For an outdoor shower, you need an electric tankless water heater that is compact, weather-resistant, and able to heat water efficiently for short uses. Here are some of the best options:
1. EcoSmart ECO 11
- Flow Rate: 1.3 to 3.1 GPM (depending on temperature rise)
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The EcoSmart ECO 11 is compact, energy-efficient, and provides consistent hot water for small applications like an outdoor shower. It features self-modulating technology that adjusts the power usage based on the water flow, ensuring energy efficiency. Its small footprint makes it perfect for tight installations, such as on a wall near the shower.
- Best For: Outdoor showers in warm climates or seasonal use.
- Key Features:
- Digital temperature control allows for precise adjustments.
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for outdoor installations.
- Easy installation and maintenance.
2. Rheem RTEX-13
- Flow Rate: 1.5 to 3.0 GPM
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Rheem RTEX-13 is an excellent option for point-of-use applications like an outdoor shower. It has external digital thermostats and an LED display for easy temperature control, ensuring you get consistent hot water. Its compact design makes it ideal for outdoor installations, and its dual copper heating elements provide durability and reliability.
- Best For: Outdoor showers or small applications.
- Key Features:
- Self-modulating technology for energy efficiency.
- Compact size and easy installation.
- External digital thermostats with LED display for precise control.
3. Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12
- Flow Rate: Up to 2.0 GPM
- Power: 12 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 is designed for low-flow applications, making it a great fit for outdoor showers. It features advanced flow control that maintains a constant temperature even with variable water flow, which is perfect for environments like outdoor showers where the demand may fluctuate.
- Best For: Outdoor showers with moderate to low water flow.
- Key Features:
- Advanced flow control ensures consistent temperature.
- Compact and energy-efficient.
- Durable design, well-suited for outdoor use with minimal maintenance.
4. Bosch Tronic 3000 WH12
- Flow Rate: 1.5 to 2.0 GPM
- Power: 12 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Bosch Tronic 3000 WH12 is a great point-of-use electric tankless heater. It delivers consistent hot water at a lower flow rate, ideal for outdoor applications like an outdoor shower. Its thermostatic control ensures constant water temperature, making your shower comfortable even in varying outdoor conditions.
- Best For: Outdoor showers needing consistent hot water.
- Key Features:
- Compact design, easily fits in small spaces.
- Thermostatic control for stable temperature.
- Ideal for low-flow fixtures like outdoor showers.
5. Eemax EEM24013
- Flow Rate: 1.5 to 3.0 GPM
- Power: 13 kW
- Why It’s Great: The Eemax EEM24013 is known for providing instant hot water in point-of-use settings, making it perfect for outdoor showers. It offers self-modulating technology, ensuring you only use the power needed based on water flow, helping save energy while enjoying a hot shower outdoors.
- Best For: Point-of-use applications with moderate flow.
- Key Features:
- Compact, easy to install.
- Self-modulating for energy efficiency.
- Suitable for outdoor showers or other outdoor uses.
Key Considerations for Outdoor Showers:
- Flow Rate: Most outdoor showers will need a flow rate of 1.5 to 3 GPM, depending on how much hot water you need.
- Compact Size: Look for a small, lightweight unit that can be easily mounted near the shower area without taking up much space.
- Power Supply: Ensure the water heater is compatible with your electrical setup (typically 240V for electric tankless heaters).
- Durability: Since it will be outdoors, ensure the unit is durable and, if possible, protected from the elements (some units may need weatherproofing or installation under a roof or awning).
Conclusion:
For an outdoor shower, the EcoSmart ECO 11 or Rheem RTEX-13 are great choices due to their energy efficiency, compact design, and ability to deliver consistent hot water. If you have lower water flow needs, the Stiebel Eltron DHC-E 12 or Bosch Tronic 3000 WH12 will provide reliable performance in outdoor environments.
These models will ensure your outdoor shower has reliable, instant hot water without taking up much space.