Bosch vs Rheem tankless water heater
When selecting a water heater brand, there are several factors to consider, such as the fuel type, the size of the unit, the budget, and the energy efficiency of the unit. All of these factors can help you decide which water heater brand will work best for you.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at two of the top water heater brands on the market today. Bosch is one of them, while Rheem is another. Let’s take a look at these two brands to help you decide which one is right for you.
Bosch Tankless water heaters
Since its inception in the year 1886, Bosch has established itself as a leading provider of water heater solutions that meet the needs of its customers. The company offers both electric and gas-powered tankless water heaters that are designed to be more energy efficient [1].
One of the advantages of Bosch’s tankless system is its small size, which makes it suitable for small areas. Although the tankless systems are significantly minute in size, they are not less efficient.
The high efficiency of Bosch’s heat exchangers ensures that hot water is delivered to your home when and where you require it, each time. With a 98% efficiency rating and minimal loss, electric tankless Bosch water heaters are the ideal solution for your home’s needs.
Most Bosch tankless water heater models offer a variety of settings, from low to high-kW, for maximum customization. One of the advantages of tankless water heater systems from Bosch is that they provide cleaner water each time, as there is less potential for sediment accumulation.
Rheem Tankless water heaters
Rheem is one of the oldest water heaters in the world, having been in operation since 1925. Today, they offer a wide range of products, including air conditioning units, water heaters, and more [3].
With Rheem, you can expect to find some of the most innovative and cutting-edge water heaters on the market today. Some of the water heaters Rheem carries include electric models, gas models, tankless models, heat pump models, and solar models.
One of the most innovative features of Rheem’s water heaters is that you can choose from a range of mobile leak alerts with some models.
The Water Heater Booster is a popular product from Rheem that can increase the capacity of a water heater by up to 45% without the need to replace an existing unit. This unit is equipped with a Vacation Mode as well as an Eco Mode, providing an extremely energy-efficient solution that can help homeowners save money each month.
This feature can also help protect the home from potential damage and might even qualify homeowners for insurance discounts.
Rheem offers a unique product for homeowners who are looking to combine their water heater and boiler units. The Prestige Series combines the features of an efficient water heater with the function of a space heating boiler in a compact unit.
It is one of the most energy-efficient products available, boasting an AFUE rating of 95%. This makes it an ideal choice for energy savings and rebates. Rheem is a forward-thinking company dedicated to creating a sustainable future for future generations through its numerous product lines and zero-waste initiatives.
Bosch vs Rheem Tankless Water Heater
- Efficiency
A water heater’s energy efficiency is measured by its Energy Efficiency Factor (EF). Water heaters with a higher EF rating are better in terms of thermal efficiency [4].
A Bosch tankless has a thermal efficiency of 95 – 98%. It is recommended to choose a water heater with an EF of more than 90%.
Bosch’s gas models offer ultra-efficiency thanks to their condensing gas technology and foam insulation in their electric models. This can reduce your energy consumption by more than 50% in a year.
Rheem’s top-of-the-line models are 96% efficient. That’s second only to Bosch’s 98% efficiency.
If you’re a Southern California resident, you’re eligible for the company’s SoCal Gas rebate of up to $1,000 [5]. If you’re outside of California, you can apply for a 30% federal tax credit, including installation (up to $600). By completing the short application process, you’ll save a total of $1,600.
- Durability
Bosch Tankless Water Heaters are known for their dependability due to their exclusive, entirely modulating burner design. The design provides infinite hot water and precise temperature control for both safety and comfort. Without the need for a conventional tank, a typical conventional tank can last between six and twelve years.
Bosch Tankless water heaters are designed and constructed to last for at least twenty years. And because they have no tank, there is no risk of harmful bacteria developing. This ensures that you and other home occupants receive fresh, clean water whenever the tap is turned on.
Rheem has got you covered when it comes to affordable water heaters. They offer top-notch quality and efficiency. Therefore, you know you’re getting the best in class when it comes to hot water solutions. Plus, they have a wide range of options, from gas to electric to tankless.
Depending on the type of water heater you have, you can expect it to last between 8 and 15 years. If you do regular maintenance on it and don’t have any special conditions, it can last up to 20 years.
We’ve even seen some that are over 30 years old and still running!
- Cost
Rheem is widely regarded as a quality brand. This type of quality is often associated with a higher price point for the consumer. While other brands such as Bosch charge approximately $2,300 per unit, Rheem charges slightly higher at about $2,500 per unit.
The total cost of installation for Rheem ranges from $4,700 to $8,500, depending on the contractor and the installation options they offer. Some installers provide both basic and premium packages, which can affect the total cost [8].
The major limitation to this price range is tied to the range of products offered by Rheem. As Rheem provides electric point-of-use tankless water heater models designed for individual fixtures, such as a shower, the cost floor is significantly lower than that of other manufacturers. In fact, some electric point-of-use models are available for as little as $250 non-installation.
Bosch heaters are available in both electric and gas models. Electric models start at around $140 and go up to $800, while gas models start around $1,250. Bosch has been around since 1886, and they’ve always been known for making top-notch, cutting-edge products. Now, they’re sold in more than 150 countries, and their tankless model is one of the most popular.
- Warranty
A Certificate of Limited Warranty is included with all Rheem equipment. This covers all of the warranty information for each product. The limited warranty can range from 5 to 12 years, depending on the model you choose. Some terms even include a warranty for labor during the first couple of years.
If you would like to extend your warranty for an additional four years, you can choose from our extended Protection Plus Plan. This plan will give you an additional four years to extend your limited warranty. An extended warranty typically costs between $150 and $200 and is available from multiple authorized vendors.
Water heaters manufactured by Bosch are designed to have a lifespan of at least 20 years. Bosch offers a 15-year warranty for the heating element of gas water heaters, such as Greentherm or Therm series.
This warranty is significantly longer than the industry norm of 10 years, and Bosch offers a 5-year warranty for electric water heaters.
Additionally, Bosch offers a 2-year warranty for other components of its water heaters.
Related: Rheem vs Bradford White
Conclusion
For many homeowners, a tankless water heater is the perfect choice. The water heater allows you to heat hot water quickly at the POU (point of use) or the POE (point of entry). They also reduce your energy costs compared to other water heaters and offer great flow rates that meet the needs of most homes in the U.S.
If you’re looking for the best electric water heater, you can’t go wrong with either Bosch or Rheem. They offer high flow rates, better-than-tank energy savings, durability, multiple safety certifications, and attractive warranties.
Read Next: Rinnai vs Bosch Tankless Water Heater
Michael Davis is a heating & plumbing expert who currently works as independent contractor in SC. He also writes for Plumbertip.
For almost 10 years he worked on various plumbing tasks across South Carolina.
