EcoSmart ECO 18 Electric Tankless Water Heater - Compact Efficient

In this review of the EcoSmart ECO 18 electric tankless water heater the verdict is straightforward: this compact 18 KW unit is best for small homes or point-of-use installations in warmer climates where incoming water is about 62 Degree F or higher. The single biggest reason to consider the ECO 18 is its combination of digital control and self-modulating technology that delivers on-demand hot water without a tank, making it a sensible, space-saving replacement for traditional tank heaters where electrical supply and climate permit.

Key Features

• Self Modulating Technology: The heater adjusts power draw to match demand so it maintains set temperature efficiently and avoids wasted energy.
• Digital Temperature Control: Accurate temperature settings in 1 degree increments let the user dial in a specific output for consistent comfort.
• Compact Size: At roughly 17 in x 14 in x 3.5 in the unit installs in tight spaces and is suitable for point-of-use applications.
• Heating Capacity: Configured to heat over 2.5 gallons per minute at 62 Degree F inlet temperature, supporting one shower and a sink simultaneously in many cases.
• 240 Volt Single Phase: Designed for standard residential 240 V single phase electrical systems where adequate breaker capacity exists.

Who It's For

The ECO 18 is aimed at homeowners in warmer regions or those with relatively high incoming water temperature (62 Degree F and above) who want a compact, energy-efficient on-demand heater for a single bathroom, small apartment, or point-of-use application. It suits buyers who value precise temperature control and an easy-to-install physical profile.

Those in colder climates with much lower inlet water temperature, households needing multiple full-flow showers at once, or properties without appropriate 240 V electrical capacity should look at larger models or alternative systems, since the ECO 18 is intentionally sized for modest flow rates and warmer inlet conditions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact footprint and wall-mountable design make it easy to fit in closets or small utility spaces.
• Digital control with 1 degree increments gives precise and repeatable temperature settings.
• Self-modulating operation improves energy efficiency by matching output to demand.
• Capable of delivering over 2.5 gpm at rated inlet temperature, adequate for one shower plus a sink.

Cons

• Limited flow capacity for multiple simultaneous showers in cooler climates where inlet temperature is below the specified range.
• Requires proper 240 V single phase wiring and breaker capacity; verify electrical compatibility before purchase.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ECO 18 is a practical, value-oriented tankless option for small residences and point-of-use installs in warmer climates. It delivers precise temperature control, good energy efficiency through self-modulation, and a compact form factor; buyers should confirm inlet water temperature and electrical supply to ensure it meets flow needs before choosing this model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this unit run two showers?
It can run two low-flow showers only in warmer regions where incoming water is above about 70 Degree F; otherwise it is best for one shower plus a sink.

Does it save on energy costs?
Yes, the self-modulating design reduces wasted power by matching output to demand, and customers report noticeable reductions in heating costs when sized appropriately.

What electrical requirements are needed?
The ECO 18 requires a 240 V single phase supply with adequate breaker capacity; verify household electrical capacity before purchase and installation.