ECCOTEMP 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater vs ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
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The eccotemp 1 85 gpm portable tankless water heater vs smarthome 27kw comparison highlights two distinct heating solutions from the same brand. Both units deliver instant hot water, but they serve different needs. The EL7 uses propane for portable, outdoor use. The SHiE-27 uses electric power for permanent indoor installation. You need to choose based on your power source and location requirements. This guide compares their specifications to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | Eccotemp 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater | Eccotemp SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 1.85 GPM | not listed |
| Wattage / BTU | 52K BTU | 27kW |
| Dimensions (H x W x L) | 19 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches | 18.5 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 20.7 pounds | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Eccotemp 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater if
- You need a portable unit for outdoor use, camping, or jobsites.
- You want a propane-powered heater that runs on a standard 20 lb tank.
- You require a specific flow rate of 1.85 GPM for handwashing or outdoor showers.
Choose Eccotemp SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater if
- You are installing a permanent water heater in a home or garage.
- You have access to a dedicated electrical circuit and prefer electric heating.
- You need a compact, wall-mounted unit with a lower profile height.
Verdict: The EL7 is the clear choice for portable, off-grid, or outdoor applications where propane is available. The SHiE-27 is designed for fixed indoor installations where electric power is accessible. Select the propane model for mobility and the electric model for permanent home integration.
Portable Propane vs Fixed Electric
Fuel type
The ECCOTEMP EL7 Portable Tankless Water Heater runs on propane. It connects to a standard 20 lb liquid propane tank and uses electronic ignition powered by four AA batteries. This setup allows you to use it anywhere without needing an electrical outlet. The ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME SHiE-27 relies entirely on electric power. It is a 27 kW unit designed for fixed installations where electricity is available. You cannot use the SHiE-27 in remote locations or during power outages. The EL7 offers true off-grid capability, while the SHiE-27 requires a permanent electrical connection.
Flow rate
The EL7 is rated at 1.85 gallons per minute. This flow rate is sufficient for a single sink or a shower in a small space. It heats water instantly as it flows through the unit. The SHiE-27 does not list a specific flow rate in the provided data. However, its 27 kW wattage suggests a higher capacity than the 52K BTU EL7. Higher wattage usually supports higher flow rates for whole-house use. Without a stated GPM, you cannot compare their output directly. You must assume the electric model handles more demand if installed correctly.
Dimensions
The EL7 measures 19 inches in height, 11.8 inches in width, and 11.8 inches in length. It weighs 20.7 pounds, making it easy to carry. The compact size fits on a shelf or hangs on a wall. The SHiE-27 measures 18.5 inches in height, 11.5 inches in width, and 11.5 inches in length. It is slightly smaller in all dimensions than the EL7. Both units are relatively compact. The EL7 is heavier due to its metal construction and propane components. The SHiE-27 is lighter but still requires sturdy mounting. Both fit in small utility spaces.
Temperature control
The EL7 offers a temperature range of 50 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You adjust this using inset knobs on the front panel. The digital LED display shows the current water temperature. This range is ideal for outdoor showers or camping where water input temperatures vary. The SHiE-27 does not list a specific temperature range in the data. Electric tankless heaters typically offer precise digital control. You likely have more granular control over the SHiE-27, but the exact limits are unknown. The EL7 guarantees a specific max temperature for safety and comfort.
Installation location
The EL7 is designed for portable and outdoor use. It includes a built-in all-weather rain cap for protection. It operates at elevations up to 2000 feet. You can connect it to a standard garden hose. This makes it perfect for construction sites, RVs, or outdoor kitchens. The SHiE-27 is an indoor unit. It requires professional electrical installation with appropriate voltage and wiring. It is not weatherproof. You must install it inside your home. The EL7 wins for flexibility. The SHiE-27 wins for permanent home integration.
Which tankless heater fits your needs
Campers needing portable outdoor hot water
You need a unit that runs on propane. The EL7 connects to a standard 20 lb tank and uses four AA batteries for ignition. It delivers 1.85 GPM at 52K BTUs. Its compact 19 x 11.8 x 11.8 inch size and built-in rain cap make it ideal for outdoor use where electricity is unavailable.
Homeowners installing fixed indoor electric systems
You require a permanent electric solution. The SHiE-27 uses 27kW of power for consistent indoor heating. It measures 18.5 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches for wall mounting. This unit provides stable performance for household sinks and showers without the need for fuel tanks or battery replacements, fitting standard residential electrical setups.
Users prioritizing safety and durability outdoors
Safety is your priority. The EL7 features a tilt switch that shuts off the unit if it angles more than 45 degrees. It also includes a flame safety feature and operates up to 2000 ft elevation. The CSA certification ensures it meets safety standards for US and Canadian use in various weather conditions.
