Top 7 Water Heaters for Radiant Floor Heat in 2024

Steve Donaldson Master HVAC technician
Steve Donaldson
Master HVAC technician at Quality Comfort Home Services

I am Steve Donaldson, a Master HVAC technician with a rich background in addressing heating issues, especially when it comes to various types of water heaters. Leveraging my extensive expertise, I offer insights and advice to help individuals maintain a warm and secure home environment. Reach out to me at steve.donaldson@tedreviews.com for valuable tips from a seasoned professional in the industry.

Steve Donaldson Master HVAC technician
Steve Donaldson
Master HVAC technician at Quality Comfort Home Services

I am Steve Donaldson, a Master HVAC technician with a rich background in addressing heating issues, especially when it comes to various types of water heaters. Leveraging my extensive expertise, I offer insights and advice to help individuals maintain a warm and secure home environment. Reach out to me at steve.donaldson@tedreviews.com for valuable tips from a seasoned professional in the industry.

Hey there! Are you looking for the best water heaters to keep your radiant floor heat system running smoothly in 2024? Well, look no further! In this post, I'll be sharing with you the top 7 water heaters that are perfect for your radiant floor heat needs. So, let's dive right in and find the perfect water heater for you!

1
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus Water Heater
✯ Impressive and efficient ✯
BUY NOW Amazon.com
8.9
2
Rheem Prestige Gas Water Heater RTGH-95XLN
8.9
3
Rinnai i060SN Condensing Gas Boiler
Efficient and versatile
BUY NOW Amazon.com
9.4
5
Rinnai RSC160iN Gas Tankless Water Heater
In Summary, Excellent Choice
BUY NOW Amazon.com
8.5
7
Rinnai M120SN Gas Boiler
7.5
1

Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus Water Heater

$699.00
$661.27
 in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
9.1
Impressive and efficient
The Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heater – Tempra 20 Plus is a high-quality, German-made product that provides a continuous supply of hot water while saving energy and space. With advanced flow control technology and accurate temperature control, it offers a customized and convenient hot water experience. However, potential drawbacks include the cost of installation, particularly if electrical service needs to be upgraded, and the need for regular replacement of the water filter every six months.
Efficient and Reliable
  • Unlimited hot water supply
  • Energy-efficient and space-saving design
  • Accurate temperature control for customized usage
  • Quick and convenient installation process
  • Made in Germany for long-lasting quality and reliability
Limitations
  • Drawbacks:
  • Expensive installation, especially if electrical service needs to be upgraded
  • Requires a water filter that needs to be replaced every six months

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus Tankless Water Heater is a reliable and energy-efficient solution for providing hot water on demand. With its exclusive Advanced Flow Control technology, it automatically maintains water temperature for constant comfort, ensuring that hot showers will never be interrupted. The Tempra 20 Plus is designed to save energy, using 15-20% less compared to conventional electric tank water heaters. It also eliminates standby heat loss and the need for venting, making it a space-saving option for any home. With its sleek design and certifications for lead-free compliance, this tankless water heater is a great choice for homeowners looking for efficiency and convenience.

Efficient and Powerful Water Heater
  • Advanced Flow Control technology
  • Continuous hot water supply
  • Space-saving design
  • Energy-efficient operation
$661.27
$699.00
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com
2

Rheem Prestige Gas Water Heater RTGH-95XLN

 in stock
Amazon.com
8.9
Top-notch choice
The Rheem Prestige Condensing Tankless Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater 9.5 GPM – RTGH-95XLN-2 is an excellent choice for those looking for an energy efficient and reliable water heater. With its outstanding performance, sleek design, and easy installation process, it offers continuous hot water and low operating costs. However, it's important to note that a larger gas line diameter may be required for optimal flow and external insulation and heat tape are recommended for outdoor installation.
Benefits of RTGH-95XLN
  • Excellent performance, even with multiple showers running simultaneously
  • Energy efficient with a high BTU rating
  • Durable and reliable unit
  • Sleek and aesthetically pleasing design
  • Easy installation process
Drawbacks
  • Large gas line diameter required for proper flow
  • External insulation and heat tape recommended for outdoor installation

The Rheem Prestige Condensing Tankless Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater 9.5 GPM – RTGH-95XLN-2 is a high efficiency condensing water heater designed to provide continuous hot water. With industry leading low flow activation, you can be assured of receiving hot water even in low demand situations. The unit features an Ultra Low NOx burner for low emissions and a Guardian Overheat Film Wrap for added safety. The maintenance notification settings, self-diagnostic system, and EcoNet enabled mobile app make it convenient to use. With its compact design, this water heater is perfect for replacing a tank. Professional installation is required for warranty coverage. Overall, customers have found this unit to be easy to install and perform solidly, making it a great choice for continuous hot water in your home.

