The best 60 gallon electric water heater provides ample hot water for large families and high-demand households, ensuring comfort without interruption. Selecting the right model involves considering energy efficiency ratings, tank insulation, and warranty, as a mismatch can lead to excessive energy consumption and premature unit failure. Factors like element wattage and recovery rate significantly impact how quickly hot water becomes available, crucial for busy mornings.
With numerous options on the market, choosing a dependable unit requires careful attention to specifications. Explore our curated list of top-rated 60-gallon electric water heaters to find the perfect fit for your home’s needs and enjoy consistent hot water delivery.
For those seeking the best 60 gallon electric water heater, tankless models like the Westinghouse 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater, offering a robust 6.3 GPM flow rate, are excellent for providing continuous hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously without temperature drops. Alternatively, consider heat pump models such as the Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater, highlighted for its energy efficiency and high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF).
Best 60 Gallon Water Heater Electric: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | GE Appliances 10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water Best for: Small spaces | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | GE Appliances 30 Gallon Electric Water Heater with Adjustable Thermostat, Best for: Mid-sized households | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater, Gray Best for: On-demand heat | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 50-Gallon Professional Classic Medium Residential Electric Best for: Medium homes | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater, GRAY Best for: Instant hot water | Check Price |
How We Picked
We evaluated numerous products to identify the best 60 gallon water heater electric. Our selection process prioritized real-world performance and durability, examining build quality through robust materials like copper heating elements found in Rheem models. Safety was paramount, leading us to rule out units with insufficient electrical specifications.
Standout features such as Energy Star certification and high Uniform Energy Factors, exemplified by Rinnai heat pump models, were heavily weighted. We ensured real capacity and longevity were key considerations, distinguishing true gallonage from nominal tank sizes.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Matching Gallon Size to Household Demand
Selecting a 60-gallon water heater requires careful consideration of your household’s peak usage. A 50-gallon model like the Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 might suffice for smaller families, but larger or high-demand households will benefit more from a true 60-gallon capacity. Some tankless options, while powerful like the Westinghouse 27kW, need to be sized by flow rate (GPM) and simultaneous fixture usage to ensure they can meet the demands a 60-gallon tank usually handles, preventing cold showers during peak times.
Understanding Heat Pump Efficiency
For electric water heaters, efficiency is paramount, and heat pump technology offers a significant advantage. Models like the Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater leverage ambient air to heat water, boasting high Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings. This means they use less electricity compared to standard resistance electric heaters, even those with a generous 60-gallon capacity.
When evaluating, look for Energy Star certification and the specific UEF number to gauge long-term operational savings.
1. GE Appliances 10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water
Best for: Small spaces needing consistent hot water.
10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water Heater uses standard 3/4-in NPT connections and a 120-Volt supply for a swift installation.
Its compact design offers flexible placement in locations like kitchens, bathrooms, RVs, or cabins. With a maximum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit and capable of operating at 150 Pound per Square Inch, it ensures hot water availability for boosting purposes or as a standalone unit.
Pros
- Quick installation with standard plumbing
- Compact for versatile placement
- 120-Volt operation
- Adjustable thermostat
Cons
- Not suitable for whole-house applications
Ideal for small apartments or supplemental hot water needs in garages or workshops. This GE model provides immediate hot water for point-of-use applications.
2. GE Appliances 30 Gallon Electric Water Heater with Adjustable Thermostat,
Best for: Families needing quick-recovery hot water.
GE Appliances 30 Gallon Electric Water Heater delivers a true 30 gallons of hot water, outperforming standard steel tanks of the same rating.
It provides 53 gallons in the first hour of use, perfect for households of 1-3 persons. Operating at 5500 watts and 240 volts, this floor-mount unit is designed for quick recovery and maintains a maximum temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- True 30-gallon capacity delivers more hot water
- 53 gallons in first hour of use
- Ideal for 1-3 person households
- Adjustable thermostat for temperature control
Cons
- Maximum pressure of 125 PSI may limit some installations.
This GE Appliances heater is a solid choice for small to medium families needing reliable hot water. Its quick recovery ensures fewer waits between showers.
3. Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater, Gray
Best for: High-demand users seeking instant hot water.
Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater features self-modulation to adjust power based on hot water demand, ensuring efficiency.
With a flow rate up to 4.4 GPM and output of 18 Kilowatts, it supplies continuous hot water for multiple fixtures. The external digital thermostatic control offers precise temperature adjustments with +/- 1 degree accuracy, running at 99.8% efficiency.
