Welcome to our review of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus, a notable model from a renowned brand in the water heating industry. Stiebel Eltron has long been synonymous with quality and innovation, and the Tempra 36 Plus is a testament to its expertise.
This electric tankless water heater is designed for high-demand environments and cold climates. It is ideal for areas with incoming water temperatures dropping below 5°C or commercial settings requiring consistent, high flow rates.
Featuring Stiebel Eltron’s proprietary microprocessor-controlled temperature regulation, the Tempra 36 Plus includes a user-friendly digital display. This model offers remarkable flexibility, allowing users to adjust the output water temperature from 20°C to 60°C. The hallmark of the Tempra series is its true thermostatic temperature control combined with full power modulation, ensuring a steady water temperature regardless of variations in incoming water temperature and flow rate.
A notable innovation in the Tempra 36 Plus, shared by other models in the Tempra Plus series, is the Advanced Flow Control technology. This dynamic system intelligently modulates water flow when demand exceeds the heater’s capacity, an invaluable feature in colder regions like Canada. This technology is also beneficial in commercial applications where maintaining a consistent water temperature is crucial, such as in commercial dishwashers where flow rates might fluctuate.
Key Features of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus boasts advanced features, making it a leading contender in the tankless water heater market. Each feature is designed to enhance user experience, efficiency, and reliability.
Advanced Flow Control
One of the hallmark features of the Tempra Plus models, including the Tempra 36 Plus, is the Advanced Flow Control. This innovative technology steps in when the demand exceeds the heater’s capacity. It automatically adjusts the water flow, slightly reducing it to maintain the set temperature. This means users experience continuous hot water without the unpleasant surprise of sudden cold bursts, a common issue in less sophisticated models.
Self Modulation
The self-modulation feature in the Tempra models is a testament to their efficiency. This system continuously monitors the incoming water pressure, flow rate, and temperature. Based on these readings, the heater intelligently engages its heating elements in stages. This staged approach ensures that the unit uses the minimum energy necessary to reach and maintain the desired temperature, leading to significant energy savings.
Constant Temperature Output
Every Tempra model, including the Tempra 36 Plus, has technology that guarantees a steady output temperature regardless of fluctuating flow rates. This means that the temperature remains constant even if additional taps are opened or closed while using hot water. This feature ensures a consistent and comfortable hot water experience without the inconvenience of temperature fluctuations.
Unlimited Hot Water Supply
Tankless water heaters like the Tempra 36 Plus provide an endless hot water supply, in stark contrast to traditional tank heaters with a finite supply. The Tempra responds directly to demand without interruption. So, long showers or multiple back-to-back hot water uses do not lead to a drop in temperature or a wait for the tank to refill and reheat.
Energy Efficiency
The Tempra 36 Plus is significantly more energy-efficient than conventional tank water heaters, typically using 15-20% less energy. Traditional tank systems continuously heat and store water, resulting in energy loss. Moreover, gas or oil heaters are even less efficient as they require venting, an issue not present in tankless systems like the Tempra 36 Plus.
Specifications
| Thermostatically Controlled? | Digital temperature control and full power modulation based on flow rate and incoming water temperature. |
| Advanced Flow Control Technology? | Dynamic flow control technology automatically adjusts the flow of water when the unit’s sensor’s detect that the flow demand is exceeding the heater’s capacity. This feature is exclusive to Stiebel Eltron Tempra Plus Series tankless water heaters! |
| Preset Temperature Memory Buttons: | Yes |
| Flow Rate Monitor: | Yes |
| Energy Monitor Showing Cost Savings: | Yes |
| Hinged Case: | Yes |
| KW | 36 KW @ 240v / 27 KW @ 208v |
| Voltage: | 208 – 240 volts / single phase / 50 – 60 Hz |
| Max. Amps: | 150 AMPS @ 240v / 132 AMPS @ 208v |
| Breakers Required:* | 3 x 50 AMP Breakers (240 volt, double pole) |
| Wiring:* | Minimum 3 x #8 AWG Copper (depends on local codes) |
| Dimensions: | 16.6 x 14.5 x 4.6″ (42 x 36.8 x 11.7 cm) |
| Weight: | 17.6 lbs (8.6 KG) |
| Pipe Fittings: | 3/4″ NPT |
| Energy Efficiency: | 99%+ |
| Activation Flow Rate: | 0.77 GPM / 2.9 LPM |
| Max. Water Pressure: | 150 psi (tested to 300 psi) |
| Max. Output Temperature: | 60C (140F) |
| Max. Input Temperature: | 55C (131F) |
| Warranty: | Manufacturer’s 3 Year Warranty |
| Safety: | ETL Listed (US & Canada) – meets all applicable standards, including ANSI/UL 499 (USA) and CSA-E335-1/3E-94 (Canada) |
| Protection: | Microprocessor-based thermostatic temperature control (flow rate and temperature modulating) with thermal hi-limit cut-out switch monitoring each heating module. |
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus stands out for its innovative features that ensure an efficient, consistent, and reliable hot water supply. Its advanced technologies provide exceptional performance and contribute to energy savings and user convenience.
