Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus Electric Tankless Water Heater vs Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
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When comparing the stiebel eltron tempra 29 plus electric tankless water heater vs tempra 36 Plus, you are looking at two electric models from the same brand. Both units provide on-demand hot water without requiring venting. The main difference lies in their power output and electrical requirements. The Tempra 29 Plus offers 28.8 kW, while the Tempra 36 Plus delivers 36 kW. This affects their capacity and the electrical service needed for installation. Both use digital controls, though the interface style differs slightly between the two models.
Key differences
| Aspect | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36kW Electric Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 28,800 W at 240 V | 36 kW |
| Voltage | 240 V | 240 or 208-Volt |
| Electrical Service | Minimum 200 amp total service | Minimum 300 A electric service |
| Breakers | 3 separate dedicated 40 amp breakers | not listed |
| Temperature Control | Two temperature memory presets | Digital temperature control |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches | 14.52 x 16.54 x 4.61 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless if
- You need a unit that draws less total amperage, requiring a 200 amp service.
- You prefer specific memory presets for quick temperature adjustments.
- You have limited space and need a compact footprint with 240 V power.
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36kW Electric Tankless Heater if
- You require higher hot water output for larger households.
- Your electrical panel supports a 300 amp service minimum.
- You want compatibility with 208-Volt systems in addition to 240-Volt.
Verdict: Choose the Tempra 29 Plus if your home has a 200 amp electrical panel and you need a slightly lower capacity unit. Select the Tempra 36 Plus if you have a 300 amp service and need maximum hot water flow. Both units share similar dimensions and electric operation.
Tempra 29 Plus vs Tempra 36 Plus Specs
Power output
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW at 240 V. The Tempra 36 Plus provides 36 kW. Higher wattage means more hot water capacity for larger households. You get a significant boost in heating power with the 36 kW model. This extra capacity helps maintain temperature during simultaneous use in multiple sinks or showers. The 29 Plus is sufficient for smaller demands, but the 36 Plus offers greater reserve capacity for peak usage times.
Electrical service
Installation requirements differ substantially between these two units. The Tempra 29 Plus needs three separate dedicated 40-amp breakers and a minimum 200-amp total service. The Tempra 36 Plus draws 150 amps and requires a minimum 300-amp electric service. If your home has a 200-amp panel, the 29 Plus is the viable option. You must upgrade your service to 300 amps to install the 36 Plus model. Check your electrical panel capacity before deciding.
Temperature control
Control interfaces vary between the models. The Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to save settings for quick adjustment based on personalized needs. The Tempra 36 Plus offers digital temperature control. This typically provides more precise adjustment capabilities. You can set exact temperatures rather than choosing from presets. If you prefer fine-tuned control, the digital interface on the 36 Plus is advantageous. Presets offer convenience for the 29 Plus.
Voltage compatibility
Both units operate on 240 or 208-volt electric service. The Tempra 29 Plus draws 28,800 watts at 240 volts or 21,600 watts at 208 volts. The Tempra 36 Plus lists 36 kW wattage, implying performance at 240 V. At lower voltages, performance may drop. Both models require hard-wired connections. You do not need special gas lines or venting. The electrical infrastructure is the primary constraint. Ensure your wiring supports the specific amperage draw for your chosen model.
Dimensions
Physical size affects installation space. The Tempra 29 Plus measures 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches. The Tempra 36 Plus dimensions are listed as 14.52 x 16.54 x 4.61 inches in features, but specs list 9.5 x 19.5 x 21.5 inches. The feature dimensions suggest a similar footprint to the 29 Plus. You should verify the exact depth and width for your mounting location. Both are compact and save space compared to tank units. The weight is 19 pounds for both.
Which unit fits your home needs
Users needing high flow for multiple bathrooms
The Tempra 36 Plus delivers 36 kW of power. This higher wattage supports greater hot water output for larger households. It requires a 300 amp electrical service and draws 150 amps. Choose this model if your home has the necessary electrical capacity and you need maximum hot water volume.
Homeowners with standard 200 amp electrical service
The Tempra 29 Plus operates on a 200 amp minimum service. It draws 28,800 watts at 240 volts. This unit requires three dedicated 40 amp breakers with 8 gauge copper wiring. Select this heater if your home has a 200 amp panel and you want a reliable electric option.
Buyers preferring simple preset temperature controls
The Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to adjust settings for personalized needs easily. In contrast, the Tempra 36 Plus uses digital temperature control. If you prefer physical presets over digital interfaces for quick adjustments, the 29 Plus offers a straightforward control experience.
The products compared
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: moderate hot water demand
- 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 is an electric tankless water heater rated at 28.8kW on a 240V circuit. It measures 14.5 by 16.6 inches and weighs 19 pounds. The unit includes two temperature memory presets for easy adjustment. It requires three dedicated 40-amp breakers and 200-amp home service. This model suits homes with moderate hot water needs.
