When you're on the road, one of the little pleasures in life is having access to hot water. When you venture off into the wilderness and set up your campsite, it’s comforting to know that you can enjoy a steaming hot shower after a day of adventure. Apart from personal hygiene, this feature is also essential for washing your clothes and cleaning your dishes.
So, get yourself an instantaneous caravan hot water system for sale that gives you hot water at the flick of a switch. They're compact, efficient, and powerful. They also have a tough construction so they can withstand the bumps, jolts, and vibrations of life on the road. No more waiting around for a pot to boil over the campfire or taking cold, shivery showers in makeshift stalls.
How Do Caravan Hot Water Systems Work?
These ingenious devices make your camping trips much more enjoyable. After a long and tiring day of seeing the countryside, you can relax with a pleasant shower. However, to pick the ideal system for your caravan, you need to familiarise yourself with the different types available. These devices usually operate on electricity, gas, or both, and they have their unique advantages and disadvantages.
Gas
This type is perfect for long-term road travellers, camping enthusiasts, and outback excursions, but you’ll need gas cylinders to fuel it. The good thing is that they don’t require any power to operate, and you won’t need to set up solar panels or buy batteries either, making them a cost-effective and hassle-free choice. Two major drawbacks of these devices are that they tend to produce condensation and they require a gas service for maintenance;
Electric
These devices offer instantly warm water for showering, dishwashing, and hand washing. They usually operate thanks to solar panels and batteries. One great advantage of these systems is that they only warm up the water when necessary, which means that they waste less water and they’re more water efficient. However, they also require an electric outlet or battery power.
Gas and Electric
This option is ideal for those who want to benefit from both gas and electric caravan water heaters. Future caravan updates will still work with this kind of water system, allowing for a seamless transition. You can still enjoy hot showers on your camping trip, even if you're unable to purchase solar panels and batteries, by simply operating your heater on gas. And when you’re ready to add your solar panels, simply connect your system to electricity. The versatility that these devices offer makes them ideal for when you’re travelling to unpowered locations.
Portability
Space is like gold when you're packing up for a camping trip with a caravan. This is why you need gear that's not only functional but also space-efficient. A portable caravan hot water system for sale is a reasonably priced indulgence when going camping. These small, easy-to-assemble devices are a huge hit in the 4x4 off-roading sector. Some of them are so compact that you would barely notice them in your vehicle. Certain models come with a full package of accessories like pumps, fittings, and hoses, while others sell separately.
How Quickly Does the Water Heat Up?
The answer to this question depends on the kind of system you choose. Gas systems generate hot water quickly, just as it passes through. With certain models, it takes as little as six seconds to heat it. When you turn on the tap and the flow exceeds 1.5 litres per minute, the burner ignites automatically. To retain a constant outlet temperature of 45–49°C, a burner control modifies the heater output based on the flow and temperature of the incoming water. When you turn off the tap, the burner automatically turns off to preserve gas. When it comes to other systems, it takes up to 45 minutes for them to heat the water, so you'll need to schedule ahead and prepare to wait.
Installation
Another important thing to consider when getting a caravan water heater is the installation process. It's crucial to consider how easy (or not-so-easy) it is to install it. After all, you want to spend more time enjoying hot showers on the road and less time scratching your head over complicated instructions. Look for clear, straightforward instructions that even a novice camper can follow. Bonus points if the system comes with all the necessary mounting hardware and fittings, so you don't have to make multiple trips to the hardware store.
You should also consider the compatibility with your caravan's existing setup. Is the system designed to work with your plumbing and electrical systems, or will you need to make extensive modifications? The last thing you want is to discover halfway through the installation process that you need to rewire your entire caravan.
Budget
Caravan hot water systems come in all shapes and sizes, and you'll find a wide range of price tags to match. Look for a model that offers good value for your money – not just in terms of price, but also in terms of performance, reliability, and efficiency. Consider factors like energy consumption, maintenance requirements, and warranty coverage. A system that's energy-efficient and low-maintenance might cost a bit more upfront, but it could save you a lot on your utility bills and repair costs down the line. Plus, a solid warranty can provide additional peace of mind, protecting your investment against unexpected mishaps.
