Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger Review

Let’s Dive into Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger

The Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger promises to be a reliable source of on-demand hot water for marine applications. Raritan is a well-known brand in the marine industry, so expectations are high for this compact, 120V unit featuring a heat exchanger. Its ability to use both electric power and engine heat makes it a versatile solution.

My need for this type of system stemmed from a desire for increased comfort during extended fishing trips on my boat. The existing system was inefficient and slow. I was seeking a more consistent and readily available hot water supply for showers and cleaning.

Upon unboxing, the Raritan unit felt solid and well-constructed. The black polymer jacket appeared durable. The compact size was also a plus, as space is always at a premium on a boat.

Compared to a Seaward 6-gallon unit and an Atwood 6-gallon model, the Raritan stood out due to its combination of features. The Raritan had better insulation, according to the specifications. Its heat exchanger design was also more innovative.

Initially, I was excited about the potential for consistent hot water, but also cautiously optimistic given the price point. I hoped it would live up to the Raritan reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger on a three-day fishing trip off the coast of Southern California. It was installed in the engine room of my 28-foot boat. I wanted to evaluate both the electric heating and the heat exchanger functions.

The heater performed admirably in both scenarios. The electric element heated the water quickly. The heat exchanger provided a steady supply of hot water while the engine was running.

The operation was straightforward. The thermostat was easy to adjust. There were no leaks or unusual noises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of consistent use, the Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger has held up extremely well. There have been no issues with its performance. The water temperature remains consistent.

The unit shows no signs of wear and tear, even with constant exposure to the humid marine environment. I flush the tank with fresh water every month to prevent sediment build-up. This keeps the unit running efficiently.

It significantly outperforms the previous hot water system, which often struggled to provide enough hot water for even a short shower. The Raritan delivers consistently.

Breaking Down the Features of Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger

Specifications

• Capacity: 6 Gallons. This is a good size for a small to medium-sized boat. It provides enough hot water for showers and basic cleaning without taking up too much space.
• Voltage: 120V. Standard household voltage makes it easy to connect to shore power. This is convenient for heating water at the dock.
• Heat Exchanger: Yes, utilizing engine coolant. This allows the unit to heat water while the engine is running, saving electricity and ensuring hot water is available upon arrival at a destination.
• Plumbing Connections: 3/4″ Male NPT for hot and cold water, 3/4″ Female NPT for heat exchanger. Standard sizing simplifies installation.
• Thermostat: Adjustable from 110 to 160F with a safety shut-down at 190F. This allows users to customize the water temperature to their preferences.
• Tank Material: Glass-lined steel. This provides superior corrosion resistance compared to stainless steel.
• Insulation: CFC-free foam. This minimizes heat loss and improves energy efficiency.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the usability and longevity of the product in a marine environment. The glass-lined tank, for instance, offers exceptional protection against the corrosive effects of saltwater. The adjustable thermostat offers user customization.

Performance & Functionality

The Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger performs its job exceptionally well. It delivers hot water quickly and reliably. It can efficiently heat water via both the electric element and the heat exchanger.

The strengths lie in its dual heating capability, excellent insulation, and durable construction. The only minor weakness is the need for adequate ventilation in the engine room to dissipate heat generated by the unit. It easily exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive. The materials used feel robust. The black polymer jacket is both attractive and functional.

The unit is relatively compact and easy to install, though access to plumbing connections can be tight depending on the installation location. The thermostat is simple to adjust. Overall, it is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger is built to last. The glass-lined steel tank and polymer jacket are designed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment. The replaceable magnesium anode further extends the tank life.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular flushing of the tank and periodic replacement of the magnesium anode are all that is required. The unit appears easy to repair, if necessary, due to its relatively simple design.

Accessories and Customization Options

The unit comes with a Temperature and Pressure (T&P) relief valve. The valve protects the tank from over-pressure. The most common accessory is additional plumbing fittings for installation.

There are no specific customization options available for the unit itself. However, users can choose different thermostat settings and plumbing configurations to suit their needs. It is compatible with standard marine plumbing components.

Pros and Cons of Raritan 6-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/Heat Exchanger