Looking to upgrade your hot water setup in Canada? Whether you’re replacing an old tank, upgrading to a tankless system, or exploring energy-efficient hybrids, choosing the right electric water heater can greatly reduce your energy bills. In this 2025 guide, I’ll walk you through top-performing units available in Canada, explain key buying considerations, and highlight trusted models across tank, tankless, and hybrid categories.
Quick Picks: Best Electric Water Heaters in Canada
- Best Overall Tank: A.O. Smith Signature 300 Series Electric – 40 gal – Wi-Fi connected, efficient, smart leak protection.
- Best Tankless Electric: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus – high flow rate, precision controls, compact.
- Best Hybrid (Heat Pump): Rheem ProTerra Hybrid – top-tier energy efficiency (UEF up to 4.0), eco-smart.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Electric Water Heater
- Type: Tank models store hot water — great for low initial cost and simplicity. Tankless units offer endless hot water but require high amperage. Hybrid (heat pump) models are highly efficient but need space and higher upfront investment. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Energy Efficiency (UEF): The Uniform Energy Factor reflects efficiency. Tankless units and hybrids usually exceed traditional tank heaters. Hybrids can cut energy use up to 75%. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Capacity & Flow Rate: For tanks, choose based on household size (e.g., 40–60 gal). Tankless buyers should match GPM (gallons per minute) to your peak use. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Smart Features: Digital controls, Wi-Fi alerts, and leak detection can boost usability and safety. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Climate & Space: Hybrids perform best in moderate climates and need clearance; tankless models require substantial electric capacity. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Rebates & Incentives: Canadian utility and provincial rebates are frequently available for efficient models—check local programs.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Detailed Reviews: Top Electric Water Heaters in Canada
1. A.O. Smith Signature 300 Series (Electric Tank)
Why it stands out: Named best overall electric tank heater by The Spruce for its powerful dual 5,500 W elements, smart Wi-Fi connectivity, and built-in leak detection. Offers around 55 gallons of hot water in the first hour—great for medium-sized Canadian homes. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
2. Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus (Tankless Electric)
Why it stands out: The Spruce also recommends this as the top electric tankless model. It features advanced flow control, precise digital temperature setting, and delivers about 5.6 GPM—plenty for simultaneous shower and sink usage. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
3. Rheem ProTerra Hybrid (Electric Heat Pump)
Why it stands out: One of Canada’s most efficient electric water heaters. Heat pump technology pulls heat from ambient air, yielding up to 75% energy savings and a high UEF of ~4.0. Excellent for long-term price savings despite a larger upfront cost. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
4. Bradford White Electric Tank Heaters
Why it stands out: Renowned for reliability and durability, Bradford White offers electric tank models with protective Vitraglas linings and antimicrobial features—ideal for Canadian households seeking long-lasting value. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
5. John Wood Electric Tank Heaters
Why it stands out: A trusted Canadian brand known for durable, efficient traditional tank heaters. Widely available and supported across Canada. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
6. Giant (Giant Factories) Electric Water Heaters
Why it stands out: Offered in Canada under the A.O. Smith corporate umbrella, Giant’s electric tanks balance energy efficiency and affordability—especially as replacement units. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| A.O. Smith Signature 300 | Tank Electric | Wi-Fi, dual elements, leak alerts | Smart control with solid capacity |
| Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus | Tankless Electric | 5.6 GPM, precise digital control | Endless hot water, compact spaces |
| Rheem ProTerra Hybrid | Electric Heat Pump | UEF ~4.0, highly efficient | Energy savings over time |
| Bradford White | Tank Electric | Durable, antimicrobial inner lining | Long-term resilience |
| John Wood | Tank Electric | Reliable traditional tank | Trusted Canadian brand |
| Giant | Tank Electric | Affordable, efficient | Budget replacement |
FAQ: Electric Water Heaters in Canada
1. Tank vs. Tankless vs. Hybrid — which is best?
It depends. Tank models are affordable and easier to install. Tankless units offer endless hot water and space savings but need robust electrical setups. Hybrid models combine efficiency with ample storage but require room and higher upfront cost. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
2. What is UEF and why is it important?
UEF (Uniform Energy Factor) measures how efficiently each model uses electricity. Higher UEF means lower operating costs; hybrids and tankless models typically score highest. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
3. Are there rebates for electric water heaters in Canada?
Yes. Many provinces and utilities offer rebates on energy-efficient models—especially hybrids and high-efficiency tanks. Always check current local offers. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
4. Is Wi-Fi control worth it?
For tech-savvy homeowners, features like remote monitoring, leak alerts, and smart scheduling on models such as the A.O. Smith Signature 300 provide convenience and peace of mind. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
5. How do cold Canadian winters affect tankless units?
In colder climates, inlet water is cooler, reducing effective flow rates. For example, even a high-end model delivering 11 GPM in warm conditions may drop to ~4–5 GPM in Canada. Size accordingly. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Conclusion
Choosing the best electric water heater in Canada comes down to your needs:
- Smart, reliable tank solution: A.O. Smith Signature 300
- Compact, endless hot water: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus
- Long-term energy savings: Rheem ProTerra Hybrid
- Durability-focused: Bradford White
- Canadian trusted choice: John Wood
- Budget option: Giant electric tanks
Let me know if you’d like help comparing prices from Canadian retailers, checking rebates, or embedding affiliate links for any specific models.