Thermomate vs WINTEMP: Tankless Water Heaters Compared by Specs
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This thermomate vs WINTEMP tankless water heater comparison highlights two distinct electric solutions. Both units run on electricity and prioritize safety certifications. The main difference lies in their design and purpose. The Thermomate is a 6.5-gallon mini-tank for point-of-use installation under sinks. The WINTEMP is a 36kW tankless unit designed for whole-house hot water delivery. You must choose based on your specific hot water needs and electrical capacity.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank | WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mini Tank (6.5 Gallons) | Tankless (36kW) |
| Voltage | 120V | 240V |
| Wattage | 1.44 kW | 36 kW |
| Flow Rate | Not listed | 8.7 GPM |
| Connectivity | Not listed | WiFi |
| Certification | UL Listed | ETL Certified |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank if
- You need hot water for a single sink or small point-of-use location.
- Your home only has a standard 120V outlet available for installation.
- You prefer a unit with a larger storage capacity for immediate hot water.
Choose WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater if
- You require continuous hot water for multiple fixtures or whole-house use.
- You have a 240V electrical system with sufficient amperage capacity.
- You want to control water temperature remotely via a smartphone app.
Verdict: The Thermomate is the practical choice for under-sink applications where space is tight and electrical access is limited to 120V. The WINTEMP suits larger households needing high-volume hot water, provided you can support the substantial electrical requirements. Match the unit to your specific flow needs and electrical infrastructure.
Specs: Thermomate vs WINTEMP
Voltage requirements
The Thermomate Mini Tank runs on standard 120V power, drawing 12 amps. This allows you to plug it directly into a regular household outlet, making installation simple for under-sink locations. The WINTEMP unit requires a dedicated 240V circuit. It draws up to 150 amps and needs four 40A double-pole breakers with heavy-gauge wiring. You must verify your home has a 300A service before installing the WINTEMP. The Thermomate wins for ease of electrical hookup.
Flow capacity
The Thermomate is a 6.5-gallon mini-tank designed for point-of-use tasks like hand washing. It does not list a continuous flow rate, as it heats stored water. The WINTEMP is a true tankless heater with a maximum flow rate of 8.7 GPM. It provides continuous hot water for showers and multiple household uses. If you need to supply hot water to a shower or multiple fixtures simultaneously, the WINTEMP is the only viable choice here.
Power output
Heating speed and capacity depend heavily on wattage. The Thermomate operates at 1.44 kW. This modest output is sufficient for a single faucet but cannot keep up with high-demand fixtures. The WINTEMP delivers 36 kW of power. This significant output allows it to heat water rapidly as it flows through the unit. For whole-house heating or high-flow showers, the WINTEMP’s power rating is far superior to the Thermomate’s limited output.
Smart features
Control options differ between the two units. The Thermomate uses a physical thermostat with three settings, ranging from 50°F to 149°F. You must adjust the temperature manually at the unit. The WINTEMP includes built-in WiFi remote control. You can adjust the temperature and monitor the heater from your smartphone. This connectivity adds convenience, especially if the unit is installed in a hard-to-reach location like a basement or utility closet.
Physical footprint
Space is a key factor in installation. The Thermomate measures 17.7 x 17.7 x 14.6 inches and weighs 26.5 lbs. It is a bulky box designed to fit under a sink. The WINTEMP is a flat, wall-mounted unit measuring 13.7 x 21.5 x 5.2 inches. It weighs 36.1 lbs but takes up much less wall space due to its slim 5.2-inch depth. The WINTEMP offers a more space-efficient profile for tight utility areas.
Which unit fits your needs
Apartment renters needing quick sink heat
The Thermomate plugs into any standard 120V outlet. You get instant hot water for handwashing without waiting. Its 6.5-gallon tank maintains temperature efficiently. The compact size fits under most sinks. This setup avoids complex electrical upgrades, making it ideal for rentals or small bathrooms where you only need one hot tap.
Homeowners wanting whole-house continuous flow
The WINTEMP delivers up to 8.7 GPM of continuous hot water. Its 36kW power handles multiple fixtures simultaneously. You never run out of hot water during long showers. The unit adjusts power based on flow rate. This ensures consistent temperature for the entire household, provided your electrical service can support the required 240V demand.
Users seeking smart remote temperature control
You can adjust the WINTEMP temperature directly from your smartphone via built-in WiFi. This remote access lets you manage settings without reaching the unit. The Thermomate requires manual adjustment of its physical thermostat. If you prefer digital control and monitoring from anywhere in your home, the WINTEMP’s connectivity features offer superior convenience.
The products compared
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
Best for: single sink point-of-use hot water
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 1.44 kW
- Capacity
- 6.5 Gallons
- Voltage
- 120V
- Temperature Control
- 50°F to 149°F
- Certification
- UL Listed
View on Amazon: Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank Affiliate link
This Thermomate unit is a 6.5-gallon mini tank water heater designed for point-of-use installation. It operates on 120V power with 1.44 kW output, delivering fast recovery and up to 99% thermal efficiency. The glass-lined tank supports temperatures from 50°F to 149°F. Its compact 17.7-inch footprint fits easily under sinks. You will appreciate the UL Listed safety certification and the included temperature and pressure relief valve for reliable daily use.
