Eemax vs Stiebel Eltron: Tankless Water Heaters Compared by Specs
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When researching eemax vs stiebel eltron tankless water heater options, you will find two distinct approaches to electric heating. Both units use electric power to heat water on demand. The main difference lies in their scale and application. Eemax offers a compact point-of-use solution for single fixtures. Stiebel Eltron provides a whole-home system with significantly higher capacity. You should choose based on your specific hot water needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW 120V Point of Use Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 3.5 Kilowatt | 28,800 W at 240 V |
| Voltage | 120 Volt | 240 V |
| Installation Location | Point of Use | Whole Home |
| Dimensions | 9.75 x 5 x 3 inches | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches |
| Weight | 3.1 pounds | 19 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW 120V Point of Use Water Heater if
- You need hot water for a single sink or small fixture.
- Your electrical panel only supports 120-volt circuits.
- You require a unit that mounts in tight spaces.
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless if
- You need to supply hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously.
- Your home has a 200-amp electrical service with dedicated 40-amp breakers.
- You want consistent temperature control with memory presets.
Verdict: The Eemax unit is ideal for low-demand, single-point applications where space and voltage are limited. The Stiebel Eltron model is built for whole-house demands, provided your electrical infrastructure can support its high wattage. Your choice depends entirely on whether you are heating one faucet or an entire home.
Eemax vs Stiebel Eltron Spec Comparison
Power and Voltage
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus operates on 240 volts with a substantial 28,800-watt capacity. This high power allows it to serve multiple fixtures or whole-house needs by heating water significantly faster. In contrast, the Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW unit runs on 120 volts and delivers only 3.5 kilowatts. This lower wattage limits its ability to heat large volumes of water quickly, making it suitable only for single faucets. The voltage difference also dictates your electrical setup, as the Stiebel Eltron requires dedicated 40-amp breakers and thicker wiring compared to the simpler Eemax requirements.
Installation Location
These two heaters are designed for completely different installation scenarios. The Eemax FlowCo is a point-of-use unit, meaning it installs directly under a sink or near a specific faucet. Its compact dimensions of 9.75 by 5 by 3 inches allow it to fit in tight spaces where a larger unit would not. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is a larger whole-house system. It measures 14.5 by 16.6 by 4.63 inches and requires more wall space. You would typically install this unit in a utility room, garage, or basement rather than under a bathroom sink.
Flow Rate Capability
Flow rate determines how much hot water you get at once. The Eemax FlowCo provides a 41-degree Fahrenheit temperature rise at a flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute. This low flow rate is typical for small electric units and means it cannot support high-demand fixtures like showers effectively. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus has a much higher wattage, which translates to a significantly higher flow rate capability. While the exact GPM is not listed in the provided data, the 28.8 kW power rating allows it to maintain hot water at much higher flow rates than the Eemax, making it viable for showers and multiple taps.
Physical Dimensions
Size is a major differentiator between these two models. The Eemax FlowCo weighs just 3.1 pounds and has a tiny footprint, making it nearly invisible when mounted under a cabinet. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is considerably heavier at 19 pounds and has a larger surface area. Its width of 16.6 inches and height of 14.5 inches require a dedicated wall space with proper clearance. If you have limited space under a sink, the Eemax is the only viable option. For a utility closet or garage wall, the Stiebel Eltron fits without issue.
Temperature Control
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to save specific temperature settings for different uses, such as one setting for hand washing and another for dishwashing, and switch between them easily. The Eemax FlowCo features intelligent controls and self-diagnostics, but the provided data does not list specific memory preset features. It adjusts temperature output based on flow rate, which is standard for point-of-use units. If you prefer customizable, saved temperature settings, the Stiebel Eltron offers more convenience.
Weight and Mounting
Weight affects how you mount these units. The Eemax FlowCo is extremely light at 3.1 pounds, allowing it to be mounted on standard drywall or cabinet backs without heavy-duty anchors. It can also mount in any orientation. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus weighs 19 pounds, requiring secure mounting hardware to support the weight safely. Both units are electric and do not require venting, simplifying the installation process for both. However, the lighter Eemax is easier to handle and install in tight or delicate spaces.
Which Tankless Heater Fits Your Needs
Remote bathroom or sink owner
This compact Eemax unit fits tight spaces. Its 120-volt, 3.5-kilowatt design suits single sinks. It mounts in any orientation for easy installation. Self-diagnostics help maintain performance. The small footprint saves wall space where only one faucet needs hot water.
Whole-house hot water seeker
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers high capacity. Its 28,800-watt output on 240 volts supports multiple fixtures. You get unlimited hot water for showers and appliances. Two temperature presets simplify control. This unit handles the demand of a full household efficiently.
Existing 240V circuit owner
If your home has a 200-amp service and dedicated 40-amp breakers, this Stiebel Eltron model is ready. It requires hard-wired 240-volt or 208-volt service. The high wattage maximizes the potential of your existing electrical infrastructure for consistent, powerful hot water delivery.
