Rheem Tankless Water Heater Reviews: Everything You Need to Know and More

Water heaters provide hot water that can be used to shower, clean, or cook daily. Because of this, a lot of people depend on water heaters for their everyday activities like showering, cleaning, and cooking.  Water heaters can be great investments, so it is important that you pick the right model for your house.

A lot of people choose to get their water heaters from Rheem, and it is not without reason. Being a reputable water heater producer in the industry, Rheem offers a lot of water heater models to choose from.

Before you head out shopping, it is important to read the best Rheem tankless water heater reviews. This can help in answering the question, Which Rheem tankless water heaters are the best? Below is a rundown of the best Rheem heaters and more, to help you make an informed decision.

Reasons Why You Should Consider Rheem tankless water heater

There is a particularly good reason why Rheem is considered one of the most famous and reputable water heater producers in the market. Compared to other brands, they have a vast number of water heaters. Furthermore, their units usually get above-average feedback from Rheem tankless water heater reviews.

Many customers prefer Rheem’s water heaters because they are very efficient in terms of heating water. As a result, they have constant access to hot water. These heaters can also save you money and the environment. This is because it consumes less energy and lessens gas emissions. There are also additional advanced troubleshooting diagnostics.

Moreover, you can also connect their tankless water heaters to a feature called EcoNet. It gives owners the chance to enjoy the advantages of different smart features.

Here a more reasons to get a Rheem tankless water heater:

• Durability- Aside from having stainless steel heat exchangers, it can resist corrosion.
• Superior power and performance
• Energy-saving- Compared to other brands, Rheem has more ratings from Energy Star.
• Lower emissions- Tankless water heaters from Rheem follow the strict requirements of Low-NOx.
• Innovative design and heating system
• Compact, space-saving design
• Wide -range choices

Rheem Water Heater Types

Here are the different types of water heaters models from Rheem.

Electric Tankless

This type of water heater has systems that is run by electricity and it only heats water when needed. Since it is a water heater tankless type, it does not need a water storage tank.

The water gets heated when it moves from the source to the tankless water heater to the faucet.

Moreover, this type of water heater saves more energy compared to gas models. It is easier to install since there is no required ventilation from the outdoors. You might find the best electric tankless water heater on our product list.

Gas Tankless

This kind of water heater is like the electric tankless water heater since it also provides hot water as needed. Nevertheless, its source of power is natural gas or propane. Unlike electric tankless, it needs ventilation, and it could be more difficult to install.

It also consumes more energy and has a larger size. However, it is cheaper than electric types. Later, you might see the best gas tankless water heater for you on our list.

Hybrid Series

Many know the hybrid series of water heaters as heat pump water heaters. These water heaters utilize electricity to carry already generated heat instead of producing more heat. The process as to how it heats water is more technical.

Nevertheless, it makes this type more energy saving. If the demand for water is too high, it acts as an electric tankless water heater and heats the water by using electricity.

Rheem Tankless Water Heaters – Product Overview

Rheem Standard Features

Rheem water heaters are known for their standard features as we see below: 

Flow Rate

The electric tankless water heaters from Rheem have various Gallons per Minute or GPM rates. GPM is the amount of water that water heaters produce at a given time. If the GPM is high, you can use more hot water at the same time. For showers, the GPM is 2.1. Some heaters have 8.8 GPM. This is ideal for big houses. The RTEX-04 has the lowest GPM, and RTEX-36 has the highest.

Source of Power

You can choose different power sources for your Rheem water heater. Some of these sources are natural gas, electricity, liquid propane, and solar power. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is best to weigh these.

To illustrate, if you have an RV, a water heater that uses liquid propane is great. This is because of its portability, but it is more expensive. Solar-powered heaters are energy-saving but installing them can be pricey. Though gas heaters are cheaper, electric heaters are more efficient.

Heat Output

The unit of measurement for heating output in Rheem heaters is British Thermal Units or BTU. There is greater thermal energy produced at a single time if the BTU is higher. To put it more simply, your unit will produce more heat if the BTU of your unit is high.

The highest BTU available at Rheem is 199,000. Some units have a starting BTU of 160,000.

