Product Details
The Eemax SPEX4208 FlowCo is a high-efficiency tankless water heater specifically engineered for 208V electrical systems, common in commercial and industrial settings. Delivering 4.1kW of power, this unit provides a reliable, thermostatic hot water solution for point-of-use fixtures. It solves the performance loss often seen when installing 240V heaters on 208V circuits by providing a calibrated power output that ensures consistent temperatures. Compact and remarkably versatile, the SPEX4208 is the professional’s choice for dedicated handwashing in office buildings, schools, and retail environments.
Key Features:
- 208V Optimization: Purpose-built for 208V power, ensuring you get the full 4.1kW of heating capacity without the "de-rating" performance drop associated with standard 240V models.
- Thermostatic Accuracy: Integrated microprocessor technology maintains a precise outlet temperature ($+/- 1^\circ\text{F}$), preventing fluctuations even as incoming flow rates change.
- 0.3 GPM Activation: Designed to trigger heating at ultra-low flow rates, making it perfectly compatible with LEED-compliant water-saving faucets and sensor sinks.
- Mount Anywhere: Features a 360-degree mounting design, allowing the unit to be installed in any orientation to fit into tight under-sink cabinets or around existing plumbing.
- Energy Efficiency: Only draws power when the faucet is turned on, eliminating the standby heat loss of traditional tank heaters and reducing overall energy costs.
Specifications:
- Power Rating: 4.1 kW
- Voltage: 208V (Single Phase)
- Amperage Draw: 19.7 Amps
- Required Breaker: 25 Amp
- Recommended Wire Size: 10 AWG
- Water Connections: 1/2" NPT
- Activation Flow Rate: 0.3 GPM
- Temperature Rise @ 0.5 GPM: 56°F
- Dimensions: 9.75" H x 5.25" W x 3" D
| Model | kW | Amps | Breaker | Rise @ 0.5 GPM | Rise @ 1.0 GPM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 Volt Single Phase | |||||
| SPEX1812 | 1.8 kW | 15A | 15A | 25°F | 12°F |
| SPEX2412 | 2.4 kW | 20A | 20A | 33°F | 16°F |
| SPEX3012 | 3.0 kW | 25A | 30A | 41°F | 20°F |
| SPEX3512 | 3.5 kW | 29A | 30A | 48°F | 24°F |
| 240 Volt Single Phase (Recommended for 208V with de-rating) | |||||
| SPEX35 | 3.5 kW | 14.6A | 15A | 48°F | 24°F |
| SPEX48 | 4.8 kW | 20A | 25A | 66°F | 33°F |
| SPEX55 | 5.5 kW | 22.9A | 30A | 75°F | 38°F |
| SPEX65 | 6.5 kW | 27.1A | 30A | 89°F | 44°F |
| SPEX75 | 7.5 kW | 31.3A | 40A | 102°F* | 51°F |
| SPEX95 | 9.5 kW | 39.6A | 50A | 130°F* | 65°F |
Installation & Maintenance Tips:
- Check Your Voltage: This model is specifically for 208V circuits. Installing this on a 240V circuit will cause the unit to draw significantly more amperage than rated and may damage the heating elements or trip the breaker.
- Prevent Dry-Firing: Always run water through the unit for at least two minutes to purge all air before turning the electrical power on for the first time.
- Inlet Filter Cleaning: Ensure the factory-installed inlet filter screen is checked annually. Debris can prevent the 0.3 GPM sensor from activating the heating sequence.
- Hard Water Areas: If your local water is high in mineral content, consider a scale-inhibitor filter on the intake to maintain the efficiency of the Ni-Chrome heating elements.
Common Uses/Applications:
- Commercial Office Buildings: Provides instant hot water for restrooms on 208V 3-phase building power.
- Educational Facilities: Safe, thermostatic water for handwashing stations in schools and dormitories.
- Retail Facilities: Compact enough for strip mall employee restrooms or single-sink breakrooms.
- Laboratory Sinks: Offers the steady, precise temperatures required for clean-up in sensitive lab environments.
Common Questions:
- Q: Can I use this for a kitchen sink?
- A: The SPEX4208 is primarily for handwashing. While it can handle a kitchen sink, the flow rate would be restricted to approximately 0.7 GPM to achieve a 40°F temperature rise.
- Q: Is this unit safe for public restrooms?
- A: Yes. Its thermostatic control prevents accidental scalding, and it can be set to meet local code requirements for maximum handwashing temperatures (usually 105°F - 110°F).
- Q: Does it require a Temperature & Pressure (T&P) valve?
- A: In most jurisdictions, point-of-use tankless heaters do not require a T&P valve because they do not store water, but always verify with your local plumbing inspector.
The Eemax SPEX4208 FlowCo is the ultimate 208V solution for precision heating, combining commercial-grade durability with a compact footprint that fits nearly anywhere.