Eemax is a name that often pops up when people are searching for electric tankless water heaters. Specializing primarily in point-of-use and whole-home electric water heaters, Eemax has built a reputation for providing compact, energy-efficient, and cost-effective options. I’ve installed several Eemax models over the years, and here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from their tankless water heaters.
Why Choose Eemax?
Eemax is known for their electric tankless water heaters, offering models that cater to point-of-use applications (like bathroom sinks and dishwashers) and whole-house systems. Their units are designed for homeowners who want instant hot water without the hassle of maintaining a large tank.
Key advantages of Eemax water heaters include:
- Compact and space-saving designs
- Energy efficiency due to on-demand heating
- Lower upfront costs compared to gas tankless systems
- Ideal for homes with electric setups or where gas lines are not feasible
1. Types of Eemax Tankless Water Heaters
A. Point-of-Use Water Heaters
Pros:
- Instant hot water for single-use applications like sinks or showers.
- Compact design fits under sinks or in tight spaces.
- Low upfront cost and easy installation.
Cons:
- Limited to single outlets, meaning you’ll need multiple units for multiple fixtures.
- Not suitable for providing hot water to an entire household.
Popular Models:
- Eemax EEM24013: This is a small, affordable unit that delivers 3.0 GPM, ideal for a bathroom sink or low-demand applications. It’s compact enough to fit under most sinks, making it a great option for point-of-use water heating.
B. Whole-House Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
- Endless hot water: Can support multiple fixtures, depending on the flow rate.
- Energy-efficient: Only heats water when needed.
- Easy to install in homes without gas lines.
Cons:
- May struggle in colder climates, where water needs to be heated from a lower starting temperature.
- Limited to electric-only systems, which may not be as powerful as gas tankless heaters for high-demand homes.
Popular Models:
- Eemax EEM24027: A mid-sized whole-house electric unit capable of delivering 6.6 GPM, making it ideal for homes with 2-3 bathrooms in warmer climates. It’s powerful enough to run multiple showers or appliances simultaneously.
- Eemax EEM24018: Slightly smaller, delivering 4.4 GPM, which is more suited for homes with 1-2 bathrooms or households with moderate water demand.
2. Energy Efficiency: Will Eemax Save You Money?
One of the key selling points of Eemax tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Because they heat water on demand rather than storing it in a tank, they eliminate standby heat loss, which is common in traditional tank systems.
Energy Factors
Eemax electric tankless water heaters typically have energy factors (EF) of 0.98 to 0.99, meaning nearly all the electricity they consume goes directly into heating the water. This is as efficient as electric water heating gets. Over time, you can expect to save around 20-30% on your water heating bills compared to traditional electric tank heaters.
Cold Climate Performance
It’s important to note that electric tankless water heaters may not perform as well in colder climates, where incoming water temperatures are much lower. In colder regions, the flow rate may drop as the heater works harder to raise the temperature to your desired level. If you live in a colder climate, you may need a higher wattage model or even multiple units for consistent performance.
3. Durability and Build Quality
Build Quality
Eemax water heaters are built with durability in mind, featuring copper and stainless steel components for heat exchangers. This ensures a long lifespan and resistance to corrosion, especially when properly maintained. The units are compact, lightweight, and designed to be installed in tight spaces like under sinks or utility closets.
Warranty
Eemax offers a 5-year limited warranty on heat exchangers and a 1- to 2-year warranty on parts, depending on the model. This is a bit shorter compared to some other brands (like Rheem, which offers longer warranties), but it’s still a decent coverage period for the price point.
4. Installation: Is It DIY-Friendly?
One of the best things about Eemax water heaters is that they’re electric-only, which eliminates the need for gas lines or venting. This makes them much easier to install compared to gas tankless systems.
DIY or Professional?
If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical work, smaller Eemax models, particularly point-of-use units, can be installed as a DIY project. However, larger whole-house systems may require a professional electrician, especially if your home’s electrical system needs upgrading. Many Eemax models require 240 volts and dedicated circuits, so make sure your home is properly equipped before attempting a DIY installation.
5. Common Issues and Maintenance
Like any water heater, Eemax units can experience some issues if not properly maintained. However, their electric nature makes them simpler to maintain compared to gas-powered units.
Common Issues:
- Flow rate drops in cold climates: As mentioned earlier, Eemax units may struggle in colder climates, as the colder incoming water takes longer to heat. This can reduce the flow rate and affect performance when multiple fixtures are in use.
- Scaling and mineral build-up: If you have hard water, you may experience scaling inside the unit. To prevent this, it’s important to flush the system annually and consider installing a water softener.
Maintenance
Eemax units are generally low-maintenance. Just make sure to:
- Flush the unit annually if you live in an area with hard water.
- Clean the inlet filter to prevent debris from clogging the system.
- Check the electrical connections periodically to ensure everything is working smoothly.
6. Popular Eemax Models: A Quick Comparison
| Model | Type | Flow Rate (GPM) | Power Requirement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eemax EEM24013 | Point-of-Use | 3.0 GPM | 240V, 13kW | Bathroom sink, small fixture |
| Eemax EEM24027 | Whole-House | 6.6 GPM | 240V, 27kW | Whole-home for 2-3 bathrooms in warmer climates |
| Eemax EEM24018 | Whole-House | 4.4 GPM | 240V, 18kW | Small homes, 1-2 bathrooms |
| Eemax Mini-Tank EMT6 | Point-of-Use (Mini-Tank) | 6 gallons | 120V | Under-sink or point-of-use for immediate hot water |
Pros and Cons of Eemax Tankless Water Heaters
Pros:
- Highly energy-efficient: With energy factors up to 0.99, they are extremely efficient.
- Compact and space-saving: Perfect for tight spaces, under sinks, or small utility closets.
- Lower upfront cost: Electric units are generally more affordable than gas tankless models.
- Easy installation: Electric models require no venting, simplifying installation.
- Ideal for point-of-use applications: Models designed specifically for smaller fixtures.
Cons:
- Flow rate drops in cold climates: May struggle to deliver consistent hot water in colder regions.
- Limited to electric: Eemax only offers electric models, so it’s not an option for those who prefer gas-powered systems.
- Shorter warranty: The 5-year warranty on heat exchangers is decent but shorter than some competitors.
Final Verdict: Is Eemax Right for You?
Eemax tankless water heaters are an excellent choice for homeowners looking for affordable, energy-efficient, and compact electric water heaters. They perform well in smaller homes, point-of-use applications, or situations where installing gas lines and venting isn’t feasible. If you’re in a warmer climate, their whole-house models can supply multiple fixtures with consistent hot water.
However, if you live in a colder climate or need a high-capacity solution for a large household, Eemax’s electric-only offerings may not meet your needs. In those cases, a gas-powered tankless heater from a brand like Rinnai or Noritz may be a better fit.
For smaller homes or point-of-use applications, though, Eemax is a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective choice that won’t disappoint.