Stiebel Eltron vs Westinghouse Tankless Water Heaters: Which Brand Fits You?
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When you compare stiebel eltron vs westinghouse tankless water heater, you see two electric options for whole-house hot water. Both units run on 240V power and deliver on-demand heating without venting. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus offers higher wattage and memory presets. The Westinghouse model adds smart Wi-Fi control and a compact gray design. You choose based on your power capacity and tech preferences.
Key differences
| Aspect | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Wattage | 28,800 W | 24,000 W |
| Flow Rate | not listed | 5.55 GPM |
| Smart Features | Temperature memory presets | Wi-Fi and voice control |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 inches | 17 x 13 x 4.3 inches |
| Weight | 19 pounds | 17 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless if
- You need maximum heating power for multiple simultaneous uses.
- You prefer physical temperature memory presets over app control.
- You have a 200-amp electrical service with dedicated 40-amp breakers.
Choose Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Tankless Water Heater if
- You want to monitor and adjust settings via a smartphone app.
- You need a specific flow rate rating of 5.55 GPM.
- You prefer a slightly lighter unit with a gray finish.
Verdict: The Stiebel Eltron suits you if you prioritize raw heating capacity and simple preset controls. The Westinghouse is better if you want smart connectivity and a defined flow rate. Both deliver continuous hot water for whole-house use.
Stiebel Eltron vs Westinghouse Specs
Wattage and capacity
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW of heating power at 240 volts, while the Westinghouse unit provides 24 kW. Higher wattage generally supports greater flow rates and better performance during cold weather. The Stiebel Eltron model offers more raw heating capacity, which can help maintain consistent temperatures when multiple fixtures are in use. The Westinghouse unit is slightly less powerful but still substantial for whole-house needs. You should choose the Stiebel Eltron if you need maximum output, or the Westinghouse if standard whole-house demand suffices.
Flow rate performance
The Westinghouse heater specifies a maximum flow rate of 5.55 GPM, starting at just 0.79 GPM. This data indicates it can handle simultaneous use in a shower and sink effectively. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus does not list a specific GPM figure in its published specifications. Without that number, you cannot directly compare their flow capabilities. However, the higher wattage of the Stiebel Eltron often correlates with higher flow potential. You may prefer the Westinghouse for its stated flow rate clarity.
Smart connectivity
The Westinghouse model includes built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to adjust temperature and monitor usage via an app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Home. This feature supports modern smart home integration. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus does not mention any wireless connectivity or app support in its data. It relies on physical temperature memory presets instead. If remote control and digital monitoring are important to your daily routine, the Westinghouse offers a clear technological advantage over the Stiebel Eltron.
Temperature control
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets, making it easy to adjust settings for personalized needs without navigating complex menus. The Westinghouse unit allows remote adjustment via its app but does not list specific preset memory features in its specifications. The Stiebel Eltron approach offers quick, local access to your preferred temperatures. You might find the Stiebel Eltron more convenient for frequent manual adjustments, while the Westinghouse suits those who prefer digital control.
Physical dimensions
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus measures 14.5 inches in height, 16.6 inches in width, and 4.63 inches in depth. The Westinghouse unit is 17.1 inches high, 13 inches wide, and 13 inches deep. The Stiebel Eltron is narrower and shallower, which may fit better in tight vertical spaces or against walls with limited width. The Westinghouse is taller but narrower in width, though deeper. You should measure your installation space carefully, as the Stiebel Eltron offers a more compact footprint in width.
Electrical requirements
Both units require 240V power. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus needs three separate dedicated 40-amp breakers and 8-gauge copper wiring, with a minimum 200-amp service. The Westinghouse unit also uses 40-amp breakers and 8-gauge wire, with a total current draw of 100A. The Stiebel Eltron explicitly mandates a 200-amp home service, which is a stricter requirement. The Westinghouse lists breaker compatibility but does not specify a minimum home service amperage. You must ensure your electrical panel can handle the load for either unit.
Which tankless heater fits your home?
Needs maximum hot water flow for large homes
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus delivers 28.8 kW of power, which is higher than the Westinghouse 24 kW model. This extra wattage supports greater flow rates, ensuring consistent hot water for multiple simultaneous uses. If your household demands high capacity, this unit provides the necessary heating power.
Wants smart app and voice control features
The Westinghouse unit includes built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. You can adjust temperature settings and monitor usage remotely via an app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Home. This smart capability is not listed for the Stiebel Eltron model, making it the better choice for connected home integration.
Prefers simple memory preset temperature settings
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus features two temperature memory presets. This allows you to easily switch between personalized settings without navigating complex menus. The Westinghouse model focuses on digital control via app. If you prefer straightforward physical or simple digital presets, the Stiebel Eltron offers this specific convenience.
