Fogatti 18 kW
The Fogatti 18 kW is a budget 240-volt electric tankless heater built for small whole-home or multi-point service where gas isn't an option. It self-adjusts wattage to demand, holds temperature to about ±1 °F across an 86–140 °F range, and mounts in a slim 17.1 × 12.9 × 3.9 in cabinet with an LED display — all at a price well under the mainstream electric brands.
Fogatti advertises "up to 4.4 GPM," but that figure only holds with very warm inlet water. Run the numbers honestly and 18 kW delivers about 3.5 GPM at a 35 °F rise and closer to 2 GPM once inlet water turns cold — the same physics that governs every 18 kW electric unit. Treat it as a warm-climate two-fixture heater or a cold-climate single-shower unit and it's a lot of capacity for the money; expect the ~75 A of electrical draw (two 40 A breakers, 8-gauge wire) to be the real cost and gating factor.
Key Features
Best Use Cases
Our Verdict
A value-priced 18 kW electric unit that performs like any 18 kW unit — well in warm climates, modestly in the cold — once you get past the advertised 4.4 GPM optimism. Worth a look if you want mainstream capacity at a budget price and your panel can supply ~75 A. Just size it to a realistic winter flow, not the box number.
What owners report
Themes summarized from verified-purchase reviews across major retailers (4.7★ average, 26 ratings). These are aggregated owner opinions — not our own bench testing.
Early owners highlight mainstream 18 kW capacity at a notably lower price than the established electric brands.
The slim cabinet and clear LED display draw praise for easy DIY-friendly mounting where a licensed electrician handles the circuit.
As with any 18 kW unit, the 4.4 GPM claim only holds with warm inlet water; cold-weather flow is lower.
With a small review base, long-term reliability and support are less proven than mainstream brands — keep installation records for the warranty.
Fogatti 18 kW FAQ
Is 4.4 GPM realistic?+
Only with very warm incoming water (about a 28 °F rise). At a typical 35 °F rise an 18 kW unit delivers ~3.5 GPM, and less in cold weather — plan around the temperature-rise table.
What electrical service does it need?+
About 75 A of draw at 240 V — two 40 A double-pole breakers and 8-gauge conductors on a dedicated circuit. Confirm your panel capacity first.
Can it run a whole house?+
A small one in a warm or mild climate (a shower plus a sink). In cold climates treat it as a single-shower unit.
Sources
Price range from leading retailers
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