Stiebel Eltron 202151 DHX 15-2 Plus Water Heater Review – Pros and Cons

The Stiebel Eltron 202151 DHX 15-2 Plus Water Heater features an exclusive motor control valve, which intelligently reduces the flow rate to maintain a consistent output temperature, ensuring optimal performance and user comfort. Equipped with a backlit multifunction display, users can easily monitor and adjust settings according to their preferences. The device offers output temperature presets, allowing for quick selection of desired temperatures for various applications.

An innovative energy savings calculator is also integrated into the system, providing users with valuable insights into their energy consumption and potential savings. This advanced water heating solution combines efficiency, control, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and energy-efficient way to manage their hot water needs.

Pros:

  1. Efficiency and Speed: The unit’s capacity to provide hot water almost instantly significantly reduces the wait time. Its design allows for integration with existing water heating systems to improve efficiency, as seen in setups where it complements propane water heaters for immediate hot water delivery.
  2. Innovative Water Flow Control: Unique among electric tankless water heaters, this model can adjust water flow to maintain a set temperature, ensuring consistent hot water supply even in varying inlet water conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments with extreme seasonal temperature variations.
  3. User-Friendly Interface: The graphical interface is praised for its ease of use, allowing users to easily set and monitor temperatures. The backlit multifunction display enhances user interaction, making temperature adjustments straightforward and precise.
  4. Versatility: Suitable for various applications, from single-point installations like kitchens and bathrooms to serving entire apartments. The heater’s performance remains stable across multiple uses simultaneously, including sinks and showers, without a noticeable drop in hot water availability.
  5. Energy and Water Conservation: By enabling point-of-use installation and instant heating, the unit contributes to significant water and energy savings. This aligns with green building practices and is ideal for those committed to reducing their environmental footprint.
  6. Reliability and Durability: Users have reported years of satisfactory performance with minimal maintenance. The ability to replace units without hesitation speaks to the brand’s reliability and the product’s longevity.
  7. Ease of Installation: For professionals or those with some technical know-how, installation is considered straightforward. This accessibility is a plus for electricians and plumbers, simplifying the setup process.
  8. Precision and Stability: The water heater is noted for its accurate temperature regulation, providing stable and consistent hot water without fluctuations that could affect household electronics or comfort.

Cons:

  1. Electrical Requirements: The significant electrical load (up to 50 amps) may not be feasible in all settings, especially older homes or those with limited electrical capacity. Installation might require upgrades to electrical systems, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
  2. Cost Consideration: The initial purchase price and installation costs are higher compared to other brands. While the unit’s performance and features justify the expense for many, the upfront investment is a consideration for budget-conscious individuals.
  3. Temperature Sensor Utilization: The unit’s advanced features include an inlet temperature sensor, but it is only active in certain conditions. A continuous display of inlet water temperature could enhance user control and system efficiency, especially in environments with fluctuating supply temperatures.
  4. Physical Size: Despite being designed for point-of-use, some users found the unit larger than expected. This might pose a challenge in very tight spaces or where a discreet installation is preferred.

(see more details and discounts)

In conclusion, the Stiebel Eltron 202151 DHX 15-2 Plus Water Heater stands out for its efficiency, innovative temperature control, and user-friendly design. It represents a forward-thinking solution for instant and reliable hot water supply, supporting both environmental sustainability and user convenience. While considering its higher price point and electrical requirements, the advantages it offers, including significant energy savings, precision, and versatility, make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing performance and reliability in their hot water heating solutions.