We start by showing which models suit Australian homes and businesses and what to expect from these mains‑pressure storage units. If you need rapid help with installation, repairs or leaks, we offer 24/7 support on hot water repairs in Strathmore or call 1800 571 216.
These SHC units work well with WELS‑rated tapware and low‑flow fittings, deliver consistent water flow to multiple outlets, and are not designed as boiling or chilled systems. Look for the top‑mounted size sticker (for example, SHC 10 AU or SHC 15 AU) to confirm the size and capacity before installation.
Quick performance note: the SHC 10 AU can recover about 10 litres to 60°C in ~29 minutes from a 20°C inlet. Installation must include a safe tray and drain to meet AS/NZS 3500.4.2, and official manuals are available as downloadable PDFs to verify specs and file size details.
Throughout this short guide we’ll cover model choices, practical use tips, maintenance steps and when to call our team for urgent fault‑finding or upgrades.
Key Takeaways
- SHC series suits compact spaces and works with WELS‑rated taps.
- Check the top sticker to confirm unit size and model.
- SHC 10 AU recovers ~10 L to 60°C in about 29 minutes from 20°C inlet.
- Not a boiling water unit — choose based on intended use.
- Install with a safe tray and drain per AS/NZS 3500.4.2 for compliance.
- Downloadable manuals and PDFs list specs and file size details.
- For 24/7 help in Melbourne call OnCall Emergency Plumbers on 1800 571 216.
Stiebel Eltron models at a glance for Australian homes and businesses
We profile compact mains‑pressure units that suit kitchens, tea points and small prep areas. Our focus is on practical selection: where the unit will sit, how many outlets it must serve and how quickly hot water must return.
Point-of-use SHC mini storage: for sinks and multipoint use
SHC mini storage fits neatly under a sink and can serve more than one outlet when the number of taps is modest. The compact product is ideal where a simple, localised supply beats a central plantroom upgrade.
Instant and storage water heaters: matching form factors to space
Instant heaters save space and suit single‑tap use. A small storage water heater gives steadier temperature for short bursts across two or three outlets.
Mains pressure compatibility and WELS‑rated tapware
Mains pressure means consistent flow with modern WELS mixers and low‑flow fittings. That compatibility protects everyday comfort while meeting efficiency rules.
Partnering with reputable brands for durable components
We partner with trusted suppliers to supply durable components and fittings. Our team offers 24/7 installation and replacement across Melbourne and can advise on model, budget and lead times—call 1800 571 216 for prompt support.
| Model | Typical use | Placement |
|---|---|---|
| SHC 10 AU | Under‑sink, 1–2 outlets | Under bench |
| SHC 15 AU | Small kitchen, 2–3 outlets | Under bench or cupboard |
| Instant unit | Single tap, space constrained | Wall mounted |
stiebel eltron guide to sizing: choosing the right water heater for your sink and beyond
Choosing the right capacity for a sink or small kitchen starts with confirming the unit’s labelled size and matching it to daily demand.
How to identify your unit quickly
Check the top of the unit between inlet and outlet for the sticker that states the product and size (for example, SHC 10 AU or SHC 15 AU).
Use that label to match manuals, parts and replacement quotes. Official PDFs show the exact sticker location and even the file size for downloads.
Assess sink use and number of outlets
Note how many people use the sink, the tasks performed (handwash, prep, dishwashing) and the number of connected taps. These factors determine the right heater capacity.
Recovery, peak demand and when to step up
Use the SHC 10 AU recovery—about 10 litres to 60°C in ~29 minutes from 20°C—as a planning benchmark. Busy kitchens or dishwashing often justify the SHC 15 AU to avoid long waits between fills.
| Model | Best for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| SHC 10 AU | Small sink | Quick under-sink supply |
| SHC 15 AU | Dishwashing | Higher capacity, faster turnaround |
| Instant unit | Single tap | Compact, on-demand heat |
We can confirm your existing unit size on site, advise on capacity upgrades and carry out 24/7 changeovers or emergency replacements—call 1800 571 216.
Pros, limitations and ideal use cases
We assess where compact storage units make sense and where they do not. Below we outline key advantages, honest limits and practical scenarios to help you choose the right unit.
Pros: compact design, efficient heaters and multipoint capability
Compact product footprints fit neatly under benches and in tight cupboards. This saves space and simplifies installation in small kitchens and studio apartments.
Efficient heaters deliver steady hot water for cleaning, prep and handwash tasks. When sized correctly, a single unit can serve two outlets.
Limitations: not for boiling water
These mains‑pressure storage units are not boiling dispensers for tea or coffee. They provide tempered water for hygiene and washing, not near‑boiling output.
