Eemax EX160TC 16Kw 277V S2 Electric Tankless Water Heater Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for eemax ex160tc 16kw 277v s2 electric tankless water heater alternatives because this unit targets a specific electrical niche. It delivers 16 kW of power at 277V in a compact 5 x 11 x 11 inch footprint. The 99% efficiency and thermostatic control make it reliable for dedicated circuits. However, you might need different voltage, higher capacity, or a different form factor. Some buyers prefer 240V systems or whole-house units with greater flow rates. Others need 12V options for RVs or under-sink mini tanks for small spaces.
We selected 6 similar picks because their specifications overlap with the original in key areas like fuel type and electric heating. The list includes higher wattage models like the 36 kW Stiebel Eltron for robust infrastructure. It also features lower voltage options like the 12V Whale for marine use. You will find whole-house solutions like the 18 kW Rheem for steady flow. Each alternative matches the original’s electric efficiency but offers distinct specs for your specific wiring and space constraints. This guide helps you compare these technical differences to find the right fit.
Our top pick: Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater.
How these units differ from the Eemax
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus offers 28.8 kW of power, nearly double the 16 kW output of the Eemax EX160TC. It operates on standard 240V circuits rather than the specialized 277V required by the Eemax. This higher wattage supports whole-house hot water needs where flow rate matters more than compact size. The unit is larger, measuring 16.6 x 14.5 x 4.63 inches and weighing 19 pounds. You gain significant heating capacity but lose the ultra-compact footprint. Choose this if your electrical panel supports 240V and you need robust hot water volume for multiple fixtures simultaneously.
Whale 3-Gallon 12V Electric Water Heater
The Whale S360EW is a 3-gallon mini tank designed for 12V DC environments like RVs or boats. It differs fundamentally from the Eemax by using stored hot water rather than instant heating. It operates on low-voltage power, making it suitable for off-grid or mobile applications where 277V is unavailable. The unit measures 13.4 inches on each side. You sacrifice continuous on-demand flow for reliable hot water in low-power settings. Pick this alternative if you are installing hot water in a vehicle or marine environment where standard household voltage is not an option.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend Electric
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend delivers 36 kW of power, more than double the Eemax EX160TC output. It runs on standard electrical infrastructure, avoiding the need for 277V wiring. This high wattage suits homes with robust electrical systems needing substantial hot water volume. The unit lacks the specific compact dimensions of the Eemax, which measures 5 x 11 x 11 inches. You gain significant heating capacity and continuous flow for whole-house use. Choose this model if you need maximum hot water output and have the electrical capacity to support a 36 kW unit.
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
The Thermomate ES is a 6.5-gallon under-sink mini tank operating on 120V power. It differs from the Eemax by using a storage tank rather than instant heating technology. It fits small kitchens or bathrooms where only 120V power is available. The unit measures 14.6 x 21.2 x 17.7 inches and weighs 26.5 pounds. You gain steady hot water for hand washing but cannot support high-demand tasks like showers. Select this alternative if you need localized hot water in a space with limited power options and do not require continuous flow.
Suburban 6-Gallon Gas and Electric RV Water Heater
The Suburban SW6DE is a 6-gallon dual-fuel RV water heater. It differs from the Eemax by offering gas and electric heating options for mobile use. It stores 4.0 gallons of hot water in a steel tank. The unit measures 12.7 inches on each side and weighs 32.9 pounds. You gain dual-fuel flexibility and durability for RV travel but lose the continuous flow of a tankless system. Pick this model if you are outfitting an RV and need reliable hot water with the option to switch between power sources.
Rheem 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTEX-18 provides 18 kW of power, slightly higher than the Eemax EX160TC. It operates on standard 240V circuits, making installation easier than the 277V Eemax. The unit measures 14.5 x 3.5 x 18.5 inches and weighs 14.8 pounds. It offers precise temperature control and a slim profile for whole-house use. You gain compatibility with standard residential electrical panels and slightly more power. Choose this alternative if you need whole-house hot water but lack the specialized 277V wiring required by the Eemax.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater
Best for: 277V circuits needing compact efficiency
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 16Kw
- Voltage
- 277V
- Temperature Control
- Thermostatic control
- Dimensions
- 5 x 11 x 11 inches
- Weight
- 8 pounds
View on Amazon: Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The Eemax EX160TC is a compact electric tankless water heater designed for 277V circuits. It delivers 16kW of heating power with 99% energy efficiency. The unit measures 5 by 11 by 11 inches and weighs 8 pounds. Thermostatic control helps maintain precise outlet temperatures. Bottom water connections simplify installation. This model suits commercial or specific residential applications requiring 277V power.
