ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME Outdoor 6.8 GPM Liquid Propane Tankless Water Heater Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This review looks at the eccotemp smarthome outdoor 6 8 gpm liquid propane tankless water heater. It is an outdoor unit designed for on-demand hot water. The two specs that define this model are its 6.8 GPM flow rate and 140,000 BTU heating power. These numbers suggest it can handle multiple simultaneous uses. The unit runs on liquid propane fuel. It features a temperature range from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You get real-time control through a mobile app. This device suits single-family homes or light commercial spaces. It measures 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches. The compact size fits various outdoor installations.
What stands out
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Temperature control from 95 to 140°F
- Mobile app for energy tracking and scheduling
- Voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Home
- Eco Mode reduces energy consumption by up to 25%
Who it fits
Good fit for
This heater suits buyers with standard-sized homes, townhomes, or cabins who need hot water for up to three bathrooms at once. The 6.8 GPM capacity handles simultaneous showers and sink use. If you already have liquid propane supply lines, this unit fits your setup. The smart features appeal to those who want to track energy use. You can adjust temperatures remotely. The outdoor design keeps the unit safe from indoor ventilation issues. It is also good for light commercial applications.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need indoor installation. This unit is rated strictly for outdoor use. If you require a higher flow rate than 6.8 GPM, this model may not meet your demand. The temperature range tops out at 140°F. If you need higher heat output, consider a different unit. The app requires a network connection. If you prefer manual controls only, the smart features may not interest you. Also, skip this if you do not have access to liquid propane fuel.
Verdict: This tankless heater offers strong flow rates and smart controls for outdoor propane setups. It is a practical choice for homes needing reliable, simultaneous hot water.
Key specs explained for this unit
Flow Rate: 6.8 GPM
This value indicates the volume of hot water the heater delivers each minute. A 6.8 GPM rating allows you to run multiple fixtures, such as a shower and a kitchen sink, at the same time without significant pressure loss. This capacity suits larger households or properties with three or more bathrooms. When comparing tankless water heaters, higher GPM ratings generally support more simultaneous uses, making this spec critical for homes with high hot water demand.
BTU: 140,000 BTU
BTU measures the heating power of the unit. A 140,000 BTU rating provides the energy needed to raise water temperature quickly as it flows through the heat exchanger. This power level helps maintain consistent output when incoming groundwater is cold. Buyers should compare this figure against lower-output models to ensure adequate heating for their specific climate and usage patterns. Higher BTU ratings typically support the higher flow rates required by larger homes or commercial applications.
Fuel Type: Liquid Propane
This specification defines the energy source required to operate the heater. Liquid propane is a common fuel for off-grid locations or areas without natural gas lines. You must have a propane tank connection and appropriate gas supply infrastructure to use this unit. When shopping, compare fuel types to ensure compatibility with your existing home utilities. Propane units often offer consistent performance in various climates, but availability and tank refilling logistics differ from electric or natural gas alternatives.
Installation Location: Outdoor
This unit is designed for exterior mounting and exposure to weather elements. It lacks the internal insulation found in indoor models, so it must be placed in a location protected from direct freezing conditions or extreme physical damage. You need an outdoor gas line and proper ventilation clearance. When comparing installation options, indoor units often offer higher efficiency ratings due to reduced heat loss, but outdoor models save interior space and simplify venting requirements for exterior walls.
Design and Build Details
According to the listing, the Eccotemp SMARTHOME unit measures 23 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 7.25 inches in height. It weighs 44.5 pounds. The exterior finish is black. These dimensions allow you to mount the unit on an exterior wall. The compact footprint fits well in tight outdoor spaces. You do not need a large area for installation. The weight suggests a solid internal construction, though the listing does not specify the exact materials used for the heat exchanger or casing.
The control layout is managed through a mobile app rather than physical buttons on the device. You can adjust the temperature from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit using your phone. The app also displays energy consumption and allows you to set schedules. This digital approach keeps the outdoor unit clean and weather-resistant. There are no exposed dials or switches to degrade from rain or sun. You can also set the app to show temperatures in Celsius or Fahrenheit, depending on your preference.
Voice control is available through Amazon Alexa and Google Home. You can use voice commands to change the water temperature or turn the unit off. This feature adds convenience if you are already using smart home devices. The unit is rated for outdoor use only. You must install it in a location protected from direct exposure to harsh weather elements, as specified by the manufacturer. The black finish helps it blend with most outdoor siding or fencing.
