Marey ECO180
The Marey ECO180 is an 18 kW, 240-volt self-modulating electric tankless positioned as a budget whole-home unit for warm climates. It uses a stainless water channel and heating chamber, a corrosion-resistant heating element, and is ETL certified, with a 5-year warranty. Marey advertises 4.0 GPM at a 36 °F rise (up to 4.4 GPM at 31 °F), enough for up to three points of use in hot climates — but only about 1.5 GPM at an 80 °F rise, which is the honest cold-climate reality of any 18 kW unit.
Two things deserve emphasis. First, the electrical demand is real: Marey calls for two 50-amp double-pole breakers on 6-gauge wire and recommends at least 150-amp service — heavier than some competing 18 kW units. Second, and more important for buyers, the ECO180 carries a notably mixed support and reliability record. Owner reports include unresponsive customer service, difficulty getting parts and warranty help, heating-element and thermostat failures, and newer units drawing enough current to dim house lights. When it's installed correctly and works, owners are happy; the risk is what happens if it doesn't.
Key Features
Best Use Cases
Our Verdict
A cheap way into an 18 kW whole-home electric heater for a warm climate — with a real asterisk. The performance is standard for 18 kW, but Marey's documented support and reliability problems make it a gamble compared with pricier brands. Consider it only if the low price outweighs the risk, your panel can supply the heavy load, and you have a qualified installer.
What owners report
Themes summarized from verified-purchase reviews across major retailers (3.9★ average, 127 ratings). These are aggregated owner opinions — not our own bench testing.
Many owners report it installs easily and delivers reliable endless hot water in warm climates for the price.
A recurring, well-documented theme: owners struggle to reach Marey for parts or warranty help, citing unanswered calls and emails.
Some owners report heating-element and thermostat failures, and note installation instructions that didn't match the unit.
Reports include newer units pulling enough current to dim house lights on activation — confirm your service can handle it.
Marey ECO180 FAQ
What electrical service does the ECO180 need?+
Marey specifies two 50-amp double-pole breakers on 6-gauge wire and recommends at least 150-amp service — a heavy load, so confirm your panel before buying.
Will it run a whole house?+
In a warm climate, roughly three points of use at ~4 GPM. In cold climates it drops to about 1.5 GPM at an 80 °F rise — effectively a single fixture.
What's the catch with this unit?+
Price is its strength; support is its weakness. Owners frequently report trouble reaching Marey for parts or warranty service, so factor that risk into the decision.
Is it self-modulating?+
Yes — it adjusts power to demand for efficient operation, which is standard for quality electric tankless units in this class.
Sources
Price range from leading retailers
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