Description
Highlights of the Eccotemp L5 Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
On the published specifications, the Eccotemp L5 1.5 GPM Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater has some standout features that make it appealing for outdoor use. Its lightweight and compact design is the first thing that stands out. Carrying a unit that weighs only 11.2 pounds and measures 11.5″ by 18″ makes a huge difference when you’re hauling gear for camping or outdoor showers. The fact that it runs on a standard 20 lb. liquid propane tank is a big plus because propane is fairly easy to source compared to other fuels in remote locations.
The unit’s electronic ignition, powered by just 2 D cell batteries, means no fussing with matches or manual lighting, which is a real convenience, especially during chilly mornings. It heats water at a respectable rate of 1.5 gallons per minute, providing a steady stream that’s more than enough for quick rinses or washing pets after a muddy hike. The temperature settings are flexible, ranging from 50 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing customization for different needs.
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple electronic ignition system
- Runs on common 20 lb. propane tanks
- Adjustable temperature up to 140°F
Limitations of the Portable Water Heater
No product is without compromises, and this outdoor water heater certainly has a few areas worth pausing on. The maximum flow rate of 1.5 GPM means it’s not designed for heavy-duty use or multiple simultaneous showers. If you’re hoping to shower with the whole family or use it for extensive outdoor washing, it might struggle to keep up. The maximum operating pressure of 80 PSI is fairly standard but limits some higher-pressure setups.
Another quirk worth knowing is the safety shut off feature which activates after 20 minutes of continuous use or if the unit is tilted more than 45 degrees. While this is great for safety, it can be frustrating if you forget and want to use it longer or move it slightly during use. Also, the unit is designed exclusively for outdoor use, so indoor installation is off the table.
- Limited flow rate for heavy use
- Safety shut off can interrupt longer tasks
- Not suitable for indoor installation
- Operates only with propane, no electric option
Versatility and User Experience
The unit is quite versatile for various outdoor scenarios. It’s well suited to camping trips, off-grid cabins, and pet washing. The included 6-foot hose makes hooking up to a standard garden hose straightforward. Also worth noting is the low activation pressure of 20 PSI, which means it starts heating water easily without needing special plumbing.
A weekend camping trip is the archetypal use case here, where warm showers after a day of hiking are the whole point. The simple single-handle control makes adjusting water temperature intuitive, even for less tech-savvy users. The CSA/GAMA certification is the relevant assurance regarding safety standards.
Competitors in the Outdoor Tankless Water Heater Market
This model competes with several outdoor tankless water heaters, such as those from Camplux and Mr. Heater. Compared to the Camplux portable units, the Eccotemp offers a similar BTU output of 37,500, but the Camplux sometimes boasts a slightly higher flow rate. However, the Eccotemp’s weight and compact design give it an edge for portability. Mr. Heater’s models often focus on indoor/outdoor versatility, which the Eccotemp lacks due to its outdoor-only design.
In terms of safety, the automatic shut off for tilt and runtime is a valuable feature that many competitors omit. Efficiency-wise, this heater performs admirably, matching or exceeding rivals in delivering hot water quickly without wasting fuel. However, competitors sometimes offer digital controls or LCD displays, which this simpler device does not.
Quality for Price: Is It Worth It?
Considering the price-to-quality ratio, this unit offers solid value. The features packed into this lightweight, propane-powered, electronic ignition water heater justify the investment for anyone needing a reliable outdoor hot water source. While it’s not a powerhouse for high-demand situations, its ease of use, portability, and safety features make it stand out.
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly, efficient tankless heater for camping, garden showers, or pet baths, this device strikes a good balance between cost and performance. The lack of batteries included means you’ll need to invest in 2 D cell batteries, but that’s a minor expense.
Design and Installation Considerations
The wall-mountable rectangular shape is sleek and practical. Installation is straightforward, especially with the standard 0.5-inch rough-in connection for water inlet and outlet. The white finish blends nicely with outdoor settings, and the unit’s compact depth of just over 5 inches means it doesn’t protrude too much.
Worth flagging is that the hose length of 6 feet can be limiting depending on your setup, so additional hose extensions might be necessary for some users. Since the heater requires a propane supply and batteries for ignition, planning your campsite or outdoor shower setup ahead of time is essential.
Good Aspects of the Eccotemp Outdoor Tankless Heater
- High efficiency with 37,500 BTU heat output
- Convenient electronic ignition powered by batteries
- Safety shut off for tilt and prolonged use
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport
- Adjustable temperature range from 50 to 140°F
Areas of Concern
- Lower flow rate limits simultaneous use or extended showers
- Safety features may interrupt longer usage unexpectedly
- Exclusively outdoor use; not suitable for indoor spaces
- Requires propane tanks and battery maintenance
The specification sheet gives a clear picture: it excels in portability and safety but falls short when it comes to high-demand or indoor applications. Whether you’re a camper, pet owner, or outdoor enthusiast, understanding these trade-offs helps set expectations realistically.
