WINTEMP KFU135 Tankless Electric Water Heater Review – Pros and Cons

The WINTEMP KFU135 Tankless Electric Water Heater offers a practical and efficient solution for continuous hot water supply. This 3500W, 120V unit, which does not come with a plug, provides instant hot water at 73℉, eliminating the need for preheating and ensuring consistent temperature. Its compact design and high strength ABS splash-proof casing make it an ideal companion for sinks, significantly enhancing home comfort. The heater’s unique feature includes a rotatable digital display, adding convenience and a modern touch to its design.

In terms of energy efficiency, the WINTEMP heater excels by adjusting power input based on flow rate and temperature settings in real-time. This smart operation results in up to 99% energy savings, substantially cutting down heating costs. For installation, its portable size (9″ x 2.6″ x 8.5″) and compatibility with standard 1/2 inch interfaces offer versatility, requiring access to 120 volts, a 30-amp circuit breaker, and 10AWG wires. Safety is a top priority, with overheat, dry-heating, and electricity leakage protection, backed by ETL approval and UL qualification. The package includes necessary components such as a rubber plug, screw, and external power cord for easy power connection, though it notably does not include a plug. WINTEMP further provides dedicated customer support, ensuring a reliable and user-friendly experience for all users.

Pros:

1. Easy Installation: Many users find the installation process straightforward and manageable, even for those with basic DIY skills.
2. Endless Hot Water Supply: Provides a continuous flow of hot water, ideal for various household needs.
3. Efficient Heating: Quickly heats water to the set temperature, suitable for outdoor showers, soaking tubs, and sinks.
4. Compact Design: Its small size allows for installation in tight spaces, making it perfect for RVs, outdoor settings, and small bathrooms.
5. Energy Saving: Operates on 110 volt current, making it an energy-efficient option for hot water supply.
6. Adjustable Flow and Temperature: Offers the flexibility to adjust water flow and temperature, ensuring user comfort.
7. Digital Display: Features a digital temperature readout for easy monitoring and adjustment.
8. Versatile Use: Ideal for a variety of settings including outdoor showers, sewing rooms, and fifth wheels.
9. Instant Hot Water: Eliminates the wait for hot water, saving time and water.
10. Cost-Effective: Offers a budget-friendly solution for hot water needs.
11. Eco-Friendly: Reduces water wastage, contributing to environmental conservation.
12. Reliable Performance: Users report satisfaction with its performance in delivering hot water as needed.
13. Suitable for Auxiliary Heating: Works well for sinks far from the main water heater, providing faster hot water access.
14. Convenient for Outdoor Use: Ideal for outdoor applications like beach showers, enhancing outdoor living.
15. Space Saving: Its compact size frees up space compared to traditional water heaters.
16. Enhances Comfort: Improves comfort in homes, especially in areas far from the main water heater.
17. Temperature Control: Provides consistent temperature control for a comfortable experience.
18. Low Operational Cost: Saves money on water and electricity bills.
19. Simple User Interface: Features user-friendly controls for ease of use.

Cons:

1. Limited Flow Capacity: Struggles with high water flow, leading to lower temperatures at higher flow rates.
2. Not Suitable for Full Showers: May not provide enough hot water for a normal, full-flow shower.
3. Electrical Requirements: Needs a dedicated 30 amp circuit and #10 wiring, which might be a challenge for some installations.
4. Heat Limitation: In some cases, it stops heating beyond a certain temperature, which may not be sufficient in colder climates.
5. Limited to Specific Applications: Best suited for specific uses like under sinks or outdoor showers, not as a whole-house solution.
6. Longer Heat-Up Time Compared to Instant Heaters: Takes longer to heat up compared to instant heat models.
7. Size Limitation: Though compact, it still requires some space for mounting.

In conclusion, the WINTEMP KFU135 Tankless Electric Water Heater is a practical, energy-efficient, and easy-to-install solution for providing hot water in specific applications like outdoor showers, RVs, and sinks. Its compact size and adjustable temperature settings make it a versatile option. However, its limitations in flow capacity and the requirement for a dedicated electrical circuit may pose challenges for certain installations or as a complete replacement for traditional water heaters.