Finding the right water heater can be a frustrating experience, particularly with the myriad of options available today. Homeowners often face the dilemma of choosing between traditional tank heaters and modern tankless systems, which promise efficiency and endless hot water. With countless brands and models cluttering the market, it’s easy to get lost in the specifications and marketing jargon.
A great tankless water heater should not only provide a reliable supply of hot water but also save energy and space in your home. When evaluating options, consider factors like flow rate, energy consumption, installation requirements, and the specific needs of your household. Choosing wisely can lead to significant savings on energy bills and improved comfort.
In this guide, we’ve narrowed down five top Tempra tankless water heaters. Each model offers unique features tailored to different needs, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your home.
Comparing the key specifications can help you quickly assess which model aligns best with your requirements:
| Features | Tempra 15 Plus | Tempra 29 Plus | Tempra 20 Plus | Tempra Plus 29 | Rheem RTEX-24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Rating | 14.4kW | 28.8kW | 19.2kW | 29kW | 24kW |
| Voltage | 240V | 240V | 240V | 240V | 240V |
| Flow Rate | 1.5-3.5 GPM | 4.5-8.0 GPM | 2.0-5.0 GPM | 3.0-8.0 GPM | 2.5-5.9 GPM |
| Temperature Range | 68-140°F | 68-140°F | 68-140°F | 68-140°F | 80-140°F |
| Best Use Case | Small family | Large home | Medium home | Large home | Medium home |
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 15 Plus
Stiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 15 Plus Electric Tankless Water Heater, 14.4kW, 240V | Made in Germany; 2x30A breakers, 60A draw; Advanced Flow Control; Eco design; Energy+cost savings up to 34% in whole-home use
- CONTINUOUS FLOW – Advanced Flow Control patented technology invented by Stiebel Eltron, automatically maintains water temperature…
- SPACE & ENERGY SAVER – Its small, sleek white design saves space yet still provides endless hot water for your whole house, and no…
- EASY OPERATION – Electronic switch activates the hot water heater and it’s noise free while in use. Has a digital temperature disp…
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 15 Plus is a compact and efficient electric tankless water heater, ideal for small households or apartments. It’s perfect for users who need a reliable source of hot water without the bulk and energy waste associated with traditional tank systems.
This model stands out for its Advanced Flow Control technology, which maintains a consistent water temperature, ensuring hot showers are uninterrupted even during peak usage times. Users appreciate the energy efficiency, as it can save up to 34% on energy costs compared to conventional water heaters.
However, it’s important to note that the Tempra 15 Plus might not meet the hot water demands of larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms. Its output is best suited for situations where simultaneous use is limited.
- Power rating: 14.4kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow rate: 1.5-3.5 GPM
- Temperature range: 68-140°F
- Requires 100A electric service
Best for: Small families or apartments needing efficient hot water.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus
Stiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus Electric Tankless Water Heater, 28.8kW, 240V | Made in Germany; 3x40A breakers/120A draw; Advanced Flow Control; Eco design; Energy+cost savings up to 34% in whole-home use
- On demand a continuous and unlimited supply of hot water
- Sleek design saves space and no venting required, It also features two different temperature memory presets, making it easy to adj…
- Requires hard-wired 240 or 208-volt electric service, with a maximum draw of 28,800 watts at 240 volts or 21,600 watts at 208 volt…
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is engineered for larger households, providing a robust hot water supply for multiple fixtures simultaneously. This model is suitable for families who prioritize performance and depend on consistent hot water across various appliances.
This unit excels with its high power rating of 28.8kW, allowing for a flow rate of up to 8.0 GPM. Its ability to handle high demand without compromising temperature offers a significant advantage for larger homes.
One downside is the installation requirements; it necessitates three dedicated 40A breakers and a 200A total service. This could present challenges for homes with limited electrical infrastructure.
- Power rating: 28.8kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow rate: 4.5-8.0 GPM
- Temperature range: 68-140°F
- Requires 200A electric service
Best for: Large families needing extensive hot water supply.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus
Stiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus Tankless Water Heater, 19.2kW, White | Tempra 20 Plus; on-demand hot water; Eco; 19.2kW electric; white; made in Germany
- CONTINUOUS FLOW – Advanced Flow Control patented technology invented by Stiebel Eltron, automatically maintains water temperature…
- SPACE & ENERGY SAVER – Its small, sleek white design saves space yet still provides endless hot water for your whole house, and no…
- EASY OPERATION – Electronic switch activates the hot water heater and it’s noise free while in use. Has a digital temperature disp…
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 20 Plus balances efficiency with performance, making it an excellent choice for medium-sized homes. This model is well-suited for families who require a steady supply of hot water but don’t want to invest in the more powerful 29 Plus model.
