Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt Review

Let’s Talk About Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt promises to transform your Alpine Cylinder burner into a portable hot water solution. Camp Chef, known for their outdoor cooking equipment, aims to provide a convenient way to heat water for cooking, cleaning, or even melting snow in backcountry situations. The promise of instant hot water in the wilderness is certainly appealing, but does this tank deliver on that promise?

My pursuit of this product stemmed from a recurring challenge during winter camping trips: efficiently melting snow for drinking water. Hauling large pots to boil water over a traditional campfire proved cumbersome and time-consuming. I envisioned the Camp Chef Water Tank as a quicker, cleaner solution, offering a reliable source of hot water without the constant tending required by an open fire.

Upon unboxing the Camp Chef Water Tank, I was immediately impressed with the stainless steel construction. The 20-gauge steel felt sturdy, and the hinged lid provided easy access for filling and cleaning. The brass spigot also appeared durable and well-placed. At 9 lbs. when empty, it felt substantial but manageable, hinting at a robust build quality.

Compared to other potential solutions like portable propane water heaters, the Camp Chef Water Tank stood out due to its simplicity and compatibility with my existing Camp Chef cylinder burner. Propane heaters often involve complex mechanisms and potential failure points, whereas the tank offered a straightforward, gravity-fed system. I also considered simply using a large pot directly on the burner, but the tank’s spigot and lid made it a more convenient and sanitary option.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality appeared solid, and the concept was appealing. The true test, however, would be how it performed in the field, specifically its ability to efficiently heat and dispense water in challenging conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt took place during a weekend backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The elevation was around 8,000 feet, and the temperature hovered around freezing during the nights. The primary goal was to assess its performance in melting snow for drinking water and preparing hot meals.

The tank performed admirably in these conditions. After filling the tank with snow, I placed it on my Camp Chef Alpine Cylinder burner (CS14). The stainless steel efficiently transferred the heat from the burner to the snow, and within about 20 minutes, I had a full tank of hot water ready to dispense. The brass spigot operated smoothly, providing a controlled flow without any leaks. Even in the cold, the system remained easy to use, and I didn’t experience any issues with freezing or malfunctions.

Despite the relative simplicity, it took a little practice to find the optimal flame setting. Too high and the water would boil vigorously, wasting propane; too low and the melting process would be significantly prolonged. However, after a few adjustments, I found the sweet spot that provided a steady supply of hot water with minimal fuel consumption.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt on various camping trips, its durability and reliability have proven to be impressive. The stainless steel shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to water and the elements. Minor discoloration from the burner flame is visible, but this is purely cosmetic.

Cleaning the tank is relatively straightforward. The full-length hinged lid allows for easy access, and a simple scrub with soap and water is usually sufficient. The brass spigot can be easily removed for cleaning, preventing any build-up of mineral deposits. I’ve found that storing the tank completely dry is essential to prevent any mold or mildew growth.

Compared to my previous snow-melting methods (boiling in pots), the Camp Chef Water Tank offers a significantly improved experience. The tank maintains a consistent water temperature, and the spigot allows for easy dispensing, eliminating the risk of burns or spills. Fuel consumption is also notably lower, as the tank efficiently transfers heat and minimizes heat loss.

Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

Specifications

• The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt boasts a * 12-quart (3-gallon) liquid capacity *, providing ample hot water for various outdoor needs. This capacity strikes a good balance between portability and functionality, making it suitable for both short and extended trips.
• Constructed from * 20-gauge stainless steel *, the tank offers excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that the tank can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and maintain its integrity over time.
• The tank measures * 23.5 inches in length, 6.5 inches in width, and 8 inches in height *, making it compact enough for easy transportation. These dimensions allow the tank to fit neatly into most camping setups without taking up excessive space.
• Weighing in at * 9 pounds * when empty, the tank is relatively lightweight considering its capacity and robust construction. This manageable weight makes it easy to carry and transport, even on longer treks.
• It features a * brass spigot * for convenient and controlled dispensing of hot water. The brass material is durable and corrosion-resistant, ensuring reliable performance even after prolonged use.
• The * full-length hinged lid * provides easy access to the tank for filling, cleaning, and adding additional water. The hinged design allows for one-handed operation, which can be particularly useful in outdoor settings.
• Specifically designed to * fit Camp Chef’s Alpine Cylinder Burner (CS14) *, ensuring a secure and efficient connection. This compatibility guarantees optimal heat transfer and stability during use.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Camp Chef Water Tank’s performance, durability, and ease of use in real-world outdoor scenarios. The combination of stainless steel construction, ample capacity, and thoughtful design elements makes it a reliable and convenient solution for hot water needs in the wilderness.

