Let’s Talk About Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit from Atwood/Hydro Flame (now often associated with Dometic due to acquisitions) is a seemingly simple, yet crucial component for RV owners facing a furnace upgrade scenario. It’s designed to bridge the gap when replacing an older 8900 series furnace with a newer, larger model that utilizes a bottom discharge system. This kit promises a quick and simple installation, relocating the exhaust opening to perfectly align with the original 8900 series footprint. I was initially skeptical of such a specialized part, but my recent RV renovation project forced me to confront the realities of outdated furnace technology.
I was staring down the barrel of replacing a perfectly functional, albeit inefficient, 8900 series furnace in my vintage travel trailer with a more modern unit. The catch? The new furnace had a bottom discharge, while the old one’s exhaust was positioned differently. Without a solution, I was looking at significant (and costly) modifications to the trailer’s floor. That’s when the Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit appeared as a potential savior.
My first impression upon unboxing the kit was that of robust simplicity. It’s a no-frills extension piece, constructed of what appears to be durable, heat-resistant metal. The welds looked clean and strong, suggesting decent build quality. Compared to fabricating a custom solution myself or paying a professional RV shop to do it, the Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit seemed like a far more economical and less time-consuming option. I was cautiously optimistic – hoping the “quick and simple installation” claim would hold true.
I considered universal adapters and jury-rigged exhaust solutions, but their overall flimsiness and lack of precise fit deterred me. I also looked into a similar kit from a competing manufacturer, but it had a number of questionable reviews, talking about the quality of the metals being cheap. The Hydro Flame kit, despite its higher price point at $43.99, seemed the safer and more reliable choice. My initial feeling was a mix of relief and anticipation. If this little kit performs as advertised, it will save me a considerable amount of time, money, and frustration.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first “test” of the Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit wasn’t exactly a glamorous field trial. It was a sweaty, dusty affair in my RV renovation project. I was working in the cramped confines of my travel trailer’s underbelly. The initial installation involved carefully measuring the original furnace opening, positioning the kit, and securing it with self-tapping screws (not included, which is a minor annoyance).
Installation was, thankfully, relatively straightforward. The kit aligned well with both the new furnace and the existing floor opening. Despite the tight quarters, I managed to complete the installation in under an hour. The RV was up on leveling blocks, and I was working in 95 degree weather. After sealing the connections with high-temperature silicone, I fired up the new furnace. I was pleased to see the exhaust venting properly and without any noticeable leaks or backdrafts.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, primarily during weekend camping trips, the Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of warping, corrosion, or any other degradation. The high-temperature silicone sealant is still holding strong. The kit has seen approximately 50 hours of use.
Regular maintenance involves a quick visual inspection to ensure the connections remain secure and the exhaust path is clear. The kit itself requires no specialized cleaning or upkeep. Compared to the potential nightmare of fabricating a custom exhaust solution, this kit has been a dream. It’s allowed me to focus on other aspects of my RV renovation without worrying about furnace exhaust issues.
Breaking Down the Features of Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit
Specifications
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit is specifically designed for use when replacing an 8900 series furnace with a newer, larger series furnace that uses a bottom discharge system. It is a relocation extension kit, positioning the exhaust opening to match the original 8900 series location. The kit is intended for quick and simple installation.
This kit only works with furnaces that are replacing an 8900 series furnace with a newer Large series furnace in cases where a bottom discharge system is used. The extension of the exhaust port is crucial, allowing the newer furnace to utilize the existing exhaust route without requiring extensive floor modifications. The “quick and simple installation” claim is largely dependent on having basic mechanical skills and tools.
Performance & Functionality
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit performs its intended function admirably. It effectively bridges the compatibility gap between older and newer furnace models, ensuring proper exhaust venting. The kit’s performance has been reliable throughout my testing.
The primary strength of this kit is its simplicity and effectiveness. It solves a specific problem with minimal fuss. A minor weakness is the lack of included mounting hardware; self-tapping screws would be a welcome addition. The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit met my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit boasts a rugged, utilitarian design. The materials appear to be heat-resistant metal, which are essential for withstanding the high temperatures of furnace exhaust. The kit’s dimensions are tailored to perfectly match the footprint of the 8900 series furnace.
The user-friendliness is decent; basic mechanical aptitude is required for installation. There’s no significant learning curve involved. The kit is designed to simply extend the exhaust port of your new furnace.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit appears to be built for long-term durability. The heavy-gauge metal and robust welds suggest it will withstand years of use. Regular maintenance involves a visual inspection to ensure connections are secure and the exhaust path is clear of debris.
The kit’s design makes it easy to clean and inspect. There are no intricate parts to worry about. The build quality is impressive.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It’s a standalone adapter. However, the kit is compatible with standard high-temperature silicone sealants to ensure a leak-proof connection.
There are no real customization options available for this kit. It’s a purpose-built solution designed for a specific furnace replacement scenario. Be sure to use high-temperature silicone to completely seal any connection.
Pros and Cons of Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit
Pros
- Effectively solves the exhaust compatibility issue when upgrading from an 8900 series furnace.
- Relatively easy to install, saving time and money compared to custom fabrication.
- Durable construction using heat-resistant materials.
- Provides a secure and reliable exhaust connection.
- The design is simple, robust, and functional.
Cons
- Mounting hardware (self-tapping screws) not included.
- Limited to a very specific furnace replacement scenario.
Who Should Buy Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit?
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit is perfect for RV owners who are upgrading their old 8900 series furnace to a newer model with a bottom discharge exhaust. It is also great for DIYers who want to avoid costly and time-consuming custom fabrication work. This kit is ideal for RV renovators or anyone seeking a hassle-free furnace upgrade.
Anyone who doesn’t have the skills or tools to perform basic mechanical tasks should probably skip this product, unless they are willing to hire a professional RV technician. Also, anyone not replacing an 8900 series furnace with a newer, bottom-discharge model will have no need for this kit.
A must-have accessory is a tube of high-temperature silicone sealant to ensure a leak-proof exhaust connection. A cordless drill with self-tapping screw bits is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit
The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit is a niche product that solves a very specific problem, and it does so exceptionally well. It’s a simple, durable, and effective solution for RV owners facing furnace upgrade compatibility issues. The price of $43.99 is justified by the time and effort it saves compared to alternative solutions.
I would personally recommend this kit to anyone in the target demographic. The Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit is a testament to the value of purpose-built solutions. If you’re facing a furnace upgrade challenge, this kit is a lifesaver. Don’t hesitate – buy the Hydro Flame Bottom Discharge Kit and get your RV renovation back on track!