EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater Review Unveils Efficiency and Performance

Description

Highlights of the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater

Testing the EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater has been quite an experience, especially given its reputation for energy efficiency and compact design. One standout feature is its patented self-modulating technology, which adjusts the power usage depending on the water demand. This means it doesn’t waste electricity when you’re using less hot water, which I found to be a real energy saver. The digital temperature control is a breeze to use; I can set the water temperature in precise 1-degree increments, allowing for the perfect shower every time. The compact size of 17 x 14 x 3.5 inches makes it incredibly easy to install in tight spaces, and the LED display provides clear feedback on the current settings.

• Self-modulating technology for efficient power use
• Precise digital temperature control in 1-degree increments
• Compact design fits easily into small spaces

Drawbacks of the Tankless Water Heater

Despite the many positive aspects, a few issues surfaced during my testing that I think are worth mentioning. One limitation is the maximum flow rate of just 3.51 gallons per minute, which means it can barely handle one full shower and one sink at the same time in cooler climates with incoming water around 62°F. In warmer locations where the incoming water temperature is higher, it performs better, but in colder regions, it might struggle to meet the needs of multiple users simultaneously. Additionally, the unit requires a 240-volt electrical supply, which may not be compatible with all home electrical systems without an upgrade. Installation can be somewhat tricky if you’re not familiar with electrical work, and professional help might be necessary. The warranty is generous with lifetime coverage on electronics and the heat exchanger, but it only covers the cost of the unit and not labor or incidental damages, which could add to potential repair costs.

• Limited flow rate for simultaneous multi-point use in colder regions
• Requires 240V electrical setup, possibly needing professional installation
• Warranty does not cover labor or incidental damages

Performance and Water Heating Capacity

I was curious if this electric tankless water heater could truly replace a traditional tank system. It impresses with its 18 kW heating output and near-perfect efficiency rating of 99.8%, which means almost no energy is wasted during operation. This makes it a solid option for those wanting to reduce their energy bills. I noticed the water heated up almost instantly, eliminating the annoying wait times typical of tank heaters. The unit handles heating water from 62°F quite well, delivering a steady flow of hot water for a single shower and light sink use. However, attempting to run two showers simultaneously when inlet water temperature is on the colder side causes a noticeable drop in temperature. This makes it clear that the product is best suited for smaller households or locations with warmer incoming water.

User Experience and Installation Insights

Installing this water heater required some thought. It’s lightweight at just 14 pounds, which makes handling it a lot easier than bulky traditional heaters. The sleek white finish fits nicely without being an eyesore in utility rooms. The LED display makes adjusting settings straightforward, and I appreciated how the temperature adjustments felt very responsive. I invited a coworker who’s a plumber to check the setup, and he confirmed that while the installation is doable for those with electrical skills, the requirement for a dedicated 240V circuit could be a stumbling block for some. My family enjoyed the consistent hot water after I got everything up and running, especially my kids who are picky about shower temperature. This model’s digital controls gave me peace of mind by allowing precise temperature settings, avoiding sudden cold water bursts that often happen with older heaters.

Product Competitors and How This Model Stacks Up

Comparing this tankless heater to other popular models like the Stiebel Eltron Tempra or the Rheem RTEX series reveals some interesting contrasts. The EcoSmart’s self-modulating technology gives it an edge in energy savings over many competitors that operate at fixed power levels. On the downside, its flow rate is lower than some rivals that offer higher gallons per minute, making those better choices for larger households. For example, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 offers a higher flow rate but comes at a higher price point. The Rheem RTEX 13 is more affordable but lacks the advanced modulation feature and precise temperature increments. If energy efficiency and compactness are your priorities, this EcoSmart unit shines. However, if you need to serve multiple fixtures simultaneously in a colder climate, some competitors might be better suited for your needs.

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Investment?

Considering the features packed into this compact unit, I’d say the price performance is reasonable. The lifetime warranty on electronics and heat exchanger adds value, and the energy savings from the self-modulating tech could help offset the initial cost over time. Since it eliminates standby heat loss common in tank heaters, it’s a smart choice for those who want to reduce their utility bills. However, if your household demands high simultaneous water flow or you live in a region with very cold incoming water, you might find yourself looking at more powerful—and often pricier—alternatives. The installation cost might also factor into your budget, especially if an electrician is needed to set up the 240-volt circuit. That said, for small to medium households in moderate climates, this unit offers a solid balance of efficiency, convenience, and reliability.

Upsides to the EcoSmart Tankless Water Heater

• Highly efficient 99.8% energy conversion reduces electricity waste
• Compact and lightweight design fits tight spaces easily
• Digital temperature control allows precise hot water settings
• Self-modulating technology adapts power usage to demand, saving energy
• Lifetime warranty on critical components gives peace of mind

Shortcomings to Keep in Mind

• Maximum flow rate limits simultaneous use in colder climates
• Requires 240V power supply, potentially increasing installation complexity
• Warranty excludes labor and incidental damages, affecting overall cost
• Performance may dip when heating very cold incoming water

Testing this unit gave me a good feel for how electric tankless water heaters can cut down on energy use and improve convenience, but it’s clear that sizing and electrical setup are crucial factors for getting the best experience.

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