Pros
- 28.8kW output at 240V
- Two temperature memory presets
- Compact 4.63-inch depth
- No venting required
Cons
- Requires three 40-amp breakers
- Needs 200-amp total service
- Lower capacity than 36kW model
Good fit if
- You have a 200-amp electrical service
- You need compact wall mounting
- You want preset temperature control
Skip if
- You have less than 200-amp service
- You cannot install three 40-amp breakers
- You need higher flow rates
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW fits homes with strong electrical infrastructure. It delivers reliable hot water for moderate usage. Buyers needing higher capacity should consider the 36kW option.
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36kW Electric Tankless Heater
Best for: High-demand households with 300 A service
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 36 kW
- Voltage
- 240 or 208-Volt
- Temperature Control
- Digital
- Dimensions
- 14.52" x 16.54" x 4.61"
- Weight
- 19 pounds
View on Amazon: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36kW Electric Tankless Heater Affiliate link
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus delivers 36 kW of electric power for on-demand hot water. It features digital temperature control and requires a 240 or 208-Volt connection. This unit draws 150 A, so you need a minimum 300 A electric service. The sleek gray design fits in tight spaces. It is ideal for homes needing higher flow rates than smaller models provide.
Pros
- 36 kW heating power
- Digital temperature control
- No venting required
- Compact dimensions
Cons
- High 150 A amperage draw
- Requires 300 A minimum service
- Discontinued model status
Good fit if
- You have a 300 A electrical service
- You need high hot water output
- You want digital temperature precision
Skip if
- You only have a 200 A service
- You need a current production model
- You cannot support 150 A load
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36 Plus Electric Heater suits households with robust electrical infrastructure who need maximum hot water capacity. It is not suitable for standard residential panels.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 36kW Electric Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Wattage | 28.8 kW | 36 kW |
| Voltage | 208 V, 240 V | 240 or 208-Volt |
| Temperature Control | not stated | Digital |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in | 14.52" x 16.54" x 4.61" |
| Use | Whole House | not stated |
| Weight | 19 pounds | 19 pounds |
| Size | 29 (kW) | not stated |
| Color | White | Gray |
| Model | 239223 | Tempra 36 Plus |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the Tempra 29 Plus and Tempra 36 Plus?
The primary difference is their power output and electrical requirements. The Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW, while the Tempra 36 Plus provides 36 kW. This higher wattage allows the 36 Plus to support greater hot water output for larger households. However, it requires a 300 amp electrical service, which is not standard for most homes. You must check your panel capacity before choosing.
Does the Tempra 36 Plus require special electrical installation?
Yes, the Tempra 36 Plus has strict electrical needs. It requires a 300 amp electrical service and draws 150 amps. This makes it unsuitable for standard residential panels. The Tempra 29 Plus operates at 240 V with lower overall demand. You should consult an electrician to verify your home can handle the higher load before installing the 36 Plus unit.
Which unit is better for a moderate hot water demand?
The Tempra 29 Plus is the better choice for moderate hot water demand. It delivers reliable hot water for homes with strong electrical infrastructure but typical usage levels. The Tempra 36 Plus is designed for high-demand households needing maximum capacity. If you do not need the extra flow, the 29 Plus provides sufficient performance without requiring excessive electrical power.
How do the physical dimensions compare between the two models?
The Tempra 36 Plus is larger in width and length but shorter in height. It measures 19.5 inches wide, 21.5 inches long, and 9.5 inches high. The Tempra 29 Plus is narrower at 16.6 inches wide but longer at 4.63 inches deep. Both units weigh the same at 19 pounds. You should measure your installation space to ensure the larger footprint of the 36 Plus fits.
Can I install the Tempra 36 Plus in a standard home?
No, the Tempra 36 Plus is not suitable for standard residential panels. It requires a robust 300 amp electrical service to operate safely. Most homes have lower capacity panels that cannot support the 150 amp draw. The Tempra 29 Plus is more compatible with typical electrical setups. You should only choose the 36 Plus if your home has been upgraded to handle this high demand.
What is the wattage difference between these two heaters?
The Tempra 29 Plus operates at 28.8 kW, while the Tempra 36 Plus provides 36 kW. This difference in wattage directly impacts hot water capacity. Higher wattage means you can run more fixtures simultaneously. The 36 Plus offers a significant boost in output for larger households. However, this increased power comes with stricter electrical infrastructure requirements that you must verify.
Are both units electric tankless water heaters?
Yes, both the Tempra 29 Plus and Tempra 36 Plus are electric tankless water heaters. They provide on-demand hot water without requiring venting. Both models operate on 240 V power. The key distinction is their power output and size. You get reliable hot water from either unit, but the 36 Plus delivers more volume for high-demand scenarios.