JR GAS & WATER INSTALLER ASSESSMENT
Our Electric Instantaneous Hot Water Installer Verdict
This is the part of the product page we consider most important. It is our assessment of the product from the installer's side: construction, mounting, water connections, electrical integration and ongoing support, rather than a repeat of the specification sheet.
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JR GAS & WATER LOCAL INSTALLATION
Local Hot Water Installation Areas
View all hot water service areas🏷️ Brand – Stiebel Eltron
🔢 Model Number –
📦 Volume – 18L
📏 Width – 225mm
📐 Height – 466mm
🌍 Manufactured In – Germany
🛠️ Cylinder / Heat Exchange Material –
🛡️ Cylinder / Heat-Exchange Warranty – 7 Years
🔇 Noise Level – dBa
⚖️ Dry Weight – kg
⚡ Energy Source –
📡 WiFi Controller Built-in or Compatible –
⏲️ Built-In Timer –
💡 LED/LCD Status Indicator – Yes
📊 Coefficient of Performance (COP) –
STIEBEL ELTRON INSTANT ELECTRIC INSTALLATION
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation Brisbane & Gold Coast
JR Gas & Water supplies and installs the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. It is an electronically controlled three-phase electric instantaneous water heater designed to heat water on demand without requiring a conventional storage tank.
The DEL 18 Plus is rated at 19.4kW on a 415V three-phase supply and draws approximately 27A per phase. Stiebel Eltron designs the DEL Plus range for one or several draw-off points, making the 18 Plus a practical middle option between the smaller DEL 13 Plus and higher-output DEL 27 Plus.
Because an electric instantaneous system places a relatively high load on the electrical supply while operating, correct selection depends on both hot water demand and the property’s electrical infrastructure. Available three-phase capacity, switchboard condition, circuit protection, cable sizing, incoming water temperature and the number of outlets expected to operate at once all need to be considered before installation.
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus at a glance: The DEL 18 Plus is a German-made 19.4kW three-phase instantaneous electric water heater with 3i electronic control, 20–50°C temperature adjustment, 2.5L/min minimum switch-on flow and multi-outlet capability. Stiebel Eltron lists approximately 27A per phase at 415V and 32A fuse protection. JR installs the DEL 18 Plus across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast areas subject to electrical and hydraulic suitability.
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Supply & Installation at a Glance
Product Type
Three-phase electronically controlled instantaneous electric water heater.
Rated Output
19.4kW at 415V with approximately 27A rated current per phase.
Best Suited To
Selected one-bathroom homes, apartments and multi-outlet applications with suitable three-phase electrical capacity.
Installation Area
Professional supply and installation across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.
Who Is the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Best For?
Homes With Three-Phase Power
The DEL 18 Plus is designed for properties with suitable three-phase supply. It makes the most sense where the required circuit capacity is already available or where the electrical installation has been specifically designed for a high-load instantaneous water heater.
One-Bathroom Applications
Stiebel Eltron identifies the 19.4kW class as a suitable guide for a one-bathroom apartment or house, subject to incoming water temperature and actual outlet demand.
Properties Where Tank Space Is Limited
The compact 466 × 225 × 116mm wall-mounted format can be useful where floor space is limited or where a storage cylinder would be difficult to accommodate.
PRODUCT SUITABILITY
Is the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Right for My Home?
A Good Choice If...
Your property has suitable three-phase power, you want tankless electric hot water, the expected hot water demand matches a 19.4kW unit and you prefer compact wall-mounted installation with electronic temperature control.
Consider Another Option If...
The property lacks suitable three-phase capacity, several high-flow outlets need to operate simultaneously, or a larger 27kW-class instantaneous system or storage-based hot water system would better suit the household.
JR Should Check First If...
You are changing from storage hot water, replacing a lower-output instantaneous unit, have limited switchboard capacity or are unsure whether the existing circuit and cable size can support the DEL 18 Plus.
How Much Hot Water Can the DEL 18 Plus Deliver?
