Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus Tankless Water Heater Review with Siemens Circuit Breaker Insights

Description

Positive Features of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus

Testing the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus unveiled several standout features that genuinely impressed me. This tankless water heater uses Advanced Flow Control German patented technology to maintain a consistent water temperature, which means no more sudden cold shocks during showers. The unit adjusts water flow automatically if the demand exceeds its capacity, ensuring comfort without interruption. This little marvel is also energy efficient, typically using 15-20% less energy than traditional tank heaters, mainly because it eliminates standby heat loss by heating water only on demand.

Another perk I found useful was the digital display with temperature control. It’s straightforward to adjust the water temperature electronically, and the unit’s auto-modulation feature optimizes power use based on the flow rate, which is quite smart. The compact, white, wall-mounted design blends well in my utility room and saves a ton of space compared to bulky conventional tank heaters. Plus, the package includes a 50-Amp, 240V double pole circuit breaker, adding an extra layer of safety and convenience.

• Consistent water temperature with Advanced Flow Control
• Energy savings with no standby heat loss
• Digital temperature display and electronic switch
• Compact, space-saving design
• Safety-enhancing circuit breaker included

Limitations to Keep in Mind

Despite its many advantages, this unit has a few quirks and limitations worth mentioning. For starters, the minimum water flow to activate the heater is 0.5 gallons per minute, which might cause issues if you have very low water pressure or if you’re using ultra-low flow fixtures. I noticed that in situations where multiple outlets demand hot water simultaneously, the heater’s flow control reduces water output, which could make showering with multiple users a bit less comfortable.

Installation isn’t exactly plug-and-play either. This heater requires a minimum 150 Amp household electric service and two 50 Amp double pole breakers, so homes without robust electrical infrastructure may need costly upgrades. Additionally, the maximum inlet water temperature is capped at 131°F, which is fine for most but something to be aware of if you expect hotter feed water. The unit’s weight is around 16 pounds and it needs a solid wall mount, so mounting options are somewhat limited.

• Requires strong electrical service (150 Amp minimum)
• Flow control can limit water output under high demand
• Minimum flow activation might not suit low pressure homes
• Installation complexity due to electrical requirements

Temperature Control and Digital Interface

I appreciate how intuitive the temperature control on this tankless heater is. The digital display clearly shows the current temperature setting, and adjusting it is as simple as pressing buttons on the electronic switch. This is a big step up from older mechanical dial controls that were often inaccurate or frustrating to manipulate. The heater can handle temperature rises of up to 92°F at 1.5 GPM, providing plenty of hot water even for larger households.

The auto-modulation feature impressed me by dynamically adjusting power consumption based on water flow. It feels like the unit is always optimizing itself, which translates to energy savings without sacrificing comfort. Having this kind of fine control over hot water temperature means fewer complaints from family members about water being too hot or too cold.

Safety and Electrical Features

Including the Siemens 50-Amp Double Pole Type QP Circuit Breaker in the bundle was a smart move, providing excellent overload and short-circuit protection. This breaker is compatible with Siemens PL and ES series load centers and supports 240V systems, which fits perfectly with the heater’s requirements. I felt reassured knowing the electrical system was safeguarded against potential hazards like surges and overheating.

It’s worth mentioning that the manufacturer emphasizes using only new, genuine Siemens breakers to avoid voiding warranties. That attention to detail in electrical safety is a definite plus for anyone concerned about electrical fires or electrocution risks. The thermal-magnetic circuit breaker mechanism is a key component for protecting household wiring and the heater itself.

Product Competitors and Comparisons

Comparing this electric tankless heater to other popular models like the Rinnai or EcoSmart units reveals some clear distinctions. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus shines in its advanced temperature regulation and energy efficiency, particularly due to its patented flow control technology. Many competitors offer tankless units with digital controls, but not all have the same refined modulation that prevents temperature fluctuations when multiple taps run simultaneously.

On the downside, some gas-powered tankless heaters can handle higher flow rates without reducing output, which might suit larger households better. However, they require venting and tend to be less energy efficient overall. Compared to other electric models, this heater’s compact design and inclusion of a circuit breaker provide a more complete and safer package out of the box. If electrical infrastructure isn’t a limitation, this unit holds its ground well against rivals.

Value Assessment: Is It Worth the Investment?

Considering the features, energy savings, and safety aspects, this tankless water heater offers a strong value proposition for homeowners looking to upgrade from conventional tank heaters. The energy efficiency alone can lead to noticeable savings on utility bills, especially since it avoids standby heat loss. Coupled with the precise temperature control and compact footprint, it justifies the investment for many users.

That said, the upfront costs related to required electrical upgrades and installation complexity should be factored in. If you have the proper electrical setup, this unit represents smart spending for consistent hot water delivery without wasting energy. The inclusion of the Siemens circuit breaker adds safety and convenience that some competing products don’t bundle, increasing the overall cost-effectiveness.

Installation and Space Considerations

Mounting this heater on a wall proved straightforward, but I had to ensure the electrical wiring matched the specifications exactly. The unit requires two runs of 6/2 AWG copper wire and a minimum 150 Amp service, which might be a dealbreaker for older homes without electrical upgrades. The compact size—only about 9 inches deep and 16 pounds—makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, unlike traditional tank water heaters that take up a whole corner.

In a household where space is at a premium, this tankless option is a welcome change. It freed up a cupboard area previously occupied by a bulky tank, much to the delight of my spouse who appreciates more storage room. The sleek white finish looks modern and clean, fitting nicely into utility rooms or basements without standing out awkwardly.

Downsides Not to Overlook

Despite many good points, there are some downsides worth mentioning. The unit’s flow rate is capped, meaning it isn’t ideal for homes with multiple simultaneous hot water demands unless you’re okay with reduced pressure. The need for two 50 Amp breakers might require electrical panel upgrades, which can be expensive and inconvenient. Also, the digital controls depend on reliable power, so a power outage means no hot water at all.

Some reviewers have noted that the initial cost and installation complexity outweigh the savings for smaller households or those with limited electrical capacity. Also, the temperature adjustment increments are somewhat coarse, which might frustrate users wanting ultra-fine tuning. While the safety features are great, the installation and wiring requirements demand a professional electrician, adding to setup costs.

• Limited maximum flow rate may affect multiple simultaneous uses
• Requires substantial electrical service and wiring upgrades
• Dependent on stable electricity—no hot water during outages
• Temperature increments could be finer for precision tuning

Using the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus has been an eye-opening experience in efficient, on-demand hot water technology. Its blend of energy-saving features, precise temperature control, and safety measures makes it a compelling choice for those willing to invest in electrical infrastructure upgrades. Although it has some limitations regarding flow capacity and installation demands, the overall utility and performance stand out in the crowded electric tankless water heater market.

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