Best Mini Tank Water Heaters: How To Choose a Point-of-Use Water Heater
We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 28th September 2023 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
We created this buying guide for people who need help in making a decision when shopping for the best mini tank water heaters for their needs. It is easy to read and covers everything from how they work to what type of energy efficiency rating you should be looking at when picking out your next heater.
Best Water Heaters With Mini Tank
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Thermoflow UT10 2.5 Gallons 110~120V Corded Electric Mini Tank Water Heater | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 7-Gallon | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Camplux ME25 Mini Tank Electric Water Heater 2.5-Gallon | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Ariston Andris 4 Gallon 6 Year 120-Volt Point of Use | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Electric Hot Water Heater 110-120V Compact Mini-Tank | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | thermomate Mini Tank Electric Water Heater ES400 | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Ecosmart ECO MINI 2.5 2.5-Gallon Mini Tank Water Heater | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Stiebel Eltron 233219 2.5 gallon, 1300W, 120V SHC 2.5 | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | 110V-120V Electric Mini-Tank Hot Water Heater | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Recommended Mini-Tank Water Heaters:
Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4)
- CONVENIENT HOT WATER HEATER: 4 gallon point-of-use mini-tank fits under your sink to provide hot water right where you need it. Thermal efficiency is 98%. Dimensions : 13.75 W x 13.75 H x 13.5 D Inches
- LONG LASTING QUALITY: This electric water heater is easy to maintain and has premium glass-lined material for a long service life. (Amps 12A, Volts (VAC) 120)
- INDEPENDENT INSTALLATION: 36-37″ cord plugs into a 120 volt outlet for independent installation or in-line with a large hot water source
- FAST RECOVERY RATE: Eliminates long waits for hot water at your sink, get on demand hot water at your every need (supplies up to 2 sinks at a time)
- EASILY MOUNTED: Can be shelf, wall or floor mounted (bracket included); simply tap into the cold water line and install the water heater directly at the sink to provide hot water
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This mini-tank water heater from Bosch is among the most popular options on the market and thanks to its attractive price purchasing one won’t break the bank. This is a 4-gallon tank which is ideal for most scenarios, yet you can keep a 2.5 gallon or 7 gallon storage tank water heater from Bosch too. This on demand water heater water heater tank is ideal for anyone that plans to install it under sinks thanks to its small size, so you can easily provide hot water anywhere you need it.
It can be easily mounted on a wall, floor, or put on a shelf for easy installation and connect with cold water from your water line. It comes with a 36″ cord for connecting to a standard 120-Volt outlet in order to heat the water for later use. Its sleek design allows the mini tank to easily blend with the rest of your decoration, so you can install it at any point of use without worries is not the smallest under-sink water heater in the market. Still, it is very compact in size, so you wouldn’t have a problem installing it even in the smallest bathroom.
Overall a great choice for a mini-tank, backed by a long-lasting warranty from Bosch, this is really a no-brainer if you are looking for a 4-gallon mini tank water heater. Make sure you also check their 2.5-gallon mini tank if you are looking for a smaller alternative.
Thermoflow UT10 2.5 Gallons 110~120V Corded Electric Mini Tank Water Heater
- Eliminate Wait for Hot Water – 2.5 gallons small tank water heater fits under your sink to provide instant hot water right where you need it. 2.6ft power cord plugin to use. Temperature range 45°F-167°F (Relief Valve has been upgraded)
- Save Energy – With Advanced Thermostop Technology of Germany resulting Low stand-by loss power consumption. Stop heating or reheating automatically. EPS FOAMING TECHNOLOGY for better insulation
- Maintenance Free – Stainless Steel Tank do not need anodes, resistance to corrosion from water, lighter, stronger, more durable and withstand higher temperature water (no issue in excess of 180°F)
- SAFE & RELIABLE – Overheating protection, auto cut-off electricity if not hot water come out, IPX24 water proof, 2.6ft plug in cord, suit for kitchen, bathroom, bar, school, hospital, office and RV.
- NOTES – Please verify that this model is the right size for your hot water needs and electrical requirements before purchase & installation. Dimensions: 18H x 12.2W x 11D inches; Weight: 14 lbs; Water connections: 1/2 inch NPT, Electrical requirements: 1.5 kW, 120 Volts. Max pressure: 150PSI. Nominal current: 13A.
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This small water heater from Thermoflow is a great choice for anyone looking for a 2.5 gallon model. The device features overheat protection and a thermostat function that allows stopping heating water for low standby power consumption.
You can select the temperature range you want the device to heat water and also features frost protection mode for use in extreme weather conditions. It is very straightforward to install and easily fits under your sink. You need to provide electrical power and connect your water line to get heated water anywhere.
Overall this is a budget-friendly option that is quite popular thanks to its relatively low price
Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 7-Gallon (ES8)
- Tank Volume 7.0 Gallons
- Temperature Range 65-145°F
- Electrical Requirements (Amp/Volts) 12A / 120V
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T is the larger alternative from Bosch , a 7-gallon electric mini-tank that is the best choice you could find if you think that smaller tanks are not enough for your needs for hot water. It is relatively small in size, so it can still fit under sinks for point-of-use hot water. This model can also be installed horizontally for up to 5 gallons of water supply if needed, with the hot and cold water lines placed on the top of the unit.
Generally, it is pretty straightforward to install since you can use a shelf, wall, or floor mount with the included bracket for vertical orientation. It needs 120V power to operate and has a heating capacity of 1440 watts. You can adjust the temperature range that the device would work on based on your preference, choosing from 65 degrees Fahrenheit up to 145 degrees.