The products compared
Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless
Best for: whole-house hot water with strong electrical service
- 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 28.8kW of electric heating power at 240V. It measures 14.5 by 16.6 by 4.63 inches and weighs 19 pounds. This unit offers two temperature memory presets for personalized control. It requires hard-wired 240V service with three 40-amp breakers. It suits homes needing high-flow hot water for whole-house use.
Pros
- 28.8kW output for continuous hot water
- Compact 4.63-inch depth saves space
- Two temperature memory presets for easy adjustment
- No venting required for installation
Cons
- Requires three dedicated 40-amp breakers
- Needs minimum 200-amp electrical service
- Must be hard-wired, no plug included
Good fit if
- You have a 200-amp electrical panel
- You need whole-house hot water
- You want precise temperature presets
Skip if
- You have only a 100-amp service
- You prefer plug-in installation
- You only need a single sink
Verdict: Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW is ideal for homes with robust electrical infrastructure that demand high-volume hot water. It fits households prioritizing capacity over simple wiring.
Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Tankless Water Heater
Best for: smart home integration and compact wall mounting
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Flow Rate
- Max 5.55 GPM
- Wattage
- 24 kW
- Voltage
- 240V
- Certification
- ETL
- Dimensions
- 17" x 13" x 4.3"
View on Amazon: Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This Westinghouse unit delivers 24kW of power at 240V, supporting a flow rate of 5.55 GPM. Its compact 17 x 13 x 4.3-inch frame mounts flush to the wall. You get smart WiFi control via app or voice commands. It suits whole-house needs in apartments or homes. The 17-pound build is lightweight. You get continuous hot water for sinks and showers without waiting.
Pros
- 24kW output provides up to 5.55 GPM flow rate
- Smart WiFi allows remote temperature adjustment and monitoring
- Compact 17 x 13 x 4.3-inch design mounts flush
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home voice commands
Cons
- Requires a 100A electrical circuit and 8 AWG wire
- Maximum flow rate is lower than the 28.8kW competitor
- No physical display or remote control mentioned in data
Good fit if
- You need smart home integration for temperature control
- You have a 100A electrical panel available
- You want a compact unit for wall mounting
Skip if
- You require higher than 5.55 GPM flow rates
- You only have 40A or 50A breaker capacity
- You prefer physical dials over app control
Verdict: Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Electric Tankless fits users who want smart control and compact sizing. It works well for whole-house use if you have the necessary 100A electrical infrastructure.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus 28.8kW Tankless | Westinghouse 24kW WiFi Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Flow Rate | not stated | Max 5.55 GPM |
| Wattage | 28.8 kW | 24 kW |
| Voltage | 208 V, 240 V | 240V |
| Certification | not stated | ETL |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 16.6 x 4.63 in | 17" x 13" x 4.3" |
| Use | Whole House | Whole House |
| Features | not stated | WiFi |
| Weight | 19 pounds | 17 pounds |
| Size | 29 (kW) | L-24 |
| Color | White | Gray 24 |
| Model | 239223 | WET-24K-G |
Frequently asked questions
Which tankless water heater has better smart home features?
The Westinghouse model includes built-in WiFi connectivity. This allows you to control the unit remotely via a smartphone app. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus focuses on physical memory presets instead of wireless integration. If digital control is a priority, the Westinghouse unit is the better fit for your smart home setup.
How do the dimensions of these two units compare?
The Westinghouse heater is wider and taller but shallower. It measures 13 inches wide, 17.1 inches high, and 13 inches deep. The Stiebel Eltron unit is narrower and shorter but deeper. It measures 16.6 inches wide, 14.5 inches high, and 4.63 inches deep. Choose the Westinghouse for a compact wall footprint or the Stiebel for a narrower profile.
Which brand offers higher heating power?
The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus provides 28.8 kW of heating capacity. The Westinghouse model offers 24 kW. Higher wattage generally supports greater flow rates and better performance during cold weather. If you need maximum hot water volume for a large household, the Stiebel Eltron unit delivers more consistent heating power.
Do both heaters require the same electrical service?
Both units operate on 240V power. However, the higher wattage of the Stiebel Eltron model may require a more robust electrical infrastructure. The Westinghouse 24kW unit is suitable for homes with 100A electrical service. Always verify your home’s electrical panel capacity before installation to ensure safe and efficient operation for either brand.
Which tankless water heater is lighter?
The Westinghouse unit weighs 17 pounds. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus weighs 19 pounds. The difference is minimal, but the Westinghouse model is slightly lighter. This may make mounting slightly easier if you are installing the unit on a wall without additional reinforcement. Both units are relatively compact for whole-house installation.
Can I use these units for whole-house hot water?
Yes, both brands are designed for whole-house applications. The Westinghouse model explicitly lists whole-house use in its features. The Stiebel Eltron Tempra 29 Plus is ideal for households prioritizing capacity. Ensure your electrical service can handle the load. Both units deliver on-demand heating without venting, making them suitable for standard residential plumbing setups.