Best Gas Electric Water Heater Reviews

Finding the right water heater can be a challenge. With options spanning electric, gas, and tankless technologies, the choices can be overwhelming. A reliable water heater is essential for modern living, providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, and laundry. So, how do you select the best one for your home?

A great water heater should combine efficiency, performance, and durability. It should meet your household’s hot water demands while minimizing energy costs. Whether you have a large family or a compact living space, there’s a model designed to fit your needs.

In this guide, we’ll review five of the best gas and electric water heaters on the market today, focusing on their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases. This comprehensive review will help you make an informed decision.

Comparing key specifications can help you choose the best water heater for your home needs.

Features	Rheem 50-Gallon Electric	Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Gas	Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM Indoor	Rheem RTG 8.4 GPM Gas	Rheem RTG 7.0 GPM LP
Best Use Case	Medium households	Large families	Large families	Large families	Large families
Key Specification	50-gallon tank	7.0 GPM	7.0 GPM	8.4 GPM	7.0 GPM
Main Feature	Automatic thermostat	On-demand heating	On-demand heating	On-demand heating	On-demand heating
Performance	Reliable hot water	High efficiency	High efficiency	High efficiency	High efficiency
Energy Efficiency	Standard electric	34% less energy	34% less energy	34% less energy	34% less energy

Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 50-G…

The Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 is a 50-gallon electric water heater, ideal for medium-sized households with 3-5 people. It’s a reliable choice for homes with multiple bathrooms, providing ample hot water for daily needs.

This model stands out for its compact size, making it suitable for installations where space is limited. It features an automatic thermostat that maintains the desired water temperature, ensuring comfort and convenience. The durable anode rod provides long-lasting protection against corrosion, which enhances the tank’s lifespan.

One limitation is that, as an electric model, it may not be as energy-efficient as gas options. Electric heaters generally have higher operating costs compared to gas models, especially in regions where electricity rates are high.

• 50-gallon capacity
• Automatic thermostat
• Enhanced-flow brass drain valve
• Durable anode rod
• Compact design

Best for: Medium-sized households needing reliable hot water.

Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is designed for large families, offering a flow rate of 7.0 gallons per minute (GPM). This model ensures that you never run out of hot water, even during peak usage times.

This tankless heater excels in energy efficiency, boasting a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) of 0.82, which translates to significant savings on energy bills. Its outdoor installation allows for easy access and eliminates the need for venting, which simplifies the setup process.

However, installation requires professional help, which could increase initial costs. Additionally, its performance can be influenced by the incoming water temperature; very cold water may reduce the GPM output.

• 7.0 GPM flow rate
• 160,000 BTU/hr output
• Energy-efficient non-condensing
• Outdoor installation
• 15-year heat exchanger warranty

Best for: Large families needing continuous hot water supply.

Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater caters to large households that require a steady supply of hot water. Its design allows for multiple simultaneous uses, making it perfect for busy mornings.

This indoor model features a direct vent system and a similar efficiency rating as its outdoor counterpart. It includes advanced safety features, such as freeze protection and flame failure protection, ensuring safe operation in various conditions.

On the downside, it requires more space for installation compared to outdoor models. The need for proper ventilation can also complicate the installation process, which may require additional costs.

• 7.0 GPM flow rate
• 160,000 BTU/hr output
• Indoor installation with direct vent
• Safety features included
• 5-year parts warranty

Best for: Large households with indoor installation needs.

Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater is a high-capacity model designed for large families and homes with multiple bathrooms. It provides an impressive 8.4 GPM flow rate, ensuring that hot water is available for simultaneous demands.

This model’s efficiency is notable, as it saves up to 34% on energy costs compared to traditional electric tank heaters. Its durable construction is built to withstand outdoor conditions, making it suitable for various climates.

However, like other gas models, it requires a professional installation, which can be an added expense. Additionally, outdoor models may be subject to local regulations regarding installation and venting.

• 8.4 GPM flow rate
• 180,000 BTU/hr output
• Energy-efficient non-condensing
• Durable metal cabinet
• 15-year heat exchanger warranty

Best for: Large families with high hot water demand.

Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM…

The Rheem RTG Series 7.0 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater is another excellent choice for those seeking an efficient hot water solution. With a flow rate of 7.0 GPM, it caters well to larger households.

This model offers similar features to its natural gas counterparts, including on-demand heating and high energy efficiency. Its outdoor installation simplifies setup and maintenance, while the robust safety features ensure peace of mind.

One drawback is the dependency on propane availability, which may not be feasible in all areas. Additionally, while it is energy-efficient, propane prices can fluctuate, potentially impacting operating costs.

• 7.0 GPM flow rate
• 160,000 BTU/hr output
• Energy-efficient non-condensing
• Outdoor installation
• 5-year parts warranty

Best for: Larger households using propane.

How We Chose These Products

Our selection process involved extensive research on performance, energy efficiency, and user reviews. We focused on products that combine reliability with cost-effectiveness, ensuring they meet the needs of varying household sizes. This review highlights models that balance quality and affordability.

We also considered the features that matter most to consumers, such as ease of installation, safety features, and warranty coverage. By analyzing these factors, we aimed to provide a trustworthy overview to help you find the best water heater for your home.

Buying Guide: What Really Matters

When shopping for a water heater, consider the type of fuel it uses — gas or electric. Gas models typically heat water faster and can be more cost-effective in the long term. Electric models, however, can be easier to install and maintain.

Next, look at the tank capacity or flow rate. For larger families, a tankless model with a higher GPM is ideal. Ensure the heater meets your specific hot water needs while keeping energy efficiency in mind, as this can significantly impact your utility bills.

Our Top Recommendation

The Rheem RTG Series 8.4 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater stands out as the best option for large households. Its high flow rate and energy efficiency make it ideal for meeting multiple hot water demands simultaneously. For those on a budget or with smaller households, the Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 offers a reliable electric alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I choose between electric and gas water heaters? It depends on your household’s hot water needs and available fuel sources. Gas heaters typically heat water faster and can be cheaper to operate, while electric heaters may be easier to install.

2. What is the life expectancy of a water heater? Most conventional water heaters last about 8-12 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.

3. How do I maintain my water heater? Regularly check for leaks, flush the tank to remove sediment, and inspect the anode rod in conventional heaters to prolong its lifespan.

4. What should I do if I run out of hot water frequently? Consider upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless model that provides hot water on demand to meet your household’s needs.