ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME Indoor 6.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater vs ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME Indoor 6.8 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
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You are comparing the eccotemp smarthome indoor 6 8 gpm natural gas tankless water heater vs its propane counterpart. Both units share the same 6.8 GPM flow rate, 140,000 BTU output, and smart app controls. They fit the same indoor space and weigh 39 pounds. The main difference is the fuel source. One uses natural gas, while the other runs on liquid propane. Your choice depends on your home's existing energy infrastructure.
Key differences
| Aspect | Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater | Eccotemp Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Liquid Propane |
| Model Number | SH22i-NG | SH22i-LP |
| Installation Location | Indoor | Indoor |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater if
- You have a natural gas line connected to your home
- You prefer a permanent fuel source without tank refills
- You want the SH22i-NG model for your indoor setup
Choose Eccotemp Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater if
- You rely on liquid propane for heating
- You need a unit compatible with propane tanks
- You want the SH22i-LP model for your indoor setup
Verdict: Choose the natural gas model if your home is already plumbed for natural gas. Pick the liquid propane version if you use propane tanks or lack a natural gas line. Both offer identical performance and smart features for your indoor installation.
Natural Gas vs Propane Specs
Fuel type
The primary difference between these two ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME units is the fuel source. The ECCOTEMP 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater is designed for natural gas lines, while the ECCOTEMP Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater runs on liquid propane. This choice dictates your connection requirements. If your home has existing natural gas infrastructure, the natural gas model is the direct fit. If you rely on propane tanks, you must select the propane version. Both models share the same 140,000 BTU output and 6.8 GPM flow rate, so performance remains identical regardless of the fuel source you choose.
Model designation
Each unit carries a specific model number to identify its fuel configuration. The natural gas variant is designated as model SH22i-NG. The propane variant is labeled as model SH22i-LP. These codes help you verify compatibility with your existing gas supply during installation. The rest of the product line remains consistent. Both units feature the same black finish and identical dimensions. You should check your gas line type before purchasing. Selecting the wrong model will result in an incompatible installation. The model number is the key identifier for this critical difference.
Voltage requirements
The propane model explicitly lists a voltage specification of 110/120V in its key specs. The natural gas model does not list voltage in its provided data. Both units require electricity for the smart app connectivity, error detection, and digital controls. You will need a standard electrical outlet near the installation site for either heater. The propane model’s explicit listing provides clarity on your electrical needs. You should confirm your local voltage matches the 110/120V requirement for the propane unit. For the natural gas unit, you should consult the manual for exact voltage details if not listed elsewhere.
Smart app features
Both water heaters offer identical smart capabilities through the ECCOTEMP mobile app. You can track energy consumption, adjust temperatures between 95 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and set schedules on either model. Both support Eco Mode to reduce energy consumption by up to 25 percent. They also both connect with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. The app displays currency options and dual temperature modes for both units. You get the same remote control experience regardless of the fuel type. The smart functionality does not change between the natural gas and propane versions.
Physical dimensions
The two units are physically identical in size and weight. Both the natural gas and propane models measure 7.25 by 14 by 23 inches. They both weigh 39 pounds. This consistency means you can swap one for the other without modifying your installation space or mounting bracket. The footprint remains the same for indoor placement. You do not need to adjust your venting or piping layout significantly, aside from the fuel connection itself. The identical dimensions simplify the decision-making process, allowing you to focus solely on your available fuel source rather than spatial constraints.
Choose based on your gas line type
Home with existing natural gas infrastructure
This unit connects directly to your natural gas lines. It delivers 6.8 GPM at 140,000 BTU, supporting up to three bathrooms. The smart app lets you adjust temperatures between 95 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also set schedules and monitor energy use via voice commands with Alexa or Google Home.
Property with propane tanks or lines
This model is built for liquid propane fuel. It matches the natural gas version with 6.8 GPM flow and 140,000 BTU output. It fits the same indoor space and weighs 39 pounds. You get identical smart controls, including the mobile app for scheduling and Eco Mode to reduce consumption by up to 25%.
User wanting identical smart features
Both heaters offer the same SH22 series smart capabilities. You can track energy consumption and detect errors through the app. The interface supports USD or CAD currency displays and Fahrenheit or Celsius readings. Voice control works seamlessly for both models, allowing you to adjust settings or enable sleep mode without touching the unit.