Overall, I highly suggest the Bosch Tronic 3000 T for its durability and fast recovery rates, you can’t go wrong with any model from Bosch. I think the Bosch Tronic 3000 are the best mini-tank water heaters for home or office you can get at its price range.
We test all products as they are intended to be used in reality.
Depending on how well the they performed, we then amended some of these factors, but the basic conditions were the same throughout. In order to be able to impartially assess the different models of mini tank water heaters, one stew was prepared in each water heater. We used the following parameters when assessing the various water heaters in order to be able to nominate a test winner. We looked at the following things:
- Size: How large is the unit and how much does it weigh? Does it fit easily in the bathroom?
- Efficiency: How long does it take to heat up the water? How easy is it to maintain?
- Ease of use: Is the control panel easy to see and use? Can you choose different temperatures?
- Price: What is the price? Is the price reasonable? Does it include a warranty? How well does the heater stand up in comparison with the price?
- Durability: Is the heater robust and durable?
- Warranty: How long is the warranty? Can the manufacturer be trusted?
We rated each factor in accordance with its importance and then chose the final winner.
Our pick for the best mini tank water heater is the Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic because of its fast, high-quality performance, easy installation and excellent efficiency. In addition to the fact that electric these models have lower running costs, the Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic is an affordable option compared to gas tankless water heaters. Its heating element is reliable and the thermostat ensures a consistent temperature. This tank water heater is also user-friendly and its intuitive controls make it a perfect choice for home use.
The Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 7-Gallon is another good choice for budget conscious buyers. It uses the same kind of heating element as a conventional tank heater, but is smaller and more compact. If you’re looking for a 7-gallon heater that won’t blow out your wallet then Bosch Tronic 3000 T 7-Gallon is one of the best options that you can buy.
The Thermoflow UT10 2.5 gallon is a well built product with a compact and convenient design that is easy to install and is made from quality materials. Last but not list, the Stiebel Eltron deserves a honorable mention as is a great candidate for anyone willing to invest a little more. While the Stiebel Eltron is a little pricier than most models on this list, their built quality and excellent performance makes them stand out from the rest.
What To Consider When Purchasing a Mini Tank Heater?
Water heaters come in many different shapes and a large variety of sizes. Will you need enough hot water for multiple showers running at the same time? Do you have an older home with pipes that are less than optimal for high water pressure? All of these things will factor into your choice.
If you live in a warm climate, you may not think about your water heater very often. But even in summer, you probably make use of hot showers, warm showers, and hot water for washing dishes and clothes, plus for any other uses that require hot water. And if your local climate is cold, a heater is even more important; a cold shower doesn’t have the same appeal.
Why Get a Mini – Tank Heater?
It may seem like there’s not much to distinguish a small heater from a larger one, but they’re actually are some advantages to the smaller size. A smaller heater will be much easier to install.
For most people, the main advantage is how energy efficient they are. Α smaller tank requires less energy to heat water, which means lower monthly bills.
Variety of Sizes
They can be placed under sinks in bathrooms and kitchens without the hassle of installing a full-size heater. Your water stays hot for up to 8 hours, which is nice if you’re not a morning shower person. If you have kids or pets who waste water, this is a great way to limit the amount of water used for showers or clean dishes.
These models can heat and maintain water at a perfect temperature all day, without the cost, energy demands, and noise of a full-sized heater. If you have a hot water tank that’s more than 10 years old, you should consider upgrading your heater since newer models have greater thermal efficiency than their predecessors. When shopping for an alternative, keep in mind that a stand-alone system will be more efficient than a tankless water heater, which relies on your home’s central heating system.
Depending on the model, each heater runs on different fuels. Ideally, you should pick a heater that runs on affordable and readily available fuel to your location.
Choosing an Under Sink Water Heater: Tankless vs. Mini – Tank Water Heater
The two main types you can choose from, are tankless heaters and tank water heaters. An electric tankless water heater is a bit more efficient, but it is also more expensive and require more maintenance. Tank water heaters are a lot more affordable and easier to maintain, but they are also less efficient.
Hot Water Demand
The average household needs around 40 gallons of hot water supply each day. Unfortunately, that’s not necessarily true.
Most people think that a mini heater will not work for the average household. This is not true. Depending on their gallon per minute flow rate (GPM), they can keep a bathroom sink hot enough to wash hands and a shower hot enough to bathe. They are easy to set up, and come with plenty of helpful features like a digital temperature control.
Features
During the winter months, they can freeze if the water inside the tank is below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This can lead to a ruptured tank and overflowing water. A frost protection mode is an added feature that kicks in when the temperature goes below a certain point, and it brings the water temperature up to a set point so it doesn’t freeze.
There are also solar power heaters in the market but they are not a budget-friendly option at the moment.
If you can’t decide we would advise you to go for an electric water heater but just have a look at their energy consumption and GPM flow rate before purchasing. Just pick one that is energy-efficient and fits within your budget.
Pick a product from a reputable brand to be back up by a long warranty (some even offer a 6-year warranty). This way it’s more likely to get replacement parts (like a spare pressure relief valve or an anode rod) if needed and have a long service life without breaking the bank.
Such mini heaters can also be placed under sinks, and their flow rate will allow for endless hot water for your bathroom and kitchen. They are also a great option for cottages plus they are perfect when used as RV water heater. Depending on your use case, pay close attention to their GPM rating before making up your mind.
They are normally easy to install and they are ideal solutions for instant hot water delivery with minimum waste of water heated. You can also install them in a remote location like your garage if that’s what you prefer but you have to keep in mind you need to winterize it if you live in a cold climate according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
If you live in a big house, it may be wise to have heaters in any remote location where the hot water from your central heating might take too long to reach as a cost-effective solution.