1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the WINTEMP KJU144 Tankless Electric Water Heater. This manual provides essential information for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your new water heater. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and keep it for future reference. This unit is designed to provide on-demand hot water for single-point-of-use applications such as sinks, not for whole-house or shower use.
Image 1.1: Front view of the WINTEMP KJU144 Tankless Electric Water Heater.
2. Important Safety Information
WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can cause property damage, injury, or death. Read the installation, operating, and maintenance instructions thoroughly before installing or servicing this equipment.
- This appliance must be installed by a qualified electrician and plumber in accordance with all local electrical and plumbing codes.
- Ensure the electrical supply meets the unit's requirements: 4.4KW, 120 Volts, maximum 36 Amps. A dedicated 40 Amp double-pole breaker and 10 AWG wiring with ground are required.
- Do not operate the unit if it is damaged or malfunctioning.
- Do not block or restrict water flow to or from the unit.
- The unit is equipped with overheat protection, dry-heating protection, and electricity leakage protection for user safety.
- The water connection is 1/2" NPT. This unit is not designed for shower applications.
Image 2.1: Multiple protection features for enhanced safety.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged before proceeding with installation:
- WINTEMP KJU144 Tankless Electric Water Heater
- Rubber plug and screws for mounting
- Operation and Installation instructions manual (this document)
- External power cord
4. Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | KJU144 |
| Wattage | 4.4 KW |
| Voltage | 120 Volts (AC) |
| Maximum Amperage | 36A |
| Required Breaker | 1 x 40 Amp Double-Pole (DP) |
| Required Wiring | 10# AWG with ground |
| Product Dimensions (W x H x D) | 8.9” x 7.7” x 3.1” |
| Water Connection | 1/2" NPT |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 1.4 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Maximum Temperature | 121 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Mounting Type | Wall |
| Special Features | Fire-retardant ABS casing, Overheat Protection, Dry-heating Protection, Electricity Leakage Protection, Digital Display |
| Item Weight | 5.2 pounds |
5. Installation
Installation must be performed by a qualified professional. Ensure all local and national electrical and plumbing codes are followed.
5.1 Pre-Installation Checklist
- Electrical Requirements: Confirm your electrical system can support a 4.4KW, 120V appliance requiring a dedicated 40 Amp double-pole breaker and 10 AWG wiring.
- Water Pressure: Ensure water pressure is within acceptable limits (Max Operating Pressure: 90 PSI).
- Location: Choose a location that is protected from freezing temperatures, easily accessible for maintenance, and close to the point of use. The unit is compact and wall-mounted.
- Clearances: Allow adequate space around the unit for air circulation and servicing.
5.2 Mounting the Unit
- Select a suitable wall location.
- Mark the mounting points using the unit as a template.
- Drill pilot holes and insert the provided rubber plugs.
- Secure the water heater to the wall using the provided screws.
5.3 Plumbing Connections
- Connect the cold water supply line to the 1/2" NPT inlet on the unit.
- Connect the hot water outlet line from the unit to the faucet using 1/2" NPT fittings.
- Ensure all connections are tight and leak-free.
- Open the hot water faucet to purge air from the system before turning on the power.
5.4 Electrical Connections
- Turn off power at the main circuit breaker before proceeding.
- Connect the external power cord to the unit as per the wiring diagram.
- Connect the power cord to the dedicated 40 Amp double-pole circuit breaker. Ensure proper grounding.
- Double-check all electrical connections for tightness and correctness.
Image 5.1: Installation Guide for electrical and plumbing connections.
Image 5.2: KJU-144 Application Guidance based on inlet water temperature and fixture GPM.
6. Operation
6.1 Initial Startup
- After plumbing and electrical connections are complete and checked, ensure water is flowing through the unit by opening a hot water faucet.
- Turn on the power at the main circuit breaker.
- The unit's digital display will illuminate.
6.2 Temperature Adjustment
- Use the '+' and '-' buttons on the unit's control panel to adjust the desired water temperature. The digital display will show the set temperature.
- The unit features self-adjusting temperature control, which regulates power input based on real-time flow and temperature settings to maintain a consistent output temperature.
6.3 On-Demand Hot Water
The WINTEMP KJU144 provides hot water within approximately 3 seconds of activation, eliminating the need for preheating and ensuring a continuous supply of hot water for your sink.
Image 6.1: Features of on-demand hot water delivery.
Image 6.2: Examples of suitable installation locations.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your water heater.
7.1 Cleaning
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Ensure the digital display and control buttons are kept clean and free from debris.
7.2 Descaling (Annual)
Depending on your water quality, mineral deposits (scale) can build up inside the heating element. To descale:
- Turn off power and water supply to the unit.
- Disconnect the water lines from the unit.
- Flush the unit with a descaling solution designed for water heaters. Follow the descaling solution manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Reconnect water lines and restore power.
8. Troubleshooting
Before contacting support, review the following common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No hot water / Unit not heating | No power; Circuit breaker tripped; Water flow too low; Overheat protection activated. | Check power supply and breaker; Ensure adequate water flow (min. 0.31 GPM); Reset unit by cycling power. |
| Water not hot enough | Temperature setting too low; Inlet water temperature too cold; Water flow too high. | Increase temperature setting; Reduce water flow at the faucet; Refer to application guidance (Image 5.2). |
| Water leakage | Loose plumbing connections; Damaged seals or internal components. | Tighten connections; If leakage persists, turn off water and power and contact support. |
| Digital display not working | No power; Internal fault. | Check power supply; Contact support if power is present but display is off. |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Warranty Information
The WINTEMP KJU144 Tankless Electric Water Heater comes with a 2-year warranty period from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
The warranty does not cover damage resulting from:
- Improper installation or maintenance.
- Abuse, accident, or neglect.
- Unauthorized repairs or modifications.
- Operation outside the specified environmental or electrical limits.
9.2 Customer Support
If you encounter any issues during the usage of your WINTEMP water heater or require warranty service, please contact WINTEMP customer support. You can typically find contact information through your purchase platform or the official WINTEMP website.
When contacting support, please have the following information ready:
- Model Number: KJU144
- Date of Purchase
- Description of the issue