Pros
- Up to 4.4 GPM flow rate
- Self-modulating power control
- Digital thermostat with 1° accuracy
- Durable copper heating elements
Cons
- Requires 240V and high amperage wiring.
This Rheem tankless unit is built for homes with significant hot water needs, such as multiple bathrooms or high-flow fixtures. Enjoy instant, endless hot water without a storage tank.
4. Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 50-Gallon Professional Classic Medium Residential Electric
Best for: Medium households desiring dependable hot water.
Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 50-Gallon Professional Classic Medium Residential Electric water heater provides ample hot water for households with 3-5 people.
This model occupies less space than comparable units and features an anode rod for long-lasting tank protection. With an automatic thermostat and an enhanced-flow brass drain valve, it ensures consistent water temperature and easy maintenance at 50 gallons capacity.
Pros
- Sufficient for 3-5 person households
- Space-saving design
- Anode rod for tank protection
- Enhanced-flow brass drain valve
Cons
- Standard 50-gallon capacity, not tankless.
This Rheem 50-gallon electric water heater is a reliable solution for medium-sized homes needing dependable hot water. Its robust design ensures longevity for daily use.
5. Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater, GRAY
Best for: Apartment dwellers, small homes seeking efficient heat.
Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater offers 99.8% energy efficiency and precise temperature control.
This 13kW unit provides a flow rate of up to 4.8 GPM, ideal for single-fixture or point-of-use applications. The external adjustable digital thermostatic control allows temperature adjustments in 1°F increments, with two durable copper immersion heating elements.
Pros
- 99.8% energy efficient
- Up to 4.8 GPM flow rate
- Digital thermostat with 1° increments
- Compact wall-mount design
Cons
- Higher flow rate suitable for single fixture use.
For smaller living spaces or applications requiring efficient, on-demand hot water, this Rheem tankless heater is a great choice. Enjoy precise temperature control at a high efficiency rating.
6. Westinghouse Tankless Water Heater Electric 14kW 240V, Instant On-Demand Hot
Best for: Homes needing instant hot water and smart features.
Westinghouse 14kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater delivers instant, on-demand hot water at a flow rate of up to 3.38 GPM.
This unit requires one 60-amp double-pole circuit breaker and 6 AWG wire for installation. It features smart home compatibility, working with Google Assistant and Alexa, and offers a maximum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- Instant, endless hot water
- Up to 3.38 GPM flow rate
- Smart Home compatible (Alexa, Google)
- ETL Certified for safety
Cons
- Requires a dedicated 60-amp circuit.
This Westinghouse tankless heater is perfect for homes seeking a smart, on-demand hot water solution. Enjoy the convenience of voice control and endless hot water.
7. Rinnai REHP50 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater – 50 Gallon,
Best for: Energy-conscious households with high demand.
Rinnai REHP50 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater is Energy Star Certified, utilizing ambient air heat for efficient operation with a UEF of 3.75.
This 50-gallon unit delivers up to 73 gallons in the first hour, suitable for 3-4 person households. It features demand-response enablement for cost savings and operates at 240 volts, providing consistent hot water with zero emissions.
Pros
- Energy Star Certified for efficiency
- High first-hour delivery (73 gallons)
- Demand-Response Enabled for savings
- Heat pump technology reduces energy costs
Cons
- Heat pump technology may require adequate ventilation space.
This Rinnai REHP50 is an excellent choice for environmentally and cost-conscious households needing substantial hot water. Its heat pump technology significantly lowers energy bills.
8. Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater‚ 65 Gallon, 240V,
Best for: Larger families valuing energy efficiency.
Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater, a 65-gallon unit, boasts an Energy Star Certified rating and a UEF of 3.90 for exceptional efficiency.
It provides up to 80 gallons of hot water in the first hour, making it ideal for 4-5 person households with high demand. This unit also includes Demand-Response Enabled technology to lower energy costs during peak utility hours.
Pros
- Exceptional UEF of 3.90
- High first-hour delivery (80 gallons)
- Ideal for larger families (4-5 people)
- Demand-response technology integrated
Cons
- Larger physical footprint due to 65-gallon capacity.
For larger families who prioritize energy savings and consistent hot water, this Rinnai REHP65 heat pump water heater is an ideal fit. Its high capacity and efficiency ensure comfort and reduce utility costs.
9. Westinghouse 27kW Electric Tankless Whole House Water Heater, 6.3 GPM
Best for: Whole-house simultaneous fixture use, smart home users.
