Let’s Talk About LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater isn’t exactly the kind of gear I usually review. But when my old water heater in the hunting cabin finally gave up the ghost, I found myself diving deep into the world of efficient and reliable hot water solutions. This LaSalle Bristol model, with its reputation for manufactured home certification and low emissions, quickly rose to the top of my list.
My old, inefficient water heater was costing me a fortune in propane and barely provided enough hot water for a quick shower after a long day in the field. I needed something that could handle the demands of a remote cabin, be easy to install, and wouldn’t break the bank. This model promised efficiency and reliability, two things paramount for off-grid living.
The unit arrived well-packaged and surprisingly lightweight for a 40-gallon water heater. The build quality seemed solid, with a clean and functional design. Compared to other models I considered, like the slightly cheaper but less efficient Reliance 6-40-DOR and the more expensive but feature-rich Rheem RTG-95DVLN, the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater seemed to strike the perfect balance of price and performance.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential fuel savings and the promise of a hot shower without the constant fear of running out of water. I was also a little apprehensive about the installation process, but the included documentation seemed straightforward enough.
Real-World Testing: Putting LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater in my off-grid hunting cabin. The installation was relatively smooth, taking about half a day with some minor plumbing adjustments. The unit fired up without a hitch, and within minutes, I had hot water flowing.
The heater performed admirably, even with the low-pressure well water I have at the cabin. Showers were now a luxury, not a carefully managed rationing of hot water. The temperature remained consistent, and I didn’t experience any issues with the burner cycling on and off excessively.
There were no major surprises, but I did notice that the initial heating cycle took slightly longer than I expected. I think this was due to the low starting temperature of the water in the tank. Overall, my first experience was positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater has proven to be a reliable workhorse. The heater has consistently provided ample hot water, even during periods of heavy use. I have seen a noticeable decrease in my propane consumption compared to my old unit.
The unit shows no signs of wear and tear, despite the harsh conditions of the cabin environment. The external casing has held up well against the elements, and the burner continues to operate efficiently. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting mainly of periodically checking the burner and venting for obstructions.
Compared to the old water heater, which was constantly plagued by pilot light issues and inconsistent heating, the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater is a significant improvement. It provides consistent performance and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater
Specifications
- The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater is a 40-gallon capacity, gas-fired water heater. Its design is specifically for manufactured (HUDI) and modular home construction, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- The First Hour Rating (FHR) is 59 gallons. This means it can deliver 59 gallons of hot water in the first hour of use, which is adequate for most households.
- It features an air/fuel shut-off device. This safety feature prevents the heater from operating if there’s an improper air/fuel mixture, minimizing the risk of carbon monoxide production.
- The heater has field convertible controls and a burner assembly. It includes options for both natural gas and LP (liquid propane) operation, offering flexibility for different fuel sources.
- The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater includes an eco-friendly, low NOx burner. This design minimizes the emission of nitrogen oxides, contributing to cleaner air and reducing environmental impact.
- It has altitude certification. It can operate efficiently at various altitudes.
- The heater is low lead compliant. All wetted surfaces meet low-lead standards, ensuring safe and clean water for consumption.
Performance & Functionality
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater performs its primary job of heating water reliably and efficiently. The 59-gallon First Hour Rating ensures that most households won’t experience a shortage of hot water during peak usage times. The air/fuel shut-off device provides an added layer of safety, and the low NOx burner minimizes environmental impact.
The main strength of this water heater lies in its reliability and efficiency. Its relatively simple design minimizes potential points of failure, and the low NOx burner helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
The design is straightforward and functional. The controls are easy to understand and operate.
Design & Ergonomics
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater is constructed with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use. The overall weight is manageable for installation purposes.
The water heater is relatively user-friendly, with simple controls and straightforward operation. There is a slight learning curve to the installation process, but the included documentation is comprehensive.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater should last for many years. Regular inspection of the burner and venting is recommended.
Maintenance primarily involves cleaning the burner and ensuring proper venting. Replacement parts are readily available, making repairs relatively easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater does not come with a wide range of accessories. Typically, you might consider adding a water filter to prolong the life of the tank.
The heater is compatible with standard plumbing fittings, making it easy to integrate into existing plumbing systems. There are limited customization options available beyond basic plumbing connections and fuel source conversions.
Pros and Cons of LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater
Pros
- Reliable hot water supply: The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater consistently delivers hot water on demand.
- Efficient fuel consumption: The low NOx burner helps to minimize fuel consumption, saving money on energy bills.
- Safety features: The air/fuel shut-off device provides an added layer of safety, preventing potential hazards.
- Manufactured home certification: This certification makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including manufactured and modular homes.
- Easy installation: The straightforward design and comprehensive documentation make installation relatively easy.
Cons
- The initial heating cycle can be somewhat slow, especially when starting with cold water.
- The design is rather basic, lacking some of the advanced features found in more expensive models.
Who Should Buy LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater?
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater is perfect for homeowners in manufactured or modular homes, as well as those seeking a reliable and efficient hot water solution for cabins or small homes. It’s ideal for individuals looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance or safety.
Individuals seeking advanced features, such as smart controls or tankless technology, should skip this product and consider higher-end models. A water filter to prolong the life of the tank and prevent sediment buildup is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater
The LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater offers a solid value proposition for those seeking a reliable and efficient hot water solution at a reasonable price. The unit is reliable, safe, and relatively easy to install.
The price is justified by its performance, efficiency, and durability. I would personally recommend it to anyone in the market for a basic, dependable gas water heater, especially for use in manufactured homes or off-grid cabins. If you’re tired of cold showers and high propane bills, give the LaSalle Bristol 7841386 Rheem Warrior Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater a serious look. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy a consistently hot shower.