Pros
- 6.5-gallon capacity for point-of-use hot water
- 120V plug-in installation with 1.44 kW output
- Adjustable thermostat from 50°F to 149°F
- UL Listed with glass-lined tank for durability
Cons
- Limited 6.5-gallon tank capacity
- Requires 120V electrical outlet
- Shorter 1-year parts warranty
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a single sink
- You have a 120V outlet nearby
- You want a compact under-sink unit
Skip if
- You need whole-house hot water
- You only have 240V circuits
- You require high-volume simultaneous use
Verdict: Thermomate 6.5 Gal Under Sink Heater is a practical solution for single-sink applications where space and 120V power are available. It delivers efficient, localized hot water for tasks like hand washing or dish rinsing.
WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater
Best for: homes with 3-5 bathrooms and 300A service
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Flow Rate
- Up to 8.7 GPM
- Wattage
- 36 kW
- Voltage
- 240V
- Certification
- ETL
- Dimensions
- 21.5 x 13.7 x 5.2 inches
View on Amazon: WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This WINTEMP WN36 unit delivers 36kW of power at 240V. It provides a maximum flow rate of 8.7 GPM for continuous hot water. The device uses self-modulating technology to adjust output based on flow. It includes built-in WiFi for remote control. The compact design measures 13.7 x 21.5 x 5.2 inches. It is ETL certified for safety. This model suits homes with three to five bathrooms in mild climates.
Pros
- 36kW output provides up to 8.7 GPM flow
- Built-in WiFi allows smartphone temperature control
- Self-modulating technology optimizes energy efficiency
- ETL certified for safe operation
Cons
- Requires 150A electrical service and four 40A breakers
- 2-year replacement warranty is shorter than industry standard
- Heavy at 36.1 pounds for wall mounting
Good fit if
- You have a 300A household electrical service
- You want to control temperature from your phone
- You need hot water for multiple bathrooms
Skip if
- You have less than 300A electrical capacity
- You cannot run four separate 40A circuits
- You need a longer warranty than two years
Verdict: WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater fits homes with strong electrical systems. It offers precise control and high flow for busy households.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank | WINTEMP 36kW Electric Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric |
| Flow Rate | not stated | Up to 8.7 GPM |
| Wattage | 1.44 kW | 36 kW |
| Capacity | 6.5 Gallons | not stated |
| Voltage | 120V | 240V |
| Temperature Control | 50°F to 149°F | not stated |
| Certification | UL Listed | ETL |
| Dimensions | 17.7"H x 17.7"W x 14.6"D | 21.5 x 13.7 x 5.2 inches |
| Use | Under Sink | Whole House |
| Features | not stated | WiFi |
| Weight | 26.5 pounds | 36.1 pounds |
| Size | 6.5 Gallon | 36kW |
| Color | white,blue | Gray |
| Model | ES700 | WN36 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Thermomate replace a whole-house water heater?
No. The Thermomate is designed for single-sink point-of-use applications. It holds only 6.5 gallons of water. This capacity is sufficient for hand washing or dish rinsing at one location. It cannot supply hot water to multiple fixtures simultaneously. You need a different system for whole-house coverage.
Does the WINTEMP unit require gas lines?
No. The WINTEMP 36kW model is an electric tankless water heater. It operates on a 240V electrical circuit. You do not need gas connections or venting for this unit. Installation depends on having adequate electrical service, specifically a 300A panel, to handle the high wattage demand.
Which unit is better for a small apartment kitchen?
The Thermomate is the better choice for small apartments. It plugs into a standard 120V outlet, requiring no major electrical upgrades. Its compact dimensions fit easily under a sink. The WINTEMP requires a dedicated 240V circuit and significant electrical capacity, which is often unavailable in standard rental units.
How much space does the WINTEMP heater take up?
The WINTEMP unit is wall-mounted and compact. It measures 13.7 inches in width, height, and length. This square footprint allows it to fit in utility closets or mechanical rooms. It weighs 36.1 pounds, which is manageable for standard wall mounting with proper anchors.
Can I control the WINTEMP temperature remotely?
Yes. The WINTEMP 36kW model includes WiFi connectivity. This feature allows you to monitor and adjust settings from a mobile device. You can manage the water temperature and operation status without needing to access the physical unit directly.
Is the Thermomate suitable for a bathroom sink?
Yes. The Thermomate is ideal for under-sink installation in bathrooms. It provides localized hot water for hand washing and face rinsing. The 6.5-gallon tank ensures a steady supply for short-duration tasks. It is not intended for shower use due to its limited capacity and flow rate.
What is the weight difference between the two units?
The Thermomate weighs 26.5 pounds, while the WINTEMP weighs 36.1 pounds. The Thermomate is lighter due to its smaller 6.5-gallon tank construction. The WINTEMP is heavier because of its higher wattage components and robust electric tankless design. Both weights are within standard mounting limits.
Do both heaters use the same electrical voltage?
No. The Thermomate operates on 120V power. This allows it to use standard household outlets. The WINTEMP requires a 240V dedicated circuit. This higher voltage is necessary to support its 36kW output. You cannot plug the WINTEMP into a standard 120V socket.