Let’s Talk About Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit promises to be a simple yet effective solution for RV owners looking to save on water heating costs and prevent water waste. Manufactured by Camco, a trusted name in RV accessories, this kit aims to provide a quick and easy way to bypass your RV’s water heater when not in use. Its promise of “single turn” operation and easy installation caught my attention, especially after several frustrating attempts to winterize my own RV using makeshift methods.
I was tired of the hassle involved in draining my water heater every time I knew it wouldn’t be needed for a few days, like between camping trips. This often meant wasting a significant amount of fresh water, which felt irresponsible. The Camco kit seemed like a more elegant and efficient solution, offering a permanent bypass system that could be activated or deactivated with a simple turn of a valve.
Upon receiving the kit, my initial impression was positive. The materials felt robust, and the overall design seemed straightforward. Compared to other bypass methods I’d seen online – involving multiple valves and complex plumbing arrangements – the Camco kit appeared refreshingly simple. The compact design was also a plus, as it wouldn’t take up too much space in my RV’s plumbing compartment.
I was definitely excited by the potential of the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit. It seemed to offer a practical solution to a common RV problem, promising both convenience and cost savings. I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit in my travel trailer before a weekend camping trip to the high desert. The installation process was surprisingly straightforward, taking only about 30 minutes with basic plumbing tools. With temperatures expected to dip into the low 40s at night, I wanted to test the bypass function and ensure the water heater was truly isolated when not in use.
The bypass valve operated smoothly, turning with minimal effort. After the first night, I checked the temperature of the water heater tank; it remained cool, indicating that the bypass was effectively preventing water from circulating through the tank when not in use. This confirmed its ability to isolate the tank, saving energy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit, I’m happy to report that it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of leaks or corrosion, and the valve continues to operate smoothly. The black color has also remained intact, showing no signs of fading.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only a quick inspection every few weeks to ensure that the connections remain tight. In comparison to my previous method of manually draining the water heater, the Camco kit is a significant upgrade in terms of convenience and reliability. It far surpasses the old method that was time-consuming and inconsistent.
Breaking Down the Features of Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit
Specifications
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is designed to provide a permanent solution for bypassing your RV’s water heater. It allows you to easily isolate the water heater from the freshwater system when it is not in use.
The kit is manufactured by Camco, a well-known and trusted brand in the RV industry. The color is black, blending well with most RV plumbing systems.
The kit operates with a “single turn” mechanism. This feature makes it easy to switch between bypassing the water heater and allowing water to flow through it.
The quick-turn functionality significantly reduces the time and effort required to winterize or de-winterize your RV.
The kit is designed to prevent cross-flows and blowback. This important safety feature ensures that your freshwater supply remains clean and free from contamination.
Keeping your freshwater supply clean and undamaged is crucial for maintaining the health and safety of your RV’s water system.
Performance & Functionality
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit performs its primary function – bypassing the water heater – flawlessly. The single-turn valve is incredibly easy to use, allowing for quick and convenient switching between bypass and normal operation. This is particularly useful during winterization or when camping in areas where hot water isn’t needed to conserve propane.
The kit’s ability to prevent cross-flows and blowback is also a major advantage. This feature provides peace of mind, knowing that the freshwater supply remains protected from contamination. It successfully prevents dirty or antifreeze-laden water from entering the potable water lines.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is solid. The materials appear to be durable and corrosion-resistant. Its compact design also ensures that it doesn’t take up excessive space in the RV’s plumbing compartment.
The single-turn valve is ergonomically designed for easy operation, even in tight spaces. There is no need to fumble with multiple valves or tools; a simple turn is all that’s required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is designed to withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in RV plumbing systems. The materials are resistant to corrosion and degradation, ensuring long-term reliability. Only minimal maintenance is required, such as periodic inspections for leaks and ensuring that the valve operates smoothly.
The kit is expected to last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Its robust construction and high-quality materials contribute to its overall durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is primarily a standalone product and doesn’t require additional accessories for its basic functionality. However, depending on the specific plumbing configuration of your RV, you may need additional fittings or connectors to ensure a proper installation. These can typically be found at any hardware store.
The kit itself is not customizable in terms of its design or features. However, its compatibility with standard RV plumbing components allows for integration with other aftermarket accessories, such as water filters and pressure regulators.
Pros and Cons of Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit
Pros
- Easy to Install: The kit can be installed with basic plumbing tools and minimal effort, making it accessible to most RV owners.
- Convenient Operation: The single-turn valve allows for quick and easy switching between bypass and normal operation.
- Prevents Contamination: The kit effectively prevents cross-flows and blowback, ensuring a clean and safe freshwater supply.
- Saves Water and Energy: By bypassing the water heater when not in use, the kit helps conserve water and reduce propane consumption.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality materials ensure long-term reliability and resistance to corrosion.
Cons
- Requires Cutting Pipes: Installation typically requires cutting into existing water lines, which may be intimidating for some users.
- Not Universal Fit: Depending on the RV’s plumbing configuration, additional fittings or connectors may be required for proper installation.
Who Should Buy Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit?
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is perfect for RV owners who frequently winterize their rigs, camp in areas where hot water isn’t always needed, or simply want to save on water and energy costs. It is especially beneficial for those who prefer a quick and easy solution to bypassing their water heater, rather than dealing with more complex plumbing arrangements. This kit is also great for RVers who boondock and are trying to conserve propane.
Those who should skip this product are RV owners who rarely use their rigs or those who are uncomfortable with basic plumbing tasks. Additionally, if an RV already has a factory-installed bypass system, this kit may be unnecessary.
A must-have accessory for installation is a pipe cutter suitable for the type of plumbing used in the RV (typically PEX or CPVC). Plumber’s tape is also recommended to ensure a tight seal on all connections.
Conclusion on Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit
The Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit is a well-designed and effective solution for RV owners seeking a convenient way to bypass their water heater. Its ease of installation, simple operation, and ability to prevent contamination make it a valuable addition to any RV. The build quality is solid, and the kit is expected to provide years of reliable service.
At $46.99, the price is justified by the convenience, cost savings, and peace of mind that the kit provides. Considering the time and effort saved compared to manual draining methods, the Camco kit is a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit to any RV owner looking for a hassle-free way to manage their water heater. It’s a simple yet effective upgrade that can save you time, money, and water. Upgrade your RV today and experience the convenience of the Camco Quick Turn Permanent Waterheater Bypass Kit!