Isotherm Water Heater Difference SPA vs Basic

[Bay Pelican]

Isotherm sells both a SPA (Plastic shell) and a Basic (Stainless) 6.5 gallon water heater. Both have a stainless tank. I don't think the material of the outside shell is important in my installation. Question is does anyone know of any differences between the units that affect performance?

The price difference is $300.

 

[Carolena]

We researched and purchased an Isotherm a few years ago for our sailboat. I don't recall any performance differences between the plastic and stainless shells. We opted for stainless, because the tank was located in the cockpit locker where we also stored a lot of equipment.

 

[On The Rocks]

I have the plastic one and it works great. As far as I know there are no performance differences.

 

[Bay Pelican]

Called Isotherm. Their tech said they were identical units with just a cover difference. The price differential is a couple of hundred dollars.

Thanks for the comments.