Water heater trouble

[alexanderstep]

Hello,
I live in a tiny home and need to replace my water heater. My current one, which is only three years old, started leaking and caused significant damage. I'm considering switching to a tankless model this time.

My home measures 399 square feet, and the previous water heater was hardwired at 120V.

Does anyone have any recommendations for a suitable replacement? I live in TX

[MountainDon]

I do not have any particular unit to recommend. However, when you are looking, there are some things to keep in mind.
1. It may be obvious, or not, but verify that the possible replacement is 120 volts and that the amps the replacement uses must not be more than your circuit can supply.
2. Look for a chart that lists the degrees of temperature rise at various flow rates. Check the coldest likely temperature of the incoming cold water and verify that the unit will provide hot enough water at whatever flow rate you need.  Many 120-volt on-demand water heaters are only capable of supplying 3/4 GPM while even the best low flow shower heads need over 1 GPM. Many require 2 GPM.

Does your power panel have the ability to deliver 240 VAC? 240 VAC is better for an on-demand water heater. Of course that would require some new wiring to the heater.

[NathanS]

Mountain Don gave great advice.

I have had a Stiebel Eltron for almost 10 years. It runs on 240v and uses three 40 amp breakers. This is one of their bigger units, and in a cold climate. I use a pump to loop a descaler solution through it once a year.

In general, I have been satisfied with the unit. My only real complaint is that if you just want a low flow of hot water, the heater sometimes doesn't realize I am trying to draw hot water and won't turn on. They make all different sizes depending on your needs, though I am not sure if they offer a 120v unit.