Setup And Daily Use Guide
Setup requires mounting the unit outdoors, as specified in the listing. You must connect it to a liquid propane fuel source. The unit measures 23 by 14 by 7.25 inches and weighs 44.5 pounds, so you need a sturdy wall mount that can support this weight. Electrical connections are needed for the smart features. You will use the Eccotemp mobile app to configure the system. The app allows you to set the temperature between 95 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also adjust the unit to display temperatures in Celsius or Fahrenheit and choose between USD or CAD for energy tracking. The app monitors energy consumption and detects product or network errors. You can enable Eco Mode to reduce energy usage by up to 25 percent. This mode is useful if your incoming water temperature is already high. You can set schedules for when the heater operates. Voice control is available through Amazon Alexa or Google Home. You can use voice commands to adjust the temperature or turn the unit off. For example, you can say "Alexa, set my water heater to 110 degrees." The unit is rated for three to four simultaneous applications. This means you can run hot water in multiple bathrooms or kitchens at once. The 140,000 BTU output supports this flow rate. Daily use involves setting your preferred temperature in the app. The unit heats water on demand. You do not need to wait for a tank to refill. The smart features let you track usage and adjust settings remotely. This provides control over your hot water supply without physical interaction with the unit.
Before You Buy This Unit
You need to verify your propane supply lines match the inlet size before installation. The listing specifies outdoor placement only, so ensure the mounting area is protected from direct weather exposure. You must also confirm your home’s electrical system can support the smart features, as the unit requires power for the app and voice control connectivity. Check that your gas pressure aligns with the 140,000 BTU requirement to maintain the stated 6.8 GPM flow rate. Regular maintenance includes descaling the heat exchanger to prevent mineral buildup, which is critical for longevity in areas with hard water. This model sits among 1 options by offering integrated smart controls, unlike many basic tankless heaters that lack app connectivity. You should compare its temperature range and energy efficiency against other units to ensure it meets your specific household demand. Proper ventilation is essential for safe operation of this propane-fueled device.
Check before you buy
- Confirm outdoor mounting space is weather-protected and ventilated.
- Verify propane gas pressure matches the 140,000 BTU input.
- Ensure electrical outlet is available for smart app features.
- Check inlet pipe size compatibility with your plumbing setup.
The product at a glance
Eccotemp SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater
Best for: outdoor propane homes with high demand
- Fuel Type
- Liquid Propane
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- BTU
- 140,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Temperature Control
- 95-140°F
- Dimensions
- 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches
View on Amazon: Eccotemp SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater Affiliate link
This outdoor unit delivers 6.8 GPM at 140,000 BTU for up to three bathrooms. It heats propane with a 35-degree rise at 140°F. The black SH22-LP model weighs 44.5 pounds and measures 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches. You control it via a mobile app or voice commands. It suits single-family homes, townhomes, or light commercial use.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Smart app control with Eco Mode
- Alexa and Google Home compatible
- Outdoor rated for propane
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- Propane fuel type requires tank
- No indoor mounting option
Good fit if
- You need hot water for three bathrooms
- You want smart scheduling features
- You have an outdoor installation space
Skip if
- You need indoor installation
- You use natural gas instead of propane
- You require more than 6.8 GPM
Verdict: ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM Propane Heater fits households needing simultaneous hot water for multiple bathrooms with smart control. It is a solid choice for outdoor propane setups.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eccotemp SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM Outdoor Propane Water Heater |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Liquid Propane |
| Flow Rate | 6.8 GPM |
| BTU | 140,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Outdoor |
| Temperature Control | 95-140°F |
| Dimensions | 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches |
| Weight | 44.5 pounds |
| Color | Black |
| Model | SH22-LP |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best use case for this tankless water heater?
This unit is best for outdoor propane homes with high hot water demand. It supports simultaneous use across multiple bathrooms. The 6.8 GPM flow rate ensures consistent supply during peak usage times. It fits well in households needing reliable, on-demand heating without storage tanks.
How big is the ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME unit?
The heater measures 23 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 7.25 inches in height. It weighs 44.5 pounds. These compact dimensions allow for flexible mounting options on exterior walls. The black finish helps it blend into most outdoor environments while maintaining a sturdy profile.
Does this model require indoor installation?
No, this model is designed specifically for outdoor installation. The listing specifies outdoor placement only. You must ensure the mounting area is protected from direct weather exposure to maintain performance. Indoor installation is not recommended or supported for this specific propane unit.
What fuel type does this heater use?
This water heater runs on liquid propane. You must connect it to a compatible propane fuel source. The unit is not designed for natural gas or other fuel types. Ensure your existing propane supply lines match the inlet size before attempting any installation or connection.
Can I run multiple showers at once with this heater?
Yes, the 6.8 GPM flow rate allows for simultaneous use. You can run a shower and a kitchen sink at the same time. This capacity supports multiple bathrooms in high-demand households. The 140,000 BTU heating power helps maintain temperature stability during concurrent fixture usage.
What is the model number for this ECCOTEMP unit?
The model number is SH22-LP. This identifier helps you find replacement parts or verify compatibility with your existing setup. The SH22-LP designation confirms it is the propane version of the SMARTHOME series. Use this number when contacting support or checking technical manuals.