Powerful and Efficient Performance
  • Energy efficient continuous hot water
  • Low operating cost
  • Space-saving design
  • Water and gas leak detection
3

Rinnai i060SN Condensing Gas Boiler

$1,844.92  in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
8.7
Efficient and versatile
The Rinnai i060SN Condensing Gas Boiler is a highly efficient and space-saving whole home natural gas heater with smart features and multizone control capability. Although it may have limited availability in certain regions and require professional installation, it offers great heating capabilities and energy efficiency.
Efficient and Reliable
Drawbacks
  • Limited availability in certain regions
  • May require professional installation

The Rinnai i060SN Condensing Gas Boiler is the perfect solution for energy-conscious homeowners in need of a whole-home heating system. With its compact and smart design, this gas boiler offers superior performance and reliability. The stainless-steel heat exchanger and modulating wire mesh burner ensure efficient heating throughout your home. The multizone control capability allows for precise temperature control, and the user-friendly interface makes operation a breeze. With its space-saving design and multiple venting options, installation is easy and flexible. Say goodbye to bulky heating solutions and enjoy the convenience and efficiency of the Rinnai i060SN Condensing Gas Boiler.

Efficient and Reliable Heating Solution
  • Whole home heating capabilities
  • Space-saving design
  • High-efficiency condensing technology
  • Smart features with multizone control capability
$1,844.92
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com
4

Rinnai RL75IN Tankless Water Heater

$999.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
8.7
Recommended Choice
The Rinnai RL75IN Tankless Hot Water Heater is an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective and efficient hot water solution. With easy installation and quiet operation, it provides sufficient hot water for multiple fixtures in the house. However, there may be a slight delay in hot water delivery compared to traditional tank heaters, and there is a potential for damage during shipping.
Benefits of RL75IN
  • Easy installation process
  • Comes with valve assembly included
  • Cost-effective compared to traditional tank-based heaters
  • Quiet operation
  • Provides sufficient hot water for multiple fixtures in the house
Drawbacks
  • Delayed hot water delivery compared to traditional tank heaters
  • Potential for damage during shipping

The Rinnai RL75IN Tankless Hot Water Heater is a high-efficiency non-condensing indoor natural gas water heater that offers advanced technology for your home. It is designed to be extremely compact, taking up only the space of a small suitcase, allowing you to reclaim valuable floor space in your home. This unit can be made even smarter with a Rinnai Controlr for WiFi connectivity (not included). With its easy installation and ultra-compact size, you can enjoy clean, reliable hot water at a consistent pre-set temperature while saving energy. The Circ-Logic technology provides recirculation patterns that match your habits, ensuring you never run out of hot water.

Efficient and reliable heating solution
  • Tankless design
  • Circ-Logic technology
  • 7.5 GPM flow rate
  • Natural gas fuel
  • Indoor installation capability
$999.99
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com
5

Rinnai RSC160iN Gas Tankless Water Heater

$1,172.43
$1,076.92
 in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
8.5
In Summary, Excellent Choice
The Rinnai RSC160iN Smart-Circ Gas Tankless Water Heater is an energy-efficient and compact solution that ensures you never run out of hot water. With a significant reduction in gas bills and ample capacity for multiple bathrooms, it's an excellent choice. However, keep in mind that it doesn't come with a wireless unit and calculating water savings may be challenging.
Efficient and Cost-effective Benefits
  • Significant reduction in gas bill
  • Easy installation
  • Saves water
  • Ample capacity for multiple bathrooms
Disadvantages
  • No wireless unit included
  • Water savings difficult to calculate accurately

The Rinnai RSC160iN Smart-Circ Condensing Gas Tankless Water Heater is a super high-efficiency plus natural gas water heater that offers the most advanced technology. With the Smart-Circ feature, this water heater learns your water usage patterns and schedules the pump and recirculation accordingly, providing superior energy efficiency and convenience. It is designed to be extremely compact, taking up only the space of a small suitcase, allowing you to reclaim valuable space in your home. With its Energy Star qualification, this hot water heater can be made even smarter with Wi-Fi connectivity. The reviews for this product are overwhelmingly positive, with customers loving its efficiency and ability to reduce gas bills significantly. Installation is straightforward, and the unit has a large enough capacity to handle multiple bathrooms without any supply or pressure issues. Overall, this Rinnai water heater is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact, efficient, and reliable hot water solution.

