FOGATTI vs Thermomate Tankless Water Heaters: Which Brand Fits You?
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You are comparing the FOGATTI vs thermomate tankless water heater options for your specific hot water needs. These two brands serve different markets. The FOGATTI unit is a propane-powered tankless heater designed for RVs. It provides continuous hot water on the go. The Thermomate unit is a small electric mini-tank for indoor under-sink use. It stores a limited amount of hot water for point-of-use applications. Your choice depends on whether you need portable RV power or stationary home convenience.
Key differences
| Aspect | FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Installation Location | RV | Under Sink |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 120 V |
| Capacity | Tankless | 6.5 Gallons |
| Flow Rate | 2.9 GPM | Not listed |
| Certification | CSA | UL Listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater if
- You need hot water in an RV or camper.
- You want continuous hot water without waiting for a tank to refill.
- You are powered by propane and 12V DC electricity.
Choose Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank if
- You need hot water for a kitchen or bathroom sink at home.
- You have a standard 120V electrical outlet available.
- You prefer a compact unit that stores hot water for short-term use.
Verdict: Choose the FOGATTI if you are traveling in an RV and need reliable, continuous hot water on propane. Pick the Thermomate if you are installing a dedicated hot water source under a sink in your home. The FOGATTI is built for mobility, while the Thermomate is built for stationary convenience.
FOGATTI vs Thermomate Specs Compared
Fuel Type
The FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus runs on propane, making it ideal for off-grid RV travel where grid power is unavailable. It operates on 12V DC electricity to power its controls and fan, but uses gas for heating. The Thermomate Mini Tank relies entirely on 120V AC electricity. It plugs into a standard household outlet. This makes the Thermomate suitable for fixed installations in homes, but unusable in vehicles or campers without an inverter. Your choice depends on whether you need portable gas power or fixed electric convenience.
Installation Location
These units serve different physical spaces. The FOGATTI is designed for RVs, with a square 15 x 15 x 15 inch footprint that replaces standard 6-gallon tank heaters in RV bays. It includes a door for direct fitment. The Thermomate measures 17.7 x 17.7 x 14.6 inches and is built for under-sink mounting in kitchens or bathrooms. Its compact rectangular shape fits tight cabinetry spaces. You cannot swap these units; the FOGATTI is for mobile living, while the Thermomate is for stationary residential plumbing.
Water Capacity
The FOGATTI is tankless, providing an unlimited supply of hot water as long as you have propane. It delivers up to 2.9 gallons per minute continuously. The Thermomate holds 6.5 gallons of stored hot water. Once you use those 6.5 gallons, you must wait for the electric heating element to recover the temperature. For back-to-back showers in an RV, the FOGATTI’s tankless design prevents running out of hot water. The Thermomate is better for single-point use, like a bathroom sink, where demand is low.
Voltage and Power
Electrical requirements differ significantly. The FOGATTI uses 12V DC, drawing power from your RV’s battery or converter system. It requires a propane supply for actual heating. The Thermomate requires a dedicated 120V AC circuit with a 12-amp nominal current draw. It uses a 1.44 kW heating element. If your RV lacks a stable 12V system or you are installing in a home without a 120V outlet nearby, one option will not work. The Thermomate needs standard home wiring.
Safety Certifications
Both units prioritize safety with recognized certifications. The FOGATTI is CSA certified, which is standard for propane appliances in North America. It includes a forced exhaust fan, automatic gas shut-off, and anti-freeze protection. The Thermomate is UL Listed, ensuring electrical safety for residential use. It features a temperature and pressure relief valve and a glass-lined tank for durability. The FOGATTI’s certifications address gas combustion risks, while the Thermomate’s address electrical and pressure hazards in a home setting.
Which tankless water heater fits your needs
RV travelers needing continuous hot water
You need endless hot water while camping. The FOGATTI unit delivers 2.9 GPM continuously using propane. It works at high altitudes up to 9,800 feet. The 55,000 BTU output ensures stable performance. You avoid running out of hot water during long showers. The 12V DC system suits RV electrical setups perfectly.
Homeowners installing under-sink heaters
You want instant hot water at a specific sink. The Thermomate 6.5-gallon tank heats water quickly for point-of-use tasks. It plugs into a standard 120V outlet. The adjustable thermostat ranges from 50°F to 149°F. The compact design fits under counters easily. UL listing ensures safe operation in residential settings.
Users seeking off-grid power solutions
You travel where electricity is scarce. The FOGATTI heater runs on propane gas. It only uses 12V DC for controls, saving battery power. The high-altitude mode maintains efficiency on mountains. You get hot water without relying on grid power. The built-in pressure relief valve adds safety for mobile living.
The products compared
FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater
Best for: RVers needing continuous hot water at high altitudes
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 2.9 GPM
- BTU
- 55,000 BTU
- Voltage
- 12V DC
- Certification
- CSA
- Dimensions
- 15 x 15 x 15 inches
View on Amazon: FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This FOGATTI unit is a propane-powered, 12V DC tankless water heater designed for RV use. It delivers 2.9 GPM at 55,000 BTU, ensuring continuous hot water without the wait. The 15-inch cube fits standard RV openings and includes a built-in pressure relief valve. It is CSA certified for safety and operates effectively at high altitudes up to 9,800 feet.
