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sp8gold

Colorado Springs, CO

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Posted: 06/25/08 08:37pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Another "I won't have another coach without it". It is very quite when running compared to the regular heaters. The coldest we've been was 4 degrees in Williams, AZ this winter. We were comfortable even at that tempature.

revump

Las Vegas

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Posted: 06/26/08 12:15pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Can this be installed after production?


Bob

2Divers

Lakeland, Florida

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Posted: 06/26/08 01:58pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Revump, simple answer is yes, but extremely cost sensitive. normal preproduction option costs are 8-12K. I would guess a 25K invoice to rework a 40 ft MH. Has anyone on this forum done an aftermarket install?? Price??

Bill


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John S.

Northern Virginia

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Posted: 06/26/08 04:23pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

There are two sizes of Aquahot. The hydro hot smaller size and the larger size. I like the larger as it has a bigger reserve of fluid and the diesel does not fire as oftem but in cold weather it can not be beat. Sure it is less warm with electric b ut I have run it on electric one element before and as long as it is not too cold it is fine. If it gets colder just run the diesel.... The newer system has 2 electric elements and really cuts down the diesel use but you have to be on 50 amps to run all of it in a coach.


John

2001 42' Foretravel U320
2007 Bornfree 24 Painted
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adondo

Pasco, Washington

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Posted: 06/26/08 05:20pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Quote:

Can this be installed after production?


That would be a bit rough. There's multible zones, and each would need its own supply and return line. Also, thermostat wiring for each zone since the small pumps turn on as needed depending upon what zone is active. It might not be too bad if you have a lot of room in the basement bays to run the lines and wiring, but only if you do your own work since it would take days to install. If you have three zones, you might end up with 250 or 300 feet of hose/tubing run. (And tubing that needs to withstand temps well over the boiling point)

I also wanted to add a note about its electric heating capacity. I don't winterize since we go all year 'round. The electric element alone will maintain 40 degrees inside down to 20 degrees outside. My ''brick wall'' is about 18 degrees since it's on a downslide and risks dropping the interior to 32 and/or freezing below 16 or so outside. So, past that point, I turn on the diesel burner which pops it back up to 40 again. Last year it dropped to low single digits, and as long as the burner is enabled, it stays at the 40 degrees.

Another reason I don't winterize the rig is because woodwork dries out and cracks as well as LCD TV's etc. can't take low temps. When you winterize, that means taking EVERYTHING out that will freeze, and that includes soft soaps, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, spray cleaners, etc. etc. You can't just take out the canned goods and call it done.


FMCA# F355513. 1997 Safari Continental, 40 foot, 1 slide. Cat 3126B, Allison MD3060. 2000 Durango SLT 4x4 toad with a Blue Ox Aventa II and stopped with a Brake Buddy.
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peteandcindy

Kingston, WA

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Posted: 06/26/08 07:47pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Can anyone please tell me where to find a service manual for Webasto/Hydro Hot? I've been looking on the internet but with no luck so far....

StevenH

Michigan

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Posted: 06/26/08 07:49pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Aqua Hot is like every thing else some like it some don't.

For me it was what made the deal on the Beaver we bought.

Jimbo says that the electric won't keep up. He is right and electric heat strips on AC units won't keep up either. If you want electric heat your going to need a LOT of amp capacity.

Aqua Hot uses diesel fuel which I can pick up in 5 gal cans and carry in the toad. Means I don't have to move the MH to get propane if doing some heavy duty winter camping. Of any value to most people, probably not. But I like the option.

My brother is only allowed to camp with us when there are full hookup sites. To him a short shower is 30 minutes. There is still hot water when he is done. Just makes traveling together more enjoyable.

Hot water and the furnace both use energy. Your usuall choice is propane or diesel. I think there is less maintenance with a propane furnace but it is noisier. With a propane hot water heater there is the anode rod and limited amount of hot water.

Class A, class C, 5th wheel, or travel trailer, each suits the needs and tastes of different individuals.

Thats what makes RV's so much fun we have LOTS of choices.


97 Beaver Patriot 40'
3126 CAT


StevenH

Michigan

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Posted: 06/26/08 07:53pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Webasto is the burner unit manufacturer.

Try this site:

http://www.aquahotparts.com/b2c/ecom/ecomEnduser/default/ArchievedManuals.aspx

zmotorsports

Utah

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Posted: 06/27/08 05:48am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Mexbird, I have had a minor issue with mine and a major one just last week that I had to remove the unit from the coach and repair and reinstall. The Aqua-Hot was on my 'must have' list when we purchased this coach and still after a couple of issues we would not have another coach without it. It is really nice in single digit temperatures when snowmobiling and everything stays nice and warm including the shower. Yes it does require the use of diesel when not plugged in and even when plugged in and temps. are extreme or hot water demand is high but heat is energy and something has to produce it. I would rather heat by diesel than propane but this is merely a convenience opinion. Mike.


Mike & Chrystal (F315002)
2003 Monaco Dynasty/ 26' Haulmark Edge trailer
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captron33

usa

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Posted: 06/27/08 06:07am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I don't see the need for this system. Put me in the group that would never have it. Not needed and just something else to maintain and break. Many ways to get heat and have never run out of hot water with only the small ( 10 or 12 gal.) type of water heater.

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