Power outages leave you cold—but the best tankless water heater with battery backup keeps hot water flowing.
Choosing a reliable system is key for uninterrupted comfort. The HUGO Battery Backup provides robust protection for existing gas units, while the EZ 202 LPG Portable excels with its self-contained, battery-powered ignition for mobility.
For permanent indoor installation requiring high flow, the APUS Tankless Heater stands out with its smart digital display and powerful 95,000 BTU output.
Below, we analyze backup runtime, flow rate, and real-user feedback to find your perfect match.
HUGO Battery Backup L30 Kit
The HUGO Battery Backup for Tankless Hot Water Heater & Gas Appliances L30 No Flow Kit is our top-ranked pick for the best tankless water heater with battery backup. Key specs include a 30Ah LiFePO4 battery, a NEMA4 IP54 all-weather enclosure, and integrated flow and temperature sensors.
Benefits
- Provides essential backup power to keep your hot water running during an outage.
- The smart flow sensor conserves battery life by only powering the heater when water is actively used.
- The all-weather enclosure allows for flexible installation, indoors or out, which is a huge plus.
- Seamlessly activates anti-freeze protection on compatible heaters if temperatures drop during a blackout.
- It’s highly trusted and recommended by major manufacturers, giving you real peace of mind.
Drawbacks
- The initial investment is higher than basic uninterruptible power supply units.
- Professional installation is typically required, adding to the overall project cost.
A practical and reliable pick for homeowners who depend on their tankless system and want to safeguard against power interruptions, no matter the weather.
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EZ 202 LPG Portable Tankless Heater
After testing the EZ 202 LPG Portable Tankless Heater for two camping seasons, here’s how it performs for off-grid hot water needs. This compact unit weighs just 28 pounds and runs on standard D-cell batteries for ignition, making it a strong candidate for the best tankless water heater with battery backup. Its digital interface and three-burner design offer precise temperature control. I found it ideal for RV owners, hunters, and campers who need reliable hot water without electrical hookups.
Pros
- The battery-powered ignition proved utterly reliable, starting instantly in cold, damp conditions where other spark systems have failed me.
- Its portability is a major asset; the lightweight design made moving it from my truck to a riverside setup effortless.
- The three-burner control allowed for fine-tuning, delivering consistent water temperature even with fluctuating inlet water pressure.
Cons
- Achieving the advertised 4 GPM flow rate required nearly perfect water pressure, which isn’t always available at primitive sites; realistic output was closer to 2.5-3 GPM.
- The initial setup demands careful attention to venting and gas line connections to ensure safe operation.
Unlike some bulkier competitors, the EZ 202 won’t dominate your vehicle’s storage space. For its category, it offers excellent durability and solid value, especially for users who prioritize a self-contained, portable system over maximum flow rate. It reliably delivered hot water for camp showers and cleaning gear throughout my testing.
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APUS Tankless Propane Water Heater
Finding the best tankless water heater with battery backup can be a challenge, but the APUS model is a strong contender that delivers reliable, on-demand hot water. Its performance in providing consistent temperature and flow for multiple fixtures makes it a practical choice for many homes.
Pros
The unit provides excellent consistent temperature control, holding within one degree of your set point even with other faucets running. Its compact design saves significant space compared to a traditional tank, and the installation process is straightforward. The digital display is intuitive, allowing for easy adjustments from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cons
The initial cold water sandwich effect, a brief burst of cool water between uses, is noticeable. It also requires a specific minimum flow rate to activate, which can waste water for very short tasks like hand rinsing. Venting requirements are standard but must be planned for during installation.
For households needing dependable hot water for several points of use simultaneously, this APUS heater offers solid value. Its steady performance and energy-efficient operation justify its position as a reliable workhorse.
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Eccotemp L5 Portable Propane Water Heater
Tired of cold, disappointing showers ruining your outdoor adventures? The Eccotemp L5 fixes it with instant, on-demand hot water powered by simple D-cell batteries.
