hot water on demand

[paul nevitt]

So we haven't had hot water sense we bought the rv. To me it hasn't been a big deal, but my wife and daughter would like a warm/hot shower. I can't leave well enough alone and just replace it with a drop in water heater. I can't see spending that kind of money on a 6-10 gal water heater. So I came up with a setup that will allow me to hook up a hot water on demand camping shower inline were the old water heater was. We haven't used the system yet at camp but so far it has gone just as thought it would. Has anyone else added this kind of system and if so how did you hook it up. Our is hooked up so when you turn the hot water on anywhere in the coach you will get it from the tap.

[Dawn Michelle]

That's what I was originally thinking of - Paul, what system did you purchase?  I see various ones on Amazon that run from under a hundred to ones that are similar in price to Kev's solution.  

[paul nevitt]

HI Dawn, this Is the setup we used. This is only hooked up to test that it worked. The water is very hot and the system works great. Might not be the best looking but only cost us about 300 when all said and done.

[Dawn Michelle]

Actually not ugly at all.  Maybe a few hoses, but I wondered about where it might "sit".  Some Iooked at would sit on the ground and others were like this and meant to hang. I like how you've attached it.  Everything stays compact, close in, and well-ordered.  Even at a private park I don't think anyone would look twice. 

[paul nevitt]

Thank you. It stores away nice and neat. When at a park I will tuck everything up under the rig so it will look a little cleaner. We do a lot of state parks where this side of the rig will be facing the woods so no one will even see it.

[Kevin F Smith]

I know we are all very thrifty here...its one of the reasons we drive our classic RVs.  That said though, for another 275.00 bucks, you could get the Girard system, which is easy to install in the stock location, and regulates the hot water output extremely well.

Kev

[paul nevitt]

It wasn't so much about the money. It did save me a few dollars but it was more that I had an idea and wanted to see it through. It does work and makes hot water. It is not as good as the bolt in Girard but it does work and is easy to adjust. Plus $275 can get me a few miles down the road or more upgrades.

[Rick Faunce]

And after last years mud bath conditions I am sure it was REALLY, REALLY appreciated!

[paul nevitt]

If we were full timers that is the way I would have gone. The propane saving is an awesome plus.

[Mike & Janie Jones]

I think it's a novel idea. My only question: is it weatherproof? What do you in inclement weather or is it under your awning?

[paul nevitt]

It is a weather proof unit, Well it claims to be. I will be making a little cover so it can vent and be out of the weather. There will be up grades to the system down the road. It isn't for everyone I just wanted to show what I came up with for short money.