Efficient and Reliable Heating Solution
$1,076.92
$1,172.43
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com
6

EcoSmart ECO 27 Tankless Water Heater

$599.00
$430.28
 in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
8.4
In summary
The EcoSmart ECO 27 Tankless Water Heater is an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution for endless hot water. With its compact size and easy installation, it is a durable and reliable product that saves space and money. However, some users have reported delayed hot water delivery and flickering lights during initial turn on.
Efficient and Cost-effective Benefits
  • Energy efficient – It uses less energy by not having to continuously heat a large tank of water
  • Cost-effective – It can help save money on electric bills
  • Durable – It is a reliable and long-lasting product
  • Compact size – It takes up less space compared to traditional water heaters
  • Easy to install and maintain – It can be installed and repaired by a do-it-yourselfer
Limitations
  • Delayed hot water delivery
  • Flickering lights during initial turn on

The EcoSmart ECO 27 Tankless Water Heater is a high-performing and energy-efficient unit that is perfect for cold climates or high flow rate requirements. It is designed to work well even when the incoming water temperature drops below 45°F. With self-modulating flow sensor technology, this water heater efficiently regulates the amount of energy required to heat the water you need, ensuring continuous hot water. The digital temperature display allows you to easily set the outlet water temperature, while the automatic resettable thermostat provides added convenience and safety. With its compact size and weight of only 11 lb, this tankless water heater is a space-saving solution. It provides between 2.7 and 6.5 gallons-per-minute, depending on the inlet water temperature, and has an energy efficiency rating of 99.8%. UL and CSA certified, this unit is built to deliver consistent performance and reliability.

Efficient, Reliable Hot Water Solution
  • Endless on-Demand Hot Water
  • Consistent hot water that never runs out
  • Continuously monitored water temperature
  • Controlled flow rates ensure efficiency
  • Space-saving design
$430.28
$599.00
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com
7

Rinnai M120SN Gas Boiler

$1,955.39  in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
7.5
Overall, impressive
The Rinnai M120SN Condensing Gas Boiler offers a self-cleaning stainless-steel heat exchanger, modulating ceramic burner, and multizone control capability, making it a highly efficient and versatile choice. However, some users have reported issues with error codes and system filling, as well as delays in homeowner response for troubleshooting.
Efficiency and Reliability
  • Self-cleaning stainless-steel heat exchanger
  • Modulating ceramic burner
  • Multizone control capability
Cons of Rinnai M120SN Gas Boiler
  • Error codes and system filling issues reported by some users
  • Delay in homeowner response for troubleshooting

The Rinnai M120SN Condensing Gas Boiler, fueled by natural gas, is an efficient and reliable solution for heating entire homes. With its high AFUE rating, it guarantees optimal fuel utilization efficiency. This convection heater comes with convenient control options and the ability to connect two-zone pumps to the PCB. The self-cleaning stainless-steel heat exchanger, modulating ceramic burner, and secondary flat plate heat exchanger ensure hot water performance for showers and faucets. It's the perfect choice to keep your home warm and comfortable.

Efficient Heating Solution
  • Self-cleaning stainless-steel heat exchanger
  • Modulating ceramic burner
  • Secondary flat plate heat exchanger
  • Multizone control capability
$1,955.39
in stock
as of November 7, 2024 12:48 pm
Amazon.com

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Best Water Heater for Radiant Floor Heat

  • Proper Installation: Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing the water heater for radiant floor heat. Seek professional assistance if needed to ensure proper placement and connection to the heating system
  • Temperature Settings: Familiarize yourself with the temperature settings on the water heater. Adjust the temperature according to your comfort level and the requirements of your radiant floor heating system. It's important to find the right balance to avoid overheating or insufficient heat for your floors
  • Regular Maintenance: Keep your water heater well-maintained to ensure optimal performance. Periodically check for any leaks, sediment buildup, or other issues that may affect its efficiency. Regularly flushing the tank and inspecting the valves can help prevent problems and prolong the lifespan of your water heater
  • Remember, if you have any doubts or concerns, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional or contact the manufacturer for specific guidance related to your particular water heater model

