Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon
A slim 2.5 gallon plug-in tank from Rheem for one sink. It matches the Ariston on warranty but costs more.
Amazon $218.99$218.99
The Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon and the Stiebel Eltron SHC 2.5 are evenly matched, rated 2.8 and 2.7. The Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon leads on heating power. The Stiebel Eltron SHC 2.5 costs $6.08 less ($212.91 vs $218.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Stiebel Eltron SHC 2.5
A German-made 2.5 gallon plug-in tank for one bathroom or kitchen sink. It costs more than the imports but carries a six-year tank warranty.
Amazon $212.91$212.91
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon for heating power (1,440 W element vs 1,300 W element).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 2.5 to 4 gallon mini tank water heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon | Stiebel Eltron SHC 2.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.8/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 30% | 3 $87.60 per gallon ($218.99, 2.5 gal) | 7 $85.16 per gallon ($212.91, 2.5 gal) |
| Warranty 30% | 56 6-year tank, 2-year parts | 56 6-year tank, 2-year parts |
| Heating power 15% | 20 1,440 W element | 0 1,300 W element |
| Features 15% | 100 plugs into an outlet, relief valve included, wall bracket included | 100 plugs into an outlet, relief valve included, wall bracket included |
| Tank size 10% | 0 2.5 gal tank | 0 2.5 gal tank |
Specifications
| Rheem Mini-Tank 2.5 Gallon | Stiebel Eltron SHC 2.5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Tank capacity | 2.5 gal | 2.5 gal |
| Element | 1,440 W | 1,300 W |
| Voltage | 120 V | 120 V |
| Current | 12 A | 11.3 A |
| Electrical connection | Plug-in | Plug-in |
| Recovery (maker figure) | 15 min at 60 °F rise | 18 min (maker figure) |
| Thermostat range | 50 to 140 °F | up to 140 °F |
| Price per gallon | $87.60 | $85.16 |
| Installation | ||
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 17 x 10.9 x 10.9 in | 18.7 x 11 x 10.6 in |
| Weight | 17.6 lb | 15.9 lb |
| Water connections | 1/2" NPT | 1/2" NPT brass |
| Relief valve included | Yes | Yes |
| Wall bracket included | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | ||
| Tank | 6 years | 6 years |
| Parts | 2 years | 2 years |