How To Adjust Stiebel Eltron Water Heater Temperature [All Models] 

Imagine this: you wake up one morning, ready to start your day with a refreshing shower. But as you turn on the water, you’re greeted with an unexpected surprise – it’s either too hot or too cold! Frustrated, you realize that the temperature on your Stiebel Eltron water heater needs some adjustment. But how to adjust Stiebel Eltron water heater temperature?

Well, the process is different for different models. Mostly there you’ll find a temperature knob and by rotating it right and left you can correspondingly increase and decrease the temperature. 

However, in the case of models like DHC or Mini tank you may face issues. Don’t worry, in this article, we’ve clarified how to adjust the temperature on Stiebel Eltron. So stay with us till the end. 


how to adjust stiebel eltron water heater temperature

How To Adjust Stiebel Eltron Water Heater Temperature?

So far, we’ve covered 10+ models including the most common models like Mini tank, Tempra, DHC-E, and others. Before we start let us provide you with some information, 

  • There is always a limit and you can adjust the temperature only within the limit.
  • Some models of Stiebel Eltron water heaters offer preset temperature buttons for your convenience. With these buttons, you can set and save 1-2 specific temperatures of your choice. Whenever you want to use a particular temperature, all you need to do is click on the corresponding preset button, and the water heater will recall that temperature for you.
  • Some models don’t have a temperature control knob. In such a case, it may require you to remove the cover of the heater.
  • In certain models, you have the flexibility to adjust the temperature to any specific point you desire. However, in some models, you can only increase or decrease the temperature without knowing the exact temperature rating. 

Now let’s move on to the main segment. 

Stiebel Eltron Water Heater Temperature Adjustment: Tempra and Tempra Plus

Adjusting the temperature setting in the Tempra model is very easy. But before we know the steps, here’s some basic info you should know. 

The Tempra system controls the temperature of the water using electronic technology. You can choose any temperature you want between 68 °F (20 °C) and 140 °F (60 °C) by turning the knob on the front of the system.

The Tempra Trend and Tempra Plus models have a knob that can be set to OFF or any temperature between 68 °F and 140 °F. The highest temperature it can go to is 140 °F to keep it safe.

Now let’s get into the topic – how to adjust the Stiebel Eltron Tempra water heater temperature.

Step 1: Locate the Temperature Control Knob

Find the temperature control knob located almost at the center of the water heater. It’s a round white knob. Follow the image for more detail. 

adjust the temperature of stiebel eltron water heater

Step 2: Adjust the Temperature

Now to set the desired temperature, simply rotate the knob until it reaches your desired temperature. Let us guide you a little more, if you rotate it clockwise that means an increase in temperature. And to lower the temperature rotate it counter-clockwise.

Step 3: Monitor And Stop When Reached the Desire Temperature Level

You may be wondering how you know at which temperature it is now! Well, there is an LCD just above the know. This display shows the current temperature level and allows you to easily monitor and adjust it as needed. 

This temperature setting method is applicable for the below models

Tempra® TrendTempra® Plus
Tempra® 12 TrendTempra® 12 Plus 
Tempra® 15 TrendTempra® 15 Plus
Tempra® 20 TrendTempra® 20 Plus
Tempra® 24 TrendTempra® 24 Plus
Tempra® 29 TrendTempra® 29 Plus
Tempra® 36 TrendTempra® 36 Plus

NB: To make sure the system works well and lasts a long time, it’s best to set the temperature between 86 °F (30 °C) and 120 °F (50 °C). This range helps prevent problems like scaling and keeps the system running efficiently.

Tempra Plus Temperature Preset

When talking about temperature adjustment it is a must to discuss the preset functions offered by Tempra. The Tempra Plus model offers 2 preset temperature settings. It allows the users to quickly access their preferred temperatures. 

Just above the temperature control knob, there are 3 buttons (1,2, and i). There Button 1 and Button 2 are 2 preset buttons that can store independent temperature values for easy recall.

tempra plus of stiebel eltron water heater

How to Modify the Preset Values?

You’ll be glad to know that users have the flexibility to modify the default setpoint values for the presets. Let’s see the procedure to do it.

Step 1: Rotate the control knob to select the temperature you want to set for the preset. This can be done by turning the knob until the desired temperature is displayed on the screen.