Westinghouse 27kW Electric Tankless Whole House Water Heater delivers a powerful 6.3 GPM, ensuring no temperature drop when multiple fixtures are used.
This unit is equipped with smart WiFi control, allowing remote adjustments via an app and voice commands with Alexa and Google Assistant. The digital LED display shows real-time status, operating at 240 volts with copper heating elements.
Pros
- High 6.3 GPM flow rate
- Supports multiple simultaneous fixtures
- Smart WiFi & voice control
- Copper heating elements for durability
Cons
- Requires two 240V/40A breakers and multiple sets of wires.
This Westinghouse tankless system is perfect for large homes needing to supply hot water to multiple points simultaneously. Enjoy advanced smart home integration for unparalleled convenience.
10. Electrolux 18kW Tankless Water Heater Electric 240v – Smart Wifi
Best for: Homes seeking instant, smart whole-house hot water.
Electrolux 18kW Tankless Water Heater Electric 240v provides up to 4.4 GPM for instant hot water, suitable for whole-house use.
This unit features Smart Wifi & Voice Control, stable temperature control with an LED display, and comes with a scale inhibitor. It requires two 240V/40A two-pole breakers and 8 AWG wires, ensuring a robust and efficient installation at ETL certification standards.
Pros
- Up to 4.4 GPM flow rate
- Smart Wifi & Voice Control
- Stable temperature control
- Comes with scale inhibitor
Cons
- Requires a household electrical panel greater than 150 amps.
This Electrolux tankless water heater is designed for modern homes that demand instant, controllable hot water throughout. Its smart features offer convenience and efficient performance for the entire household.
Heat Pump vs. Tankless: The Electric Water Heater Trade-Off
When evaluating electric water heaters, energy efficiency is paramount, but the definition of efficiency diverges dramatically between tank-style heat pumps and tankless units. For the best 60 gallon water heater electric, the choice boils down to upfront investment versus long-term operational cost, with heat pump models like the Rinnai REHP50 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater and the Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater offering a compelling case for the future of home energy consumption.
These heat pump water heaters leverage ambient air to generate hot water, significantly outperforming standard electric resistance models in terms of energy factor. The Rinnai REHP65 boasts a UEF of 3.90, meaning it extracts three times more heat energy from the air than electricity it consumes. Conventional electric resistance heaters, such as the Rheem PROE50 M2 RH95 50-Gallon Professional Classic Medium Residential Electric, simply convert electricity directly to heat, a far less efficient process.
While tankless electric heaters like the Rheem 18kW 240V Tankless Electric Water Heater or the Westinghouse 27kW Electric Tankless Whole House Water Heater offer on-demand hot water and can be very efficient for specific use cases, their high kW requirements can strain household electrical systems and lead to substantial peak demand charges, especially for whole-house applications. The Rheem 240V Heating Chamber RTEX-13 Residential Tankless Water Heater, for instance, requires careful consideration of your home’s overall electrical capacity.
The operational advantage of heat pump technology, as exemplified by the Rinnai units, lies in their ability to deliver substantial hot water volumes with remarkably low energy input. While a tankless system might provide an endless stream, its instantaneous power draw is immense, often necessitating significant electrical upgrades. A heat pump system, however, spreads its energy consumption over time, drawing a more manageable amount of electricity to heat larger volumes of water stored in the tank.
This makes them ideal for households with consistent, moderate to high hot water demand, where the long-term energy savings will amortize the typically higher initial purchase price compared to a standard electric resistance tank, and even many tankless options.
While the GE Appliances 10 Gallon Versatile Plug and Play Electric Water and the GE Appliances 30 Gallon Electric Water Heater with Adjustable Thermostat represent simpler, lower-capacity electric options, they do not enter the efficiency conversation with heat pump technology. For those prioritizing sustained energy savings and a lower environmental footprint over the immediate, high-power surge of tankless units, a heat pump water heater like the Rinnai REHP65 Electric Heat Pump Water Heater is demonstrably the superior investment for long-term value.
How to Choose the Best 60 Gallon Water Heater Electric
Installation type and space requirements
When selecting your 60-gallon electric water heater, prioritize top-mount installation for tight spaces, as it requires less horizontal clearance. Sidemount units offer easier access to connections but demand more wall space. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for required clearances around the unit for safe operation and future maintenance.
Measure your intended installation area carefully; a typical 60-gallon tank stands around 60 inches tall with a diameter of 22-24 inches. Opt for a model that fits comfortably, allowing at least 6 inches of clearance above and around for ventilation and service.
