EcoSmart ECO 8
#8 in ElectricFull review
For a faucet far from the main water heater. A lifetime warranty at a low price makes it a safe point of use pick if you hire the install out.
Amazon $219$219
The EcoSmart ECO 8 is the better tankless water heater overall, rated 3.2 to 3.1. The EcoSmart ECO 8 leads on warranty. The Stiebel Eltron DHX 12-2 Trend wins on value. The EcoSmart ECO 8 costs $47.14 less ($219 vs $266.14).
Stiebel Eltron DHX 12-2 Trend
#11 in ElectricFull review
For adding fast hot water to a far sink or a single shower in a warm climate. The long warranty sets it apart from cheaper point of use units.
Amazon $266.14$266.14
Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the EcoSmart ECO 8 for warranty (limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty vs 7-year heat exchanger warranty).
- Choose the Stiebel Eltron DHX 12-2 Trend for value ($22.18 per kW ($266.14, 12 kW) vs $27.38 per kW ($219, 8 kW)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every electric tankless water heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | EcoSmart ECO 8 | Stiebel Eltron DHX 12-2 Trend |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Value 35% | 38 $27.38 per kW ($219, 8 kW) | 54 $22.18 per kW ($266.14, 12 kW) |
| Heating power 25% | 0 8 kW | 4 12 kW |
| Efficiency 15% | 75 0.96 UEF | 75 0.96 UEF |
| Warranty 25% | 100 limited lifetime heat exchanger warranty | 57 7-year heat exchanger warranty |
Specifications
| EcoSmart ECO 8 | Stiebel Eltron DHX 12-2 Trend | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Electric power | 8 kW | 12 kW |
| Max flow | 2 GPM | 2.5 GPM |
| UEF | 0.96 | 0.96 |
| Installation | ||
| Voltage | 240 V | 240 V |
| Breakers | 40 A total | 50 A total |
| Weight | 4.8 lb | 5.5 lb |
| Features | ||
| Built-in recirculation | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Heat exchanger warranty | Limited lifetime | 7 years |
| Parts warranty | - | 3 years |