Step 2: Once you have chosen the desired temperature, hold down the preset button for 5 seconds. The preset button is the button associated with the preset you wish to modify (Button 1 or Button 2).

Step 3: As you hold the preset button, the display will start flashing. This flashing indicates that the preset value is being changed.

Step 4: Continue holding the preset button until the flashing stops. Once the flashing stops, it signifies that the preset has been successfully changed to the temperature you selected.

Stiebel Eltron Water Heater Temperature Adjustment on the DHC-E Models

Now let’s discuss the procedure for the DHC-E models. To adjust the setpoint temperature, you have the flexibility to choose any temperature between 68°F (20°C) and 140°F (60°C). Here’s how you can make the desired changes including table and images:

stiebel eltron water heater temperature adjustment on the dhc-e models
Temperature SettingsRangeIncrement
Fahrenheit (°F)68–140 °F1 °F
Celsius (°C)20–60 °C0.5 °C

01. Increase the Setpoint Temperature

To raise the temperature, simply turn the control knob in a clockwise direction. Each clockwise turn will increase the temperature by 1°F on the Fahrenheit scale or 0.5°C on the Celsius scale.

02. Decrease the Setpoint Temperature

Conversely, to lower the temperature, turn the control knob counterclockwise. This will gradually decrease the setpoint temperature.

Note: The water heater can be deactivated while remaining powered by turning the control knob counterclockwise, going beyond the 68°F (20°C) setting.

The above temperature adjusting method is applicable for the below DHC-E models

DHC-E TrendDHC-E Plus
DHC-E 3/3.5-1 TrendDHC-E 8/10-2 Plus 
DHC-E 4/6-2 TrendDHC-E 12/15-215 Plus
DHC-E 8/10-2 Trend
DHC-E 12/15-2 Trend

DHC-E Temperature Preset Buttons 

Just like the previous models, there are also 2 preset buttons in the DHC models. And you can set the preset temperature as you wish. Let’s see how you can change the preset reading. 

dhc-e temperature preset buttons of stiebel eltron water heater

Step 1: Rotate the control knob to the temperature you want to set as the preset value. Turn the knob until the desired temperature appears on the screen.

Step 2: Press and hold the preset button associated with the preset you wish to modify (Button 1 or 2) for 3 seconds.

Step 3: While holding the preset button, you’ll notice that the display starts flashing. This flashing indicates that the preset value is being changed.

Step 4: Keep holding the preset button until the flashing stops. Once the flashing stops, it means that the preset has been successfully changed to the temperature you selected.

How To Adjust Stiebel Eltron DHX Water Heater Temperature?

The temperature adjustment process of Stiebel Eltron DHX water heaters is completely the same as the DHC-E model. 

Besides the temperature preset functions are also the same as DHC-E models. So, if you own any DHX model, follow the same procedure as the DHC-E models.

Stiebel Eltron Water Heater Temperature Adjustment: DHC Models

Well, unlike the above models, the DHC model doesn’t come with any easy knob/dial to control the temperature setting. In the case of controlling the temperature here, you’ll have to face difficulties and if you’re a newbie then you might not be able to control it.

There are mainly 2 methods to adjust the temperature. One method is applicable to the DHC Trend models and another is applicable to the DHC Classic models. Let’s learn about them one by one.

Method 1 (DHC Trend): Using the Jumper Slot

Here is a step-by-step guide on the temperature setting procedure for the DHC Trend water heaters using the jumper slot:

jumper slot of stiebel eltron water heater

Step 1: Install the Jumper

Install the jumper in the required position on the “Tmax” pin strip as specified in the provided instructions.

Step 2: Identify the Operating Voltage

Determine whether your water heater operates at 240 V or 208 V nominal operating voltage.

Step 3: Understand the Temperature Options

Refer to the provided tables to understand the available temperature options based on the jumper position and operating voltage. Take note of the maximum temperature outputs for each position.

Jumper Position (240 V)Description
38 °C (100 °F)Code-compliant hand-washing applications
43 °C (109 °F)Applications where the risk of scalding may be a concern
50 °C (122 °F)DHW for kitchen sink, utility sink, etc.
60 °C (140 °F)Commercial applications, health code requirements
No jumperLimit of 38 °C (100 °F)
Jumper Position (208 V)*Description
32 °C (90 °F)Lukewarm water for hand washing (factory default)
36 °C (97 °F)Code-compliant hand-washing applications
41 °C (106 °F)Warm water for hand washing
49 °C (120 °F)DHW for kitchen sink, utility sink, etc.
No jumperLimit of 32 °C (90 °F)

Step 4: Select the Desired Temperature Range

Choose the temperature range that aligns with your requirements and intended applications.

