Completely Portable Hot Water System - Propane/Battery/Heater/Pump

[mmuthart]

This has probably been done but can't say I've seen it on the portal. (Okay, I didn't exactly search.)

Just your typical components but not tied to a specific vehicle or trailer. Used it for the first time camping this weekend and it worked great.

The box I found at WalMart. The pump, battery and propane bottle are all 'clamped' down with 1/4" threaded rod through the bottom and side. I added the hardie board for a little extra rigidity and support. Note the supports that hold open the lid so I can use it as a hanger for the EcoTemp.

The EcoTemp and all hoses pack in to remaining space you see in the box. It's tight, but it fits.

Part of the idea is I can set this up 'down by the river' or lakeside and have unlimited hot water for showers (until the propane runs out or battery dies of course).

Still need to add a charging wire with Anderson Plugs so I can charge it while driving, or just tie it in to the future battery system on my trailer.

 

[HMR]

Nice work. I also like the location you used for R&D. Looking forward to getting back up there in a few weeks.

 

[mmuthart]

That's funny. Yeah, nice area. You heading up for the Harmonica Festival?

 

[HMR]

Gonna miss the festival, again, this year. Doing some trail riding with friends.

 

[TheThom]

Sweet setup!

 

[Google it Research]

Can you PM me? I would like to know what brand and model pump you're using?

 

[frans]

Are you storing a propane tank and a battery in the same enclosed box?

 

[mmuthart]

Are you storing a propane tank and a battery in the same enclosed box?

Yes. Is it going to blow?

 

[KevinsMap]

Well, short answer - Yes.

"Probably Not" with the lid open... "Probably Not" but still "possibly" because leaked propane vapor in still air will find its way to the bottom of the box. Where it will pool. Invisibly. But; eventually something will leak, spark, just go wrong, even when it's not being used. Just a little leak, and the box gets jostled just right to tweak a contact enough to spark? Murphy's Law? Murphy loves this box, truly, because when something does go wrong the results will be dramatic. Likely lethal.

Separate the battery, vent the propane box (top and bottom), and you have a great kit.

 

[cruiserpilot]

"Well, short answer - Yes. " ******** I imagined Chevy Chase blowing up the family wagon, everyone having that movie hair, all frizzy!
But I have to agree with Kevin, I would ventilate that box completely.