Living in a condo often means balancing comfort, space, and energy efficiency. Hot water is a daily necessity for showers, dishwashing, and laundry, but traditional water heaters take up valuable space and store water you might not use right away. A tankless water heater is the modern solution — it heats water on demand, saves floor space, and can lower energy bills. For condo owners, the right model can make a big difference in daily comfort and long-term efficiency.
In this guide, you will see our top picks for tankless water heaters that work well in condos, followed by a buyer’s guide covering installation tips, safety considerations, and how to choose the right size for your home.
Top Tankless Water Heater Picks for Condos
1. Rinnai RU130iN Indoor Tankless Water Heater
The Rinnai RU130iN is a natural gas unit that delivers up to 7 GPM, making it powerful enough for condos with multiple bathrooms. It is compact, energy-efficient, and designed for indoor installation with direct venting, which is perfect for condo layouts.
- Best for: Larger condos with two or more bathrooms
- Pros: High flow rate, durable build, efficient operation
- Cons: Requires professional gas and vent installation
2. EcoSmart ECO 27 Electric Tankless Water Heater
For condos without natural gas, the EcoSmart ECO 27 is a reliable electric option. It offers up to 6.5 GPM in warm climates (less in colder areas) and features digital temperature control in 1-degree increments. The compact design fits easily in utility closets or under counters.
- Best for: All-electric condos
- Pros: Space-saving, precise temperature control, easy maintenance
- Cons: Requires a high-amperage electrical panel
3. Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24
Known for its quiet operation, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 is an electric tankless water heater that automatically adjusts flow to maintain consistent temperatures. It is sleek, wall-mounted, and ideal for condos with limited space but high comfort expectations.
- Best for: Condos where noise is a concern
- Pros: Silent operation, advanced flow control, modern design
- Cons: More expensive than some electric models
4. Noritz NR66ODNG Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
If your condo building allows outdoor installations, the Noritz NR66ODNG is a natural gas option that keeps all the heating equipment outside, freeing up indoor space. It offers up to 6.6 GPM and is built for durability with freeze protection.
- Best for: Condos with outdoor utility space
- Pros: Saves indoor space, high output, weather-resistant
- Cons: Requires outdoor clearance and proper venting
5. Rheem RTEX-24 Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTEX-24 is a compact electric model with an adjustable digital thermostat and copper immersion heating elements for fast response. It delivers a good balance of performance and efficiency for single or two-bathroom condos.
- Best for: Mid-size condos
- Pros: Affordable, easy installation, responsive heating
- Cons: Limited flow rate for larger households
Why a Tankless Water Heater Is Ideal for Condo Living
Condos often have limited storage space, and traditional water heaters can take up several square feet. Tankless models are wall-mounted and can be installed in utility closets, laundry rooms, or under counters. They also:
- Heat water only when you need it, reducing standby energy losses
- Provide continuous hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing
- Last longer than traditional tanks when properly maintained
- Reduce the risk of water damage from tank leaks
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Condo Tankless Water Heater
Fuel Type
Natural gas units are powerful and efficient but require venting and a gas line. Electric models are easier to install in condos without gas service but need adequate electrical capacity.
Flow Rate (GPM)
Check your household’s peak water usage. A small one-bath condo might need 3–4 GPM, while larger units with two bathrooms may require 6–7 GPM.
Size and Placement
Measure available space and consider where venting or electrical connections will go. Indoor models save outdoor space but may need more ventilation.
Noise Level
If your water heater will be close to living spaces, choose a quiet model like the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus.
Temperature Control
Digital thermostats allow precise adjustments and help prevent sudden temperature changes when multiple fixtures are used.
Installation Tips for Condos
- Check with your condo association for installation rules
- Hire a licensed plumber or electrician for safety and compliance
- For gas models, ensure venting meets building codes
- For electric models, confirm your panel can handle the amperage
- Choose a location with easy access for maintenance
Maintenance Advice
Tankless water heaters require less maintenance than storage tanks, but regular care will extend their lifespan:
- Flush the system annually to prevent scale buildup
- Clean or replace inlet filters
- Check for leaks in plumbing connections
- Inspect venting (for gas models) for blockages or corrosion
Conclusion
The right tankless water heater can make condo living more comfortable and efficient. The Rinnai RU130iN is ideal for larger condos with multiple bathrooms, while the EcoSmart ECO 27 and Rheem RTEX-24 are great electric choices for small to mid-size units. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 offers quiet, advanced operation, and the Noritz NR66ODNG is perfect if outdoor installation is allowed.
Consider your fuel source, space, and water usage when choosing, and you will enjoy endless hot water without sacrificing valuable condo space.