I’ve had my fair share of clients who didn’t want the hassle of rewiring their home for a 240V tankless water heater, especially for areas like small bathrooms or guest suites. A 110-volt tankless water heater can be a great solution, but you’ve got to pick the right one to ensure a solid hot shower experience without running out of warm water.
Let me walk you through the best 110V tankless water heaters that work for showers, breaking down what makes each one special, and what to expect when installing one.
Top 3 110 Volt Tankless Water Heaters for Showers
| Heater Name | Power (Wattage) | Max GPM (Gallons per Minute) | Temp Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoSmart ECO 11 | 13.3 kW (110V) | 1.3 GPM in cold climates | 80°F to 140°F | Digital temperature control |
| Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 | 12 kW (110V) | 1.2 GPM | 86°F to 125°F | Compact, durable design |
| Camplux ME25 Mini-Tank | 2.5 Gallon Tank | NA (not tankless but compact) | Up to 140°F | Point-of-use, compact, affordable |
1. EcoSmart ECO 11 – Best Overall for Shower Use
When it comes to 110V tankless water heaters, the EcoSmart ECO 11 stands out. Although it’s a compact unit, it provides enough hot water for a single shower, especially in warmer climates.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Delivers 1.3 GPM, which can run a shower and maybe a sink at the same time if you’re in a warm climate.
- Temperature Control: Digital thermostat with ±1°F precision, allowing you to fine-tune the temperature for consistent heat.
- Energy Efficient: Self-modulating technology only uses the energy needed to heat water based on demand.
Why It’s Great for Showers:
If your incoming water temperature is above 65°F, the EcoSmart ECO 11 can handle a single shower at a time. In colder climates (below 50°F), you may need to install a flow restrictor or reduce the water pressure to ensure the water stays hot enough. It’s compact, wall-mountable, and relatively easy to install – perfect for bathrooms, RVs, or a secondary shower setup.
2. Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 – Most Reliable Build
The Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 is a strong competitor for small space heating with its German engineering and excellent durability. Although it’s designed for point-of-use heating, it can manage showers when sized properly.
Key Features:
- Max GPM: Provides 1.2 GPM, which is enough for a shower in warm to moderate climates.
- Build Quality: This unit is known for its robust construction and reliability. It’s built to last with minimal maintenance.
- Temperature Range: Adjustable between 86°F and 125°F, perfect for a single shower.
Why It Works for Showers:
The Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 is highly efficient and perfect for small apartments or cabins. Like the EcoSmart, it’s ideal for warmer climates or homes where the incoming water temperature isn’t freezing cold. One of its advantages is the compact size, making it easy to fit even in tight spaces.
3. Camplux ME25 Mini-Tank – Best Alternative to Tankless for Small Bathrooms
Although not a true tankless heater, the Camplux ME25 is worth considering for small showers, especially when the budget or electrical limitations are tight. It’s a mini-tank heater that acts as a point-of-use system, meaning you get instant hot water without waiting.
Key Features:
- 2.5-gallon capacity: While not tankless, it provides enough hot water for a quick shower or hand washing.
- Easy Installation: No need for heavy electrical work; it plugs into a standard 110V outlet.
- Affordable and Compact: At a fraction of the cost of other systems, it’s a simple and effective solution for small spaces.
Why It’s a Good Option:
This heater is a great alternative for people who don’t need continuous hot water. With a quick recovery time, the Camplux ME25 can heat up water rapidly and provide enough hot water for a short shower. This is ideal for guest bathrooms or RVs where a full tankless system may not be necessary.
What to Consider Before Choosing a 110V Tankless Water Heater
1. Climate and Incoming Water Temperature
- Warm climates: You’ll get better performance since the incoming water is already warmer (60°F+). This allows heaters like the EcoSmart ECO 11 to provide sufficient flow for a shower.
- Cold climates: With colder water (below 50°F), expect a lower GPM and potentially colder showers. In these cases, you may want to install a low-flow showerhead to stretch the hot water.
2. GPM (Gallons Per Minute)
- For a decent shower experience, you’ll want at least 1.0 to 1.5 GPM.
- If you need to run multiple fixtures (like a shower and sink), a flow restrictor can help distribute hot water more evenly.
3. Space and Installation
- Wall-mounted units like the EcoSmart ECO 11 or Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 are space-savers and can be installed in closets, under sinks, or mounted near the shower.
- Be aware that these units are typically hardwired, so you may need an electrician if you’re not comfortable handling the installation.
Pros and Cons of 110V Tankless Water Heaters
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No tank = endless hot water | Lower GPM compared to 240V units |
| Space-saving and compact | Performance drops in colder climates |
| Energy-efficient and cost-saving | May struggle with higher water demands |
| Easier installation compared to 240V models | Can require electrical upgrades for larger units |
Safety Tips for Installation
- Use the correct circuit: Ensure your breaker is rated for the unit. A typical 110V tankless heater requires a dedicated circuit, usually between 30-60 amps.
- Check water quality: Hard water can reduce the lifespan of the heater, so consider installing a water softener or scale filter if necessary.
- Temperature settings: Keep the heater set between 105°F and 120°F for optimal performance without risking scalding.
Conclusion: Which Heater Should You Choose?
If you want the best overall experience, go for the EcoSmart ECO 11. It’s a reliable, easy-to-use option that delivers enough hot water for a shower, especially in warmer climates.
For those seeking durability and top-notch construction, the Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 is perfect. It’s built to last and works well for point-of-use applications.
If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a mini-tank setup, the Camplux ME25 provides a quick fix with instant hot water at an affordable price. It may not be fully tankless, but it’s incredibly efficient for small bathrooms and guest showers.
With any of these options, you’ll be enjoying hot, comfortable showers without the need for complex electrical installations!