EcoSmart ECO 11 Not Heating? Top Troubleshooting Tips!

EcoSmart ECO 11 Not Heating? Top Troubleshooting Tips!

If your EcoSmart ECO 11 tankless water heater isn’t providing hot water, it can be frustrating. This guide will walk you through a series of troubleshooting steps to help you identify and potentially resolve the issue. We’ll start with the basics and progressively move toward more technical checks. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines related to your unit.

Preliminary Checks: Is Power On and Adequate?

Before diving into more complex troubleshooting, let’s verify the fundamentals. These simple checks often resolve the "ecosmart eco 11 not heating" problem.

• Check the Breaker:

  • Ensure the circuit breaker dedicated to your EcoSmart ECO 11 is switched ON.
  • Sometimes breakers can trip without being visibly in the ‘OFF’ position. Try switching it ‘OFF’ then back ‘ON’.
  • If the breaker trips repeatedly, it could indicate a larger electrical issue requiring professional attention.

• Verify Sufficient Power: The EcoSmart ECO 11 requires a significant electrical load.

  • Is the electrical service adequate for the heater’s amperage requirements? Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific amperage needed.
  • Are there other high-draw appliances operating on the same circuit or electrical panel simultaneously? This can overload the system. Try reducing the load and see if the heater starts working.

Inspecting the Water Flow

Tankless water heaters activate based on water flow. Insufficient flow can prevent the heater from turning on.

• Check the Incoming Water Supply:

  • Ensure the main water supply valve to the heater is fully OPEN.
  • Check for any kinks or obstructions in the water supply lines.

• Water Pressure: Low water pressure can hinder activation.

  • Do you have adequate water pressure in your home? Test other faucets to see if the issue is isolated to the heater.
  • Consider installing a pressure booster if low pressure is a consistent problem.

• Flow Restrictor/Aerator Inspection:

  • Faucets equipped with flow restrictors or aerators can limit water flow. Temporarily remove them to see if this improves the heater’s performance.
  • Sediment buildup can clog these devices. Clean or replace them as needed.

Examining the Heater’s Display and Error Codes

The EcoSmart ECO 11 display provides valuable information about the heater’s operation. Pay attention to any error codes.

• Understanding Error Codes:

  • Refer to your owner’s manual for a complete list of error codes and their corresponding meanings.
  • Here are a couple of common codes and their potential causes:
    • E1 or Overheat Error: Indicates the heater is overheating. Check for restricted water flow, excessive scale buildup, or a malfunctioning temperature sensor.
    • E4 or Low Voltage Error: Points to a voltage issue. Verify the voltage supplied to the heater matches its specifications. This may require a qualified electrician.

• Resetting the Unit:

  • Sometimes a simple reset can clear minor errors. Turn off the breaker for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. See if the heater resumes normal operation.

Addressing Potential Scale Buildup

Scale buildup (mineral deposits) is a common issue in hard water areas and can significantly impair the heater’s performance.

• Symptoms of Scale Buildup:

  • Reduced hot water flow
  • Inconsistent water temperature
  • Increased energy consumption

• Flushing the Heater: Regular flushing removes scale buildup and helps maintain optimal performance.

  1. Shut off power and water to the unit.
  2. Connect a pump and hoses to the inlet and outlet ports.
  3. Circulate a descaling solution (available at most hardware stores) through the unit for the recommended time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the descaling solution.
  4. Flush thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of the solution.
  5. Reconnect power and water.
  • Refer to your owner’s manual for specific flushing instructions. If you are uncomfortable performing this task, contact a qualified plumber.

Checking the Heating Elements

The heating elements are responsible for heating the water. If they are damaged, the heater will not produce hot water. Note: This requires some electrical knowledge. If you are unsure, contact a qualified electrician.

• Safety First:

  • Always disconnect power to the heater at the breaker before inspecting the heating elements.
  • Use a multimeter to test for continuity.

• Testing for Continuity:

  • Remove the access panel to the heating elements.

  • Visually inspect the elements for any signs of damage (burn marks, cracks, etc.).

  • Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the terminals of each heating element. If there is no continuity, the element is likely burned out and needs to be replaced.

  • Important: Replacement heating elements must be compatible with the EcoSmart ECO 11. Refer to your owner’s manual or contact EcoSmart customer support for the correct replacement part number.

Troubleshooting Table: Common Issues and Solutions

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
No hot water	Breaker tripped	Reset the breaker. If it trips repeatedly, consult an electrician.
No hot water	Insufficient water flow	Check water supply valves, water pressure, and remove/clean faucet aerators.
No hot water, error code E1	Overheating	Check for restricted water flow, excessive scale buildup, or a malfunctioning temperature sensor. Consider flushing the heater.
No hot water, error code E4	Low voltage	Verify the voltage supplied to the heater matches its specifications. Consult an electrician.
Inconsistent water temperature	Scale buildup	Flush the heater with a descaling solution.
Reduced hot water flow	Scale buildup or sediment in water lines	Flush the heater and inspect water lines for obstructions.
Heater cycles on/off frequently	Incorrect temperature setting or undersized heater	Adjust the temperature setting or consider upgrading to a larger heater model if your hot water demand exceeds the EcoSmart ECO 11’s capacity. Consider the groundwater temperature.

Hopefully, these tips helped you figure out why your ecosmart eco 11 not heating. Keep this guide handy, and good luck getting your hot water back!