Instantaneous electric output depends on temperature rise. The colder the incoming water or the hotter the desired outlet temperature, the lower the maximum available flow at the selected temperature.
Stiebel Eltron’s Queensland product-selection guide uses approximately 15L/min at a 19°C temperature rise as the reference performance figure for the DEL 18 Plus. Under the manufacturer’s stated assumptions, that is roughly equivalent to one mixed shower plus one basin.
The DEL 18 Plus therefore sits between the DEL 13 Plus and DEL 27 Plus in available output. It can suit a one-bathroom home or apartment well, but it should not automatically be treated as a two-bathroom whole-home system where several high-flow outlets operate together.
How Does the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Work?
The DEL 18 Plus heats water only when it flows through the appliance. When sufficient water flow is detected, the electronic control system activates the bare-wire heating element and adjusts electrical output to achieve the selected water temperature.
Stiebel Eltron’s 3i Technology continuously monitors operating conditions and regulates power electronically rather than simply running at one fixed output.
The process is straightforward: a hot tap opens → the DEL detects water flow → the controller calculates the required power → water passes across the bare-wire heating system → hot water leaves the unit at the selected temperature within the appliance’s available performance.
Key Features of the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus
19.4kW Three-Phase Output
The DEL 18 Plus is rated at 19.4kW on a 415V three-phase supply, positioning it between the DEL 13 Plus and DEL 27 Plus.
3i Electronic Control
Three sensors monitor operating conditions so the heater can control output electronically and maintain the selected temperature within its available capacity.
20–50°C Temperature Control
The DEL Plus allows temperature adjustment between 20°C and 50°C and includes programmable temperature memories.
AS3498 50°C Output
The Australian DEL Plus is designed to limit hot water output to 50°C in accordance with AS3498, removing the need for a separate tempering valve where the compliant 50°C outlet is appropriate.
Three-Stage ECO Mode
ECO mode can limit maximum flow to help maintain a stable water temperature while reducing unnecessary water and electricity use.
Made in Germany
The DEL Plus range is manufactured in Germany and carries WaterMark approval for Australian installation.
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Stiebel Eltron |
| Model | DEL 18 Plus |
| Article Number | 236741 |
| Product Type | Three-phase electric instantaneous water heater |
| Rated Output at 415V | 19.4kW |
| Rated Current at 415V | 27A per phase |
| Fuse Protection | 32A |
| Electrical Supply | 3/PE three phase |
| Electrical Installation | As per AS/NZS 3000 |
| Plumbing Installation | AS/NZS 3500.4.2 and local requirements |
| Minimum Switch-On Flow | 2.5L/min |
| Maximum Permissible Pressure | 1000kPa |
| Temperature Adjustment | 20–50°C |
| Maximum Outlet Temperature | 50°C |
| Water Connection | G 1/2 A |
| Dimensions | 466 × 225 × 116mm |
| Weight | 3.2kg |
| Nominal Internal Capacity | 0.4L |
| Heating System | Bare-wire heating system |
| IP Rating | IP25 / IP24 at electrical connection on finished walls |
| Multiple Outlets | Yes |
| Accepts Pre-Heated Water | Yes, up to 50°C inlet temperature |
| Programmable Temperature | Yes |
| Display | Backlit multifunction display |
| Country of Manufacture | Germany |
| Approvals | WaterMark WMKA00301 / AS3498 |
| Domestic Manufacturer Warranty | 7 years full parts and labour |
| Commercial Manufacturer Warranty | 1 year full parts and labour |
Important: three-phase power being present at the property does not automatically mean the DEL 18 Plus can be installed. Stiebel Eltron specifies approximately 27A per phase with 32A fuse protection, so available supply, switchboard capacity and circuit design still need to be checked by a licensed electrician.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
What Is Required to Install the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus?
The DEL 18 Plus is physically compact, but its electrical requirements are substantially higher than a conventional electric storage tank. Electrical suitability should therefore be confirmed before ordering the system for a new conversion.
