Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE vs Stiebel Eltron: Tankless Water Heaters Compared by Specs
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This Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE vs stiebel eltron tankless water heater comparison highlights two very different heating solutions. Both units provide on-demand hot water without a storage tank. The main difference lies in their power source and intended setting. One unit runs on propane for outdoor use, while the other uses electricity for indoor installation. You need to choose based on your location and power availability.
Key differences
| Aspect | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Indoor |
| Voltage | Not listed | 240 V |
| Wattage | Not listed | 28,800 W |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 19 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater if
- You need a portable heater for camping or RV trips
- You require a unit that operates without grid electricity
- You want a lightweight device for off-grid locations
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless if
- You are installing a permanent unit in a home
- You have a 240-volt electrical service available
- You need a high-capacity heater for indoor showers
Verdict: The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE is the practical choice for outdoor adventures and off-grid living. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is better suited for permanent indoor installations with adequate electrical infrastructure. Your decision depends entirely on whether you need portability or permanent power.
Spec Comparison: Camplux vs Stiebel Eltron
Fuel Type
The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE uses propane as its fuel source. This allows it to operate independently of the electrical grid. You can use it in remote locations, cabins, or during power outages. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus relies entirely on electricity. It requires a dedicated hard-wired connection to your home’s electrical system. This means you cannot use the Stiebel Eltron unit outdoors or in areas without stable power. Propane offers mobility, while electric offers a fixed, permanent installation.
Installation Location
Installation location is a major differentiator between these two units. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE is designed specifically for outdoor use. Its compact size and propane operation make it ideal for camping, RV trips, or outdoor showers. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is intended for indoor installation. It requires a permanent connection to your home’s plumbing and electrical system. You cannot install the Stiebel Eltron unit outside. If you need hot water for a fixed bathroom or kitchen, the Stiebel Eltron is the only viable option here.
Flow Rate
Flow rate determines how much hot water you get per minute. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE delivers 1.32 gallons per minute (GPM). This is sufficient for a single shower or washing dishes outdoors. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus does not list a specific GPM in the provided data. However, it features 28,800 watts of power at 240 volts. Higher wattage typically supports higher flow rates for whole-house use. Without a stated GPM for the Stiebel Eltron, we cannot directly compare the output volume. The Camplux has a clear, stated flow rate.
Voltage and Power
Power requirements differ significantly. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE needs only 3.0 PSI water pressure and two D-size batteries for ignition. It does not require electricity to operate the heater itself. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus requires a hard-wired 240-volt or 208-volt electric service. It draws a maximum of 28,800 watts at 240 volts. This unit needs three separate dedicated 40-amp breakers and 8-gauge copper wiring. It also requires a minimum 200-amp total service to the residence. The Camplux is far easier to power in off-grid scenarios.
Weight and Portability
Portability is key for outdoor use. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE weighs only 10 pounds. It includes a folding handle, making it easy to carry in a car or RV. Its dimensions are 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus weighs 19 pounds. It is larger, measuring 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches. This unit is designed to be mounted permanently on a wall. It is not portable. If you need to move the heater or take it camping, the Camplux is the clear choice for lightness and size.
Safety Certifications
Safety features vary by design. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE is CSA certified. It includes 6-in-1 protection, such as overheat and anti-flame safety checks. This is crucial for gas-powered outdoor units. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus does not list specific safety certifications in the provided data. It does feature two temperature memory presets for personalized control. This helps prevent scalding by maintaining consistent temperatures. While both units have safety mechanisms, the Camplux has explicit third-party certification listed.
Which Tankless Water Heater Fits You
Camping and off-grid travelers
This Camplux unit weighs 10 lbs and runs on propane. It starts with just 3.0 PSI water pressure, making it ideal for remote cabins or RVs. The compact 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inch size fits easily in your vehicle. You get 1.32 GPM of hot water without needing electricity.
Homeowners with 200 amp service
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers high-capacity electric heating. It requires 240V power and three 40-amp breakers. This unit is designed for permanent indoor installation. It offers two temperature memory presets for consistent control. Choose this if you have the necessary electrical infrastructure for continuous hot water.
Users needing portable outdoor showers
Portability is key here. The Camplux features a folding handle and weighs only 10 lbs. It operates on two D-size batteries for ignition. The CSA certification ensures safety for family use outdoors. You can set it up in minutes with the included shower head and hoses. It is perfect for washing off sand or mud.
The products compared
Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater
Best for: camping and off-grid showers
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 1.32 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Certification
- CSA
- Dimensions
- 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches
- Use
- Camping, RV
View on Amazon: Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater Affiliate link
This Camplux model is a lightweight, propane-powered tankless water heater designed for outdoor use. It delivers 1.32 GPM of hot water and weighs only 10 lbs. The unit requires no electricity, starting with just 3.0 PSI of water pressure. It includes CSA certification for safety. This heater suits campers, RV travelers, and off-grid users who need portable, instant hot water for showers or cleaning tasks.