Step 5: Set the Jumper for 240 V (for 240 V Operating Voltage)

Now let’s see the jumper setting guide when the operating voltage is 240V

  1. For Code-compliant hand washing applications (factory default setting), leave the jumper position without any changes.
  2. For applications where the risk of scalding may be a concern, move the jumper to the 43 °C | 109 °F position.
  3. For DHW (Domestic Hot Water) needs at kitchen sinks or utility sinks, select the 50 °C | 122 °F position.
  4. For commercial applications or when health code requirements dictate higher temperatures, set the jumper to the 60 °C | 140 °F position.
  5. To limit the temperature to 38 °C | 100 °F, remove the jumper.

Step 6: Set the Jumper for 208 V (for 208 V Operating Voltage)

Now let’s get the process when operating at 208V

  1. For lukewarm water suitable for hand washing (factory default setting), keep the jumper in the 32 °C | 90 °F position.
  2. For code-compliant hand washing applications, move the jumper to the 36 °C | 97 °F position.
  3. For warm water during hand washing, set the jumper to the 41 °C | 106 °F position.
  4. For DHW needs at kitchen sinks or utility sinks, choose the 49 °C | 120 °F position.
  5. To limit the temperature to 32 °C | 90 °F, remove the jumper.
  6. Ensure Water Temperature Considerations: Remember that the listed output temperatures assume an incoming water temperature of 15 °C | 59 °F.

Method 2 (DHC Classic): By Tightening and Loosing the Flow Adjustment Screw

By adjusting the flow adjustment screw in the appropriate direction, you can control the temperature of the water produced by your DHC Classic water heaters. This is comparatively an easier way but here you won’t get the temperature reading. Let’s see how to do it. 

Step 1: Locate the Flow Adjustment Screw On the Water Heater

First, locate the flow adjustment screw inside the water heater. You’ll have to reassemble the cover in order to find it. After disassembling the cover check for the screw according to the given image. 

locate the flow adjustment screw stiebel eltron water heater

Step 2: Lower Water Temperature

First, to lower the water temperature, take a wrench/screwdriver and turn the flow adjustment screw counterclockwise (-) to open it. This action increases the water volume, resulting in a decrease in water temperature.

Step 3: Raise the Water Temperature

Now, to raise the water temperature just turn the flow adjustment screw clockwise (+) to close it. This action decreases the water volume and increases the water temperature.

How to Adjust the Stiebel Eltron Mini-E Water Heater Temperature

Now let’s move on to the temperature setting guide of the Mini-E model. In the case of the Mini-E model, the process is quite different but easy. Let’s see how to adjust the temperature. 

Step 1: Open the Tap

Now open the tap and as soon as you open it the appliance’s heating system will switch on automatically, and the water will begin to heat up.

Step 2: Adjust for Higher Temperature

To increase the water temperature, reduce the flow rate at the tap. This can be done by partially closing the tap or adjusting any flow control mechanisms available. By reducing the flow rate, less cold water will mix with the hot water, resulting in a higher temperature output.

Step 3: Adjust for Lower Temperature

If you want to reduce the water temperature, open the tap further or add more cold water to the mix. Opening the tap further allows more cold water to enter the flow, diluting the hot water and lowering the overall temperature.

Altering the Maximum Temperature at Stiebel Eltron Mini-E Water Heater

You can change the maximum temperature setting by using the potentiometer inside the appliance. In this segment, we’ll learn about it but before that, remember the default maximum temperature setting at the Mini-E heater is 100 °F (38 °C)

Now, here is a step-by-step guide to setting the maximum temperature on the appliance:

i) Ensure Power Supply Deactivation: Before adjusting the temperature, it is crucial to deactivate or disconnect the power supply to ensure safety.

ii) Uncover the Appliance Cover: Now take a flat screwdriver and uncover the appliance cover of the heater. There are usually in total 2 screws on the left and right sides. Just unscrew them to uncover the heater. 

uncover the appliance cover of stiebel eltron water heater

iii) Adjusting the Potentiometer: Now check, whether the screwdriver fits the potentiometer or not. If it doesn’t fit then get another screwdriver that fits the potentiometer inside the appliance.