Suitable 415V three-phase electrical supply
Approximately 27A load per phase
32A fuse protection as specified by Stiebel Eltron
Correct cable sizing and circuit design
Suitable switchboard capacity
Hardwired electrical connection
Suitable cold and hot water pipework
Water pressure within manufacturer limits
Suitable wall-mounting position
Practical future service access
Weather protection if installed externally
Licensed plumbing and electrical installation
For a like-for-like replacement, the existing circuit breaker and cable size should still be checked. Older instantaneous units can have materially different electrical requirements.
What's Included With Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation?
Standard Installation
The selected JR installation package covers the applicable plumbing and installation work shown in the live product selector. A true like-for-like replacement can be relatively straightforward where the existing mounting position, water connections and electrical circuit already suit the DEL 18 Plus.
Testing & Commissioning
The appliance is connected, filled, tested and commissioned. Water flow, outlet temperature, electrical operation and general function are checked before handover.
Possible Additional Work
Switchboard changes, new three-phase cabling, circuit protection upgrades, supply-capacity work, pressure control, pipe alterations or relocation can increase the installation scope and may require additional quotation.
How Much Does Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation Cost?
Current supplied-and-installed pricing should be taken from JR's live product and installation selector above. This keeps the displayed price aligned with the current unit cost and the installation package actually selected.
The biggest cost variable is often electrical work. A property that already has a compliant circuit suitable for a 19.4kW three-phase instantaneous heater can require significantly less work than a conversion needing switchboard changes, new cable runs or increased electrical capacity.
Plumbing relocation, pressure-control requirements, access and changing from another hot water technology can also affect the final installation cost.
BRISBANE INSTALLATION
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation Brisbane
JR Gas & Water supplies and installs the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus across eligible Brisbane service areas. The model can be particularly relevant for apartments, compact homes and one-bathroom properties where a suitable three-phase instantaneous system is already installed.
For a Brisbane replacement, the existing circuit breaker, cable sizing and available phase capacity should be checked before treating the job as a direct changeover. An older electric instantaneous heater can look similar on the wall while having materially different electrical requirements.
Where the DEL 18 Plus is being installed as a new conversion from storage hot water, JR can assess the plumbing side while the electrical requirements are confirmed for the property. Surrounding service areas can include Logan, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and Redlands subject to current installation availability.
GOLD COAST INSTALLATION
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation Gold Coast
Gold Coast DEL 18 Plus installations require the same careful match between electrical capacity and hot water demand. The compact wall-mounted heater can be practical for apartments, townhouses and smaller homes where a storage cylinder would occupy valuable space.
Where a building has shared or constrained electrical infrastructure, available three-phase capacity may need particular attention before the DEL 18 Plus is selected. This matters in apartment and body-corporate settings where simply having three-phase service somewhere in the building does not confirm enough capacity is available to an individual residence.
For an existing compatible instantaneous heater, installation may be more straightforward where the circuit, mounting location and water connections already comply with the current DEL 18 Plus requirements.
Can the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Replace My Existing Hot Water System?
Replacing Three-Phase Instant Electric
This is the closest replacement scenario. The existing circuit protection, cable sizing, mounting position and plumbing still need to be compatible with the DEL 18 Plus.
Replacing Electric Storage
Changing from storage to instantaneous removes the storage tank but introduces a much higher instantaneous electrical load while hot water is being drawn, so significant electrical work may be required.
Replacing Gas Continuous Flow
The wall-mounted format can be similar, but the energy source changes completely. A suitable three-phase electrical circuit must be established before conversion is practical.
Replacing a Smaller DEL
Moving from a DEL 13 Plus to the DEL 18 Plus increases electrical demand from roughly 20A to 27A per phase, so the existing circuit cannot automatically be assumed suitable.
