The thermomate ES700 Water Heater is a compact, point-of-use mini tank water heater designed to deliver instant hot water with a 6.5-gallon capacity, ensuring quick recovery and minimal standby loss. It features an adjustable temperature range from 50°F to 149°F, catering to various needs efficiently. With dimensions of 17.7″ x 17.7″ x 14.6″, its space-saving design allows for versatile installation options, including wall or floor mounting under sinks or counters.
The heater is equipped with an Incoloy 800 stainless steel heating element, renowned for its corrosion resistance, high-temperature handling, and nearly 99% heating efficiency, significantly enhancing the unit’s lifespan and durability. Additionally, it boasts an enamel coating glass-lined tank with gold porcelain lining for improved insulation and leakage prevention, complemented by a CSA T&P Relief valve and UL certification for safety. The thermomate ES700 offers a 3-year limited warranty on the tank and a 1-year warranty on parts, supported by 24-hour customer service, ensuring reliable and long-lasting performance.
Pros
- Instant Hot Water: Users appreciate the heater’s ability to provide immediate hot water, eliminating wait times for tasks like handwashing and dish cleaning in various settings, including art studios, outdoor kitchens, and residential kitchens.
- Easy Installation: Many find the installation process straightforward, highlighting the product’s user-friendly design. The flexibility to use compression fittings with flex hose for connections is also noted as a benefit.
- Compact and Efficient: Its compact size allows for under-sink installation in limited spaces, making it an ideal solution for small studios, shops, and outdoor kitchens. The heater’s fast recovery time ensures a steady supply of hot water for consecutive uses.
- Energy Efficiency: The heater operates on 110 volts, making it an energy-efficient option for places where running 220 volts is not feasible. Users also report low average power consumption, adding to its cost-effectiveness.
- Quality Construction: The product is praised for its build quality and durability. The porcelain lining and stainless steel components contribute to its longevity and performance.
- Excellent Customer Support: Thermomate’s responsive customer service is frequently mentioned, with representatives providing quick solutions to issues and even initiating contact to resolve potential problems.
- Versatility: The water heater’s versatility is a significant advantage, with users employing it for various needs, from providing hot water in remote cabins to supplementing existing systems to reduce wait times.
Cons
- Size Limitations: Some users find the 1.3-gallon capacity slightly small for extensive kitchen use, suggesting it’s better suited for quick tasks rather than prolonged water demand.
- Initial Setup Issues: A few users encountered challenges with rusty connections upon arrival, although customer service addressed these issues promptly by offering replacements.
- Technical Challenges: Despite its general ease of installation, some users faced technical challenges due to tight spaces or the need for additional electrical installations.
- Temperature Adjustment Sensitivity: There are comments about the sensitivity of temperature adjustments, with some users finding it tricky to maintain the desired water temperature, especially in fluctuating outdoor temperatures.
- Accessory Requirements: The installation might require extra fittings or hoses not included with the heater, necessitating additional purchases and possibly a visit to the hardware store.
- Drainage for Winterization: A minor inconvenience noted is the absence of a drain for winterizing the unit, making it slightly cumbersome to prepare for colder months.
- Water Pressure Considerations: While generally not a problem, the performance in terms of water pressure may vary depending on the installation setup and the use of accessories like showerheads.
Overall, the thermomate ES700 Water Heater stands out for its convenience, ease of installation, and energy efficiency, making it a favored choice for those in need of a compact hot water solution. While there are minor drawbacks related to capacity and specific setup challenges, the product’s benefits, coupled with excellent customer support, contribute to its positive reception among users.