Pros
- Weighs only 10 lbs with a folding handle for easy transport
- Delivers 1.32 GPM flow rate for instant hot water
- Starts with low water pressure of 3.0 PSI
- CSA certified with 6-in-1 safety protections
- Includes shower head, gas regulator, and hoses for setup
Cons
- Limited to 1.32 GPM flow rate
- Requires D-size batteries for ignition
- Designed for outdoor installation only
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight heater for camping or RV trips
- You have low water pressure or use a gravity-fed system
- You want a propane unit that does not need electricity
Skip if
- You need high flow rates for multiple fixtures
- You plan to install the unit indoors
- You require electric-powered operation
Verdict: Camplux 5L Portable Propane Heater is a compact, battery-operated solution for campers and RVers needing portable hot water. It fits users who prioritize portability and low-pressure operation over high flow capacity.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: whole-house electric hot water
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 28.8 kW
- Voltage
- 208 V, 240 V
- Dimensions
- 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in
- Use
- Whole House
- Weight
- 19 pounds
View on Amazon: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless Affiliate link
This electric tankless heater delivers 28.8 kW of power at 240 volts. It provides continuous hot water without venting. The unit includes two temperature memory presets for easy adjustment. You need three dedicated 40-amp breakers and 8-gauge copper wiring. It fits well in homes with 200-amp electrical service. The compact design saves space behind walls or in utility rooms.
Pros
- 28,800 watts output at 240 volts
- Two temperature memory presets
- No venting required
- Compact 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inch size
Cons
- Requires three separate 40 amp breakers
- Needs 8 gauge copper wiring
- Limited to two temperature presets
Good fit if
- You have a 200 amp electrical service
- You want continuous hot water without venting
- You prefer simple temperature memory presets
Skip if
- You only have a 100 amp electrical panel
- You cannot run three dedicated 40 amp circuits
- You need more than two temperature settings
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus suits homes with robust electrical infrastructure needing high-flow hot water. It is ideal for whole-house use where venting is not an option.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 1.32 GPM | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 28.8 kW |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | 208 V, 240 V |
| Certification | CSA | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in |
| Use | Camping, RV | Whole House |
| Features | Overheat Protection | not stated |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 19 pounds |
| Size | Classic | 29 (kW) |
| Color | White | White |
| Model | AY132 | 239223 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater be used indoors?
No. The Camplux unit is designed for outdoor installation only. It uses propane fuel, which produces combustion gases that must be vented safely outside. Using it in an enclosed space poses a serious safety risk. The Stiebel Eltron electric model is different, as it does not produce combustion byproducts, but it requires specific electrical wiring.
What is the weight difference between the two tankless heaters?
The Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater weighs 10 pounds. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus weighs 19 pounds. The Camplux unit is lighter, making it easier to carry for camping or RV trips. The Stiebel Eltron is heavier due to its robust internal components for whole-house electric heating.
Does the Stiebel Eltron require a gas line for installation?
No. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is an electric tankless water heater. It does not use gas. Instead, it requires a 240V electrical connection and 8 kW of power. You must ensure your home has the necessary electrical infrastructure to support this voltage and wattage requirement for proper operation.
What are the dimensions of the Camplux portable unit?
The Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater measures 14.8 inches in length, 11.4 inches in width, and 4.33 inches in height. These compact dimensions allow it to fit easily into small spaces, such as RV storage compartments or camping gear bags. Its classic white color helps it blend in with outdoor equipment.
Is overheat protection included on the Camplux heater?
Yes. The Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater includes overheat protection. This safety feature helps prevent the water from becoming dangerously hot during use. It adds a layer of security for campers and RVers who need reliable hot water without manual temperature monitoring. The Stiebel Eltron model specifications do not list this specific feature.
What voltage does the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus need?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus requires a 240V power supply. It is designed to operate with 8 kW of wattage. You must have a dedicated electrical circuit that can handle this load. This unit is not suitable for standard 120V household outlets without significant electrical upgrades.
Can the Camplux unit operate without grid electricity?
Yes. The Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater runs on propane. It is battery-operated for ignition and control, allowing it to function independently of the electrical grid. This makes it ideal for off-grid camping, remote cabins, or areas with unreliable power. The Stiebel Eltron unit requires a constant electrical connection.
Which model is better for whole-house hot water?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is better for whole-house use. It is designed to provide high-flow hot water for multiple fixtures. The Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater is compact and suited for camping or RVs. It prioritizes portability over the high flow capacity needed for whole-home distribution.