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Written by Edmund Yeo on April 14, 2024 
in ,
Last updated: 05/05/2024

EcoSmart ECO 11 Review: Best for Small Homes?

Last updated on May 5th, 2024 at 03:46 am

If you're considering an upgrade to your home's hot water system, you might want to take a close look at the EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater. EcoSmart water heaters are known for their commitment to energy efficiency in their products, and this model is a reflection of that ethos.

With its tankless design, the ECO 11 aims to provide continuous hot water on demand while reducing energy consumption and saving on space with its stylish and advanced design, a perfect match for smaller homes or apartments.

Compact and designed with convenience in mind, the ECO 11 promises endless hot water flow to fit your needs. It's structured to adapt to your climate, working effectively in areas with warmer incoming water temperatures. Plus, the digital temperature control feature allows for precise adjustments of your water's warmth.

Bottom Line

For those looking to optimize their water heating system's energy consumption, the EcoSmart ECO 11 could be a game-changer.

Its efficiency and space-saving benefits make it a practical choice for many homeowners.

Ready to switch to a smarter way of heating water? Click here to get your EcoSmart ECO 11 today!

EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater: Revolutionizing Hot Water

Compact Design, Big Impact

The ECO 11 stands out with a sleek and compact footprint that’s a game-changer in the world of hot water solutions. At 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 inches, you can say goodbye to the bulky traditional water heaters that hog space.

Despite its modest size, it's a powerhouse, ready to be mounted on a wall or situated at a convenient point of use. Imagine reclaiming your closet, garage, or basement space without sacrificing the comfort of having hot water on tap.

Maximizing Energy Efficiency

With this unit, you're looking at an impressive 99% thermal energy efficiency. It's a true energy saver, only heating water when you need it—unlike traditional tank heaters that continuously maintain a full tank's temperature.

You’re not just saving space; you’re taking a step towards reducing your electricity bill and being kinder to the environment. This level of efficiency reflects a thoughtful design that translates to tangible savings month after month.

Self-Modulating Technology

The self-modulating technology is at the heart of the ECO 11's performance. It's smart, really smart. The heater adjusts its energy input based on how much hot water is needed in real-time.

That's efficiency you can feel, meaning it provides just enough power to heat the water you're using, nothing more, nothing less. This technology guarantees a consistent and efficient hot water experience, whether you're filling a tub or just washing your hands.

Digital Temperature Control

You get precision at your fingertips with the digital display of this electric tankless water heater. The digital temperature control is intuitive, allowing you to adjust the heat in 1-degree increments.

If you’ve ever been frustrated with water that's just a bit too hot or too chilly, you'll value being able to dial in your preferred temperature and getting it spot on, every time. This feature provides a level of custom comfort that's hard to beat.

In summation, the ECO 11 may be a small unit, but its impact is significant. It excels in energy efficiency, with self-regulating technology ensuring that no energy is wasted. Its size gives you back your space without compromising functionality, and digital control keeps you in command of your hot water experience.

While it might not be the sole solution for every household—considering factors like climate and demand—it’s a compelling choice for targeted applications, offering a modern approach to hot water heating.

Installation and Maintenance

Getting your new EcoSmart ECO 11 up and running is a straightforward affair if you're handy with tools and understand basic electrical installation. For most, this task will require a professional electrician to handle the 240-volt setup.

Your heater should be installed on a dedicated line for optimal performance. The compact design, at just 8 inches wide and 11.5 inches tall, means it can be discreetly mounted almost anywhere, saving you valuable space.

Maintaining longevity for your tankless heater involves occasional descaling, particularly if you live in an area with hard water. Regularly wiping down the external LED display can prevent dust accumulation. The ECO 11 doesn't require a vent, simplifying maintenance.

To ensure performance and to uphold the lifetime warranty, which doesn't cover incidental damages or labor, stick to the manual's guidelines for care.

Remember, conserving the life of your EcoSmart means being proactive about maintenance; check connections and performance a couple of times a year to keep everything flowing smoothly.

Performance and Energy Efficiency

When considering the EcoSmart ECO 11, you'll appreciate its capacity for providing steady on-demand hot water. In warmer climates, ECO 11 can provide continuous hot water at up to 2.6 gallons per minute, supporting a bathroom shower and/or kitchen sink.

It is ideal for hand washing for cooler climates and perfect for a bathroom, small sink, or office break room.

Thanks to its self-modulating technology, it only draws energy when you demand hot water, which means no standby heat loss and a potential decrease in electricity bills compared to traditional tank heaters.

Yet, energy savings can vary based on your usage and the local climate. With its 13KW power output, effectively balancing flow rate and incoming water temperature becomes crucial. Specifically, as temperatures drop, you may need to limit flow to maintain heat—something to consider if you live in colder regions.