Performance & Functionality

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt performs its primary job—heating and dispensing water—exceptionally well. Its stainless steel construction efficiently transfers heat from the burner, allowing for rapid heating of water or melting of snow.

The brass spigot provides a controlled and drip-free flow of hot water, making it easy to fill cups, pots, or cleaning containers. The hinged lid allows for convenient refilling without removing the tank from the burner.

The major strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. There are no complex components or electronic parts to fail, making it a dependable choice for remote locations. However, the heat transfer rate could be improved with a thicker gauge of stainless steel, which would reduce heating time.

The Camp Chef Water Tank largely exceeds expectations. It is a simple device, however, that effectively addresses the challenge of obtaining hot water in outdoor environments. It is a far better solution than trying to carefully pour from a boiling pot on the burner, especially when trying to fill smaller containers such as coffee cups.

Design & Ergonomics

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is designed with practicality in mind. The use of 20-gauge stainless steel ensures a durable and corrosion-resistant product, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor use.

The tank’s rectangular shape maximizes the surface area exposed to the burner flame, optimizing heat transfer. The hinged lid is a convenient feature that allows for easy access without the need to completely remove it.

The tank is reasonably user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and operation. The spigot is easily accessible and provides a comfortable grip. However, the lack of insulated handles can make it challenging to move the tank while it’s hot, requiring the use of gloves or other protective measures.

Durability & Maintenance

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is built to last. The stainless steel construction provides excellent resistance to rust, corrosion, and dents, ensuring that the tank can withstand years of use in harsh outdoor environments.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward. A simple rinse with soap and water is usually sufficient for cleaning. The brass spigot can be easily removed and cleaned to prevent any mineral buildup.

With proper care and maintenance, the Camp Chef Water Tank should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts. Proper drying after use is important to avoid mold/mildew.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is a relatively simple product, and therefore does not come with a wide array of accessories. It is important to note that it is intended to be used with the Camp Chef Alpine Cylinder Burner (CS14).

There are no readily available customization options for the tank itself. However, users can potentially modify the spigot to accommodate a hose attachment or replace it with a different type of valve if desired.

The primary accessory is a carrying bag or case for protecting the tank during transport and storage. While Camp Chef does not offer a specific bag for this tank, generic storage bags or coolers can be used to provide added protection.

Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

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Who Should Buy Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt?

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is perfect for:

• Campers and backpackers who need a reliable source of hot water for cooking, cleaning, and hygiene.
• Hunters and anglers who spend extended periods in the field and require hot water for preparing meals or washing gear.
• Survivalists and preppers who want a simple and dependable way to heat water in emergency situations.
• Anyone who uses a Camp Chef Alpine Cylinder Burner (CS14) and wants to expand its functionality.

This product may not be ideal for:

• Individuals who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear, as the 9-pound weight may be a concern.
• Those who primarily camp in developed campgrounds with access to readily available hot water.

A must-have accessory is a pair of heat-resistant gloves for handling the tank while it’s hot. A protective carrying bag or case is also recommended for transport and storage.

Conclusion on Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is a well-designed and durable product that delivers on its promise of providing a convenient source of hot water in outdoor environments. Its stainless steel construction, ample capacity, and thoughtful features make it a valuable addition to any camping or survival kit.

The price of $99.99 is justified by the tank’s quality, durability, and functionality. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently spends time in the outdoors and needs a reliable way to heat water or melt snow.

I would highly recommend the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt to anyone who fits the target audience. Its simple design, robust construction, and efficient performance make it a top-notch product in its category. Ditch the bulky pots and unreliable propane heaters – the Camp Chef Water Tank offers a streamlined and dependable solution for all your outdoor hot water needs.