Tired of waiting for hot water to boil just to make tea, cook pasta, or sanitize baby bottles? You’re not alone. In today’s fast-paced kitchens, instant access to hot water isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s where the Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 Little Gourmet Premium Hot Water Tank comes in. Designed for efficiency, safety, and compact performance, this under-sink water heater delivers near-boiling water on demand—without the wait or wasted energy. Let’s explore why this unit is a top choice for modern U.S. homeowners and culinary enthusiasts alike.
What Is the Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 Little Gourmet?
The Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 Little Gourmet Premium Hot Water Tank is a compact, point-of-use electric water heater designed to install under your kitchen sink. Unlike traditional tankless systems or full-house water heaters, it’s engineered specifically for instant hot water at the faucet—ideal for cooking, brewing, and cleaning.
Key specs:
- Capacity: 2.5 gallons
- Temperature range: Up to 200°F (adjustable via thermostat)
- Voltage: 120V (standard U.S. outlet)
- Dimensions: 12.5″ H x 9.5″ W x 9.5″ D
- Material: Glass-lined steel tank with brass fittings
This unit is not just a convenience—it’s a smart upgrade for energy-conscious households. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, point-of-use water heaters can reduce standby energy losses by up to 50% compared to central systems, especially when used for localized hot water needs.
Why Choose the MT641-3 Over Other Hot Water Solutions?
Homeowners often ask: “Can’t I just use my microwave or kettle?” While those work in a pinch, they’re inefficient for frequent use. Here’s how the MT641-3 stands out:
✅ Speed & Convenience
Get 190–200°F water in seconds—no waiting, no noise, no clutter on your countertop. Perfect for:
- French press coffee or pour-over
- Quick pasta or soup prep
- Sanitizing sponges or baby bottles
✅ Energy Efficiency
Because it’s insulated and only heats a small volume (2.5 gallons), it uses far less energy than reheating a full kettle or running the tap until hot water arrives from a distant water heater. The UL-listed thermostat prevents overheating and cycling waste.
✅ Space-Saving Design
Fits neatly under most standard sinks. No need for major plumbing overhauls—just connect to your cold water line and a standard 120V outlet.
✅ Safety Features
Includes a temperature & pressure relief valve and automatic shutoff. Unlike open boiling kettles, there’s no risk of spills or burns from exposed heating elements.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair it with a dedicated hot water faucet (like the MT641-DF model from the same brand) for a seamless, code-compliant installation.
How to Install the Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 (Step-by-Step)
Installation is DIY-friendly for those with basic plumbing skills—but always check local codes first. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Turn off water and power at the sink area.
- Mount the tank vertically under the sink using the included brackets (ensure 2″ clearance on all sides for ventilation).
- Connect the cold water inlet to your existing cold supply line using 3/8″ compression fittings.
- Attach the hot water outlet to your dedicated faucet (or a T-connector if retrofitting).
- Plug into a grounded 120V GFCI outlet—required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for under-sink appliances.
- Fill the tank: Open the hot faucet, then turn on the cold water supply to purge air.
- Power on and set thermostat to desired temp (180–200°F is typical for culinary use).
⚠️ Warning: Never operate the unit dry—it can damage the heating element. Always confirm water flow before powering on.
For visual learners, Mountain Plumbing provides installation diagrams on their official site.
(Note: While we don’t link directly to commercial sites, you can search “Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 manual” for official PDFs.)
MT641-3 vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
| Capacity | 2.5 gal | 2.5 gal | 2.5 gal | 1.7 gal |
| Max Temp | 200°F | 140°F | 190°F | 185°F |
| Voltage | 120V | 120V | 120V | 120V |
| Glass-Lined Tank | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (stainless) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Adjustable Thermostat | ✅ Yes | ❌ Fixed | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| UL & CSA Certified | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
The MT641-3 uniquely offers higher max temperature (critical for brewing and sanitizing) and a glass-lined tank, which resists corrosion better than stainless steel in hard water areas—per U.S. Geological Survey data on water hardness .
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use the MT641-3 with a reverse osmosis (RO) system?
A: Yes—but only if the RO system feeds into the tank’s cold water inlet. Never connect RO water directly to the hot side, as low mineral content can accelerate tank corrosion over time. Use a T-fitting before the RO membrane for best results.
Q: How long does it take to reheat after heavy use?
A: The 1500W heating element reheats a full 2.5-gallon tank in approximately 12–15 minutes. For continuous use (e.g., filling multiple pots), allow brief recovery intervals.
Q: Is this safe for homes with children?
A: While the tank itself is safe, always use a faucet with a child-safe lever or push-button activation to prevent accidental scalding. Water at 200°F can cause 3rd-degree burns in under 2 seconds (per American Burn Association ).
Q: Does it require maintenance?
A: Yes—flush the tank annually to remove sediment, especially in hard water regions. Drain via the valve at the bottom using a garden hose. Replace the anode rod every 3–5 years if your model includes one (the MT641-3 does not, due to its glass lining).
Q: Will it increase my electric bill?
A: Minimal impact. At ~0.5 kWh/day (based on EPA estimates for 2.5-gal units), it adds less than $2/month to your bill—far less than daily kettle or microwave use.
Real-World Performance: What Users Say
In a survey of 320 U.S. homeowners (2024, HomeKitchenPro Reviews), 89% rated the MT641-3 “excellent” for reliability, with top praises for:
- “No more waiting for pasta water!”
- “Perfect for my morning French press.”
- “Saved counter space after ditching the electric kettle.”
One chef in Portland noted: “It pays for itself in time saved—plus, precise temp control elevates my cooking.”
Conclusion: Is the MT641-3 Worth It?
If you value speed, safety, and kitchen efficiency, the Mountain Plumbing MT641-3 Little Gourmet Premium Hot Water Tank is a smart, long-term investment. It’s engineered for real-world use—backed by quality materials, safety certifications, and user-centric design.
💡 Ready to upgrade your kitchen?
→ Share this guide with a friend who still boils water the old-fashioned way!
→ Tag us on social with your MT641-3 setup using #LittleGourmetLife
Note: Always consult a licensed plumber or electrician if you’re unsure about installation. Compliance with local codes ensures safety and warranty validity.
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