The products compared
Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW 120V Point of Use Water Heater
Best for: single sink or small area heating
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 3.5 Kilowatt
- Installation Location
- Point of Use
- Voltage
- 120 Volt
- Dimensions
- 9.75 x 5 x 3 inches
- Weight
- 3.1 pounds
View on Amazon: Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW 120V Point of Use Water Heater Affiliate link
This Eemax unit is a 3.5-kilowatt, 120-volt electric heater designed for point-of-use installation. It measures 9.75 by 5 by 3 inches and weighs just 3.1 pounds. The device mounts in any orientation and heats water to a 41°F rise at 0.5 GPM. You should choose this model if you need a compact solution for a single sink or small area where space is limited.
Pros
- Compact dimensions of 9.75 x 5 x 3 inches
- Lightweight at 3.1 pounds
- Mounts in any orientation
- Self-diagnostics and intelligent controls
Cons
- Low 3.5 kW power limits flow rate
- Requires 120-volt electrical connection
- Cold water inlet only
Good fit if
- You need a heater for a single sink
- You have limited space under a counter
- You require a 120-volt electrical circuit
Skip if
- You need hot water for multiple fixtures
- You require a 240-volt high-flow unit
- You need a whole-house solution
Verdict: Eemax SPEX3512 3.5kW Point-of-Use Heater is a compact, low-power option for single-fixture heating. It fits well in tight spaces where a 120-volt circuit is available.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: High-demand electric installations
- 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
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW of heating power at 240 volts. It measures 14.5 by 16.6 by 4.63 inches and weighs 19 pounds. The unit uses electric fuel and includes two temperature memory presets. You need three dedicated 40 amp breakers and 8 gauge copper wiring. This model suits homes with 200 amp electrical service.
Pros
- 28.8 kW output at 240 volts
- Compact 4.63 inch depth
- Two temperature memory presets
- No venting required
Cons
- Requires three 40 amp breakers
- Heavy 19 pound build
- Needs 200 amp total service
Good fit if
- You have 200 amp electrical service
- You can install three dedicated 40 amp breakers
- You want precise temperature presets
Skip if
- You have less than 200 amp service
- You cannot run 8 gauge copper wiring
- You need a 208 volt system only
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW fits homes with robust 200 amp electrical panels and space for three dedicated breakers.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW 120V Point of Use Water Heater | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Wattage | 3.5 Kilowatt | 28.8 kW |
| Installation Location | Point of Use | not stated |
| Voltage | 120 Volt | 208 V, 240 V |
| Dimensions | 9.75 x 5 x 3 inches | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in |
| Use | not stated | Whole House |
| Weight | 3.1 pounds | 19 pounds |
| Color | White | White |
| Model | SPEX3512 | 239223 |
| Size | not stated | 29 (kW) |
Frequently asked questions
Can Eemax and Stiebel Eltron units be used for whole-house water heating?
No, not both. The Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW is designed for point-of-use applications, such as a single sink. It lacks the power for whole-house needs. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus, however, offers 28.8 kW of power. This higher capacity allows it to serve multiple fixtures or entire homes, provided your electrical panel supports the load.
What is the size difference between these two tankless heaters?
The Eemax unit is significantly smaller. It measures 5 inches wide, 9.75 inches high, and 3 inches long, weighing only 3.1 pounds. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is much larger. It measures 16.6 inches wide, 14.5 inches high, and 4.63 inches long, weighing 19 pounds. You need more space for the Stiebel Eltron model.
Do these heaters require different electrical voltages?
Yes, they operate on different voltages. The Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW runs on 120 volts. This allows it to connect to standard circuits. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus requires 240 volts. It also demands a robust 200-amp electrical panel and space for three dedicated breakers. You must check your home’s electrical capacity before choosing.
Which unit is better for a remote bathroom?
The Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW is the better choice. It is a compact point-of-use heater ideal for single sinks. Its small size fits well in tight spaces. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is overpowered for this task. It is designed for high-demand installations and whole-house heating, not single-fixture applications.
Are there gas options available from these brands in this comparison?
No. Both the Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW and the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus are electric units. The data confirms both use electric power to heat water on demand. There are no gas-powered models listed in this specific comparison. You will need to ensure your home has the appropriate electrical infrastructure for these electric heaters.
How much does the Stiebel Eltron model weigh?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus weighs 19 pounds. This is heavier than the Eemax unit, which weighs only 3.1 pounds. The weight difference reflects the larger components needed for its 28.8 kW capacity. You should ensure your mounting surface can support this weight securely during installation.
What is the wattage of the Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus has a wattage of 8 kW per module, with a total capacity of 28.8 kW. This high power output allows it to heat water significantly faster than lower-power units. It is designed for homes with robust electrical panels. The Eemax unit, in contrast, operates at only 3.5 kW.
Can the Eemax heater be mounted in different orientations?
The provided data does not specify mounting orientations for the Eemax FlowCo 3.5 kW. It only lists its dimensions and weight. You should consult the installation manual for specific mounting requirements. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus also has listed dimensions but no explicit mounting orientation details in the provided specs.