Hard water is rich in calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. The presence of these minerals in high percentages is what leads to water hardness. While hard water may not pose any threat to your health, your heater may not be so lucky.
The presence of these minerals will lead to the development of limescale in your fittings and heater. These will reduce the lifespan of your gadgets and plumbing. To ensure that hard water is not the culprit for your frequent heater changes, you need to choose a pick from our best hot water heater for hard water.
Top 7 Best Hot Water Heater For Hard Water Comparison Chart
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We know that not having a hot water heater is a bad decision. We’re also aware that choosing the wrong heater is just as bad. Hence, after due consideration, we have put together a list of some of the best hot water heaters for hard water in the market. They are;
Best Water Heater for Hard Water Review (Updated List)
1. BOSCH TRONIC 3000 T Series – Best Mini-tank water heater.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Bosch Tronic electric mini-tank water heater is available in three compact sizes. They have a sleek and attractive design that blends seamlessly to your home décor when installed in visible locations. Its compact size makes it ideal for all locations, such as kitchenette, basement, garage, patio sinks, and boat.
It is easy to install and could be mounted vertically or horizontally on the floor, wall, or shelf. To get hot water where it is needed and when it is needed, the best solution is to use the Tronic 3000 T from Bosch. It provides hot water at the point of use and comes with a temperature/pressure relief valve installed and features a simple plug-in connection.
Amazingly, it can be used for three different applications: as a sole water heating source for a single sink, as a supplement to an existing heater located far from the sink, and as a buffer installed in-line with tankless water heaters that experience intermittent cold water. Also, it has thick foam insulation for maximum energy efficiency and glass-lined for durability.
Pros:
- It can be mounted in various ways.
- It has three different applications.
Cons
- It supplies water only where it is fixed.
2. ECOSMART 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater – Largest Electric water heater.
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ECOSMART is the largest electric tankless where incoming water temperatures can reach as low as 37°F water heater. It saves up to 50% on water heating costs and 12 cubic feet of storage space. Hence, you have access to an endless amount of hot water at no extra cost and little space.
A significant feature is the digital temperature control that allows you to set your temperature in increments of 1 degree. You can set the temperature anywhere from 80°F – 140°F, suitable for a very cold region. Also, it is capable of heating nearly 3 gallons per minute at this low temperature and can handle up to two showers running at the same time and never run out of hot water. In warmer climates, this unit can handle four showers and one sink simultaneously.
Although you might need to ensure a few electrical requirements, it’s a little to possess to have the goody bag!
Pros:
- It saves up to 50% of the heating cost.
- It heats a large amount of water per minute.
- Features a digital control that allows you to set your required temperature.
Cons:
- A specific electrical requirement has to be in place for it to work.
3. Stiebel Electron Tempra Plus Tankless water heater – Compact, Sleek and Reliable
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Suppose you are looking for a small deluxe, yet powerful water heater. Stiebel is your assurance. It comes in a small, sleek white design that graces your home perfectly. Despite the size, it provides hot water for the whole house with no venting required.
Stiebel Electron water heater is the best definition of “Relax and be taken care of.” It automatically maintains water temperature for constant comfort and reduces the flow slightly if hot water exceeds capacity without interrupting the hot showers.
It has a digital temperature display and preset temperature memory buttons, making it very easy to operate and noise-free while in use. Also, a saving monitor which shows how much you save on energy cost.
Apart from the above, it is Eco-friendly and saves energy. However, a recommended household electric service is required. It’s worth all the comfort and reliability.
Pros:
- It maintains water temperature for constant comfort.
- It features a saving monitor that shows how much you save on energy costs.
- It operates with zero noise.
Cons:
- It requires a recommended household electric service.
4. Rinnai V65In-Natural Gas Tankless water heater – Best for Small and Medium Homes
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With Rinnai V65iN tankless water heater, you will never have to schedule your hot water needs again. Rinnai circulates hot water through the pipes to provide you hot water fast, endlessly. You can accommodate any/all family without stress.
