ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME Outdoor 6.8 GPM Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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The eccotemp smarthome outdoor 6 8 gpm natural gas tankless water heater delivers on-demand hot water for standard homes. It outputs 6.8 gallons per minute at 140,000 BTU. This unit is designed for outdoor installation only. You get a temperature range from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit supports three to four simultaneous applications. This makes it suitable for single-family homes or townhomes. It connects to Wi-Fi for remote control. The black unit weighs 39 pounds. It measures 23 by 14 by 7.25 inches. This spec-focused overview explains how these numbers affect your daily hot water supply.
What stands out
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Wi-Fi connectivity with mobile app control
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
- Outdoor installation only
- Eco Mode reduces energy consumption by up to 25%
Who it fits
Good fit for
This heater suits homeowners with natural gas lines who need reliable hot water for multiple bathrooms. The 6.8 GPM output handles simultaneous use in standard-sized homes. You will appreciate the smart features if you want to track energy use or adjust temperatures remotely. The outdoor design fits homes with exterior wall space. The 140,000 BTU input ensures quick recovery. It is ideal for single-family homes, condos, or light commercial spaces requiring consistent hot water.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need an indoor unit, as this model is rated for outdoor installation only. It requires natural gas, so it will not work with propane or electricity. If you live in a region with very cold incoming water, the 35-degree temperature rise may not meet your needs for high-flow demands. The lack of indoor venting options limits placement flexibility. Check your local codes before purchasing for outdoor units.
Verdict: The ECCOTEMP SH22-NG offers strong flow rates and smart controls for outdoor natural gas setups. It fits well in homes needing reliable, connected hot water management.
Key specs explained
Flow Rate: 6.8 GPM
This unit delivers 6.8 gallons of hot water per minute. This flow rate supports three to four simultaneous uses, such as showers and sinks. It suits standard single-family homes, townhomes, or light commercial spaces. If you need to run multiple fixtures at once, this capacity helps prevent temperature drops. Compare this against lower GPM models if your household has higher water demand.
BTU: 140,000 BTU
The heating power is 140,000 British Thermal Units per hour. This energy input allows the unit to raise water temperature by 35 degrees Fahrenheit at peak flow. Higher BTU ratings generally support higher flow rates. This level is suitable for most residential applications. Check your local gas supply pressure to ensure it matches the unit's requirements for optimal performance.
Temperature Control: 95-140°F
You can set the output water temperature between 95 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This range allows you to adjust for seasonal changes or specific appliance needs. Lower settings can save energy, while higher settings ensure comfort in colder months. The digital interface lets you fine-tune the heat. This precision helps you avoid scalding or lukewarm water.
Installation Location: Outdoor
This model is designed exclusively for outdoor mounting. It is built to withstand environmental conditions like rain and sun. You cannot install it inside a garage or basement. Ensure you have a covered, well-ventilated space nearby. Outdoor units often have different casing materials than indoor models. Verify your local building codes regarding outdoor gas appliance placement before purchasing.
Fuel Type: Natural Gas
This heater runs on natural gas, not propane. It connects to your home's existing gas line. You will need a dedicated gas supply line sized correctly for 140,000 BTU usage. If your home uses propane, this specific model is not compatible unless converted by a professional. Natural gas is typically more cost-effective and convenient for permanent installations.
Design and build details
The unit measures 7.25 by 14 by 23 inches and weighs 39 pounds. This compact footprint allows for flexible placement in tight outdoor spaces. The listing notes a black finish, which helps the device blend into exterior walls or utility areas without drawing attention. You should verify that your mounting surface can support the weight before installation.
Controls are located on the front panel. The Smart Power Button allows you to turn the heater on or off with a simple touch. It also detects error codes and manages sleep mode to prevent unnecessary energy use. This layout keeps essential functions accessible without requiring you to open the unit. The display shows real-time status, helping you monitor operation quickly.
According to the listing, the materials are selected for superior efficiency and reliability. The design is built for outdoor installation only, so it requires protection from direct weather exposure if not specified otherwise. The compact size and straightforward control layout make it suitable for standard homes or light commercial use. You can adjust settings via the mobile app or voice commands, but the physical button remains the primary manual interface. This combination of durable construction and accessible controls ensures long-term service in outdoor environments.
Setup and everyday use guide
This unit is rated for outdoor installation only. You must place it in a location that meets local code requirements for exterior gas appliances. The compact dimensions of 7.25 by 14 by 23 inches allow for flexible mounting on exterior walls. Connect the natural gas line and electrical power to activate the Smart Power Button. This button turns the model on or off, detects error codes, and connects to wireless networks. You can also enable sleep mode to prevent unnecessary energy use.