Pros
- 99% energy efficiency rating
- Compact 5 x 11 x 11 inch footprint
- Thermostatic control for precise temperature
- Bottom 3/4 inch NPT connections
Cons
- Requires 277V electrical circuit
- 16kW output lower than 36kW competitors
- No digital display or remote control
Good fit if
- You have a 277V electrical supply
- You need a compact unit for tight spaces
- You want high energy efficiency
Skip if
- You only have 240V outlets
- You need high flow for multiple simultaneous fixtures
- You prefer digital temperature displays
Verdict: Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater fits users with 277V wiring who prioritize compact size and efficiency over raw heating capacity.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: High-demand whole-house hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 28.8 kW
- Voltage
- 208 V, 240 V
- Dimensions
- 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in
- Use
- Whole House
- Weight
- 19 pounds
View on Amazon: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless Affiliate link
This electric tankless water heater delivers 28.8 kW of power at 240 volts. It features two temperature memory presets for easy adjustment. The unit measures 14.5 by 16.6 by 4.63 inches and weighs 19 pounds. It requires hard-wired 240 or 208-volt service with three 40-amp breakers. This model suits homes needing high flow rates for multiple fixtures.
Pros
- High 28.8 kW output at 240 volts
- Two temperature memory presets
- Compact dimensions of 4.63 inches deep
- No venting required
Cons
- Requires three separate 40-amp breakers
- Needs 8-gauge copper wiring
- Requires 200-amp total electrical service
Good fit if
- You have a 200-amp electrical panel
- You need high capacity for whole-house use
- You want preset temperature memory
Skip if
- You only have a 100-amp electrical service
- You cannot install three 40-amp breakers
- You prefer plug-in convenience over hard-wiring
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW fits homes with robust electrical infrastructure needing high hot water output. It is ideal for whole-house applications where flow rate matters more than compact footprint.
Whale 3-Gallon 12V Electric Water Heater
Best for: RV and boat 12V hot water needs
- Wattage
- 300 W
- Capacity
- 3 Gallon
- Voltage
- 12 V DC
- Dimensions
- 13-1/4 x 13-1/2 x 14-1/2 inches
- Fuel Type
- Electric
View on Amazon: Whale 3-Gallon 12V Electric Water Heater Affiliate link
This Whale S360EW is a 3-gallon electric mini tank water heater designed for 12 V DC systems. It uses a 300 W heating element to maintain hot water for up to 10 hours. The compact epoxy-coated aluminum case fits in tight spaces like galleys or under seating. It includes an integrated temperature and pressure relief valve for safety. This unit suits RVs, boats, or off-grid setups where low voltage power is available.
Pros
- Runs on 12 V DC power without needing an inverter or generator
- 3-gallon capacity maintains hot water for up to 10 hours
- Compact dimensions fit under seating or in galleys
- Includes integrated temperature and pressure relief valve
Cons
- Low 300 W wattage limits flow rate for high-demand use
- Small 3-gallon capacity may run out during extended showers
- Requires 12 V DC electrical system, not standard household wiring
Good fit if
- You need hot water in an RV or boat with 12 V power
- You want to warm wetsuits or use deck showers
- You have limited space for installation under seating or in a galley
Skip if
- You need hot water for multiple simultaneous fixtures
- You only have standard 120 V or 240 V household outlets
- You require high flow rates for long showers
Verdict: Whale S360EW 12V 3-Gallon Mini Tank is a specialized solution for low-voltage environments. It fits buyers who need compact, efficient hot water in RVs or boats where 12 V DC is standard.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend Electric
Best for: High-demand whole-house electric heating
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 36 kW
- Voltage
- 240V
- Temperature Control
- 68° to 140°F
View on Amazon: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend Electric Affiliate link
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend is a 36 kW electric tankless water heater operating on 240V. It delivers continuous hot water with an output range of 68°F to 140°F. The unit features a white, compact design that requires no venting. You get silent operation and auto-modulation for energy savings. This model is ideal for whole-house applications where high power output is necessary.