Smart technological advancement, such as WIFI monitoring enables you to monitor the efficiency of the heater and remotely put the system on vacation mode when you go on holiday. This way, you can fix an issue and never experience a breakdown.
V65iN is the perfect combination of high efficiency, comfort, and value in a natural gas tankless water heater. Ideal for small to medium homes or remodels, compact, easy-to-install, reliable, and perfect for indoor locations. It remains at your service for as long as 20 years.
Pros:
- It provides water endlessly.
- It is easy to install and durable over long periods.
Cons:
- It uses natural gas, thus, suitable for indoor use only.
5. ECOTOUCH 55 Electric Water Heater – The point-of-use option
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ECO55 is a tankless water heater that supplies water instantly, consistently, and endlessly, with optimal thermal efficiency of 98% and minimal energy cost.
The device adjusts power input based on flow rate and temperature setting in real-time, that is, small power input when water flow is reduced and vice versa. You get ideal temperature water instead of scalding hot water. Also, the inner water and electricity lines run separately to keep your water safe and avoid mineral build-up.
The sleek water heater has a mini size like an oatmeal box, thus can be installed anywhere and mounted horizontally, vertically, and obliquely in any location.
ECO55 features a digital display and touch control panel. So, the temperature setting is easy and convenient to handle irrespective of age. It is ideal for kitchen, school, office, bar, hospital, salon, and any other place.
Pros:
- It provides hot water instantly.
- There is no mineral build-up or rusting.
Cons:
- One point use; It provides hot water only where it is fixed.
6. InSinkErator HWT-00 Hot Water Tank – Perfect for your kitchen
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Meet your kitchen assistant, InSinkErator.
InSinkErator provides instant hot water tank anytime you need it. It complements your main kitchen faucet perfectly, dispensing filtered near-boiling water up to 60 cups per hour, exactly when you need it; for cooking, cleaning, and preparing hot beverages at home or office. You can adjust the temperature easily with the control to suit your purpose. The instant water heater saves time and energy, and it’s super easy to install.
Designed with safety elegance and functionality in mind, So, you can do more at a go. Make hot beverages, kick start boiling, make coffee, thaw frozen kitchen, and clean without harsh chemicals.
Pros:
- It is easy to install.
- It dispenses filtered hot water up to 60 cups per hour.
Cons:
- One point use; It provides hot water only where it is fixed.
7. RINKMO Electric Tankless Water Heater – Best, large Water Heater
Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
RINKMO Water Heater stands out on the list of best hot water heater for hard water. It could be otherwise called “The total package.” It is capable of running both shower, dishwasher, and washing machine without issue. Compared to a traditional electric heater, there is no mineral build-up and sudden temperature change while in use.
The self-modulating technology adjusts power input based on flow rate and temperature settings to enable stable water temperature. Hence it is suitable for all homes, especially those with babies.
RINKMO provides hot water endlessly, thus suitable for the whole house. You can get a steady stem of clean and fresh hot water 24/7. Commercial places are not exempted, It caters for hotels, gym centers, and restaurants, among others.
It saves cost, time, energy, and space. It comes in a small suitcase-like size and saves up to 60% of your heating cost. It is 99.8% energy efficient, and you get hot water within 3sec. No extra cost on maintenance, you do not need to replace heater coils since there is no scaling.
Pros:
- It provides a stable water temperature.
- There is no scaling or rusting; no need to clean up.
- It saves cost, time, energy, and space.
- It is capable of supplying large water endlessly.
Cons:
- Installation requires licensed technician (plumber)
Factors To Consider When Buying Water Heaters
Before choosing the best hot water heater for hard water, you need to educate yourself about the options open to you as well as put some factors into consideration. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that should guide your choice of water heater for hard water.
1. Types of Water Heaters
Knowing the types of water heaters will help you make an informed choice of best water heater for hard water. The following are the water heater types out there in the market.
-
Traditional Storage-Tank Water Heater
The storage tank water heater is the most common type of water heater and the most widely used too. It features an insulated water tank that stores water. The water stored in the tank will be heated, and the tank insulation keeps the water warm till needed.
