DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post Review

Let’s Talk About DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post isn’t exactly the kind of tactical gear that gets your adrenaline pumping. However, for anyone who relies on an RV for extended trips, hunting base camps, or even just weekend getaways, a malfunctioning water heater or refrigerator can quickly turn a dream trip into a logistical nightmare. Dinosaur Electronics offers this replacement ignitor board as a solution for Atwood water heaters and Norcold and Servel refrigerators. It’s a crucial component often overlooked until the moment it fails, leaving you with cold showers and spoiled food.

My journey to discovering the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post started with a classic RV breakdown. Halfway through a planned two-week elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies, the ignitor board on my Atwood water heater decided to call it quits. Suddenly, the promise of hot showers after long days in the field evaporated, replaced by the grim reality of frigid mountain streams. After a frantic search for a replacement, and a hefty emergency repair bill, I vowed to be better prepared. The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post seemed like a reliable solution, a preventative measure to avoid future plumbing-related catastrophes.

The initial unboxing was decidedly uneventful. The board itself, measuring a compact 3-1/4″ x 4-1/4″, felt solid, but truthfully, its aesthetic appeal is secondary to its functionality. The build quality seemed decent enough for a relatively simple circuit board, though without specialized testing equipment, it’s hard to assess component quality right out of the box. Compared to universal ignitor boards, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is designed as a direct replacement, potentially simplifying installation and minimizing compatibility issues. I chose this board specifically because of its reputation for reliability and its targeted compatibility with Atwood, Norcold, and Servel units, addressing a need for a dependable, drop-in replacement.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t have the wow-factor of some of my other tactical gear. I was, however, hopeful that it would deliver on its promise of reliable ignition for my RV appliances and prevent future cold-shower incidents. For the price, it needed to be a cut above the generic aftermarket options.


Real-World Testing: Putting DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post was during a pre-season RV systems check. I installed it in my Atwood water heater, following the RV’s service manual and Dinosaur Electronics’ installation instructions. The install was straightforward, taking about 30 minutes. The water heater fired up on the first try, even with the propane lines having been off for months.

I tested the system extensively over several days, cycling the water heater multiple times and running it in different modes. I also subjected the RV to simulated vibrations by driving it over rough terrain to mimic real-world travel conditions. The ignitor board performed flawlessly under all conditions. There were no unexpected issues or surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of consistent use, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post continues to perform reliably. It has been through three separate multi-day camping trips, including one during a particularly cold snap where nighttime temperatures dipped below freezing. The board has shown no signs of wear and tear. It functions just as reliably as it did on the first day.

The board requires virtually no maintenance. The connections are secure, and there is no need to clean or adjust anything unless there is visible corrosion on the terminals (which I haven’t experienced). Compared to my previous experiences with universal replacement boards, which often exhibited intermittent failures and required frequent adjustments, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post has been a significant upgrade. It has proven to be more dependable and robust.

Breaking Down the Features of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post

Specifications

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is designed as a direct replacement for specific Atwood water heaters and Norcold and Servel refrigerators. The small board measures 3-1/4″ x 4-1/4″. The board uses standard 12V DC power.

These specifications matter because they ensure compatibility with the targeted appliances, simplifying installation and maximizing performance. The compact size allows it to fit seamlessly within the existing appliance housing. Its reliance on 12V DC power ensures compatibility with standard RV electrical systems, meaning no need for additional converters or modifications.

Performance & Functionality

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post performs its primary function, reliable ignition, extremely well. It consistently sparks and ignites the propane, ensuring the water heater or refrigerator operates as expected. This eliminates the frustration of repeated attempts to light the pilot light or the worry of inconsistent temperature regulation.

Its strength lies in its consistent reliability and straightforward functionality. A potential improvement could be better weatherproofing on the board for protection against moisture, although I haven’t personally seen this be an issue. It exceeds expectations by providing a level of dependability that generic replacement boards often lack, minimizing the risk of appliance failures during critical situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid for a simple circuit board. The components seem well-mounted and protected. The board is lightweight, which is important when minimizing overall appliance weight in an RV.

The design is functional. There isn’t a learning curve involved; installation is straightforward for anyone with basic RV repair knowledge.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is designed to last for years with proper use. I anticipate a lifespan of several years. Maintenance is minimal. Regular checks for loose connections or corrosion are sufficient to ensure optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post comes as a standalone replacement part. There are no included accessories. There are also no real customization options for an ignitor board. Its compatibility with the appliance itself is the primary consideration. I have not tested the board’s compatibility with aftermarket propane regulators or other fuel system upgrades.

Pros and Cons of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post

Pros

  • Reliable Ignition: The board consistently sparks and ignites the propane, ensuring the water heater or refrigerator operates without issue.
  • Direct Replacement: Designed as a direct replacement for specific Atwood, Norcold, and Servel models, simplifying installation.
  • Durable Construction: Appears to be built with quality components. It is able to withstand normal RV operating conditions.
  • Peace of Mind: Reduces the risk of appliance failures during trips.
  • Straightforward Installation: The board is easy to install for anyone with basic RV repair knowledge.

Cons

  • Price: At $123.99, it is more expensive than some generic aftermarket options.
  • Limited Functionality: Offers no advanced features or diagnostic capabilities beyond basic ignition control.


Who Should Buy DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post?

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is perfect for RV owners who rely on their Atwood water heaters or Norcold and Servel refrigerators and want a reliable replacement ignitor board. This is especially useful for those who frequently boondock or camp in remote locations where appliance failures can be particularly inconvenient. It is also suited for RV technicians who need a dependable replacement part for customer repairs.

Those who should skip this product include individuals seeking a budget-friendly, generic solution, or RV owners with appliances from brands other than Atwood, Norcold, or Servel. This ignitor board is also overkill for casual campers who only use their RVs a few times a year and are comfortable troubleshooting minor appliance issues.

A must-have accessory when installing the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is a good multimeter for testing the electrical connections and ensuring proper voltage.

Conclusion on DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post

The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post is a reliable and effective replacement part that delivers on its promise of consistent ignition for Atwood water heaters and Norcold and Servel refrigerators. While it is more expensive than some generic alternatives, the added peace of mind and dependable performance justify the price. The potential cost of spoiled food or cold showers far outweighs the investment in a reliable ignitor board.

I would personally recommend the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post to any RV owner who values reliability and wants to avoid the frustration of appliance failures on the road. If you rely on your RV for extended trips or live in it full-time, investing in a quality ignitor board like this is a smart decision. Don’t wait until your ignitor board fails – proactively replace it with the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Ignitor Board Post and enjoy worry-free camping.

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