Have you ever found yourself wishing for just a bit more hot water without having to invest in a massive tank that takes up half your basement? The “Reliance 6 2 SSUS K 2.5 Gallon Electric Water Heater” might just be the tiny powerhouse you need.
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First Impressions: Size and Build
Let’s start with its physical attributes. Standing at 16 inches tall and 14 inches deep, this little fellow isn’t going to win any height contests, but that’s kind of the point. Its compact size makes it ideal for under-sink installations in kitchens or bathrooms, or anywhere space is at a premium. Yet, don’t let the size fool you; it packs quite a punch.
Compact Yet Capable
Here’s a breakdown of some of its specifications:
| Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2.5 gallons |
| Dimensions | 16″H x 14″D |
| Heating Element | 1500 watts, 120 volts, stainless steel |
| Insulation | 2″ foam, R-value 16.00 |
| Warranty | 6-year tank, 1-year parts |
| Energy Standards | Meets Federal standards AHRAE 90A-1980 |
| Safety | Factory-installed T&P valve, UL listed |
With a 2.5-gallon capacity, this heater is perfect for providing a quick splash of hot water for small household tasks, such as washing dishes or a quick hand wash. And with a stainless steel 1500-watt heating element, you can count on it heating up relatively fast.
The Nitty-Gritty: Performance and Features
Now, let’s talk about what this little gem brings to the table in terms of performance.
Stellar Heating Capacity
With a 1500-watt, 120-volt stainless steel heating element at its core, you’ll find your water heating needs met swiftly and efficiently. Stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance and longevity, so you can expect this heater to serve you well over its lifetime. It boasts a 2-inch foam insulation with an R-value of 16.00, ensuring that your water stays hot longer, reducing the need to reheat and thus saving on energy costs.
Energy Efficiency
Conforming to Federal energy standards, particularly the AHRAE 90A-1980 and NAECA codes, this heater makes sure you’re not just getting hot water but doing so in an energy-efficient manner. Let’s face it, nobody enjoys an increased utility bill.
Safety and Standard Compliance
Safety isn’t an afterthought with the “Reliance 6 2 SSUS K 2.5 Gallon Electric Water Heater.” It comes with a factory-installed Temperature and Pressure relief valve (T&P valve) and is UL listed. In layman’s terms, this means it’s gone through rigorous testing to meet various safety and performance standards. So you can rest easy, knowing it’s not going to suddenly turn into an unexpected water-related disaster.
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Durability: Warranties and Material Quality
One of the biggest concerns people have with water heaters is their longevity. How long before it starts to leak? What if parts wear out?
Extended Warranty
With a 6-year limited warranty on the tank and a 1-year limited warranty on parts, you get a certain peace of mind. It’s almost like a security blanket, one that makes sure you’re covered in case anything goes awry. Most products today come with just about a 1-year warranty, so a 6-year span is impressive. It’s as though the manufacturer is so confident in their product’s durability that they’re willing to stake their reputation on it.
High-Quality Materials
From its stainless steel heating element to its robust 2-inch thick foam insulation, this unit is built to last. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, which means less maintenance and fewer headaches for you.
Installation: Ease of Setup
You don’t have to be a DIY wizard to get this unit up and running. However, a basic understanding of plumbing and electrical systems would come in handy.
User-Friendly Installation
The installation process is straightforward and the unit comes with all the required fittings. Whether you’re placing it under a sink or in a small closet, its manageable size works to your advantage.
Installing this heater involves hooking it up to your existing plumbing system and plugging it into a 120-volt outlet. The factory-installed T&P valve acts as an added measure of safety by releasing excess pressure, making sure you’re not setting yourself up for a watery catastrophe.
Real-World Usability: Day-to-Day Functionality
When it comes to everyday use, you want a water heater that delivers consistent performance. Here’s how the “Reliance 6 2 SSUS K 2.5 Gallon Electric Water Heater” stacks up in practical scenarios.
Instant Hot Water
With its rapid heating element, the water heater ensures hot water is on tap whenever you need it. Perfect for small households or for applications where a large tank would be overkill.
Versatile Applications
This unit works well for a variety of settings – be it a tiny home, an RV, or just your standard residential kitchen. The point-of-use design means you’re not waiting ages for water to travel from a far-off heating source. It’s practically instant gratification in water heater form.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Overview
Pros
- Compact Size: Perfect for small spaces and under-sink installations.
- Energy-Efficient: Meets Federal energy standards.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel element and high-quality insulation.
- Safety Features: Comes with a factory-installed T&P valve.
- Extended Warranty: 6 years on the tank, 1 year on parts.
- Quick Heating: 1500-watt heating element ensures rapid hot water availability.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: At 2.5 gallons, this unit isn’t ideal for larger households.
- Initial Cost: It may be a bit more expensive than other point-of-use water heaters, but the quality and features justify the price.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Your While?
The “Reliance 6 2 SSUS K 2.5 Gallon Electric Water Heater” is a robust, energy-efficient, and compact solution for your hot water needs. With its small size and powerful performance, it is a fantastic addition to any small space or point-of-use application. Whether you’re looking to streamline your kitchen or add convenience to a guest bathroom, this unit delivers both reliability and efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment.
If you’ve been on the fence about upgrading or adding a secondary water heating unit, this model makes a compelling case. Robust, efficient, and easy to install, it has all the hallmarks of a product designed with both performance and convenience in mind. Ready to make the plunge? This might just be the perfect little heater to meet all your small-scale hot water needs.
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