Ideal scenarios and practical notes
Best use cases include granny flats, office kitchenettes, small hospitality prep benches and studio units. Correctly matching the unit size to peak demand improves recovery and user experience.
| Use case | Why it fits | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / granny flat | Space limits, low peak demand | Under‑bench heater |
| Office kitchenette | Moderate multipoint use at lunch | Small storage water heater |
| Prep bench | Repeated short bursts of hot water | Higher capacity SHC model |
Official manuals and downloadable file PDFs—showing clearance and file size—help facilities teams confirm installation requirements. For Melbourne homes and workplaces, we can design and install a right‑sized solution and provide 24/7 support for urgent replacements—call 1800 571 216.
Installation essentials and maintenance tips for reliable hot water
A correct tray, drain and clear service access are the first steps to a trouble-free under-sink heater installation.
Safe tray and drain requirements under AS/NZS 3500.4.2
Compliance matters. Install a safe tray and connect a compliant drain per AS/NZS 3500.4.2 to protect cabinetry and floors from leaks.
Allow clear access for servicing and fit the correct number of isolation valves and a pressure relief device. Label the product and record the installation date and model for warranty tracking.
Compatible sink mixers and low‑flow tapware use
SHC units are compatible with all WELS‑rated sink mixers, including low‑flow aerators.
Flow restrictors affect perceived performance. Simple aerator adjustments can improve comfort while maintaining efficiency and use expectations.
Routine checks to prevent leaks and burst pipes
Inspect flexi hoses, isolation valves and the safe tray regularly. Look for corrosion, moisture or unusual noises that can signal sediment or valve trouble.
Keep ventilation and clearance around the heater, anchor pipes correctly, and use dielectric unions where needed to extend component life.
- Commissioning steps: verify electrical supply, pressure and temperature; test joints for leaks; label and record model and file details for service.
- Documentation: keep digital copies of manuals and PDFs (including file size) for quick reference on service intervals and fault codes.
- Service offer: we provide compliant installation, leak detection, burst pipe response and routine servicing across Melbourne 24/7. Call 1800 571 216 for urgent or scheduled work or see our hot water repairs in Sunshine North.
| Requirement | Why it matters | Action we take |
|---|---|---|
| Safe tray & drain | Prevents water damage from leaks | Fit compliant tray, route drain to legal discharge |
| Isolation valves & PRV | Allows safe servicing and pressure control | Install accessible valves and test relief device |
| WELS‑rated mixers | Ensures compatible flow and efficiency | Advise aerator settings and test perceived flow |
| Documentation | Speeds repairs and warranty claims | Provide digital manuals and record model, size and file details |
Specs and resources you can trust
Downloadable PDFs make it simple to verify model details, wiring diagrams and safety notes before you start any work.
We help you locate the correct instruction manuals by cross‑checking the model name and the top sticker that shows the unit size (for example, SHC 10 AU or SHC 15 AU).
Instruction manuals and downloadable PDFs by model
Official instruction manuals are available as PDFs for each product and model. They list installation steps, commissioning checklists, wiring and plumbing diagrams, parts numbers and safety notices.
Some files are concise datasheets, while others are full service manuals. We recommend saving the correct file to your asset register with the site address, serial number and installation date.
Understanding file size and what each document covers
Knowing the approximate file size helps you pick the right download at a glance. Typical examples include 418.05 KB and 310.62 KB for datasheets, and larger files near 1.06 MB for full installation manuals.
PDFs for SHC units also include illustrations showing the exact location of the top sticker between the inlet and outlet. That makes confirming the heater size and ordering accessories quick and reliable.
- Why it matters: the right file speeds planning and on‑site works.
- What to store: manuals, service schedules, parts lists and file references.
- Share with stakeholders: facility managers and safety officers for safe use and isolation procedures.
| Document type | Typical file size | Contains |
|---|---|---|
| Datasheet | ~310–418 KB | Key specs, quick installation notes |
| Service manual | ~643–846 KB | Commissioning, wiring and parts lists |
| Installation manual | ~1.06 MB | Full procedures, safety and plumbing diagrams |
If you prefer, we can download the correct file, bring the right parts and complete the job across Melbourne in one visit. Call OnCall Emergency Plumbers on 1800 571 216 for fast, compliant service.
Conclusion
A clear selection rule is to match unit capacity to peak use so recovery times meet real needs in kitchens and small workplaces.
Choose compact mains‑pressure water heaters that suit demand, confirm the model and size via the top sticker, and follow official manuals and PDFs when you install.
Remember these units work well with WELS‑rated mixers, can serve multiple taps, but are not intended for boiling‑water service. Fit a compliant safe tray and drain per AS/NZS 3500.4.2 and schedule timely servicing to protect cabinetry and avoid costly damage.
For expert selection, compliant installation and 24/7 emergency response in Melbourne call OnCall Emergency Plumbers on 1800 571 216. We supply parts, download the correct file for your model and deliver fast, affordable outcomes for homes and businesses.