Which Stiebel Eltron DEL Plus Size Do I Need?
| Feature | DEL 13 Plus | DEL 18 Plus | DEL 27 Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Output | 14.5kW | 19.4kW | 28kW |
| Rated Current | 20.2A/phase | 27A/phase | 38.9A/phase |
| Fuse Protection | 20A | 32A | 40A |
| Supply | Three phase | Three phase | Three phase |
| Minimum Switch-On Flow | 2.5L/min | 2.5L/min | 2.5L/min |
| Temperature Range | 20–50°C | 20–50°C | 20–50°C |
| Dimensions | 466 × 225 × 116mm | 466 × 225 × 116mm | 466 × 225 × 116mm |
| QLD Reference Flow | 12L/min at 17°C rise | 15L/min at 19°C rise | 18L/min at 22°C rise |
| Typical Reason to Consider | Lower-demand applications | One-bathroom / medium demand | Higher-output multi-outlet demand |
The DEL 18 Plus is the middle model in the range. It provides materially more output than the DEL 13 Plus without the substantially higher electrical demand of the DEL 27 Plus.
DEL 18 Plus vs Stiebel Eltron DHE 18 AU
The DEL 18 Plus and DHE 18 AU sit in the same 19.4kW electrical-output class but differ in controls and temperature capability.
| Feature | DEL 18 Plus | DHE 18 AU |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Output | 19.4kW | 19.4kW |
| Rated Current | 27A/phase | 27A/phase |
| Supply | Three phase | Three phase |
| Maximum Temperature | 50°C | Up to 60°C class |
| Control Positioning | 3i electronic control | Higher-spec DHE control platform |
| Main Application | 50°C bathroom and household applications | Applications needing higher temperature flexibility |
The DEL 18 Plus can be a strong fit where a maximum 50°C outlet is appropriate. The DHE 18 AU may be more suitable where the application calls for different temperature capability or its higher-spec control platform.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Installation FAQs
How much does Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus installation cost?
Current supplied-and-installed pricing is shown in JR's live product selector. Final cost depends heavily on whether the property already has a suitable three-phase circuit or needs switchboard, cabling or supply upgrades.
Can JR install the DEL 18 Plus in Brisbane?
Yes. JR installs electric instantaneous hot water systems across eligible Brisbane service areas, subject to electrical and plumbing suitability.
Can JR install the DEL 18 Plus on the Gold Coast?
Yes. Installation is available across eligible Gold Coast service areas where the property has suitable three-phase capacity and the household demand matches the appliance.
Does the DEL 18 Plus require three-phase power?
Yes. It is a three-phase instantaneous water heater rated at 19.4kW and approximately 27A per phase at 415V.
What fuse protection does the DEL 18 Plus require?
Stiebel Eltron's current datasheet lists 32A fuse protection for the DEL 18 Plus. Final circuit design and protection still need to comply with the electrical installation requirements at the property.
Is three-phase power alone enough to install the DEL 18 Plus?
No. The property also needs sufficient available current per phase, suitable switchboard capacity, correct circuit protection and appropriately sized cabling.
Can the DEL 18 Plus run a shower and basin together?
Stiebel Eltron's Queensland guide uses 15L/min at a 19°C temperature rise as a reference equivalent to one mixed shower and one basin. Real performance depends on incoming water temperature and outlet flow.
Does the DEL 18 Plus need a tempering valve?
The DEL Plus delivers water not exceeding 50°C in accordance with AS3498, so a separate tempering valve is not required where that compliant 50°C outlet is appropriate.
Can the DEL 18 Plus be installed in a cupboard?
Yes, subject to Stiebel Eltron's installation instructions and suitable service access. The unit requires no flue, ventilation or conventional storage-system safe tray.
Can the DEL 18 Plus be installed outdoors?
Outdoor installation is possible only where the heater is protected from the weather, such as inside a suitable enclosure or meter-box arrangement.
Can the DEL 18 Plus use pre-heated water?
Yes. Stiebel Eltron permits pre-heated incoming water up to 50°C, allowing the DEL Plus to work with suitable upstream solar or heat pump arrangements.
