Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit Review

First Impressions of Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of innovative solutions for enhancing the RV experience. The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit promised to be one such solution, offering a way to convert an LP water heater to electric. I was keen to see if it lived up to the hype, providing free hot water at campsites with electrical hookups, all while keeping the existing LP system intact.

My own RVing has been a mix of boondocking and campsite stays. While I love the freedom of being off-grid, I’ve always appreciated the convenience of hot water at the push of a button, especially after a long day hiking or kayaking. This kit promised to be a game changer by significantly cutting down on LP gas usage during those campsite stays.

Upon receiving the kit, my initial impression was positive. The components seemed robust, and the instructions appeared straightforward. It came well-packaged, with no visible signs of damage. I was eager to get it installed and put it through its paces.

I was previously using a combination of LP gas and relying on solar-heated water bags. While the water bags worked well in sunny conditions, they were unreliable in cloudy weather, and LP gas was always a finite resource. I chose the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit over a completely new electric water heater because it offered a simpler, more cost-effective solution that didn’t require a complete system overhaul. The primary competitors were similar aftermarket kits, but the Valterra name instilled confidence.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential fuel savings and convenience, but also aware that aftermarket modifications can sometimes be tricky. Would it be as easy to install as it seemed, and would it truly deliver on its promise of readily available hot water?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit in my RV’s water heater before a week-long camping trip to the Ozark National Forest. The campground had full electrical hookups, offering the perfect opportunity to test its performance. Installation took about an hour, following the included instructions closely.

During the trip, I used the electric heating element exclusively, bypassing the LP system unless absolutely necessary. The Hott Rod performed admirably, heating the water to a comfortable temperature within a reasonable timeframe. Even with multiple showers a day, it kept up with the demand.

There were no major issues during the first use, however, I did notice a slight delay in heating time compared to the LP gas. This was expected, given the lower wattage of the electric element. It was a minor inconvenience, considering the savings in LP gas.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit has proven to be a reliable addition to my RV. I’ve taken it on multiple trips, from the humid swamps of Louisiana to the cooler mountains of North Carolina. It’s consistently provided hot water whenever I’ve had access to an electrical hookup.

Durability-wise, the Hott Rod shows no signs of wear and tear. The heating element remains efficient, and all connections are secure. Maintenance is minimal; I simply drain the water heater periodically as recommended.

Compared to relying solely on LP gas, the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit is a clear winner. It saves money, reduces reliance on a finite resource, and provides a more convenient way to heat water when connected to shore power. It has definitely exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit

Specifications

• The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit is designed to convert an LP gas water heater to electric operation. It’s meant to work in conjunction with the existing LP system, not replace it entirely.
• The key specification is its power rating: 400 Watts. This determines how quickly it heats water.
• It draws approximately 4 Amps of current. This is an important factor to consider when using campsite electrical hookups.
• The kit includes a heating element, wiring, and installation instructions. These provide everything needed for a straightforward installation.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the unit’s performance and compatibility. The 400 Watts determines heating speed. While the low 4 Amp draw makes it compatible with most campsite electrical systems.

Performance & Functionality

The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit performs its job effectively, providing a supplemental heating option. It heats water adequately when connected to shore power, reducing the need to use LP gas.

Its main strength is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The kit offers a straightforward way to save on LP gas expenses when hookups are available. The primary weakness is the slower heating time compared to LP gas.

It meets expectations for supplemental heating, but don’t expect it to match the rapid heating of an LP gas system. It is designed for consistent, gradual heating while conserving fuel.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit is adequate. The materials used are sufficient for the intended purpose.

The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of installation and use. The installation is relatively user-friendly, though some electrical knowledge is helpful.

Durability & Maintenance

The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit appears to be durable, withstanding several months of use without issues. Regular draining of the water heater will prolong its lifespan.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving periodic inspection of the heating element and connections. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit doesn’t come with many accessories. It includes the heating element, wiring, and instructions.

There are limited customization options available, although some users may choose to install a separate thermostat for more precise temperature control. Compatibility with other brands is generally good, as long as the heating element size and thread match the water heater’s specifications.

Pros and Cons of Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit?

• Perfect for: RV owners who frequently stay at campsites with electrical hookups and want to save on LP gas. The casual camper and RV enthusiast who want to be more energy-efficient will appreciate it the most.
• Who should skip this product? Those who primarily boondock (camp without hookups) and rely solely on LP gas or solar power.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A water heater drain valve for easy draining and a separate thermostat for more precise temperature control.

Conclusion on Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit

The Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit is a worthwhile investment for RV owners looking to reduce their LP gas consumption while enjoying the convenience of hot water. It provides a simple, cost-effective solution for supplemental heating when connected to shore power.

The price of $134.99 is justified given the potential savings in LP gas and the ease of installation. It pays for itself over time with reduced fuel costs.

I would personally recommend it to anyone who frequently camps with electrical hookups and wants to be more energy-efficient. It’s a smart upgrade that enhances the RVing experience without breaking the bank.

For RVers looking to maximize their campsite convenience and minimize LP gas usage, the Valterra Diamond Hr6 Hott Rod Conversion Kit is an excellent choice. Consider adding this to your RV setup to get the most out of your camping experience!