A storage-tank water heater usually has two valves. One is the pressure control valve that opens to reduce the pressure in the tank once it gets to 150 psi. The other is the temperature control valve that helps to moderate and reduce the temperature if it gets to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Although this is the most common heater type, you are limited to the supply the tank can give. If you need more, you will need to wait for the tank to heat another cycle.
Due to its nature of storing water, it is not the best type of heater for hard water. The storage will lead to limescale and mineral deposits that may reduce the lifespan of your heater, and you will need to clean it out regularly.
-
Tankless Water Heater
As the name suggests, this type of water heater does not have a tank that stores water for use. Instead, it heats water on-demand whenever it is needed.
This is great because it means you can have an unlimited supply of hot water anytime you need it. Although, you have to make sure you get the right size to meet up with your household’s supply for the heater to work effectively.
Also, tankless water heaters are the best heater type for hard water. The absence of a water tank reduces the need to store water, and this slows down the development of limescale and mineral deposits. For optimum performance, it is recommended that you clean your tankless water heater once every year.
Related articles: Best Whole House Electric Tankless Water Heater
: Programmable Thermostat for Hot Water Baseboard Heat
-
Heat Pump Water Heater
Hybrid water heaters make use of heat in the atmosphere and transfer it to the water. As a result, they use 60% less electricity when compared to other heaters. This heater type requires a large floor and storage space to function correctly. Some units also use thermostats such as the steam boiler thermostat. This thermostat is not only connected through Wi-Fi to your phone and your smart appliances, but you may also connect it to Alexa and your smart home system.
-
Solar Water Heater
The solar water heater draws energy from solar panels mounted on the roof. The energy drawn is moved to a closed-loop system that is then used to power and heat water stored on the tank.
It saves you money on sunny days but may become ineffective during the winter months. As a result, a backup energy source is required to keep it working during the cold months.
-
Condensing Water Heater
The condensing water heater features a water tank like the traditional storage-tank water heater, but the water is heated using a coil propped at the bottom of the tank. The coil is heated using gas fumes, which in turn heats the water.
Here’s video to help you recap the types of water heaters.
2. Design
There are numerous hot water heaters for hard water out there in various styles and designs. It is essential to opt for models that would complement your home and not look odd in your home’s set up.
3. Price
While putting other factors into consideration, your budget will largely determine your choice of best water heater for hard water. You must opt for a unit that has the size and capacity to meet your household’s needs.
It is better to spend on the heater that will provide your home with the needed hot water supply than constrain your choice based on budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Which water heater is best for hard water?
A water treatment system can be incorporated in the traditional storage tank heater and other types of heaters, which makes them great for hard water as well. However, if you want a water heater that saves you from the hassles of hard water, then tankless water heaters are your best bet.
-
How long do hot water heaters last with hard water?
The standard lifespan of a water heater is between eight to twelve years. Although not typical, some homeowners get fifteen years span from their heater. If your water heater is continually exposed to hard water without treatment, expect the lifespan of your heater to be considerably lesser than the standard.
-
Is hard water bad for the water heater?
Yes. Hard water is bad for gadgets and electronic appliances. It reduces the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater. The minerals in hard water will lead to the development of mineral deposits and limescale in your water heater.
-
How do you clean hard water from a hot water heater?
Hard water can be cleaned from your water heater by flushing your water heater. You can also add vinegar into the water in the water heater and heat it to help clean it of hard water.
-
How can I test the hardness of water?
You can test your water for hardness by washing your hands. If you have the feeling that your hand is not completely clean, that is soap scum caused by a reaction between the calcium in the water and the soap used.
Conclusion
Hard water, when left unchecked, can damage your water heater, make it inefficient and reduce the lifespan. To prevent all these, we have taken our time to research and come up with top picks of the best water heater for hard water.
The water heaters reviewed were chosen based on how effective they are with hard water, amongst other considerations. Choosing from the list means you have to worry less about hard water causing damage to your water heater.
You can choose from the products we have reviewed extensively above, or you can use our buyer’s guide section to guide your choice of the best water heater for hard water.