Price and Warranty Information for the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus
When considering the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus for your hot water needs, it’s important to understand the pricing and warranty aspects, as these are critical factors in making an informed decision.
Price
The price of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus can vary depending on the retailer, geographic location, and available promotions or discounts. Prospective buyers can check the latest prices through the official Stiebel Eltron website, authorized dealers, online marketplaces like Amazon, or local hardware stores. While the initial cost may be higher than some competing models, the long-term energy savings and the unit’s efficiency often justify the investment.
Warranty
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus has a solid warranty, ensuring reliability and customer confidence in their purchase. The warranty comprises a 3-year limited coverage for parts, which safeguards against any manufacturing defects or malfunctions in components. Additionally, there is a 7-year warranty against leakage, which is a significant aspect considering the durability and quality standards of the product.
This comprehensive warranty reflects Stiebel Eltron’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Users must ensure proper installation and adherence to maintenance guidelines to maintain the warranty’s validity. The unit’s advanced features, energy efficiency, and robust warranty package make the Tempra 36 Plus a prudent choice for those seeking a high-performance, reliable tankless water heater.
Pros and Cons of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus
When considering the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus for your hot water needs, weighing the advantages and potential drawbacks is important. This balanced view can help in making an informed decision.
Pros
- Reliability and Robustness: The unit is known for its reliable performance, making it a trustworthy choice for your hot water needs.
- Ideal for Large Households: Its high capacity is well-suited for large households or settings with high water demand.
- Build Quality and Durability: The heater is well-constructed, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
- Ease of Operation: The user-friendly interface makes operating and adjusting settings easy.
- Constant Temperature: The unit maintains a steady water temperature, providing a comfortable and consistent hot water experience.
- Energy Efficiency: Its energy-efficient operation leads to cost savings in the long run, making it an eco-friendly choice.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Despite its powerful performance, it boasts a compact and lightweight design, saving valuable space.
- Quiet Operation: The unit operates quietly, minimizing any noise disruption in your home.
Cons
- Limited Warranty on Parts: The 3-year warranty on parts may seem short compared to some competitors.
- Requires Significant Electrical Panel Space: The need for a 3X60 breaker means it takes up a considerable amount of panel space, which might be a concern in some homes.
- Optimal Performance in Warmer Areas: Maximum flow output is achieved in warmer areas, which might limit its efficiency in colder regions.
- Higher Initial Cost: The upfront cost of the Tempra 36 Plus is relatively high. However, this is offset by long-term savings and efficiency.
My Final Take on the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus
After thoroughly examining the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus, my final take is overwhelmingly positive. This tankless water heater is robust, efficient, and reliable, particularly suitable for large households or high-demand settings.
The unit’s ability to deliver constant-temperature water and its energy efficiency make it an excellent investment for those seeking comfort and cost savings. Its user-friendly interface and quiet operation add to the overall user satisfaction. Furthermore, the compact and lightweight design is a significant advantage, especially in homes where space is at a premium.
While the initial cost and the requirements for a larger breaker panel space might be seen as drawbacks, these are relatively minor when weighed against the long-term benefits. The 3-year warranty on parts is standard, and the 7-year leakage warranty provides additional peace of mind.
In conclusion, the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus is an outstanding choice for anyone in the market for a high-capacity, energy-efficient tankless water heater. Its advantages far outweigh the cons, making it a wise choice for long-term, sustainable, and comfortable hot water solutions in your home.