Energy Efficient

All the water heaters from Rheem are energy-saving. They also have Energy Star ratings. The efficiency rating of tankless water heaters can reach up to 99.8%. Therefore, only 0.2 of produced energy from these units are lost. The heaters use the rest of the energy to heat transferred water.

Use for Indoors or Outdoors

You can opt to get water heaters that are for indoor use, outdoor use, or both. Therefore, it is important to check the product description of the water heater you want. This is to see that you get the ideal one for your needs. Moreover, you should check where you plan to install or use it. Water heaters from Rheem are available for indoors and outdoors applications.

Safety

There are water heaters from Rheem that have additional features to make them safer to use. Some of these are auto shutdown function and temperature controls. Therefore, you can think of the safety features you want. This can help when you consider the best tankless water heater for you.

Warranty

The Rheem water heater warranty is usually 5 years. This is unlike other water heater manufacturers that only offer a 1-year warranty. Thus, the one from Rheem is considerably good. Besides, the units from Rheem are amply reliable because they could function for 5 to 10 years.

Tankless Water Heater Installation Cost

If you need professional help for installing your Rheem tankless water heater, you may need to pay between $600 to $1500.

The prices depend on various factors. Some of these depend on the venting while some depend on whether it will be installed outside or inside. The installation price can also vary on whether you need to have a gas line for the heater.

For the Rheem Professional Series, the installation could be part of the price. Nevertheless, you can only avail it to local dealers.

You can read more here.

9 Best Rheem Tankless Water Heater Reviews: Our Top Pick

Here are 9 best tankless water heaters from Rheem. 

1.  36 kW, 6 GPM Electric Tankless Water Heater

If energy efficiency matters to you, then this 6 GPM model could be an ideal choice. Because of this water heater’s self-modulating feature, you can save money from energy costs. Moreover, this is ideal for your home because it provides a non-stop supply of hot water. You get hot water when you need it.

You could save up to 50% of water heating expenses in the point-of-use application and 34% on the whole-home application. The controls for adjusting the temperature are easy with a degree increment.

Its compact size is perfect for tight spaces such as under the sink or cabinet. It is also easy to install. Furthermore, you do not need venting or T and P valves.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Electric
• Wattage: 36000
• Amperage: 150
• Flow rate: 6 GPM
• Application type: Residential
• Temperature setting: 80-140 degrees F
• Electronic temperature control
• Wall mounted

Pros:

• Heats up water fast
• Provides plenty of hot water
• Works well even if multiple sources use hot water
• Quiet
• Easy to install
• Heating elements are easy to replace
• Compact size

Cons:

• Reports of light flickering when customers use hot water
• Connectors in the unit could be too small

2.  13 kW, 2.14 GPM Electric Tankless Water Heater

This water heater has received good Rheem tankless electric water heater reviews. This can be the water heater for you because it has good quality for its price.

The flow rate is not too high or low. For people with 1 bathroom or medium-sized household, this is ideal. They will not likely experience problems with regards to the supply or temperature of the water.

The water temperature is always regulated. When you shower at a high temperature, there is a small variation in temperature. Moreover, the showerhead helps to conserve water. There will not be any problem with the water flow even if you use three at a time.

Although it runs on electricity, it is 99.8% energy efficient. Nevertheless, Rheem has yet to register this unit for an Energy Star rating. Still, you can notice a reduction in your energy costs by choosing this unit.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Electric
• Temperature setting: 80-140 degrees F
• Wattage: 13000
• Flow rate: 2.14 GPM
• Application: Residential
• Amperage: 57
• LED display digital thermostatic control
• Wall mountable

 Pros:

• Provides hot water to different sources simultaneously
• Installation instructions are easy to follow
• Heats water quickly
• Easy to adjust
• Energy efficient
• Simple installation
• Saves water

Cons:

• Warranty of the unit itself could be longer
• Reports of needing minor adjustments

3.  6 KW Point-of-Use Electric Tankless Water Heater

This is the best point of use electric tankless water heater from Rheem. this is because it lessens the use of energy. As a result, you save more money. The water heater only gives hot water on demand.

It is compact, making it great for small spaces. With 1.0 GPM, the unit could provide enough hot water for 2 faucets depending on the location. For convenience, it has electronic controls for temperature that you can adjust from 80 to 140 degrees F with a degree increment.

