Stiebel Eltron vs EcoSmart Tankless Water Heaters: Which Brand Fits You?
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When you compare stiebel eltron vs EcoSmart tankless water heater options, you find two electric brands that deliver on-demand hot water without venting needs. Both units require 240-volt service. The main difference lies in capacity and physical footprint. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus offers high output for whole-home use, while the EcoSmart ECO 11 provides a compact, point-of-use solution for lower demand areas. Your choice depends on your household's hot water volume requirements and available electrical panel space.
Key differences
| Aspect | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 28,800 W at 240 V | 13 kW at 240 V |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches | 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Weight | 19 pounds | 6.5 pounds |
| Temperature Control | Two temperature memory presets | not listed |
| Installation Requirements | 3 separate dedicated 40 amp breakers, 8 gauge copper wiring, 200 amp service | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless if
- You need high capacity for multiple simultaneous uses like showers and sinks.
- You have a 200-amp electrical service and space for larger breakers.
- You prefer preset temperature memory for consistent settings.
Choose EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater if
- You need a compact unit for point-of-use installation in tight spaces.
- You have limited electrical capacity and cannot support high-amperage circuits.
- You are installing in a climate with warmer incoming water temperatures.
Verdict: The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus suits larger households with robust electrical infrastructure who need substantial hot water flow. The EcoSmart ECO 11 is better for smaller applications or locations with electrical constraints due to its lower wattage and compact size.
Stiebel vs EcoSmart Key Specs
Power output
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW at 240 volts. This high wattage supports greater hot water flow for multiple fixtures. EcoSmart ECO 11 provides 13 kW at 240 volts. This lower output suits point-of-use or single sink applications. You need to match wattage to your household demand. Higher kW means faster heating and higher flow rates. The Stiebel unit handles larger loads. The EcoSmart model is efficient for lower demand areas.
Physical size
Size matters for installation space. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus measures 16.6 inches wide, 14.5 inches high, and 4.63 inches deep. It weighs 19 pounds. The EcoSmart ECO 11 is smaller, measuring 13.5 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 6.5 inches deep. It weighs only 6.5 pounds. If you have a tight closet or small utility area, the EcoSmart model fits more easily. The Stiebel unit requires more wall space and mounting strength.
Temperature control
Both units offer digital temperature management. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to save specific settings for different uses, like hand washing or dishwashing. The EcoSmart ECO 11 uses patented self-modulating technology to adjust power based on flow. It maintains consistent output without manual preset selection. If you prefer fixed settings, Stiebel offers presets. If you want automatic adjustment, EcoSmart handles it dynamically.
Electrical requirements
Both require 240-volt hardwired service. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus draws up to 28,800 watts. It needs three separate dedicated 40-amp breakers and 8-gauge copper wiring. Your home must have at least 200-amp total service. The EcoSmart ECO 11 draws 13 kW. It likely needs fewer breakers, though specific amp requirements are not listed in the data. Stiebel has strict electrical demands. EcoSmart is less demanding on your panel capacity.
Fuel type
Both brands use electric power. Neither unit requires gas lines or venting. They convert electricity directly to heat. This eliminates combustion risks and venting costs. You only need a proper electrical connection. Both models are suitable for homes with ample electrical capacity. The choice depends on your existing infrastructure. Since both are electric, there is no difference in fuel source. You install either unit where 240-volt power is available.
Which tankless water heater suits your needs
You need hot water for multiple fixtures
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW of power. This higher wattage supports greater flow rates for showers and sinks running simultaneously. You require three dedicated 40 amp breakers and 8 gauge copper wiring. This unit suits homes with 200 amp service where high capacity is essential for whole-house use.
You want a compact unit for a single sink
The EcoSmart ECO 11 measures just 10 by 13.5 by 6.5 inches. It weighs only 6.5 pounds, making installation easy in tight spaces. With 13 kW output, it provides efficient hot water for point-of-use applications. This smaller footprint and lower power draw fit well in kitchens or bathrooms where space is limited.
You prefer simple temperature presets
The Stiebel Eltron model features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to quickly adjust settings for personalized needs without complex programming. The sleek design saves space while offering reliable performance. You benefit from consistent hot water delivery tailored to your specific temperature preferences for daily use.
The products compared
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: High-demand 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 water heater delivers 28.8kW of power at 240 volts. It features two temperature memory presets for personalized hot water control. The unit measures 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches and weighs 19 pounds. You need 3 separate dedicated 40 amp breakers and 8 gauge copper wiring. It suits homes requiring high flow rates for multiple fixtures.
