For an electric tankless water heater, it is very important to maintain low electric consumption, for getting greater output in return. Ecosmart ECO 18 electric tankless water heater introduced us with minimum electric installation, while providing outstanding heating performance. But every tankless electric water hater should be installed according to the area codes, as it is very sensitive to low or over temperature. That means to get what you exactly want from a product you should also follow proper instructions. ECO 18 offers some excellent features to those, who have votes on maintaining proper installation guide. Have an overview on the features to let you know why it is suitable to pick.
Important Features of Ecosmart 18
Minimum electricity consumption
Only 150-amp electricity requires for ECO 18 installation. It needs 2*40 pole breaker with 2*8 AWG wire gauge. Plumping connections are 3/4” NPT. This automated tankless water heater is equipped with each electromechanical thermostat switch for high-limited temperature protection. It has most advanced self-modulating technology, which saves up to 60-percent water heating cost.
Safety Concern
Since this product does not use a garage tank, the use of a temperature strain remedy valve (T&P) is no longer required for most installations. Only when connecting to flex or high temperature CPVC pipe, that time it is recommended to use a T&P valve for added safety. It has maximum operating water pressure, which is 150 PSI. If the water pressure is higher than that, then a pressure reducing valve must be installed on the main incoming water supply line before installing the ECO 18 tankless water heater. Manual shut-off valve is installed on the inlet and outlet of the water heater so that there is a convenient shut-off point available if future maintenance or servicing is required.
Fit for indoor space
This product is designed to be installed indoors only. But you can install your ECO 18 heater in an outdoor location protecting it from rain, dust, direct sunlight, debris, insects etc. Stylish design makes it more lucrative.
Considerable capacity
ECO 18 tankless water heater is capable to heat water over 2.5-Gallon per minute with the low temperature of incoming water, which should be 62-degree F or above. Its capacity is equivalent of one shower head and one sink. But water flow rate of the shower head should be 1.5 Gallon per minute. When the temperature of incoming water goes above 70-degree F, it can run two showers simultaneously.
Digital controlling system
This advance water heater allows you to control temperature digitally with the increment of minimum 1-Degree F. It has adjustment knob to turn on and turn off the machine. Turning the knob clockwise increases the water temperature. Turning the knob anti-clockwise decreases the water temperature. You can adjust temperature between 27-degree C to 60-degree C. The temperature also can be changed according to your desired setting.
Sustainable life span
As it is made of copper and other stainless heating elements, so you can experience a longer life time of ECO 18 water heater. Also, its inner heating elements are replaceable, which enhance the durability. But there you need to maintain some criteria. Ecosmart electric water heater are made to work properly when incoming water temperature is minimum 62-degree F. So, putting your tankless water heater beneath the recommended temperature can reduce its life span.
Technical Specifications
Model: ECO 18
KW: 18
Voltage: 240 volts
Temperature Range: 80-degree F to 140-degree F.
Max. Amperage: 75
Required Breaker: 2*40 amp
Wire Gauge: 2*8 AWG
Size: 17’’* 14’’*3.75’’
Weight: 11.25 lbs.
Water Connections: ¾’’NPT
Wattage: 18000 Watt.
Electrical installation
To get overall satisfactory performance and electric economic savings from your tankless water heater, it is mandatory to follow proper installation instructions. Here you go.
Step 1: Take each wire pair and connect them to one breaker. Make sure that each breaker is connected with one black wire and one red wire.
Step 2: Need wire gauge to use from main breaker panel to tankless water heater. It is mandatory to meet all applicable electric code.
Step 3: Require separate ground conductor for each incoming circuit.
Step 4: Continuously check all electrical connections. Make sure that the breaker size and wire gauge has been used according to the instructions.
Step 5: Confirm that all air has been purged from the water lines.
Pros:
- Capable to heat over 2.5-gallon water per minute
- Require less space to set up.
- Copper and other stainless metal increase its durability.
- Require minimum electrical consumption.
- Can support two showers simultaneously at 70-degree F.
- Advanced temperature settings make it easier to use to the consumers.
Cons:
1. Can’t work properly in colder climate.
Solution: This tankless ECO 18 water heater is configured to work properly, when the temperature of incoming water is 62-degree F or above. So, for greater output please follow the instructed temperature.
2. Sometimes water temperature of a faucet doesn’t match with the temperature settings of water heater.
Solution: It causes if you run the heater under 240 volts. Also, long water pipe is responsible for this kind of problem.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does Ecosmart ECO 18 work in colder climate?
No. it is not a perfect option for a colder climate. You’ll need the biggest unit and adequate power supply for that.
2. What about the flow sensing of ECO 18?
ECO 18 turns on with very little water flow rate. So, its flow sensing is perfect. It works better than advertised. These Ecosmart products are really great; Just follow the installation instructions carefully. Doing so, you won’t ever regret of having the one of it.
3. Is it possible to install ECO 18 with one pole 40 AMP breaker?
ECO 18 tankless water heater require two pole 40 AMP breaker. Otherwise it won’t work.
4. How much installation cost is needed?
It depends on which area you do live in. But approximate figure can be assumed. You need to pay approximately $150 for labor from a qualified plumber who also has an electrician license. You'll also need to buy 40 AMP 2-pole breakers in your panel, which may cost between $10 to $30 every. Wire cost may vary from $10 to $30 per foot. Hope now you get an idea.
Final verdicts
Ecosmart makes it affordable to all, having unlimited hot water by introducing its tankless water heater. ECO 18 is very simple and artistic in design. Both economic electricity and space efficiency are responsible for its appeal. This electric tankless water heater is really worth for some smart applications. So, why not try it?