Furthermore, it is low maintenance. However, you need to get help from a professional to install it. If you will do flex hose installation, it matches with half-inch water connectors.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Electric
• Flow rate: 1.0 GPM
• Uniform energy factor: .98
• 80-140°F temperature range
• Wattage: 6000
• Amperage: 29
• Wall mountable

Pros:

• Great for apartments and small spaces
• Straightforward installation
• Gives hot water on-demand
• Nice quality
• Money, space, and energy-saving
• Temperature is easy to adjust
• Heating elements are easy to replace and durable

Cons:

• Inconsistent flow rate at times
• Could trip the breaker

4.  5 GPM Indoor Platinum Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

According to some Rheem performance platinum gas water heater reviews, you could save a lot from energy costs by using this indoor water heater. You can save an estimated amount of $1,100 in 12 years. Furthermore, it has an Energy Star rating. With a 0.93 Uniform Energy Factor, you can avail of the incentives and rebates. The water-saving setting feature could save you over a thousand gallons of water each year.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
• Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Application type: Residential
• Temperature setting: 85- 140 degrees F
• Uniform energy factor: 0.93
• 12-year limited warranty on heat exchanger, 5-year limited warranty on parts, and a 1-year warranty for home labor

Pros:

• Value for money
• Easy installation
• Saves a lot of space
• Consumes less gas
• Continuous hot water to up to 3 bathrooms
• Could save 1,000 gallons of water each year
• Saves on energy costs

Cons:

• A bit long for the tank to deliver hot water
• Upfront costs are a little expensive

5.  11 GPM Indoor Platinum Natural Gas Recirculation Tankless Water Heater

Because of its built-in recirculation system, this water heater has received many Rheem gas tankless water heater reviews. It sends hot water to faucets fast and continues to do so if you need hot water. It is also efficient and energy-saving. Thus, you can save a lot. It is a model with an Energy Star certified rating. Therefore, you could also save more money. You save more from installation-related expenses, space, water, and time.

Rebates are also possible for more savings. You could also take note that this is compatible with PVC vents.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
• Flow rate: 11 GPM
• Application type: Residential
• Uniform Energy Factor: 0.94
• Temperature setting: 100-140 degrees F
• Wall mountable
• Freeze protection
• Ultra LoNox

Pros:

• Easy installation
• Operates quietly
• The recirculation pump is great
• Value for money
• Recirculation technology features make hot water readily available
• Venting compatibility saves installation expenses
• Floor-space saving

Cons:

• Additional costs for installation and parts
• The inconsistent temperature when there is a change in the water flow

6.  5 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

This outdoor tankless water heater is an excellent natural gas water heater. It is unique because you can install it outdoors. Therefore, it saves you space indoors.

You do not need to worry about changing weather conditions. It can withstand even very cold climates. It has freeze protection. Thus, it can hold temperatures up to -30 degrees. Beyond this temperature, it could freeze. Except if you live in the Arctic, the water heater will not freeze.

The best features of this water heater are the pump and hot start feature. First, the pump recycles the water that was heated in your plumbing. As a result, it improves efficiency. The water-saving technology feature could save you over much water every year.

Second, the hot start feature reduces the flow rate. This is until the water has reached the desired temperature. Therefore, it lessens occurrences of cold-water bursts. It is unlikely to get shocked with cold water in a shower early in the morning.

Do you not prefer an electric tankless water heater? This outdoor water heater is a great option.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
• Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Temperature setting: 85-140 degrees F
• Uniform Energy Factor: 0.81
• Application type: Residential
• Water-saving technology feature
• Hot start programming feature
• 157,000 British Thermal Units of gas consumed every hour
• With freeze protection (up to -30 degrees) so it is great outdoors

Pros:

• Great even for small houses
• Has easy venting
• Comes with almost everything you need for installation
• Supplies endless hot water

Cons:

• You need to buy venting separately
• Additional costs are pricey

7.  5 GPM Indoor Rheem Performance Platinum Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

Aside from having 9.5 gallons per minute, this indoor natural tankless water heater can provide hot water at 35 degrees temperature rise.

It also has 199,900 British Thermal Units. This makes it possible to have hot water on demand. Even for people using 3 bathrooms at once, it is great.