Pros
- 28.8kW heating capacity at 240 volts
- Two temperature memory presets
- Compact 4.63 inch depth saves space
- No venting required
Cons
- Requires 3 separate 40 amp breakers
- Needs minimum 200 amp total service
- Only offers two preset temperatures
Good fit if
- You have a 200 amp electrical service panel
- You need high capacity for multiple bathrooms
- You prefer simple preset temperature controls
Skip if
- You only have a 100 amp electrical service
- You cannot install three dedicated 40 amp breakers
- You need more than two temperature settings
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW fits homes with robust electrical infrastructure that demand high-volume hot water. It is ideal for whole-house applications where power availability is not a constraint.
EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Low-demand single sink applications
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 13 kW
- Voltage
- 240 V
- Dimensions
- 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches
- Weight
- 6.5 pounds
View on Amazon: EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is a compact electric tankless water heater rated at 13 kW on 240 volts. It uses self-modulating technology to adjust power based on demand. Measuring 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches, it fits tight spaces. This model is configured for climates with incoming water temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It suits small households or point-of-use applications where high flow rates are not required.
Pros
- 13 kW heating capacity
- 240 V electric operation
- Patented self-modulating technology
- Compact 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inch size
Cons
- Lower 13 kW output compared to 28.8 kW competitors
- Specific to warmer climates with 60°F incoming water
- Single unit may not serve multiple bathrooms
Good fit if
- You live in a warm climate with 60°F inlet water
- You need a compact unit for a single sink
- You want a simple electric installation on 240V
Skip if
- You require high flow rates for whole-house use
- You live in a cold climate with low inlet temps
- You need a unit with higher than 13 kW output
Verdict: EcoSmart ECO 11 13kW Electric Unit is a modest power solution for low-demand scenarios. It fits buyers in warm regions who only need hot water for one fixture at a time.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | EcoSmart 13 kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Wattage | 28.8 kW | 13 kW |
| Voltage | 208 V, 240 V | 240 V |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in | 10 x 13.5 x 6.5 inches |
| Use | Whole House | not stated |
| Weight | 19 pounds | 6.5 pounds |
| Size | 29 (kW) | 12 x 8 x 4 |
| Color | White | color |
| Model | 239223 | ECO 11 |
Frequently asked questions
Which brand offers higher power output for whole-house use?
Stiebel Eltron provides significantly higher power. The Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW of capacity. This supports whole-house hot water needs for multiple fixtures. EcoSmart offers 13 kW. This lower output suits single sinks or low-demand areas. You should choose Stiebel Eltron if you need high flow rates for showers and kitchen sinks simultaneously.
Do both brands require 240-volt electrical service?
Yes, both brands operate on 240-volt circuits. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus uses 240 volts with 8 kW per circuit. The EcoSmart ECO 11 also requires 240 volts. Both are electric units that do not need gas lines or venting. You must ensure your home has the correct electrical infrastructure to support these voltage requirements safely.
Which unit is smaller and lighter for easy installation?
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is more compact. It measures 13.5 inches wide and weighs only 6.5 pounds. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is larger at 16.6 inches wide and weighs 19 pounds. If you have limited space behind a sink or in a small utility closet, the EcoSmart model fits more easily into tight areas.
Can I use EcoSmart for a whole house?
EcoSmart is designed for low-demand applications. The 13 kW output suits single sinks or point-of-use scenarios. It is not ideal for whole-house hot water. You should choose Stiebel Eltron for whole-house needs. Its 28.8 kW capacity supports greater flow rates. This ensures enough hot water for showers and multiple taps running at the same time.
What is the difference in physical size between the two?
The Stiebel Eltron unit is larger in every dimension. It is 16.6 inches wide, 14.5 inches high, and 4.63 inches deep. The EcoSmart model is 13.5 inches wide, 10 inches high, and 6.5 inches deep. The EcoSmart unit is also much lighter. You should measure your installation space carefully before choosing between these two different physical footprints.
Are both models electric tankless water heaters?
Yes, both brands offer electric tankless water heaters. Neither model requires gas lines or external venting. They both use electric resistance heating elements. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus and the EcoSmart ECO 11 are both electric. This makes installation easier in homes without natural gas access, provided you have adequate electrical capacity.