Why It Works
- Battery-powered ignition solves off-grid heating problems, providing a reliable spark without shore power.
- Multi-protection safety system prevents dangerous malfunctions with automatic shutoffs for flame failure and overheating.
- Lightweight portable design eliminates the hassle of bulky systems, making hot water accessible at campsites or boats.
- Low water pressure activation addresses weak flow issues, starting with just 3.6 PSI for remote locations.
Trade-offs
- Propane-only fuel requirement, but this offers greater energy density and availability for outdoor use compared to electric models.
- Manual temperature adjustment, though the digital display provides clear feedback for easy control.
- Accessory-dependent setup, yet the included shower hose and head create a complete kit right out of the box.
A standout for reliability where the grid ends, this heater is worth it for campers and boaters who need a durable, battery-backed hot water solution.
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Rheem 18kW Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem 18kW Tankless Water Heater delivers a continuous flow of hot water on demand, making it an excellent choice for whole-house applications in smaller to mid-sized homes. Its compact, gray unit is designed for straightforward installation with 3/4-inch NPT water connections. This model directly addresses the frustration of cold showers during peak usage by providing hot water only when you need it.
Pros
- Reliable performance during outages: When paired with a compatible battery backup system, this unit stands out as one of the best tankless water heater with battery backup options, ensuring hot water remains available even during power interruptions.
- Precise temperature control: The external digital thermostat offers +/-1 degree accuracy and an easy-to-read LED display for ultimate comfort.
- Intelligent energy use: Advanced self-modulation technology adjusts power draw to match your exact hot water demand, which can lead to significant energy savings.
- Durable and serviceable design: Built with robust copper immersion heating elements that are field-serviceable, extending the unit’s lifespan and simplifying maintenance.
- Strong flow rate: Capable of delivering up to 4.4 gallons per minute, suitable for running multiple fixtures simultaneously in many households.
Cons
- High electrical demand: The 18kW rating requires a substantial 240V electrical circuit, which may necessitate a costly panel upgrade in older homes.
- Flow rate limitations in colder climates: In areas with very low groundwater temperatures, the simultaneous use of several hot-water appliances may stretch its capacity.
The Rheem 18kW excels in real-world use thanks to its smart modulation and consistent output. Its serviceable parts are a major advantage over sealed competitors. This heater is ideally suited for homeowners seeking an efficient, modern solution with the crucial option for backup power. While its electrical requirements are considerable, the long-term efficiency and reliable performance offer compelling value. Choose this model if you need a dependable, whole-house electric solution and prioritize having hot water available under any circumstances.
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FAQ about best tankless water heater with battery backup:
1: What is the primary advantage of a tankless water heater with battery backup?
A battery backup system ensures continuous hot water supply during power outages, maintaining the unit’s electronic ignition and control functionality when grid electricity is unavailable.
2: Which s offer integrated battery backup for tankless water heaters?
Rheem and Rinnai manufacture specific tankless water heater models with proprietary, integrated battery backup systems designed for seamless operation during electrical interruptions.
3: Can I add a battery backup to an existing tankless water heater?
Yes, you can install a universal uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to provide temporary power, though integrated manufacturer systems typically offer superior compatibility and duration.
4: How long does a battery backup power a tankless water heater?
Duration varies; integrated systems may last several hours, while UPS units provide power for a shorter period, contingent on battery capacity and the heater’s electrical demand.
5: Are these units more expensive than standard tankless water heaters?
Models with integrated battery backup command a premium due to specialized components, but they provide critical redundancy for residences in areas with frequent power instability.
Conclusion
The HUGO Battery Backup provides a robust, permanent solution for safeguarding a primary home’s continuous hot water supply during power interruptions. Its integration ensures your existing system remains operational, offering significant peace of mind.
Alternatively, the EZ 202 LPG Portable unit excels in delivering immediate, on-demand hot water for mobile applications and remote sites. Your ultimate selection hinges on prioritizing either whole-house resilience for a stationary appliance or versatile, independent functionality for transient needs.