Benefits of having a portable water heater
What are the benefits of a portable water heater? You may be wondering. Well, we have decided to answer your questions in the following paragraphs:
Portability
While this is an obvious benefit, the compact size of portable water heaters means you can easily take them along with you on your trips. Whether you only want to use them in your recreational vehicle or to install them in your mountain cabin, portable heaters will fit anywhere without any stress.
Space-saving
The number one benefit of portable water heaters is that their small size makes them space-saving. This is particularly handy when you have limited space or when you want to use them in your RV. Moreover, they are usually tankless, meaning they heat water immediately it passes. This allows them to be space-saving.
Energy saving
When you are in the campsite, you will most probably not have the luxury of electricity supply. These heaters can operate while requiring minimal energy, making it easy to enjoy hot water without too much hassle,.
Safety
Safety is the first priority as regards water heaters, which is why it is important to note that it’s probably the first thing you must consider before paying. Of course, due to their compact nature and the way they are meticulously constructed to perform in small spaces, portable water heaters are always a symbol of safety.
Features to consider while choosing a portable water heater
There are quite a couple of factors that are important to think about when shopping for the ideal portable water heater. Apart from the portable water heater prices, you also need to consider many features to make sure that you find the right portable models. Below are the primary considerations:
If it’s electric or runs on propane
When trying to choose between the different types of water heaters, consider where and how often you are going to use your appliance. If you’re looking for a portable model to be used outdoors mainly, a propane water heater is an ideal solution. It requires a propane cylinder to operate as well as a couple of batteries for ignition. Such heaters are easy to use anywhere making them truly portable; plus, propane heats the water very fast. You must keep an eye on your propane supplies, however, in order not to run out of fuel just when you least need it.
Electric models, on the other hand, don’t need anything except a power socket. However, they are usually not advised to be used outdoors to avoid short circuit. They are a nice solution for an RV or your home bathroom, though.
Gallons per minute
Also referred to as the GPM, the gallons per minute refers to the amount of water a unit is capable of heating. It’s vital you know this to make sure that you don’t end up losing hot water when you put too much demand on your machine. You can find details about the GPM required by different activities online and GPM of different portable water heaters. Calculate this and find out the amount of GPM you require your ideal water heater to produce. At 2.6 GPM, the Camplux BW211 has the highest GPM on our list, followed by the CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE BD158, the Gasland BE158, and the Hotaitai Portable Propane Water Heater which have 1.58 GPM each.
Operating pressure
Depending on what you want to be using the water heater for, you also need to consider the operating pressure before buying your new appliance.
The operating pressure determines how fast the unit is able to produce hot water, so it’s really an essential consideration, especially for people who are always on the move as they don’t have much time to waste.
Temperature range
The water heater’s performance depends significantly on its temperature range. Obviously, you need a model with a higher range since you don’t know where the outdoors may take you. It could a camp between snow-covered mountains or a beach. Therefore, you need a water heater that can be used easily in either situation, so we encourage you to find a model with a higher temperature range like the Eccotemp L5 Portable Tankless Water Heater Shower.
Dimensions
Since portable water heaters are actually aimed at people with limited space, then it’s logical to consider the dimensions before buying. While most portable models should be portable enough to either fit your space or your backpack, you still need to check this specification before you make your final decision.
Weight
This factor is a bit related to the one right above. Portable water heaters are primarily designed for campers and people who are always on the go, so it’s important to consider its weight before shelling your money on it. Is it lightweight enough to be carried conveniently on your camping trips? If you’re an outdoorsman, we recommend you to go for lightweight units like the Eccotemp L5 Portable Tankless Water Heater Shower and the Gasland BE158 water heater.
Warranty
The warranty is another crucial consideration for peace-of-mind-seeking buyers. If the company is offering a long warranty, it means that they’re confident in their invention.
If any problem arises, you can easily contact the manufacturer and your unit will either be replaced or repaired. In order to be eligible, make sure you have met the criteria and satisfied the specified terms and conditions.
More features
To ensure you get the highest value for your money, you may also consider some extra features. For more versatility, you may look at a model with an included shower hose. You may also want a unit that has a handle if you know you will likely be carrying your unit often around.
Tips for maintaining your portable water heater
While portable water heaters are usually durable units, they can be very fragile if not maintained well. If you want to enjoy yours for many years, then adhere to the maintenance tips we’ve detailed below.
Reduce the temperature setting
The default setting of a lot of water heaters is above 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Most experts often recommend users to keep it lower at around 115 to 120 degrees. With this lower setting, the chances of your unit getting overheated will reduce, and you will also save around five percent on your electricity bill.
Examine the temperature and pressure relief valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety valve that is usually built into water heaters. If your water heater continues heating water after reaching the set temperature, the built-up pressure could cause an explosion. To prevent this, this valve gets rid of excess heat and pressure to keep your appliance operating safely. The valve can be inspected in three simple steps
- Lift up the partway of the temperature and pressure valve and enable it to snap into place back.
- This could result in a bubbling sound as the T&P valve drains some water.
- If the valve did nothing, then you may need to get a replacement valve.
Flush the tank
You also have to flush the tank of your water heater every year to prevent mineral sediment deposits from building up as they could destroy the steel. To flush the tank, simply turn off the supply of the water, power, or gas to the tank. Then open the pressure release valve and a hot water tap, before using a bucket and a hose to drain the water from the heater’s tank until there is no sediment again.
You will have to empty your tank entirely if there is a lot of sediment in it. Afterward, turn the supply of the cold water to the tank on and allow the water to turn through it until it’s clear. Continue flushing the tank until no sediment is left.
Wrap your unit in an insulating blanket
Wrapping your water heater in an insulating blanket, and also insulating the exposed pipes, is a way to lower energy usage by reducing the amount of heat loss. Also, this can extend the life of your appliance by reducing the demand for it.
