Thermomate vs EcoSmart: Tankless Water Heaters Compared by Specs
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This thermomate vs EcoSmart tankless water heater comparison looks at two electric heating options. Both use electricity to warm water, but they serve different needs. The Thermomate is a small storage tank for point-of-use installation. The EcoSmart is a true tankless unit for higher flow demands. You need to choose based on your voltage supply and hot water requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank | EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mini tank (6.5 gallons) | Tankless |
| Voltage | 120 V | 240 V |
| Wattage | 1.44 kW | 13 kW |
| Dimensions | 17.7 x 17.7 x 14.6 inches | 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 26.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank if
- You have a standard 120-volt outlet under your sink
- You need hot water for a single faucet with low flow
- You want a unit that stores hot water for later use
Choose EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater if
- You have a 240-volt circuit available for installation
- You need higher heating power for faster recovery
- You want the most compact unit for tight spaces
Verdict: The Thermomate fits homes with standard 120-volt outlets and low hot water demands. The EcoSmart requires 240-volt wiring but offers much higher heating capacity. Choose the Thermomate for under-sink convenience and the EcoSmart for higher performance.
Thermomate vs EcoSmart Spec Comparison
Installation Location
The Thermomate is designed as a point-of-use unit for under-sink installation. Its compact dimensions allow it to fit in tight spaces like kitchen or bathroom cabinets. You can mount it on a wall or place it on the floor. The EcoSmart is a wall-mounted tankless unit. It requires more clearance but saves floor space entirely. This makes the Thermomate ideal for specific faucet heating, while the EcoSmart suits whole-home or larger area supply lines where space is limited.
Voltage Requirement
Electrical setup differs significantly between these two models. The Thermomate operates on a standard 120-volt circuit. It draws 12 amps and plugs into a standard outlet, making installation easier for most homeowners. The EcoSmart requires a dedicated 240-volt circuit. This is common for tankless heaters but means you may need an electrician to install a new line. If you already have 240-volt wiring, the EcoSmart is ready. Otherwise, the Thermomate offers simpler electrical compatibility.
Capacity Type
These units provide hot water differently. The Thermomate includes a 6.5-gallon storage tank. It heats and stores water, providing immediate hot water for short tasks like hand washing. The EcoSmart has no tank. It heats water only as it flows through the unit. This means unlimited hot water, but flow rate is limited by power. The Thermomate is better for low-flow needs. The EcoSmart is better for higher flow demands where you do not want to run out of hot water.
Wattage and Power
Power input affects performance and energy use. The Thermomate uses 1.44 kW of power. This is sufficient for small sinks but may struggle with multiple fixtures. The EcoSmart uses 13 kW. This high wattage allows it to heat water quickly for showers or multiple taps. The difference is substantial. You will get much higher flow rates with the EcoSmart. The Thermomate is limited to light duty tasks. Choose the EcoSmart if you need strong heating power.
Temperature Control
Both units allow you to adjust water temperature. The Thermomate features a thermostat with three settings. You can adjust the range from 50°F to 149°F. It also includes a freeze mode to protect the tank in cold weather. The EcoSmart uses self-modulating technology to adjust heat based on flow. Specific temperature ranges are not listed in the data. Both offer control, but the Thermomate provides explicit manual adjustment options and freeze protection for its tank.
Which unit fits your hot water needs
You need hot water at a single sink
The Thermomate 6.5-gallon tank stores heated water for point-of-use installation. Its 1.44 kW heating element provides fast recovery for small tasks. The adjustable thermostat ranges from 50°F to 149°F, allowing you to set precise temperatures. This unit plugs into a standard 120V outlet, making it easy to install under a sink without complex wiring.
You want unlimited hot water for showers
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a true tankless heater with 13 kW of power. It heats water on demand, providing a continuous supply for showers or multiple fixtures. Its compact dimensions of 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches save space on your wall. This unit requires a 240V circuit, ensuring high performance for higher flow rates in warmer climates.
You prefer a plug-and-play under-sink solution
This Thermomate model connects to a standard 120V outlet, simplifying installation. You do not need to run new heavy-gauge wiring. The glass-lined tank offers thermal efficiency up to 99%, reducing standby heat loss. Its 17.7-inch height fits most under-sink cabinets. The included temperature and pressure relief valve adds a layer of safety for your home plumbing system.
You need high power for whole-house use
The EcoSmart unit delivers 13 kW of power to heat water instantly. This high wattage supports higher flow rates compared to smaller units. Its self-modulating technology adjusts energy use based on demand. The lightweight design at 6.5 pounds makes mounting easy. You must ensure your home has a 240V electrical supply to handle the power requirements for this efficient tankless system.