Pros
- 36 kW power output for high demand
- 240V electric operation
- No venting required
- Silent electronic operation
- Lead-free construction
Cons
- Requires a minimum 300 A electric service
- Limited to electric fuel type
- Temperature range caps at 140°F
Good fit if
- You have a 300 A electrical service available
- You need high-flow hot water for multiple fixtures
- You prefer a vent-free installation
Skip if
- You only have a standard 100 A or 200 A electrical panel
- You need gas fuel for higher efficiency in your climate
- You require a temperature setting above 140°F
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend 36kW suits homes with robust electrical infrastructure needing substantial hot water volume. It delivers reliable continuous flow without the complexity of venting.
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
Best for: Under sink hot water
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 1.44 kW
- Capacity
- 6.5 Gallons
- Voltage
- 120V
- Temperature Control
- 50°F to 149°F
- Certification
- UL Listed
View on Amazon: Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank Affiliate link
This ThermoMate mini tank delivers 6.5 gallons of hot water at 120 volts. It plugs into standard outlets and fits under sinks. The glass-lined tank retains heat well. You get adjustable settings from 50°F to 149°F. It weighs 26.5 pounds. This unit suits small spaces where instant hot water matters.
Pros
- 6.5-gallon capacity for point-of-use needs
- Plugs into standard 120V outlets
- Glass-lined tank for durability
- Adjustable thermostat range
Cons
- Low 1.44 kW wattage limits flow rate
- Heavier than standard tankless units
- Requires 12-amp dedicated circuit
Good fit if
- You need hot water under a sink
- You have only 120V outlets available
- You want instant hot water for one fixture
Skip if
- You need high flow for showers
- You only have 240V circuits
- You want a compact tankless design
Verdict: ThermoMate 6.5 Gal 120V Mini Tank fits small kitchens or bathrooms where 120V power is all you have. It provides steady hot water for hand washing but cannot support high-demand tasks.
Suburban 6-Gallon Gas and Electric RV Water Heater
Best for: RV hot water with dual fuel flexibility
- Fuel Type
- Electric, Gas
- BTU
- 12,000 BTU/h
- Wattage
- 1,440 W
- Capacity
- 6 Gallon
- Dimensions
- 12.69 x 12.69 x 19.19 in
- Use
- RV
View on Amazon: Suburban 6-Gallon Gas and Electric RV Water Heater Affiliate link
This Suburban unit combines gas and electric heating for RV use. It features a 6-gallon tank with a 12,000 BTU gas burner and a 1,440-watt electric element. The porcelain-lined steel tank includes a replaceable anode rod for corrosion protection. Dimensions are 12.7 x 12.7 x 19.19 inches. It offers versatile power options for campsite or generator use.
Pros
- Dual fuel capability with 12,000 BTU gas and 1,440W electric elements
- Porcelain-lined steel tank with replaceable anode rod for durability
- Compact 6-gallon capacity fits standard RV spaces
Cons
- Electric recovery rate is low at 6.1 gallons per hour
- Limited 2-year limited warranty on parts
- Smaller 6-gallon capacity compared to residential units
Good fit if
- You need a reliable hot water source for an RV
- You want the flexibility to use gas or electric power
- You prefer a tank-style heater for consistent flow
Skip if
- You require high-volume hot water for multiple bathrooms
- You need a unit with a longer warranty period
- You are installing in a permanent residential home
Verdict: Suburban SW6DE 6-Gallon RV Water Heater provides essential hot water for RV travelers who value dual-fuel flexibility and durable tank construction. It suits those with moderate hot water needs who prioritize reliability over high recovery rates.
Rheem 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater
Best for: whole-house electric hot water
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Flow Rate
- 4.4 GPM
- Wattage
- 18 kW
- Voltage
- 240 V
- Temperature Control
- ±1°F
- Dimensions
- 3.5 x 14.5 x 18.5 inches
View on Amazon: Rheem 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rheem RTEX-18 is an 18 kW electric tankless water heater designed for whole-house use. It delivers up to 4.4 GPM of hot water at 240V. The unit features external digital thermostatic control with ±1°F accuracy and a LED display. Its slim 3.5-inch height and 14.8-pound weight allow for compact wall mounting. This model suits homes needing reliable, on-demand heating with precise temperature management.