It features the same Advanced Flow Control technology found in other Tempra models, ensuring consistent water temperature. At 19.2kW, it delivers an adequate flow rate of up to 5.0 GPM, making it suitable for moderate hot water needs.
However, its availability may be limited, making it difficult to purchase. This could be a drawback if you’re looking to replace an existing unit quickly.
- Power rating: 19.2kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow rate: 2.0-5.0 GPM
- Temperature range: 68-140°F
- Requires 125A electric service
Best for: Medium households with moderate hot water needs.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29
Stiebel Eltron
Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29 Tankless Water Heater, 29kW, Gray | Tempra Plus 29kW electric tankless; Self-Modulating Power Technology; Advanced Flow Control; gray
- Proven reliability
- No venting required
- Sleek design fits anywhere
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus 29 is designed for those who demand efficiency and performance. This model is particularly suitable for large households with multiple bathrooms and high hot water usage.
Its sleek design and high capacity of 29kW allow for an impressive flow rate, ensuring everyone in the household enjoys hot water whenever needed. The self-modulating power technology ensures optimal energy use without sacrificing performance.
However, installation can be complex, and it requires professional setup to ensure it meets the electrical demands. It’s essential to ensure your home’s electrical system can support this unit.
- Power rating: 29kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow rate: 3.0-8.0 GPM
- Temperature range: 68-140°F
- Requires 200A electric service
Best for: Large households with high hot water demands.
Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V E…
Rheem
Rheem RTEX-24 24kW 240V Electric Tankless Water Heater, Gray
- Get the performance you expect. Choose the right size water heater for your home and verify electrical requirements before install…
- 24kW model provides up to 5.9 GPM
- Multiple fixture applicatons
The Rheem RTEX-24 is an excellent alternative for those seeking reliable performance at a slightly lower capacity. This model suits medium-sized homes that require a dependable hot water supply without the high power demands of larger units.
With a power rating of 24kW, it delivers up to 5.9 GPM, making it efficient for common household tasks. Its digital thermostatic controls allow for precise temperature adjustments, enhancing user experience and comfort.
While it offers good performance, it might not be sufficient for larger homes with simultaneous high hot water demands. Users should assess their specific needs before purchasing.
- Power rating: 24kW
- Voltage: 240V
- Flow rate: 2.5-5.9 GPM
- Temperature range: 80-140°F
- Requires 200A electric service
Best for: Medium households needing reliable hot water.
How We Chose These Products
The selection process for these products involved thorough research and comparison of features, performance ratings, and user feedback. We focused on brands known for their reliability and innovation in the tankless water heater market, particularly the Stiebel Eltron series.
We also considered the specific needs of different households, such as family size and hot water usage patterns. This ensured that our recommendations address a variety of consumer requirements, making it easier for buyers to choose the best fit.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
When selecting a tankless water heater, consider the flow rate, which determines how much hot water the unit can provide simultaneously. Evaluate your household’s peak hot water usage to ensure the selected model meets demand.
Energy efficiency is another critical factor. Look for models with self-modulating technology to optimize energy consumption. This feature can lead to significant savings on energy bills over time.
Finally, installation requirements can vary significantly between models. Ensure your home’s electrical system can support the chosen unit to avoid complications during installation.
Our Top Recommendation
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus emerges as the top recommendation due to its high capacity, efficiency, and reliability. It’s particularly well-suited for large households with substantial hot water needs. For those with smaller demands, the Tempra 15 Plus serves as an excellent alternative, providing efficiency and performance in a compact package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a tankless water heater? Tankless water heaters typically last 15-20 years, significantly longer than traditional tank heaters, which usually last 10-15 years.
Can I install a tankless water heater myself? While it’s possible, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper electrical connections and compliance with local codes.
How do I maintain my tankless water heater? Regular maintenance includes descaling the unit annually to prevent mineral buildup, which can affect performance.
Do tankless water heaters require venting? No, electric tankless water heaters do not require venting, making installation simpler and more flexible compared to gas models.
What size tankless water heater do I need? Size depends on your household’s hot water usage; calculate total peak GPM needs to choose the right model. For more on this, check out our guide on increasing hot water flow.
What’s the best way to winterize my tankless water heater? Winterizing involves shutting off the water supply and draining the unit, preventing damage during freezing temperatures. For more tips on tankless heater maintenance, see our comparison of different heater types.
