Let’s Dive into Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger
The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger is a crucial component for anyone seeking the comforts of home while on the water. Manufactured by Raritan, a trusted name in marine equipment, this water heater offers a simple yet effective solution for providing hot water in your galley and shower. It’s designed for boats without the need for engine heat exchangers, relying solely on electrical power.
My own need for this particular model stemmed from a complete refit of a classic sailboat. The original water heater had given up the ghost after years of faithful service, and the existing system didn’t incorporate an engine heat exchanger. I needed a reliable, electrically-powered unit that could handle the demands of a small crew during extended cruises.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction. The polymer jacket felt solid and resistant to corrosion, promising durability in the harsh marine environment. It was lighter than I expected for a 12-gallon tank, which simplified the installation process considerably.
I considered other options from brands like Atwood and Seaward, but ultimately chose the Raritan for its reputation for long-term reliability and the adjustable thermostat. The cylindrical design also appealed to me, as it seemed inherently stronger and more resistant to pressure fluctuations than the square tanks I’d seen. My first impression was positive; I felt confident that this unit would provide years of trouble-free service.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial testing ground for the Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger was a week-long trip along the Intracoastal Waterway. We were four aboard a 38-foot sailboat, putting the heater to the test with showers, dishwashing, and general cleaning. The heater fired up quickly and efficiently.
Despite variable voltage from shore power, the Raritan maintained a consistent temperature. We found that we needed to be mindful of water usage to avoid running the tank completely dry, but the recovery time was surprisingly quick. There were no leaks or any unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of near-constant use, including several offshore passages, the Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger has proven remarkably reliable. There are no signs of corrosion on the exterior. The water temperature remains consistent even after extended periods of inactivity.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The exterior wipes clean easily. I’ve flushed the tank a couple of times to remove sediment, which is a simple process. The Raritan has significantly outperformed my previous water heater, which was prone to leaks and temperature fluctuations.
Breaking Down the Features of Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger
Specifications
- The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger has a 12-gallon capacity, providing ample hot water for most small to medium-sized boats. This capacity is ideal for a family of four on a weekend cruise or a couple living aboard.
- It operates on 120 volts AC, making it compatible with standard shore power and generator systems. This eliminates the need for complex voltage conversions.
- The unit lacks an engine heat exchanger, relying solely on electrical power to heat the water. This simplifies installation and reduces reliance on engine operation for hot water.
- Its dimensions are optimized for marine installation, allowing easy integration.
- The tank is protected by a 75 PSI Temperature & Pressure (T&P) relief valve, ensuring safety and preventing over-pressurization. This feature is crucial for preventing damage to the tank and surrounding plumbing.
Performance & Functionality
The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger excels at its primary task: providing hot water on demand. The recovery time is reasonably quick, even after depleting the tank. The adjustable thermostat allows precise temperature control.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability; however, its lack of a heat exchanger limits its usefulness when not connected to shore power or running a generator. It meets and slightly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a durable polymer jacket and a glass-lined steel tank. The round tank design is more robust than square tanks, better withstanding pressure changes. The unit’s weight is manageable, and the connections are conveniently located on one side for easy installation.
It’s a straightforward unit with no complex controls, making it user-friendly. There is a small learning curve to understand the heating time.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used, particularly the glass-lined steel tank and polymer jacket, are designed for longevity in a marine environment. With proper maintenance, including regular flushing and anode replacement, this heater should last for many years. Replacement parts are readily available from Raritan.
Maintenance primarily involves flushing the tank and replacing the magnesium anode. These tasks are simple and can be performed by most boat owners with basic tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger comes with the basic necessities for installation, including mounting brackets and the T&P relief valve. There are no significant customization options beyond adjusting the thermostat. It is compatible with standard 3/4″ NPT plumbing fittings.
Pros and Cons of Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger
Pros
- Reliable performance: Provides consistent hot water without frequent issues.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
- Adjustable thermostat: Allows precise temperature control.
- Easy installation: Straightforward plumbing and electrical connections.
- Glass-lined steel tank: Offers better corrosion resistance than stainless steel.
Cons
- Lacks heat exchanger: Requires electrical power for heating.
- Recovery time: Can be slow after depleting the tank with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger?
The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger is perfect for boat owners who primarily operate their vessels with access to shore power or rely on a generator for electricity. It is also suitable for those who don’t need or want the complexity of an engine heat exchanger system. It’s an excellent choice for weekend cruisers, liveaboards with dockside access, and anyone looking for a reliable and straightforward hot water solution.
Those who frequently cruise without shore power and don’t run a generator regularly should skip this product and consider a model with a heat exchanger or explore alternative heating methods like solar water heaters. A must-have accessory is a quality water filter to prevent sediment build-up in the tank.
Conclusion on Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger
The Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger is a well-built, reliable, and easy-to-install solution for providing hot water on boats. While it lacks the versatility of a heat exchanger model, it excels in situations where electrical power is readily available. The price is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind that comes with owning a Raritan product.
I would definitely recommend this water heater to anyone seeking a simple and effective hot water solution for their boat. If you’re looking for a dependable unit that will provide years of trouble-free service, the Raritan 12-Gallon Hot Water Heater w/o Heat Exchanger is an excellent choice. Make the smart choice and upgrade your on-board comfort today!