What warranty does the DEL 18 Plus have?
Stiebel Eltron currently provides a 7-year full parts-and-labour warranty for domestic use and a 1-year full parts-and-labour warranty for commercial use, subject to its warranty conditions.
Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus Warranty and Maintenance
Domestic Manufacturer Warranty
Stiebel Eltron currently provides 7 years full parts and labour for DEL Plus units used for domestic purposes, subject to the manufacturer's warranty conditions.
Commercial Manufacturer Warranty
For commercial use, Stiebel Eltron currently lists 1 year full parts and labour for the DEL Plus range.
Ongoing Maintenance
The inlet screen, water quality, electrical connections and general appliance operation should remain suitable, with any service work completed in accordance with Stiebel Eltron's instructions.
Why Choose JR Gas & Water for DEL 18 Plus Installation?
Electric instantaneous hot water needs to be selected around the property rather than simply chosen by product size. Electrical capacity, incoming water temperature, fixture demand, pipework and simultaneous usage all affect whether the DEL 18 Plus is the right system.
JR Gas & Water provides hot water installation across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and eligible surrounding South East Queensland areas, with an installation-led approach that separates genuine like-for-like replacements from jobs requiring additional electrical or plumbing work.
For the DEL 18 Plus, that means confirming the appliance is both hydraulically suitable for the household and electrically realistic for the property before installation.
COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS
Compare Instant Electric Hot Water Systems
Compare the DEL 18 Plus with smaller and larger three-phase instantaneous systems and alternative hot water technologies before choosing the final replacement.
Use JR's current live main navigation to compare Hot Water Systems, Instant Electric Hot Water and Stiebel Eltron systems.
READY TO INSTALL
Install the Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus With JR Gas & Water
The Stiebel Eltron DEL 18 Plus is a compact, German-made 19.4kW instantaneous electric water heater designed for properties with suitable three-phase electrical capacity and medium whole-home or multi-outlet demand.
The critical installation checks are available current per phase, circuit protection, cable sizing, switchboard capacity, incoming water temperature and expected simultaneous outlet use. Where the property already has a compatible three-phase instantaneous setup, replacement can be relatively straightforward. More involved electrical upgrades or conversions should be assessed before installation.
Gas continuous flow hot water systems provide hot water on demand, heating water only as it passes through the appliance. With no storage tank, these systems are highly efficient and can provide an endless supply of hot water when correctly sized and maintained.
Like any gas appliance, regular maintenance is recommended to ensure safe operation, maintain peak efficiency and support your manufacturer's warranty.
Homeowner Maintenance – Every 6 Months
Every six months we recommend carrying out a simple visual inspection of your continuous flow hot water system.
Homeowners should:
- Check for water leaks around the unit and pipework.
- Ensure the gas supply is turned on.
- Keep the area around the appliance free from leaves, dirt and debris.
- Ensure the air intake and flue terminal remain unobstructed.
- Inspect visible pipework for corrosion or damage.
- Listen for unusual noises during operation.
- Confirm the unit is producing hot water at the correct temperature.
Why is this important?
Gas continuous flow systems rely on unrestricted airflow and proper gas combustion to operate safely and efficiently.
Blocked vents, debris, water leaks or damaged pipework can reduce performance, increase gas consumption and potentially lead to system faults.
Regular visual inspections help identify problems before they become expensive repairs.
JR 6-Month Gas Continuous Flow Health Check
Recommended Service – $99
Our professional inspection helps ensure your gas continuous flow hot water system continues operating safely and efficiently.
Our technician will:
- Inspect the complete hot water unit.
- Check for water leaks and corrosion.
- Inspect gas pipework and fittings.
- Perform a gas leak test.
- Check burner operation.
- Inspect ignition performance.
- Check heat exchanger condition.
- Inspect the flue and air intake.
- Test water temperature and flow.
- Inspect electrical connections and controller operation (where fitted).
- Check isolation valves and filters.
- Identify components showing signs of wear.