This small heater is more than qualified for most utility rebates. Furthermore, the package also has remote digital temperature control. You can install it at any convenient part of your house. You can also purchase a separate direct venting for this heater. It requires stainless steel vents.

You can check a guide from Rheem. It will help you in purchasing the right water heater and accessories for you.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
•  Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Temperature setting: 85- 140 degrees F
• BTU: 199900 BTU
• Uniform Energy Factor: 0.82
• Indoor installation type
• The digital screen is the remote control

Pros:

• DIY friendly
• Provides enough hot water
• An efficient water heater
• Long-lasting
• Great for homes that have 3 or more bathrooms

Cons:

• Replacement costs are expensive
• Some reports of plumbing issues

8.  5 GPM Indoor Commercial Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater

This commercial water heater is ideal for restaurants, offices, hotels, and many other commercial establishments. It is effective in energy saving. This is because of the high thermal efficiency of 96%. Furthermore, Rheem designed this to produce hot water when you need it.

Therefore, many contractors prefer this. You can save a lot on installation because of its great features. You also get a 5-year heat exchanger warranty and 1 year for the labor warranty. If you have any problems, you can contact the support team of Rheem. They understand that supply of hot water is important to keep the business running.

The water temperature can go as high as 185 degrees F. You can also add another tank with fewer units to ensure that there is hot water all the time.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
• Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Temperature setting: 85-185 degrees F
• Application type: Commercial
• Total BTU: 199000 Btu
• Vent type: Single wall
• Wall mountable
• Ultra LoNox

Pros:

• Installation is quick
• Provides an ample amount of hot water
• Performs well
• Quiet operation
• Meets or exceeds Ultra-Low NOX emission requirements
• Made for commercial structures
• Service valves provide more savings in installation
• Compatible with most additional units

Cons:

• Water temperature could be hotter

9.  5 GPM Platinum Smart Outdoor Natural Gas High Efficiency Tankless Water Heater

You can control this outdoor natural gas water heater from your smartphone. With its smart feature called EcoNet, you can access it through your phone. You can also get alerts and vital reminders. You can save from energy costs because of its Energy Star rating. In 12 years, you could save over a thousand dollars. Also, you can qualify for incentives and rebates. The water-saving settings also make it possible to save a lot of water.

Highlighted Features:

• Fuel type: Natural gas
• Flow rate: 9.5 GPM
• Application type: Residential
• Total BTU: 199900
• Temperature settings: 85-140 degrees F
• Ultra LoNox

Pros:

• Takes up small space
• Never runs out of hot water
• Works well
• Can supply water to 3 bathrooms without issues
• Equipped with EcoNet technology for convenience
• Outdoor installation frees up space
• Ready for a recirculation pump kit
• Has exclusive water-saving settings

Cons:

• A bit tricky to install for beginners
• If you do not use it for a long time, it could take longer for the water to reach your sink

Rheem Water Heater FAQ

What is the warranty for Rheem water heaters?

Water heaters from Rheem have different limited warranty duration. This could range from 5 to 12 years.

According to some Rheem tankless water heater reviews, this can cover damages due to manufacturing errors for a certain period. This could cover the transportation and price of replacing elements and parts. For other water heaters, there is also a labor warranty. However, it is shorter.

After you buy a Rheem water heater, you can confirm the warranty. You need the serial number on hand. If you want to extend the warrant, you can register the product.

To avail or request for the warranty, you could contact your local Rheem office. Again, you need to have the serial number ready.

Does Rheem have service technicians? 

You will read in some Rheem electric tankless water heater reviews that Rheem has service technicians. They offer online and face-to-face training for its technicians. Therefore, these authorized Rheem technicians are updated with the latest developments in technology.

You could be assured to get quality service from them. Moreover, the service technicians’ services are not only limited to product installation but also repair and maintenance.

Read here to find more FAQs.

Conclusion

Finally, we hope that these Rheem tankless water heater reviews will help you find the best Rheem tankless water heater for your needs. Nonetheless, you can be assured that the above models will always give you and your family the comfort of continuous hot water supply.

Since Rheem has a lot of water heater models, you can better understand them from the types and features mentioned above. Before you make your purchase, make sure that you consider all the features that matter to you and it will not be too long to before you find right one for your space.