Pros
- 55,000 BTU output provides 2.9 GPM for continuous hot water
- 12V DC power and propane fuel ideal for RV travel
- High-altitude ready mode works up to 9,800 feet
- Includes 15x15 inch door and 2-meter remote controller
Cons
- 15x15 inch footprint requires standard RV door cutout
- Propane fuel source requires tank management
- Limited to 2.9 GPM flow rate
Good fit if
- You need continuous hot water in an RV without running out
- You travel to high altitudes above 9,800 feet
- You want a direct replacement for a 6-gallon tank heater
Skip if
- You require electric power only
- You need a higher flow rate than 2.9 GPM
- You have a non-standard RV door opening
Verdict: FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Propane Heater is a compact, high-altitude capable solution for RVers who need endless hot water on the road. It fits standard 15x15 inch openings and includes essential safety features like a built-in pressure relief valve.
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
Best for: under-sink point-of-use 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
The Thermomate is a 6.5-gallon electric point-of-use water heater designed for under-sink installation. It operates on a standard 120V outlet with a 1.44 kW heating element, delivering hot water with up to 99% thermal efficiency. The unit features a glass-lined tank and adjustable thermostat settings ranging from 50°F to 149°F. Its compact dimensions allow for wall or floor mounting, making it suitable for small spaces where instant hot water is needed.
Pros
- 6.5-gallon capacity provides sufficient hot water for point-of-use applications
- 120V plug-in connection simplifies installation in standard outlets
- Adjustable thermostat offers temperature control from 50°F to 149°F
- UL Listed certification ensures safety compliance
Cons
- 1.44 kW heating element has lower power than whole-home tankless units
- Includes only a 3-year limited warranty for the tank
- Requires 1/2 inch NPT water connections for plumbing
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a single sink or small bathroom
- You have a standard 120V electrical outlet near the installation site
- You want a compact unit that fits under a counter
Skip if
- You require high-volume hot water for multiple fixtures
- You need a gas-powered heating solution
- You want a tankless unit with instant on-demand heating without storage
Verdict: Thermomate 6.5 Gal Electric Mini Tank is a practical solution for under-sink applications where space is limited and a standard electrical outlet is available. It delivers reliable point-of-use hot water for small households or specific fixture needs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 2.9 GPM | not stated |
| BTU | 55,000 BTU | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 1.44 kW |
| Capacity | not stated | 6.5 Gallons |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 120V |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 50°F to 149°F |
| Certification | CSA | UL Listed |
| Dimensions | 15 x 15 x 15 inches | 17.7"H x 17.7"W x 14.6"D |
| Use | RV | Under Sink |
| Weight | not stated | 26.5 pounds |
| Size | InstaShower 8 Plus | 6.5 Gallon |
| Color | InstaShower 8 Plus, Black | white,blue |
| Model | FS08B1SBD | ES700 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the FOGATTI heater in my RV?
Yes, the FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus is designed specifically for RV use. It fits standard 15x15 inch openings, making it easy to replace existing units. The compact size ensures it does not take up valuable space in your vehicle. It runs on propane, which is ideal for travel.
Does the Thermomate unit require a special electrical outlet?
No, the Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Mini-Tank operates on a standard 120V electrical outlet. This makes installation straightforward for under-sink applications. You do not need heavy-duty wiring or a dedicated high-amperage circuit. It is a practical solution for homes where a standard plug is available near the sink.
Which brand is better for high altitude camping?
The FOGATTI brand is better for high altitude camping. Its InstaShower 8 Plus model is capable of operating at high altitudes. This feature ensures consistent hot water performance when you are far from sea level. The Thermomate unit is an electric mini-tank and is not designed for RV travel.
Is the Thermomate heater tankless?
No, the Thermomate product listed is a 6.5-gallon under-sink mini-tank. It stores hot water rather than heating it on demand. If you need a true tankless system, the FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus is the propane-powered option in this comparison. The Thermomate unit serves point-of-use needs with stored water.
What size is the FOGATTI heater?
The FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus measures 15 inches in width, height, and length. This square footprint allows it to fit into standard RV cutouts. The compact design ensures it does not obstruct other components in your vehicle. It is a space-efficient choice for mobile living.
Can I use the Thermomate heater for a shower?
The Thermomate 6.5-Gallon unit is intended for under-sink point-of-use applications. It is not designed for showering. Its small capacity and electric heating element are suited for sinks. For shower needs, especially in an RV, the FOGATTI propane heater provides continuous hot water flow.
Does the FOGATTI heater need electricity to run?
The FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus uses propane for heating. It requires 12V DC electricity to power its controls and fan. This low voltage draw is compatible with standard RV electrical systems. You do not need a high-power generator, just your vehicle's 12V system.