Finding the Perfect Water Heater for Your Radiant Floor Heat: Pricing

  • $500 – $1,000: These are entry-level water heaters that provide basic functionality for radiant floor heat systems. They usually have lower capacities and may not have advanced features like digital controls or advanced energy efficiency
  • $1,000 – $2,000: In this price range, you can find mid-range water heaters that offer better capacity, improved energy efficiency, and more advanced features. They often come with programmable settings, multiple temperature controls, and better insulation to minimize heat loss
  • $2,000 – $3,000: At this price point, you can find high-end water heaters with larger capacities, superior energy efficiency, and advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and smart controls. These models are typically designed for larger radiant floor heat systems or commercial applications
  • $3,000 and above: In this premium price range, you will find top-of-the-line water heaters that offer the highest capacities, exceptional energy efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. They often come with advanced features like self-cleaning mechanisms, precise temperature control, and extensive warranty coverage
  • Please note that these price ranges are approximate and can vary depending on the brand, model, and specific features of the water heaters. It is always recommended to do thorough research and consult with a professional to choose the best water heater for your radiant floor heat system based on your specific needs and budget
Explore further:  Dayton Fan Forced Wall Heaters Review

Choosing the Perfect Water Heater for Your Radiant Floor Heat

Can I use a tankless water heater for my radiant floor heating system?

Yes, you can definitely use a tankless water heater for your radiant floor heating system. Tankless water heaters are an excellent option for this purpose as they provide on-demand hot water and can efficiently supply the required heat for your radiant floor heating system.

One thing to consider is the sizing of the tankless water heater. It is important to ensure that the unit you choose has sufficient capacity to meet the heating demands of your radiant floor system. The size of the heater will depend on factors such as the size of your home, the number of zones, and the desired temperature.

Additionally, make sure you select a tankless water heater that is specifically designed for hydronic heating systems. These units are equipped with features and controls that are optimized for radiant floor heating.

Installing a tankless water heater for your radiant floor heating system can provide you with increased energy efficiency, as it eliminates the standby heat loss associated with traditional storage tank water heaters. Moreover, the continuous hot water supply ensures a consistent and comfortable heating experience.

It is always advisable to consult with a professional plumber or heating expert who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most suitable tankless water heater for your radiant floor heating system.

What are the different types of water heaters available for radiant floor heating?

There are a few different types of water heaters that are commonly used for radiant floor heating systems. The most common types are:

  1. Tankless Water Heaters: These water heaters heat up the water as it flows through the unit, providing a constant supply of hot water. They are efficient and take up less space compared to traditional tank water heaters.
  2. Electric Water Heaters: These water heaters use electricity to heat up the water. They are easy to install and can be used in areas where gas lines are not available. However, they can be more expensive to operate compared to other types.
  3. Gas Water Heaters: These water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat up the water. They are generally more energy-efficient and cost-effective compared to electric water heaters. However, they require a gas line for installation.
  4. Solar Water Heaters: These water heaters use solar energy to heat up the water. They are environmentally friendly and can help reduce energy costs in the long run. However, they may not be suitable for areas with limited sunlight or during cloudy days.
Steve Donaldson Master HVAC technician
Steve DonaldsonMaster HVAC technician at Quality Comfort Home Services

I am Steve Donaldson, a Master HVAC technician with a rich background in addressing heating issues, especially when it comes to various types of water heaters. Leveraging my extensive expertise, I offer insights and advice to help individuals maintain a warm and secure home environment. Reach out to me at steve.donaldson@tedreviews.com for valuable tips from a seasoned professional in the industry.

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  1. I would love to see some more details about the Rheem Prestige Gas Water Heater RTGH-95XLN. How efficient is this model? Does it have any special features that set it apart from the others on the list?

    • Thank you for your interest in the Rheem Prestige Gas Water Heater RTGH-95XLN! This model is known for its high energy efficiency and advanced features such as built-in condensing technology. It’s a great option for radiant floor heat.

  2. I’ve been researching water heaters for radiant floor heat and I’ve come across different opinions regarding the best type to use. Some say tankless is the way to go, while others recommend condensing gas boilers. Any insights or tips on choosing the right one?

    • Choosing between tankless water heaters and condensing gas boilers for radiant floor heat depends on various factors such as energy efficiency, initial cost, and available space. Tankless heaters are more compact and provide instant hot water, while condensing boilers are known for their high efficiency. It’s recommended to consult with a professional to determine the best option for your specific needs.

  3. I completely agree with your recommendation of the Rinnai RL75IN Tankless Water Heater. I’ve been using it for a few months now and it has been fantastic for my radiant floor heating system. The water heats up quickly and the temperature control is very precise. Highly recommended!

    • Thank you for sharing your positive experience with the Rinnai RL75IN Tankless Water Heater! It’s great to hear that it has been working well for your radiant floor heating system.

  4. Great roundup! I’ve been considering installing radiant floor heat in my home, so this list is really helpful. I’ve heard great things about the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus Water Heater, so I’m glad to see it made the top of the list. Can you provide some more details about its features and energy efficiency?

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