In-Depth Review of Stiebel Eltron Tempra 24 Plus Tankless Electric Water Heater

Description

Performance and Efficiency of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW

The Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 24 kW impressed me with its smooth operation and consistent hot water delivery. Its self-modulating power technology truly lives up to the promise of energy efficiency. Instead of blasting full power regardless of demand, this water heater adjusts its output based on flow rate, which helps reduce electricity consumption. I noticed that it maintained stable water temperature even when multiple taps were running, thanks to its advanced flow control feature. This made showers enjoyable without sudden temperature fluctuations, which is something I’ve experienced with other tankless systems.

The 24-kilowatt heat output is powerful enough for most household needs. However, the maximum flow rate of 0.8 gallons per minute means it’s best suited for point-of-use or smaller setups rather than large households with multiple simultaneous uses. Its rapid heating capabilities are noticeable; water warms up almost instantly, eliminating the wait time associated with traditional tanks.

Installation and Design Considerations

Mounting this wall-mounted, indoor electric water heater was a straightforward process, but its 20-pound weight requires a sturdy installation point. The gray finish fits unobtrusively in utility rooms or tight spaces. Compared to tank systems, this unit’s compact design frees up valuable floor space, which I appreciated in my cramped laundry room.

The unit operates on 240 volts, so it demands a dedicated circuit and proper electrical setup. I had a professional electrician handle this part, and they noted that the 24 KW wattage requires adequate wiring and breaker compatibility. For anyone considering this model, ensuring your home’s electrical system can support these specs is crucial before purchase.

Key Benefits of Using This Tankless System

Several features stood out positively during my use:

• Energy-efficient operation that adjusts power based on actual water flow.
• Instant hot water delivery with minimal lag time.
• Compact size and wall mounting save space.
• Reliable temperature stability thanks to the advanced flow control.
• Quiet operation, which was a pleasant surprise compared to older heaters.

These aspects combined to create a pleasant everyday experience, especially during colder days when hot water is a must. Family members commented on how they no longer had to fiddle with knobs or wait for water to heat up, which is always a win in busy households.

Areas for Improvement

However, the system isn’t without its quirks and limitations:

• The maximum flow rate limitation means it can’t handle multiple high-demand outlets simultaneously without temperature drops.
• Installation complexity due to electrical requirements might add to upfront costs.
• The initial investment is higher compared to traditional tank heaters.
• No battery backup means power outages leave you without hot water.
• The control panel interface could be more intuitive; it takes some getting used to for temperature adjustments.

In my experience, these drawbacks might deter some potential users, especially if their household demands exceed the unit’s capacity or if they expect plug-and-play simplicity.

Comparing Against Competitors

Looking at competing products like the EcoSmart ECO 27 or Rheem RTEX-24, the Stiebel Eltron model holds its ground firmly in energy efficiency and temperature control. Unlike some competitors, it doesn’t suffer from drastic temperature swings under varying water flow conditions, which is a big plus. However, the EcoSmart offers a slightly higher flow rate, which might suit larger families better.

The Rheem model is often praised for its more user-friendly digital interface, which makes programming and monitoring easier. The Tempra Plus, while technically advanced, demands patience for mastering its settings. Safety-wise, the Stiebel Eltron’s advanced flow control adds a layer of protection by preventing overheating and scalding, a feature that not all rivals emphasize.

Price Performance and Value Proposition

Considering its features, this tankless water heater offers a solid price-to-quality ratio. The investment might seem steep initially compared to standard tank units, but the energy savings over time and the convenience of endless hot water balance the cost well. For those focused on reducing their utility bills while upgrading to modern technology, this product justifies its price point.

Keep in mind, the energy-efficient operation paired with the self-modulating power technology means you aren’t wasting electricity heating water you don’t use. This makes it a smart choice for anyone environmentally conscious or looking to lower monthly bills without sacrificing comfort.

Usability and User Experience

Daily use reveals some thoughtful design features. The unit’s digital display allows precise temperature settings, and the advanced flow control adapts seamlessly to water demand. That said, my partner found the control buttons a bit fiddly at first, requiring a manual to understand the full functionality. Once familiar, it became easier to tweak settings for different household scenarios.

One interesting observation came from my teenager, who appreciated the instant hot water after basketball practice. No more long waits or cold bursts before the heater kicked in. Plus, since it’s electric, it avoids the combustion risks associated with gas water heaters, which gives peace of mind especially in homes with kids.

Summary of Positive Features

• Energy-efficient self-modulating power reduces electricity waste.
• Advanced flow control maintains consistent temperature.
• Compact wall-mounted design saves space in tight spots.
• Quick and near-instant hot water delivery.
• Quiet operation ideal for indoor installation.

Summary of Limitations

• Limited to a maximum flow rate of 0.8 gallons per minute.
• Requires professional electrical setup due to high wattage.
• User interface could be more user-friendly.
• No hot water during power outages.
• Higher upfront cost compared to traditional water heaters.

This combination of strengths and weaknesses paints a clear picture of where this tankless electric water heater fits best. It excels in energy efficiency and temperature stability but isn’t the ideal choice for heavy simultaneous use or those seeking the simplest installation process.

Additional information