Now, Carefully turn the potentiometer with the flat screwdriver to set it to the maximum temperature value you desire. This will increase the maximum temperature limit.

shc mini water heater temperature adjustment

iv) Re-fitting the Appliance Cover: Once you have set the desired maximum temperature, securely re-fit the cover of the appliance.

How to Adjust Stiebel Eltron SHC Mini Tank Water Heater Temperature

If you’re using any SHC model mini tank then you’re lucky. Because the temperature-adjusting process for such models is really easy. The water heater features a thermostat that is adjustable and responsible for automatically regulating the water temperature.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on SHC Mini water heater temperature adjustment.

shc mini water heater temperature adjustment

Step 1: Start by locating the adjustable thermostat on the water heater. It is usually located on the front or side of the unit.

Step 2: Next, identify the indicator lamp next to the thermostat. This lamp indicates whether the water is currently being heated.

Step 3: Now, to increase the water temperature, turn the thermostat knob counterclockwise (to the left).

Step 4: Conversely, to decrease the water temperature, turn the thermostat knob clockwise (to the right).

Step 5: As you adjust the thermostat, pay attention to the indicator lamp. It should remain lit only when the water is actively being heated.

Always remember that the water heater thermostat can also be set to guard against freezing. This setting ensures that the internal temperature of the water heater stays above the freezing point, preventing any potential damage caused by freezing temperatures.

Keep in mind:

  • This process is applicable to the SHC 2.5, SHC 4, and SHC 6 models
  • The thermostat of the water heater comes pre-set by the factory at a temperature of 120 °F (49 °C).

Stiebel Eltron PSH Plus Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

Luckily the temperature control system for the PSH models is also very easy. Just find the temperature control knob and you’re almost done. Let’s see how to do it. Before that let me remind you you can apply this procedure for the PSH 20 Plus and PSH 3 Plus models. 

Step 1: First, locate the round knob. You’ll find it at the bottom of the heater. Follow the image. 

locate the round knob of stiebel eltron water heater

Step 2: In case of increasing the temperature, turn the knob clockwise (Right side)

Step 3: And when you want to decrease the temperature, turn the knob counter-clockwise (Left side)

Stiebel Eltron MegaBoost Tankless Water Heater Temperature Adjustment

When it’s MegaBoost tankless water heater the temperature adjust system is also a breeze. You can adjust the temperature between 86°F (30°C) and 140°F (60°C) using the temperature control knob. Let’s get the process to adjust the temperature on the Stiebel Eltron MegaBoost tankless water heater.

Step 1: Notice almost in the middle of the water heater and you’ll find a round temperature control knob just like the image given below. 

temperature control knob of stiebel eltron water heater

Step 2: In this model, you have no problem understanding the temperature level. Because the temperature rating is conveniently indicated around the knob. So, all you need to do is adjust the knob based on the corresponding temperature rating and position it accordingly to align with your desired temperature level. 

FAQs:

How do you adjust the temperature on a tankless water heater?

Most of the time there is a knob available to control the temperature. In general, if you rotate it clockwise, it means the temperature will increase, and if you rotate it counter-clockwise, it means the temperature will decrease. 

What is the default temperature for a tankless water heater?

The recommended default temperature for a tankless water heater is 120 degrees. However, some individuals prefer hotter water, so a temperature of around 130 degrees is often sufficient for showering. The setting of 140 degrees is usually intended for commercial use rather than residential showers.

What is the function of a temperature control knob?

The temperature control knob is responsible for adjusting and regulating the temperature of a water heater. By turning the knob, users can increase or decrease the temperature according to their preferences.

Final Words

So that’s everything we have for you on how to adjust the Stiebel Eltron water heater temperature.

In this article, I’ve covered the process for all types of Stiebel Eltron water heaters. However, In the models where there are temperature knobs available, it is easy to control the temperature. But where there is no temperature knob, it is a bit difficult and sometimes risky to adjust the temperature.

If you are not a skilled person then we would suggest avoiding performing it where there is no temperature control knob.

Well, before leaving you can read our comprehensive guide on Stiebel Eltron tankless water heater troubleshooting if you are struggling to solve any issues with your water heater.

We’ll be happy to see you there. Good Luck.

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