The Eemax SP series is the brand's smallest electric tankless line — single-point-of-use heaters designed for one fixture installation under a sink or close to a single faucet. SP units handle low-flow handwash applications where central hot water is impractical or excessive.
SP models
- SP12: 1.2 kW, 110V plug-in — light residential lavatory, very low flow rates
- SP35: 3.5 kW, 240V hardwired — typical residential under-sink application
- SP55: 5.5 kW, 240V hardwired — higher flow residential or light commercial
What "single-point" means in practice
SP heaters serve one fixture. The unit doesn't have capacity for simultaneous use of multiple fixtures. Installing an SP under a kitchen sink provides instant hot water at that sink only — not at any other fixture. For multi-fixture or whole-house service, larger Eemax models (HomeAdvantage) are appropriate.
Typical use cases
- Garage utility sink — no need to run hot water lines from the main heater
- Outdoor kitchen sink — point-of-use heating avoids underground hot water lines
- Detached workshop or shed lavatory
- Office breakroom sink in commercial fit-out
- Basement bathroom 50+ feet from the main water heater
Installation requirements
SP12 plug-in models require only a standard outlet. SP35 and SP55 require hardwiring to a dedicated 20–30A 240V circuit with disconnect. Water connections are 1/2" or 3/8" compression typically. Mount on wall or under counter. No venting required (electric — no combustion).
Flow rate considerations
At 0.5 GPM (typical low-flow handwash faucet aerator), the SP35 delivers approximately 105°F outlet from 65°F inlet. Higher flows demand more wattage — SP55 supports faster flows at the same temperature rise. Verify your fixture's flow rate and inlet water temperature against the SP model's capacity chart before purchasing.
SP35 vs alternatives at the same price point
- vs mini-tank (Bosch Tronic, Eccotemp EM): SP has no standby loss, no tank to fail, but provides only flowing hot water — no buffer for instant high-volume draws.
- vs hot-water dispenser (InSinkErator HotSpot): SP is general-purpose flow heating; dispenser is dedicated tap with chrome faucet at 200°F.
- vs central recirculation: SP avoids the energy cost of constant pump operation in long-pipe-run scenarios.
Lifespan
SP units in residential service typically last 10–15 years. Heating element is the most common service item at year 5–8. Inlet screen cleaning twice yearly extends life. In hard-water areas, periodic descaling prevents heat exchanger fouling.
Warranty
SP series carries 5-year heat exchanger warranty, 1-year parts. Rheem-backed service network handles claims.