Rheem RTEX-36 Electric Tankless Water Heater Review High Efficiency Performance Tested

Description

Highlights of the Rheem RETEX-36 Electric Tankless Water Heater

Using the Rheem RETEX-36 Performance 36 kw Self-Modulating 6 GPM Electric Tankless Water Heater daily has given me a solid appreciation for its high efficiency and compact design. This unit boasts a 36-kilowatt heating output and can handle a maximum flow rate of 8.8 gallons per minute, which means it serves my household’s hot water needs without any lag. The self-modulating technology impresses me the most, as it adjusts power consumption precisely, avoiding unnecessary energy waste. Mounting it on the wall was straightforward, and its 21.62″ width by 18.25″ height footprint fits nicely in my utility closet without hogging space.

The gray finish looks sleek and modern, complementing the rest of my home’s appliances. I also appreciate its lightweight build at just 19 pounds, making installation easier for anyone handy with tools. The unit’s ability to deliver continuous hot water without the typical temperature fluctuations is a big plus, especially during those busy mornings when multiple showers and kitchen tasks compete for hot water.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind Before Purchasing

Despite many good aspects, a few limitations of this electric tankless water heater caught my attention during use. The maximum flow rate of 8.8 GPM, while decent, might fall short for larger households with higher simultaneous hot water demands. I noticed that when two showers and the dishwasher run together, the temperature drops slightly. So, this unit may not be the best fit if you require high-volume hot water flow at once.

Another point to consider is the initial electrical setup needed for a 36 KW system. It demands a robust electrical panel and appropriate wiring, which might require professional upgrades to your home’s electrical system. This could add to overall installation costs, making it less budget-friendly for some users. Also, while the self-modulating feature is great for saving energy, it took me some time to understand how to optimize the temperature settings fully.

User Experience and Practicality in Daily Life

I found the user interface of the unit fairly straightforward, with easy-to-use temperature controls. My spouse, who isn’t tech-savvy, managed to adjust the settings without much trouble. The heater’s quick response time to changes in water demand was evident even during cooking or washing dishes, which enhanced daily convenience.

The electric tankless water heater also impressed my teenage kids, who appreciated the consistent hot water stream during their post-sports showers. No more arguments over who uses the hot water first! Even my elderly parents found the steady temperature reassuring and safe compared to the old storage tank system we had before.

Competitive Options in the Market

There are plenty of competitors in the electric tankless water heater space, like Stiebel Eltron and EcoSmart models, which often come with similar features. Compared to some of these, the Rheem model’s self-modulating technology stands out by offering better energy efficiency and a more tailored heating experience. However, EcoSmart units can offer slightly higher flow rates in some models, which could be better for larger households.

On the flip side, some rivals come with more advanced digital displays or smartphone app controls, features that this Rheem water heater lacks. If you want smart home integration, you might find these options more appealing. Still, the Rheem’s robust build quality and proven reliability make it a trusted choice for those who prioritize performance over flashy extras.

Price to Quality Ratio for the Rheem RETEX-36

Assessing the price to quality ratio, this electric tankless water heater delivers solid value for what it offers. It’s not the cheapest model out there, but its durability, energy savings, and compact size justify the investment. The refurbished version I have was tested and certified to look and work like new, which further enhances its appeal for those wanting to save some money without sacrificing quality.

Considering the typical costs of tank water heaters and the ongoing energy savings from its high efficiency, I’d say it represents smart spending for homeowners aiming to reduce utility bills and upgrade to a more modern, space-saving solution. The fact that it requires no batteries and minimal maintenance also adds to the overall cost-effectiveness.

Versatility and Installation Insights

This unit offers flexible mounting options, but I chose the wall-mount setup to save floor space. Installation instructions were clear, and while I’m handy with tools, I recommend hiring a professional for the electrical work due to the high wattage requirements. The heater’s depth of only 3.5 inches helped keep the installation neat and unobtrusive.

One quirk I noticed is that the unit works best with a minimum flow rate to activate heating, so very low water flow applications might not trigger warm water immediately. This is common in tankless designs, but it’s worth noting if you have fixtures with low flow rates.

Key Benefits Summarized

• Energy-efficient self-modulating technology reduces electricity bills by adapting power consumption to actual water usage.
• Compact and lightweight design fits easily on walls, saving valuable space in small utility rooms.
• Consistent water temperature without cold bursts, even when multiple outlets are in use.

Areas for Improvement

• The maximum flow rate might limit capacity in larger homes with simultaneous high water demand.
• Electrical installation requirements can add complexity and cost.
• Lack of smart controls or app integration might be a downside for tech enthusiasts.

Using this electric tankless water heater has been mostly a positive experience, with its strengths clearly aligned with everyday practical needs and energy-conscious living. However, potential buyers should weigh its flow capacity and installation demands against their specific household requirements.

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