Stiebel Eltron Error Codes: Tempra Plus and DHC-E

Use the wrench symbol to find the code

In the US Tempra Plus manual, a wrench at the lower left marks an error. With the wrench visible, press the Information button to advance to the error display. The manual’s illustration shows an E followed by 3.

Stiebel Eltron says holding Information for five seconds returns to the base display; the screen also returns after fifteen seconds without input. That is display navigation, not a statement that the fault has cleared.

On the ordinary Tempra Plus screen, the top number is the temperature setpoint, the bar shows the fraction of power capacity in use, and the bottom number is water flow.

Keep the inlet and outlet sensor reports distinct

For error 3, Stiebel Eltron includes a cable connection check. That belongs inside the service visit with the electrical supplies isolated, rather than an instruction for the owner to reach behind the front cover.

Give the technician the full number and mention any recent installation or service. Avoid reporting only a temperature problem, because the chart distinguishes which sensor circuit is involved. Neither entry tells the owner to descale the heater as the code remedy.

Report 91 through 97 as the manual groups them

The US DHC-E 20 and DHC-E 30 manual lists 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96 and 97 together. The table lists an electronic control module problem as a possible cause and directs you to contact Stiebel Eltron.

That table does not assign a different component to each number. Keep the exact number for support, but do not turn 91 into an inlet sensor diagnosis by borrowing from another Stiebel Eltron model.

The same manual says that, apart from its filter screen, the DHC-E has no parts serviceable by an untrained person. It asks owners to contact support before removing a heater from the wall, so a code alone is not a reason to disconnect and replace the whole unit.

Separate a display setting from a flow complaint

On Tempra Plus, Stiebel Eltron describes the lock symbol as a display setting that prevents changes. Its maximum temperature setting can also limit the setpoint. These are different from the wrench that opens the error menu.

On the older DHC-E 20 and 30, Stiebel Eltron says a flashing Power light during operation means water flow exceeds the unit’s heating capacity. Its direction is to reduce the hot water flow so the unit can reach the setpoint. That light is not one of the numbered electronic faults.

For a Tempra with no hot water, the maker’s troubleshooting table includes power, insufficient flow, the flow sensor and incorrect plumbing. For restricted hot flow, it lists a clogged screen or scale. Tell service which symptom you have rather than calling every case a sensor failure.

The broader tankless water heater problems guide explains flow complaints. Use the electric model’s own maintenance instructions for any work at this heater.