Service Price: $99
Routine inspections help maximise efficiency, reduce operating costs and minimise the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
If Your Hot Water System Isn't Working
Before arranging a service, check the following:
- Ensure the gas supply is turned on.
- Check whether other gas appliances in your home are operating.
- Confirm the electrical power is switched on, as most continuous flow systems require electricity for ignition and controls.
- Check the circuit breaker or isolation switch.
- Ensure there is adequate water flow, as the unit will not ignite below its minimum operating flow rate.
- Check the controller for any error codes (where fitted).
- Ensure the air intake and flue terminal are free from obstructions.
- Look for any visible water leaks.
If your system still isn't producing hot water, contact JR Gas & Water for professional diagnosis and repair.
General Signs Your System May Need Attention
Arrange a service if you notice:
- No hot water.
- Fluctuating water temperatures.
- Water not reaching the selected temperature.
- Error codes displayed on the controller.
- Reduced water flow.
- Water leaking from the unit.
- Unusual burner or fan noises.
- Visible corrosion.
- Higher than normal gas consumption.
- Ignition failures or repeated shutdowns.
Early servicing can often prevent costly repairs and keep your hot water system operating reliably.
Protect Your Warranty & Maximise System Life
Routine maintenance helps keep your gas continuous flow hot water system operating safely, efficiently and reliably.
Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule may also assist in maintaining warranty coverage.
Failure to maintain your system may result in:
- Reduced heating efficiency.
- Increased gas consumption.
- Ignition or burner faults.
- Heat exchanger damage.
- Unexpected loss of hot water.
- Shortened component lifespan.
- Possible reduction or loss of manufacturer warranty, depending on the manufacturer's maintenance requirements.
Preventative maintenance is a cost-effective way to protect your investment, maintain efficient operation and maximise the life of your gas continuous flow hot water system.
Please note: Maintenance requirements vary between manufacturers and models. Always refer to your owner's manual for the maintenance schedule applicable to your gas continuous flow hot water system. JR Gas & Water services all major gas continuous flow hot water brands in accordance with manufacturer recommendations where applicable.
If you're in Queensland and considering a new electric hot water system, JR Gas & Water is the company to choose. Here's why:
Experience and Expertise: JR Gas & Water has over 10 years of experience in the gas and plumbing industry. Their team of licensed and insured professionals is highly skilled and knowledgeable about all aspects of electric hot water system installation, maintenance, and repair. They can provide expert advice on the best system for your needs and ensure a smooth installation process.
Quality Products: JR Gas & Water uses only high-quality products from trusted brands to ensure your electric hot water system is reliable and efficient. They also offer a range of options to suit different budgets and requirements.
Competitive Pricing: JR Gas & Water offers competitive pricing for their electric hot water systems, ensuring that you get a great value for your investment. They also provide a detailed quote upfront, so there are no surprises or hidden costs.
Customer Service: JR Gas & Water is committed to providing excellent customer service. They are always available to answer any questions or concerns you may have and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction.
Local Business: JR Gas & Water is a locally owned and operated business in Queensland. By choosing them for your electric hot water installation, you are supporting a local business and contributing to the local economy.
Warranty and Guarantee: JR Gas & Water provides a warranty and guarantee on all their products and services, giving you peace of mind knowing that your system is covered in case of any issues.
Energy Efficiency: Electric hot water systems can be energy efficient, and JR Gas & Water can help you choose the right system for your needs. They can provide advice on energy-saving features and options, such as timers and thermostats, to help you save on your energy bills.
Safety: JR Gas & Water is committed to safety and ensuring that all installations are done to the highest safety standards. They are also familiar with local safety regulations and requirements, ensuring that your electric hot water system is installed safely and in compliance with all relevant codes.
JR Gas & Water is a reliable and experienced choice for your electric hot water system installation in Queensland. With a commitment to quality products, competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and safety, they can help you make the switch to a more efficient and cost-effective solution for your hot water needs. Contact them today to learn more about their services and how they can help you.