Who makes the highest rated tankless water heater based on Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and reliability surveys in 2026 is Rinnai for gas tankless and Stiebel Eltron for electric tankless. Rinnai gas tankless water heaters like RUR160i and RSC160i are consistently highest rated with Consumer Reports overall score of 85 to 90 out of 100, predicted reliability 5 out of 5 excellent, service call rates under 5 percent, offering up to 0.93 Uniform Energy Factor high efficiency condensing, built-in recirculation pump that eliminates cold water sandwich and delivers hot water in seconds, Circ-Logic recirculation scheduling, WiFi connectivity via Rinnai app, and excellent warranty at 12-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts, 1-year labor, costing 1,800 to 2,800 dollars installed for 160,000 BTU, made in Japan with robust build quality. For electric tankless, Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus is highest rated with efficiency at 99 percent and very good reliability. For best value gas, Navien NPE-2 is rated highly with 0.95 UEF highest efficiency and dual stainless steel heat exchangers, costing 1,700 to 2,600 dollars. Rheem RTGH-95 also highly rated for value at 1,500 to 2,400 dollars. Rinnai is consistently ranked number one for gas tankless for reliability, customer satisfaction, and features, with Navien close second for efficiency.
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