The products compared
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
Best for: Single 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
This Thermomate unit is a 6.5-gallon electric mini tank designed for point-of-use installation under sinks. It operates on a standard 120-volt circuit with a 1.44 kW heating element. The glass-lined tank provides thermal efficiency up to 99%. You get adjustable temperature settings from 50°F to 149°F. Its compact 17.7-inch square footprint fits tight spaces. This heater suits you if you need instant hot water for a single sink.
Pros
- 6.5-gallon capacity for point-of-use hot water
- 120-volt plug-in connection for easy installation
- Adjustable thermostat from 50°F to 149°F
- UL Listed for safety certification
Cons
- 1.44 kW heating power limits flow rate
- 6.5-gallon tank depletes quickly for multiple uses
- 1-year parts warranty is shorter than tank coverage
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a single bathroom sink
- You have a standard 120-volt outlet nearby
- You want a compact unit for under-counter mounting
Skip if
- You require high flow rates for showers
- You need to supply hot water to multiple fixtures
- You want a tankless unit with unlimited hot water
Verdict: Thermomate 6.5 Gallon Mini Tank delivers reliable, efficient hot water for single-sink applications. It fits buyers who prioritize easy plug-in installation and compact sizing over high-volume capacity.
EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Single sink point-of-use installation
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 13 kW
- Voltage
- 240 V
- Dimensions
- 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches
- Weight
- 6.5 pounds
View on Amazon: EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a compact electric tankless water heater designed for point-of-use applications. It operates on 240 volts and delivers 13 kW of power. Its small footprint measures 10 by 13.5 by 6.5 inches and weighs just 6.5 pounds. This unit is configured for climates where incoming water temperatures are around 60 degrees. It suits small households or specific fixture installations where space is limited.
Pros
- Compact dimensions of 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches
- Lightweight build at 6.5 pounds
- 13 kW heating capacity on 240 volts
- Electric fuel type for easy installation
Cons
- 13 kW output may struggle with higher flow rates in cold climates
- Requires 240-volt electrical circuit
- Configured for mild climates with 60-degree incoming water
Good fit if
- You need a small unit for a single sink
- You have a 240-volt circuit available
- You live in a mild climate
Skip if
- You require high flow for multiple fixtures
- You only have 120-volt outlets
- You live in a region with freezing incoming water
Verdict: EcoSmart ECO 11 13kW Electric Unit is a space-saving solution for light-duty hot water needs. It fits well in tight spaces where a 240-volt connection exists and incoming water is not extremely cold.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank | EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Wattage | 1.44 kW | 13 kW |
| Capacity | 6.5 Gallons | not stated |
| Voltage | 120V | 240 V |
| Temperature Control | 50°F to 149°F | not stated |
| Certification | UL Listed | not stated |
| Dimensions | 17.7"H x 17.7"W x 14.6"D | 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Use | Under Sink | not stated |
| Weight | 26.5 pounds | 6.5 pounds |
| Size | 6.5 Gallon | 12 x 8 x 4 |
| Color | white,blue | color |
| Model | ES700 | ECO 11 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Thermomate 6.5-gallon unit a true tankless heater?
No, it is a mini-tank storage heater. The Thermomate 6.5-gallon model stores hot water in a 6.5-gallon insulated tank. It relies on a 120V electric connection for heating. This design provides a buffer of hot water, unlike the instantaneous heating found in true tankless units.
Does the EcoSmart ECO 11 require a special electrical setup?
Yes, it requires a 240V circuit. The EcoSmart 13 kW unit operates on 240 volts with a 13 kW power rating. This is different from the Thermomate, which uses a standard 120V outlet. You must ensure your home has the correct voltage and amperage capacity for installation.
Which unit is lighter and easier to mount?
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is significantly lighter. It weighs only 6.5 pounds and measures 13.5 inches wide by 10 inches high. The Thermomate is much heavier at 26.5 pounds and larger in dimensions. The EcoSmart unit is easier to handle and install in tight spaces.
Can the Thermomate serve multiple sinks simultaneously?
No, it is designed for single-sink point-of-use. The 6.5-gallon capacity is intended for one faucet, such as in a kitchen or bathroom. It is not built for high-volume demand or multiple simultaneous outlets. The EcoSmart unit also targets single-sink applications for light-duty needs.
What are the physical dimensions of the EcoSmart unit?
The EcoSmart ECO 11 measures 13.5 inches in width, 10 inches in height, and 6.5 inches in length. Its compact size allows it to fit in small cabinets or utility closets. The Thermomate is larger, measuring 17.7 inches in length and 21.2 inches in height.
Is the EcoSmart unit suitable for very cold incoming water?
It works best when incoming water is not extremely cold. The 13 kW power rating is efficient for light-duty use in moderate conditions. If your groundwater is very cold, the unit may struggle to maintain desired temperatures. Check your local inlet water temperature before relying on it for cold climates.