Pros
- 18 kW output supports whole-house demand
- Up to 4.4 GPM flow rate
- ±1°F temperature control accuracy
- Slim 3.5-inch depth for compact installation
Cons
- Requires 240V electrical circuit
- No built-in remote control
- Heating elements are copper immersion type
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for wall mounting
- You require precise temperature stability
- You have a 240V electrical supply
Skip if
- You only have 120V outlets available
- You need a point-of-use heater under 10 kW
- You prefer gas fuel type
Verdict: Rheem RTEX-18 18kW Whole House offers precise temperature control and a slim profile for homes with 240V power. It fits households needing steady hot water flow without bulky storage tanks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | Whale 3-Gallon 12V Electric Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend Electric | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank | Suburban 6-Gallon Gas and Electric RV Water Heater | Rheem 18kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | not specified | Electric | Electric | Electric, Gas | Electric |
| Flow Rate | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 4.4 GPM |
| BTU | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 12,000 BTU/h | not specified |
| Wattage | 16Kw | 28.8 kW | 300 W | 36 kW | 1.44 kW | 1,440 W | 18 kW |
| Capacity | not specified | not specified | 3 Gallon | not specified | 6.5 Gallons | 6 Gallon | not specified |
| Voltage | 277V | 208 V, 240 V | 12 V DC | 240V | 120V | not specified | 240 V |
| Temperature Control | Thermostatic control | not specified | not specified | 68° to 140°F | 50°F to 149°F | not specified | ±1°F |
| Certification | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | UL Listed | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 5 x 11 x 11 inches | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in | 13-1/4 x 13-1/2 x 14-1/2 inches | not specified | 17.7"H x 17.7"W x 14.6"D | 12.69 x 12.69 x 19.19 in | 3.5 x 14.5 x 18.5 inches |
| Use | not specified | Whole House | not specified | not specified | Under Sink | RV | Whole House |
| Weight | 8 pounds | 19 pounds | not specified | not specified | 26.5 pounds | 32.9 pounds | 14.8 pounds |
| Size | 5 x 11 x 11" | 29 (kW) | One Size | not specified | 6.5 Gallon | 6 Gallon | Small |
| Color | Gray | White | White Epoxy | White | white,blue | Steel | Gray |
| Model | EX160TC | 239223 | S360EW | Tempra 36 Trend | ES700 | 5239A | RTEX-18 |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative is best for 277V circuits?
The Eemax 16kW 277V Tankless Water Heater remains the top choice for this specific voltage. It fits users who need compact efficiency without sacrificing power. Its 5 x 11 x 11 inch size allows for easy installation in tight spaces. This unit is designed specifically for 277V wiring, ensuring optimal performance where other models may not function correctly.
What is the highest wattage option available?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Trend offers 36 kW of power, making it the highest wattage option in this list. It suits homes with robust electrical infrastructure needing substantial hot water volume. This model delivers reliable continuous flow without the complexity of venting. It is ideal for whole-house applications where maximum output is required.
Are there options for RVs or boats?
Yes, the Whale S360EW and Suburban SW6DE are designed for mobile use. The Whale unit provides 12V hot water for RVs or boats where low voltage is standard. The Suburban model offers dual-fuel flexibility with a 6-gallon tank. It provides essential hot water for travelers who value durability and reliable performance in mobile environments.
Which unit is best for under-sink installation?
The Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank is the best choice for this purpose. It fits small kitchens or bathrooms where only 120V power is available. The unit provides steady hot water for hand washing tasks. Its compact dimensions allow it to fit easily under sinks without taking up excessive space.
Is there a whole-house electric option?
The Rheem RTEX-18 is designed for whole-house electric hot water needs. It offers 18 kW of power on standard 240V circuits. The unit features precise temperature control and a slim profile. It fits households needing steady hot water flow without the bulk of traditional storage tanks.
Which alternative offers the best budget value?
The Whale S360EW is identified as the best budget option. It is a specialized solution for low-voltage environments like RVs or boats. This 3-gallon unit provides compact, efficient hot water where 12V DC is standard. It suits buyers who need a reliable, affordable solution for specialized mobile applications.