I first heard about Stiebel Eltron tankless water heaters a few years ago when I was working on a renovation project for a friend’s cottage. They wanted something more energy-efficient than their old clunky water heater. So, I dug deep into research, and Stiebel Eltron kept coming up as a top recommendation. Being the curious plumber I am, I decided to install one myself to see if the hype was real.
The Moment of Truth: Installing Stiebel Eltron
Let me tell you—right off the bat, the installation process was simpler than I expected for a tankless system. I went with the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29, and the unit was surprisingly compact. It had clear instructions, which is a big deal for a guy who’s handled every type of heater under the sun.
Here’s what I experienced:
Performance Overview:
- Endless Hot Water: One thing that immediately stood out was the continuous hot water. Imagine no more “running out of hot water” when someone takes a long shower before you.
- Energy Efficiency: Stiebel Eltron is renowned for its energy-saving technology. After monitoring energy consumption for a few months, my electric bills dropped. This unit adjusts power consumption based on hot water demand—a feature called Advanced Flow Control.
Pros of Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heaters:
- Compact Design: These units save a lot of space compared to bulky traditional water heaters. They can be mounted on a wall, tucked away in a small closet or utility room.
- Energy Savings: I’ve installed dozens of water heaters in my time, but this one is impressive. The Stiebel Eltron heaters only use electricity when needed, meaning no standby heat loss like conventional tanks.
- Endless Hot Water: Whether you have a big family or just love long showers, the Stiebel Eltron keeps the hot water flowing, even if multiple fixtures are running at once.
- Durability: You know how most heaters corrode or require maintenance after a couple of years? Stiebel Eltron heaters have durable components that withstand the test of time, with many customers reporting years of trouble-free use.
- Quiet Operation: Some tankless water heaters sound like a jet engine when they kick in, but this unit is whisper-quiet. You might even forget it’s there.
Cons of Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water Heaters:
- Upfront Cost: Stiebel Eltron units, like most tankless systems, are more expensive upfront compared to traditional water heaters. However, the energy savings over time usually balance this out.
- Installation Challenges for Some Homes: If your home doesn’t have a 240V electrical system or proper wiring, you’ll need an electrician to upgrade it. This can increase installation costs.
- Initial Temperature Fluctuations: When I first installed mine, I noticed a few slight temperature fluctuations, especially when someone turned on another fixture. However, this was resolved after adjusting the Advanced Flow Control settings.
Which Model Should You Choose?
Stiebel Eltron offers a range of models, but let me break it down for you based on your needs:
| Model | Ideal For | Flow Rate | Max Power Output | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tempra 12 Plus | Small homes, 1-2 people | 1.5 GPM | 12 kW | Advanced Flow Control |
| Tempra 24 Plus | Medium homes, 3-4 people | 4.0 GPM | 24 kW | Consistent hot water, space-saving design |
| Tempra 29 Plus | Large homes, 4+ people | 5.5 GPM | 29 kW | Best for large families with multiple water demands |
Pro Tip:
- For colder climates, I’d recommend going up a size. The unit’s performance can decrease in colder temperatures, especially if groundwater temperature is low.
Is Stiebel Eltron Right for You?
After a year of using my Stiebel Eltron Tempra, I can say it’s been a game-changer for both my home and several clients I’ve recommended it to. If you’re in the market for a tankless system, here’s how you can determine if this brand is right for you:
- Large Household? You’ll love the constant flow of hot water.
- Energy-Savvy? The electric consumption savings are real, and you’ll notice a difference in your monthly bills.
- Limited Space? These units can easily be installed in tight spaces.
- Upgrading an Old System? Be prepared for potential electrical upgrades if your current system isn’t up to par.
Final Verdict:
In my experience, the Stiebel Eltron tankless water heaters live up to their reputation. The efficiency and endless hot water they offer make them well worth the investment. Just keep in mind that the installation may require some adjustments to your home’s electrical system, but once it’s up and running, you’ll likely wonder why you didn’t switch sooner.
So, is it worth the hype? Absolutely. If you want reliable, energy-efficient, and compact water heating for your home, I’d say go for it.