Daily operation relies on the Eccotemp mobile app or voice commands. The app lets you track energy consumption, adjust temperatures, and set schedules. You can detect product and network errors directly from your phone. The interface displays currency in USD or CAD, and temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius. You can also choose your preferred gas measurement unit for personalized usage tracking. For those who prefer voice control, the unit connects with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. You can issue simple commands to change the water temperature or switch the device off.
The temperature range spans from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can adjust these settings to match your incoming water temperature. This helps lower utility usage by preventing overheating. The unit supports up to three to four simultaneous applications. This capacity suits standard single-family homes, townhomes, condos, or light commercial spaces. Regular maintenance involves using the EZ-Flush Descaling Kit to ensure maximum efficiency. This step helps the unit run reliably throughout the year.
Before you buy this unit
This heater requires a dedicated gas line and proper outdoor venting. Ensure your existing gas supply can handle 140,000 BTU output. You must verify local codes allow outdoor installation in your specific climate. The unit connects to Wi-Fi, so you need a stable 2.4 GHz network for the ECCOTEMP app. Check if your smart home ecosystem uses Alexa or Google Home for voice control. Regular maintenance is essential. You should use the EZ-Flush Descaling Kit annually to prevent mineral buildup. This keeps the heat exchanger clean and maintains efficiency. Compare this model against other outdoor natural gas units. Its 6.8 GPM flow rate suits homes with up to three bathrooms. If you have higher demand, consider a larger unit. If you only need one bathroom, a smaller model may suffice. This unit fits best for standard single-family homes or townhomes. It is not suitable for indoor use. Double-check your electrical outlet availability for the smart features. The unit needs power for the control board and Wi-Fi module.
Check before you buy
- Verify gas line capacity for 140,000 BTU.
- Confirm outdoor installation is code-compliant.
- Ensure 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi is available.
- Check if Alexa or Google Home is used.
- Plan annual descaling with EZ-Flush Kit.
The product at a glance
Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater
Best for: outdoor multi-bathroom homes with gas
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- 6.8 GPM
- BTU
- 140,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Temperature Control
- 95-140°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater Affiliate link
This outdoor natural gas unit delivers 6.8 GPM at 140,000 BTU. It supports 3-4 simultaneous applications with a 95-140°F range. Smart features include app control, scheduling, and voice assistant compatibility. Its compact 7.25 x 14 x 23-inch build fits tight spaces. It suits single-family homes, condos, or light commercial use needing reliable on-demand hot water.
Pros
- 6.8 GPM flow rate at 140,000 BTU
- Smart app control for scheduling and Eco Mode
- Alexa and Google Home voice command support
- Outdoor rated with CSA certification
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- No indoor use capability
- Requires natural gas connection
Good fit if
- You need hot water for multiple bathrooms
- You want app-based temperature control
- You have an outdoor gas line
Skip if
- You need indoor installation
- You use propane fuel
- You prefer manual controls only
Verdict: ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME 6.8 GPM Outdoor fits homes needing high flow and smart features. It suits users with outdoor gas access who want app control for energy savings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eccotemp 6.8 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Water Heater |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 6.8 GPM |
| BTU | 140,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Outdoor |
| Temperature Control | 95-140°F |
| Certification | CSA |
| Dimensions | 7.25 x 14 x 23 inches |
| Weight | 39 pounds |
| Color | Black |
| Model | SH22-NG |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME unit indoors?
No, this model is designed for outdoor installation only. The specifications list the installation location as outdoor. Placing it inside can create safety hazards and void compliance with local building codes. You must mount it on an exterior wall where it is exposed to the elements as intended by the manufacturer.
What are the physical dimensions of this water heater?
The unit measures 23 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 7.25 inches in height. It weighs 39 pounds. This compact footprint allows for flexible placement in tight outdoor spaces. You can mount it securely on a wall without requiring a large footprint or extensive structural support.
Does this heater work with propane?
No, this specific model uses natural gas as its fuel type. The specifications clearly state the fuel type is natural gas. You cannot convert it to propane without manufacturer approval or specific kits. Ensure you have a natural gas line available before purchasing or installing this unit.
What is the temperature range for hot water output?
The unit provides a temperature range from 95 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows you to adjust the water heat based on seasonal inlet water temperatures. You can set it lower in summer to save energy or higher in winter to ensure adequate hot water flow for multiple fixtures.
Is smart home control included with this model?
Yes, this model connects to Wi-Fi for app control. You can monitor and adjust settings remotely through the ECCOTEMP SMARTHOME app. This feature helps you manage energy usage by turning the unit off when not needed. It adds convenience for users who want to control their water heating from their phone.
How many bathrooms can this heater support?
The 6.8 GPM flow rate supports three to four simultaneous uses. This capacity is suitable for standard single-family homes or townhomes. You can run multiple showers and sinks at once without significant pressure drops. It is ideal for outdoor multi-bathroom homes that require high flow rates.