Choose top-mount for efficiency in limited areas.
Energy efficiency and performance
Your primary concern for energy efficiency should be the First Hour Rating (FHR). For a 60-gallon tank serving a family of four, aim for an FHR of 75 gallons or higher to meet peak demand without running out. The Energy Factor (EF) indicates overall efficiency, with higher numbers meaning lower operating costs; look for an EF of 0.90 or greater.
A strong recovery rate, typically 20 gallons per hour for electric models, ensures the tank replenishes quickly after heavy use. Prioritize models with high FHR and EF for consistent, cost-effective hot water, especially in demand-heavy households.
Anode rod type and durability
For superior longevity, select a 60-gallon electric water heater with a magnesium anode rod. Magnesium is more reactive and sacrificial, meaning it corrodes before the tank lining, offering extended protection. While aluminum rods are also effective, magnesium provides a more robust defense against rust.
Look for models that explicitly mention features designed for extended tank life, such as enhanced glass-lined tanks. Crucially, a readily accessible, standard-threaded anode rod ensures straightforward replacement down the line, preventing premature tank failure.
Always choose magnesium for maximum tank lifespan.
Control and safety features
Prioritize digital thermostats on your 60-gallon electric water heater for precise temperature control and accuracy, ensuring consistent hot water delivery. Demand robust high-temperature cutoff features, typically shutting off at 180°F, for critical safety against scalding. Examine the drain valve: a brass valve is far superior to plastic for durability and ease of use during servicing.
A large, accessible drain valve simplifies flushing the tank, removing sediment and maintaining efficiency. Choose digital controls and brass drain valves for optimal performance and safety.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you have a small household and limited space, look for a compact 30-gallon model with an adjustable thermostat.
- If you need to supply hot water for a larger family or multiple bathrooms, consider a 50-gallon model designed for significant demand.
- If energy efficiency is your top priority and you want to reduce operating costs, a heat pump water heater is an excellent choice.
- If you want on-demand hot water and have the necessary electrical capacity, a tankless electric water heater offering a high GPM flow rate would be suitable.
Quick Best 60 Gallon Water Heater Electric Buying Checklist
- Verify Electrical Requirements Ensure your home’s wiring can support the heater’s voltage and amperage.
- Check Unit Dimensions Measure your installation space carefully to confirm the 60-gallon tank will fit comfortably.
- Assess First Hour Rating (FHR) Choose a model with an FHR that meets your household’s peak hot water demand.
- Consider Energy Factor (EF) A higher EF indicates better energy efficiency and lower long-term operating costs.
- Inspect Anode Rod Material Opt for a quality anode rod, like magnesium, for better tank protection and longevity.
- Review Safety Features Ensure the unit includes essential safety functions like a high-temperature cutoff and pressure relief valve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Typical Recovery Rate For A 60-Gallon Electric Water Heater?
The recovery rate for a 60-gallon electric water heater typically falls between 20 to 30 gallons per hour. This rate indicates how quickly the heater can reheat the water after a significant draw, ensuring a consistent supply of hot water for your household’s needs.
How Does An Anode Rod Affect The Lifespan Of A Water Heater?
An anode rod is crucial for protecting the water heater tank from corrosion by sacrificing itself to prevent rust. Different materials, such as magnesium or aluminum, offer varying levels of protection and replacement frequency, directly impacting the unit’s overall durability.
What Is The Significance Of The First Hour Rating (Fhr)?
The First Hour Rating (FHR) on an electric water heater signifies the amount of hot water it can deliver in the first hour of use. A higher FHR is better for households with high demand, ensuring sufficient hot water for multiple simultaneous uses, like showers and laundry.
Are Top-Mount And Side-Mount Installations Significantly Different?
Yes, top-mount and side-mount installations differ mainly in where the connections are located relative to the tank. Top-mount units often have plumbing connections on the top, suitable for tighter spaces, while side-mount heaters may offer easier access for maintenance in more open areas.
What Should I Look For Regarding Thermostat Adjustability?
When selecting a 60-gallon electric water heater, look for a thermostat that offers easy adjustability and precise temperature control. This allows you to set and maintain your desired hot water temperature safely and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary energy waste.
Final Words
Choosing the best 60 gallon water heater electric ensures your home consistently has ample hot water. These substantial tanks offer reliable performance and capacity for larger households or demanding usage. Investing in the right model provides enduring comfort and efficiently meets daily hot water needs.