Key Points
1. Ensure your electrical or gas supply can handle the demand of the unit.
2. Consider the size and location of the unit, as well as venting requirements.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local building codes during installation.
FAQs
What size tankless water heater should I get for my tiny house?
The size of the tankless water heater you need depends on the size of your tiny house and the hot water demands. Generally, a unit with a flow rate of 2.5 to 3.5 gallons per minute (GPM) is sufficient for a tiny house.
Is it better to choose an electric or propane tankless water heater for a tiny house?
It depends on your energy source and your hot water demand. If you have access to propane, a propane tankless water heater may be a more efficient option. However, if you have access to electricity and need a lower flow rate, an electric tankless water heater may be a better choice.
How long does a tankless water heater for a tiny house last?
A well-maintained tankless water heater can last up to 20 years, which is significantly longer than traditional water heaters.
Can a tankless water heater provide enough hot water for multiple applications in a tiny house?
Yes, a tankless water heater can provide enough hot water for multiple applications at once, as long as the flow rate is adequate.
Are there any special requirements for venting a propane tankless water heater in a tiny house?
Yes, propane tankless water heaters require proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of dangerous gases. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully and ensure proper venting.
How much space do I need for installing a tankless water heater in my tiny house?
A tankless water heater is a space-saving option and can be installed in a small area. Typically, they are mounted on the wall, and their compact design means they take up less space than traditional water heaters.
Conclusion
Finding the best tankless water heater for a tiny house is essential for ensuring comfortable living in a limited space. Both propane and electric options are available, each with its own advantages and limitations.
By selecting a tankless water heater that fits the needs of your tiny house and lifestyle, you can enjoy the benefits of on-demand hot water without sacrificing valuable space. It’s also crucial to properly maintain your tankless water heater to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
With the information provided in this guide, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the best tankless water heater for your tiny house.
