How Does the Marine Water Heater Work?
The water heater needs a pressurized water system for operation. After the pump draws water from the storage tank, the water gets filled in the tank. A coiled tube known as a heat exchanger, situated inside the heater, acts as the electrical element heating. The heat exchanger starts the water as AC power is available. When the ship is away from the dock, a hot engine coolant is routed through the coiled tube to heat the water while the engine is running.
These heaters have four threaded ports. First, a tee connector connects the tank inlet to the outlet hose from the pump. A check valve is needed in this line or in the heater so that hot water does not migrate back towards the pump. The heated water goes through tee connectors to the outlet connections and is then supplied to the hot side of all faucets. The other two ports are a part of the heat exchanger connection, depending on the installation of the engine. It is always recommended to use metal fittings (never plastic) for plumbing a water heater. Note that there will be a fifth port if a pressure-release valve isn’t integral.
Features of Marine Water Heaters
- These are primarily designed small and lightweight as they are installed in engine rooms and restricted areas.
- High-quality materials are used to make these heaters as they work in harsh and humid conditions. They frequently come in contact with both fresh and salt-aggressive water conditions. Some of them may also have a corrosion-resistant aluminum or stainless steel casing.
Features of the 1700 Series Marine Water Heater by Raritan Engineering
Highly durable: The Raritan water heater is long-lasting as it boasts of a glass-lined steel tank and rust-proof jacket. Research has proved that glass-lined steel tanks have more longevity than tanks only made from stainless steel. In addition, Raritan has also included a sacrificial magnesium anode that increases the durability and water quality, ensuring a longer tank life.
Hot water for a longer duration: It can be challenging to run the generator for a long time. But with our high-density non-CFC foam insulation, the tanks maintain the hot water for a longer time. Units are also offered with heat exchangers, in addition to the electric-only units. This enables the user to heat water even when the engine cooling fluid is circulating through the 7-foot-long coil inside the tank.
Better recovery rate per hour: While the general dockside recovery rate is 13 gallons per hour, the 1700 series with a 240V heating element can go up to 18 gallons per hour. The heater features an adjustable thermostat that can be set up to 160 degrees F. The water mixed with cold water at such a temperature extends the tank’s usable capacity significantly.
Easy installation and varied options: The 1700 Series Water Heater installation is very straightforward and simple, with all plumbing connections on one side. It furnishes most pressure systems without any difficulty. The heaters are available in 6, 12, and 20-gallon configurations. Hot and cold water fittings are standard ¾ inches male NPT, and the heat exchangers are ¾ inches female NPT.
Safety Tips for Better Installation
The water heater’s heat exchanger should not be higher than the exchanger of the main engine. A remote expansion needs to be added. The heater should be close to the main engine. Follow all instructions given by Raritan Engineering.
It is recommended to have wet exhaust hoses as they should be of the best quality. There are chances that the extreme heat may rupture the hose if it is of lower quality.
Last but not least, go for a trusted brand like Raritan Engineering. With initial product introductions in the late 1960s, we are a pioneer in the marine toilet business! If you’re interested in our water heaters, you can also contact our customer service for custom variations in different thread type requirements or heating elements.