The products compared
Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: Indoor natural gas homes needing smart control
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- BTU
- 140,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Temperature Control
- 95-140°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
This ECCOTEMP SH22i-NG unit delivers 6.8 GPM at 140,000 BTU for indoor natural gas installation. It supports up to 3 simultaneous applications with a 95-140°F range. The smart app allows remote control, scheduling, and Eco Mode to cut energy use by 25%. It connects with Alexa and Google Home for voice commands. This model suits single-family homes, townhomes, and light commercial spaces needing reliable hot water.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Smart app control with Eco Mode
- Voice assistant compatibility
- Indoor natural gas operation
Cons
- Indoor installation only
- Requires natural gas supply
- No outdoor weatherproofing
Good fit if
- You need 6.8 GPM for multiple bathrooms
- You want smart energy monitoring
- You have indoor natural gas access
Skip if
- You require outdoor installation
- You use propane fuel
- You need more than 6.8 GPM
Verdict: ECCOTEMP SH22i-NG 6.8 GPM Natural Gas fits homes needing smart control and high flow for multiple bathrooms. It works best for indoor natural gas setups where app management is a priority.
Eccotemp Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater
Best for: Indoor propane homes with smart needs
- Fuel Type
- Liquid Propane
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- BTU
- 140,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Voltage
- 110/120V
- Temperature Control
- 95-140°F
View on Amazon: Eccotemp Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This ECCOTEMP unit delivers 6.8 GPM of hot water using liquid propane fuel. It operates at 140,000 BTU with a temperature range of 95-140°F. The device includes smart app control for scheduling and energy monitoring. It fits indoor installations in single-family homes or light commercial spaces. You get precise flow control and voice assistant compatibility for daily use.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Smart app for energy tracking and scheduling
- Alexa and Google Home voice control
- 95-140°F adjustable temperature range
Cons
- Requires liquid propane fuel source
- Indoor installation only
- 110/120V electrical requirement
Good fit if
- You have a liquid propane supply
- You need smart home integration
- You require indoor installation
Skip if
- You use natural gas
- You need outdoor installation
- You want higher flow rates
Verdict: ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM LP suits users with propane access who want smart controls. It provides reliable indoor hot water for standard homes.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Indoor Natural Gas Water Heater | Eccotemp Indoor 6.8 GPM Propane Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Liquid Propane |
| Flow Rate | 6.8 GPM | 6.8 GPM |
| BTU | 140,000 BTU | 140,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Indoor | Indoor |
| Voltage | not stated | 110/120V |
| Temperature Control | 95-140°F | 95-140°F |
| Certification | CSA | not stated |
| Dimensions | 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches | 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches |
| Weight | 39 pounds | 39 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | SH22i-NG | SH22i-LP |
Frequently asked questions
Are these two heaters exactly the same size?
Yes. Both the natural gas and propane models share identical physical dimensions. Each unit measures 23 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 7.25 inches in height. They also weigh the same at 39 pounds. This consistency means you can swap one for the other without changing your installation space or mounting hardware.
Do I need different venting for natural gas versus propane?
You likely need different venting components. Natural gas and propane burn at different efficiencies and produce different exhaust compositions. While the heater bodies are identical, the vent pipe diameter and material requirements often vary by fuel type. Always check the specific installation manual for your chosen model to ensure proper exhaust clearance and safety compliance.
Can I control both models with the same smartphone app?
Yes. Both units belong to the ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME line, meaning they use the same companion application. You can monitor temperature, adjust settings, and view status from your phone regardless of whether you choose the natural gas or propane version. The smart features are tied to the model series, not the fuel source.
Will the propane heater fit in my existing natural gas closet?
It will fit physically. The propane model shares the exact same footprint and weight as the natural gas unit. However, you must ensure your space is approved for propane storage and usage. Propane requires specific safety clearances and ventilation standards that differ from natural gas. Verify local codes before swapping fuel types in a confined indoor area.
Is the water flow rate different between the two fuels?
No. Both models are rated for 6.8 gallons per minute. The internal heat exchanger and flow sensors are identical across the SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM series. You will get the same volume of hot water from either unit, assuming your incoming water pressure and temperature are consistent. The fuel type does not alter the flow capacity.
Do I need a different gas line connection for propane?
Yes. Propane typically requires a different connector and regulator setup than natural gas. The inlet valve and hose assembly are often specific to the fuel type. You cannot simply swap the gas line without ensuring the fittings match the propane supply. Consult the installation guide for the correct hose and adapter specifications for your chosen model.