Burning Questions about Water Heaters

[oft]

Is there any reason not to mount an electric water heater in one of the storage compartments under the v-berth? This would be close to the water supply and pump so from that perspective it would make sense.

Also, what sort of tubing would be required to take the hot water from the heater to the sink? Would one still use the same flexible plastic tubing that is used for the cold water or is something else required?

Any and all comments would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Owen

[PBzeer]

So, you aren't planning on running it off the engine manifold when not at the dock?

[sailingdog]

Hot water often requires slightly different tubing from cold. If you look at the tubing, it will usually say what it is rated for.

Hot potable fresh water requires hose like http://tinyurl.com/kuwuj

Cold potable fresh water often uses hose like http://tinyurl.com/fs7c5

I don't believe the latter hose is rated for hot water, and will breakdown/leak/burst fairly easily if used for hot water lines.

That said, why are you installing just an electric hot water heater, and not a combo unit that can also heat water via the diesel engine, when not at a dock? Granted, the plumbing of an electric hot water heater is far simpler, as you have fewer connections and hoses to run, but the advantages of the other system make a good argument for it, unless you're one of those people whose boat never leaves the dock and shorepower.

[oft]

Thank you for your comments.

The boat is away from the dock frequently so I realize this approach (electric heat at the dock, solar heat underway) may be a compromise. However, my engine (1977 Yanmar YSB8) is raw water cooled so I'm under the impression that trying to convert it to fresh water cooled for the purposes of water heating would be a major undertaking. Perhaps I'm mistaken in this?

A major concern for me though is whether there are any problems with having a heat source like the electric water heater mounted under the v-berth against the inner wall.
Unfortunately, this seems to be the only decent location for the heater.

Regards,

Owen
1977 CS27

[hellosailor]

"A major concern for me though is whether there are any problems with having a heat source like the electric water heater mounted under the v-berth against the inner wall."
Usually it means that will be the warmest berth.

Converting to fresh water involves mainly adding the heat exchanger tank and the extra pump for it, then rerouting hoses. If there originally was a freshwater kit for your boat you may be able to just locate one and bolt it up. Otherwise...the parts are not exotic, anything with the right size and capacity will do the job--and preserve your engine from more raw water. Of course, it means "more stuff" on the boat. Including another zinc in the heat exchanger.