Eco Smart ECO 36 Electric Tankless Water Heater Review – Pros and Cons

The Eco Smart ECO 36 Electric Tankless Water Heater stands out with its 36 KW output at 240 Volts and Patented Self Modulating Technology. It’s particularly suited for regions with low incoming water temperatures, such as the northern United States, effectively heating water as low as 37 degrees F. This unit can heat approximately 3.5 gallons per minute in such conditions, capable of simultaneously supplying two showers without running out of hot water.

In warmer climates, like the southern United States, the ECO 36 excels in handling high-demand situations. It can efficiently manage up to 6 gallons per minute, accommodating four showers and a sink at once. This feature makes it ideal for large households or those with high water usage appliances, such as Roman-style or Jacuzzi tubs.

A notable feature is its digital temperature control, which allows precise adjustments in 1-degree increments. This control ensures that users can set the water temperature to their exact preference. As the most powerful model in the Eco Smart range, the ECO 36 is designed to meet the hot water needs of a large single-family home, combining efficiency with high performance.

Pros of the Eco Smart ECO 36 Electric Tankless Water Heater:

1. Efficient Heating: The ECO 36 provides quick and efficient heating, even in cold climates like Buffalo, NY, and Ohio, ensuring a constant supply of hot water.
2. Saves Space: Its compact design is advantageous, allowing it to fit easily into small spaces and replacing larger traditional water heaters.
3. Energy Efficient: Users report a significant drop in their electric bills, indicating its energy-saving potential.
4. Suitable for Large Homes: Capable of handling high-demand situations, it’s perfect for homes with multiple bathrooms, allowing simultaneous use of showers and other appliances.
5. Precise Temperature Control: The digital control allows for 1-degree increments, providing precise temperature settings.
6. Durable: Users have reported long-term reliability, with some units working well beyond 8 years.
7. Cost-Effective: In comparison to other models and brands, the ECO 36 is reasonably priced and offers value for money.
8. Improves Water Management: Ideal for properties with multiple water usage points, efficiently managing hot water supply.
9. Low Maintenance: Despite being high maintenance, users find it easy to manage and maintain.
10. Customer Service: The manufacturer provides excellent customer support, assisting with queries and troubleshooting.
11. Versatile Installation: Can be installed in various settings like historic houses, new builds, and second-story attics.
12. Ideal for Cold Climates: Performs exceptionally well in colder regions, ensuring no fluctuation in hot water supply.
13. Unlimited Hot Water Supply: Offers a continuous flow of hot water, suitable for large families and multiple simultaneous uses.
14. Eco-Friendly: Being tankless, it’s more environmentally friendly compared to traditional water heaters.
15. Improved Quality of Life: Users report a better quality of life with consistent hot water supply for showers, baths, laundry, and dishwashing.

Cons of the Eco Smart ECO 36 Electric Tankless Water Heater:

1. High Electrical Demand: Needs significant electrical capacity (four 40 amp breakers), which might be an issue for homes with limited electrical infrastructure.
2. Potential for Limited Functionality in Extremely Cold Regions: In very cold climates, it might struggle to run multiple showers simultaneously.
3. Space Requirement for Breakers: Requires sufficient space in the electrical panel to accommodate additional breakers.
4. Initial Cost: While cost-effective in the long run, the initial purchase price can be relatively high.
5. Requirement for Large Amperage Service: Homes with less than 200-400 amps service may need an upgrade to use this heater effectively.
6. Need for Regular Maintenance: Requires descaling and element checks for optimal performance.

In summary, the Eco Smart ECO 36 Electric Tankless Water Heater is a highly efficient, space-saving, and cost-effective solution for providing unlimited hot water. It’s particularly beneficial for large homes and in colder climates. Despite its initial installation cost and complex electrical requirements, its long-term savings, efficiency, and capacity outweigh these challenges, making it a highly recommended choice for modern homes.