Overall, users have found the heater reliable, with its energy efficiency being a standout feature. Keep in mind, though, just like any gadget, performance can fluctuate based on individual situations, but this tankless heater seems to strike a fine balance for modest demands.

Pros and Cons

When considering a tankless water heater, you'll want to weigh all the benefits and drawbacks. Here's how the EcoSmart ECO 11 stacks up.

Pros

  • Endless Hot Water: You're guaranteed to have a consistent supply of hot water on demand, avoiding those chilly surprises during a shower.
  • Space Saver: Its compact design is a massive boon for smaller homes or apartments, as it occupies significantly less room than a traditional water heater.
  • Energy Efficiency: By only heating water as needed, the EcoSmart ECO 11 is 99% energy efficient. This means potential savings on your electric bill, as you're not paying to heat water 24/7.
  • Sizing Options: Ideal for situations with lower flow requirements, this 13KW model can handle a bathroom, small sink, or office breakroom, providing 1.3 to 3.1 gallons-per-minute depending on your inlet water temperature.

Cons

  • Installation: While the basic setup may not be complex, it requires running a 6-gauge wire which can be a hassle; you might want to consider hiring a professional, adding to the initial expense.
  • Intermittent Issues: Some users have reported a humming noise after several weeks of use, plus a few instances of the unit stopping entirely.
  • Flow Restrictions: In colder climates, a water restrictor might be needed to ensure hot water, which could affect the flow rate and overall user experience.
  • Initial Temperature Delay: In some instances, there might be a slight wait before hot water starts flowing, especially if your shower is far from the heater.

Remember, context is key when evaluating these pros and cons—consider your own household’s size and water usage to determine if the EcoSmart ECO 11 is the right fit for you.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're thinking about other tankless water heaters similar to the EcoSmart ECO 11, it's worth examining a few noteworthy competitors. For instance, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra series is another group of high-efficiency electric tankless water heaters with precise temperature control.

They are pricier but offer advanced flow control technology, which might justify the water heating costs for your endless hot water needs.

Another considerable option could be the Rheem RTEX series; these heaters come equipped with self-modulating power control and are known for easy installation. Pricing varies, so they could be a more budget-friendly choice depending on the model.

Lastly, the Titan SCR2 N-120S might catch your eye. It's a compact solution that suits smaller homes and boasts a durable design. It has a lower price point, which could be tempting if you're keen on saving some cash while still getting a reliable source of on-demand hot water.

Each of these alternatives has its distinct advantages, and your selection might depend on factors like upfront cost, long-term energy savings, space constraints, or specific feature preferences.

Remember to consider your household's water usage and the climate you live in; these will significantly influence the effectiveness of your tankless water heater choice.

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from over 5,000 reviews, it's clear that the ECO 11 is a hit with many users.

You'd find that most customers appreciate the ease of installation, with a few mentioning some challenges with electrical upgrades.

The compact size is perfect for small spaces like RVs or under-sink installations, making it a favorite for those with tight quarters.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some customers have reported issues with unit malfunctions over a short time.

It's noted that a humming noise might occur, which is mentioned in the manual, but outright failures have been a point of frustration for a select few.

In terms of performance, users from cooler regions point out the importance of using water restrictors for an optimal balance between flow rate and temperature.

A majority of users enjoy the continuous hot water supply, affirming that it lives up to the promise of providing hot water on demand.

Overall, satisfaction seems largely influenced by expectations and installation quality, with most users finding the ECO 11 to be a cost-effective and efficient water heating solution.

Final Verdict on the EcoSmart ECO 11

Your search for a reliable electric water heater might just end here. The ECO 11 boasts its patented self-modulating technology, ensuring you only use the energy you need, making it energy-efficient and cost-effective for your home.

Perfect for a one bathroom house, it provides a consistent supply of hot water, whether you're washing dishes or taking a shower.

The compact size allows for a range of installation options, from under the kitchen sink to a space-limited TinyHouse, providing you with immediate hot water wherever you are in your home.

Installation is manageable if you're experienced with basic home improvement tasks, though it’s best to hire a professional for the electrical work to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

This tankless electric water heater has been praised for being an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional tank heaters. Users in colder climates, like in Canada, have had success with it by adapting their water flow for the desired temperature.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. Some users have noted issues over time, such as noises or complete failure, which may point to longevity concerns.

So, if you're in a small household or space-conscious living arrangement and looking to save on energy bills, the ECO 11 could fit your needs, but be mindful of the potential need for troubleshooting or repairs down the line.

Author

  • Edmund Yeo

    🌱 I'm passionate about sustainable living and renewable energy, and I'm thrilled to share my journey towards a greener, brighter future with you. Join me as I explore the latest innovations, eco-friendly lifestyle tips, and inspiring stories from the forefront of the green energy revolution. Note: This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

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