Tankless water heaters are showing a huge demand currently, so we at Leaky’s thought to list down some of the top tankless water heater models within budget. These models are generally priced under $1,000 at the time of writing and represent a range of electric and gas units suitable for light to moderate hot-water usage. When choosing a unit, consider how many fixtures you need to run at once, your fuel availability (electric vs. gas), and the incoming water temperature in your area, as colder water (like that from ground lines in winter) requires more heating capacity. If you are looking for a tankless water heater installation near you in either Lubbock or San Antonio, feel free to reach out to Leaky’s.
Electric Tankless Heaters
EcoSmart Eco 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater – Mid-range electric model with enough power for a small family kitchen or bathroom. Electric units are often easier to install in homes without a gas line, which can be helpful in urban San Antonio neighborhoods where installing new gas infrastructure may increase costs.
EcoSmart ECO‑27 Electric Tankless Water Heater – A higher-capacity electric option on the budget side. Suitable for homes wanting point-of-use or supplemental hot water for bathing and dishwashing without upgrading large parts of existing plumbing.
GE Tankless Electric Water Heater GE15SNHPDG – A straightforward electric model that’s typically priced lower, making it a starting point for households with modest hot-water demand.
EcoSmart Electric Tankless Water Heater Eco 11 and Richmond Essential Electric Tankless Water Heater RMTEX‑06 – Compact, entry-level electric units that can serve single fixtures or very light use scenarios such as a laundry area or workshop sink.
Westinghouse 18kW 240V Tankless Water Heater Electric – Offers higher wattage on 240 V service, which can support slightly stronger performance in larger homes without exceeding the $1,000 mark.
Gas Tankless Heaters
Mizudo Comfortech Classic Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater – A budget propane-ready gas unit. Gas models can deliver heat more quickly in places with colder ground temperature, such as during occasional winter dips near Lubbock, but they usually require proper venting and professional installation.
VEVOR Gas Tankless Water Heater – An inexpensive gas-fired unit that can be attractive if you already have a suitable gas line and minimal installation obstacles.
What to Keep in Mind Before Installing a Tankless Water Heater
- Fuel Source and Venting: Gas tankless heaters typically heat water faster but need correct venting and gas line sizing. Electric models are simpler but may have lower flow rates.
- Flow Rate (GPM): Check the gallons per minute rating to ensure it matches how much hot water you need at once, especially for simultaneous shower and dishwasher use. Colder groundwater in West Texas can reduce effective GPM.
- Installation Costs: The price of the unit is separate from installation, which can vary by city (e.g., San Antonio permits vs. rural Lubbock electrician/plumber rates). Professional setup is recommended for safety and performance.
- Point-of-Use vs. Whole-Home: Some budget models are best for a single fixture (point-of-use), while others may serve a small household. Larger families might look above the $1,000 bracket for higher capacity units.
If you are a homeowner in San Antonio or Lubbock and looking to install a tankless water heater, you can easily find one under $1,000 that provides on-demand hot water without an oversized upfront cost. If you need assistance with installation, you can always count on us to give you the most transparent rates, never overcharging.