The products compared
Eccotemp 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater
Best for: outdoor and temporary hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 1.85 GPM
- BTU
- 52K BTU
- Temperature Control
- 50-120 degrees Fahrenheit
- Certification
- CSA
- Dimensions
- 19 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches
View on Amazon: Eccotemp 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The ECCOTEMP EL7 is a portable propane water heater rated at 1.85 GPM with 52K BTUs. It runs on a standard 20 lb tank and AA batteries, requiring no electrical outlet. The unit heats water to 50–120°F and includes a digital LED display. It is built for outdoor or temporary use, featuring a rain cap and a safety tilt switch. This model suits you if you need hot water away from home wiring.
Pros
- Runs on propane with AA battery ignition
- 1.85 GPM flow rate at 52K BTUs
- Digital LED display with temperature knobs
- Built-in rain cap for outdoor use
- Safety shut-off if tilted over 45 degrees
Cons
- Lower flow rate than 27kW electric models
- Requires constant propane tank refills
- Limited to elevations under 2000 feet
Good fit if
- You need hot water at a campsite
- You are heating water for outdoor cleaning
- You lack nearby electrical outlets
Skip if
- You need high flow for multiple showers
- You want indoor permanent installation
- You live above 2000 feet elevation
Verdict: ECCOTEMP EL7 1.85 GPM Portable Heater delivers reliable portable hot water for outdoor tasks. It fits you best for camping or construction sites where gas is available.
Eccotemp SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Whole-home electric hot water supply
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 27kW
- Dimensions
- 18.5 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches
View on Amazon: Eccotemp SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This is the ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME SHiE-27, a 27kW electric tankless water heater. It measures 18.5 by 11.5 by 11.5 inches. The unit delivers high power for on-demand hot water. You get consistent temperature control without a storage tank. This model suits households needing reliable hot water for multiple fixtures. It fits well in standard utility spaces.
Pros
- 27kW electric heating element
- Compact 18.5 x 11.5 x 11.5 inch footprint
- Tankless design for endless hot water
Cons
- Requires dedicated 27kW electrical circuit
- No portable design for temporary use
- Fixed indoor installation only
Good fit if
- You need high flow rate for whole-house use
- You have existing 240V electrical capacity
- You want a permanent indoor installation
Skip if
- You need a portable unit for camping
- You lack space for a 18.5 inch tall unit
- You cannot install a dedicated high-amperage circuit
Verdict: ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Heater provides robust power for fixed home installations. It is ideal for users who prioritize high capacity over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eccotemp 1.85 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater | Eccotemp SMARTHOME 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 1.85 GPM | not stated |
| BTU | 52K BTU | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 27kW |
| Temperature Control | 50-120 degrees Fahrenheit | not stated |
| Certification | CSA | not stated |
| Dimensions | 19 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches | 18.5 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 20.7 pounds | not stated |
| Size | 1.85 GPM | not stated |
| Color | Pearl White | not stated |
| Model | EL7 | SHiE-27 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the ECCOTEMP 1.85 GPM heater replace a whole-home system?
No. The EL7 portable unit is designed for outdoor and temporary use. It delivers 1.85 gallons per minute. This flow rate is insufficient for multiple simultaneous fixtures in a house. The SMARTHOME 27kW model provides the high capacity needed for whole-home supply. Choose the portable unit only for camping or construction sites.
What are the physical dimensions of the ECCOTEMP EL7?
The EL7 measures 11.8 inches in width, 19 inches in height, and 11.8 inches in length. It weighs 20.7 pounds. These compact dimensions allow for easy transport. The unit is available in Pearl White. Its size makes it suitable for storage in a vehicle or small workspace.
Does the SMARTHOME 27kW unit include weight specifications?
The provided data does not list the weight for the SHiE-27 model. It only specifies the physical dimensions. The unit is 11.5 inches wide, 18.5 inches high, and 11.5 inches long. This fixed electric heater is intended for permanent installation. You should verify the weight with the manufacturer for mounting support requirements.
How does the flow rate differ between the two models?
The EL7 portable heater offers a flow rate of 1.85 GPM. The SMARTHOME 27kW electric model does not have a published GPM rating in the provided data. The 27kW wattage indicates high power output. This suggests it can handle higher demand than the portable unit. The portable unit is best for single-fixture tasks.
Is the ECCOTEMP EL7 suitable for indoor whole-home use?
No. The EL7 is rated for outdoor and temporary hot water needs. It runs on propane and connects to a 20 lb tank. Its 1.85 GPM output is too low for household distribution. The SMARTHOME 27kW is the correct choice for fixed home installations. It provides robust power for indoor use.
What is the model number for the portable unit?
The portable unit is the ECCOTEMP EL7. It is identified by ASIN B092P1KN8W. This model delivers 1.85 GPM. It is designed for portability. The SMARTHOME 27kW model is identified as SHiE-27. Use the EL7 for mobile applications and the SHiE-27 for stationary installations.