Recycling engine heat for hot water tank
I'm buying a short school bus and want to use engine heat for the water tank. Last post here is over 10 years old, quoted at bottom.
I haven't decided if even gas or diesel, but likely will be a gas Ford 450 21 ft.
Is it worth it and what is an easy way to reuse engine heat? I am also looking at putting a water tank next to tail exhaust, as lots of room down there for a big tank! But all that work gets expensive and don't feel it's worth it. Perhaps simply use solar panels (they now are so cheap), then I don't even have to drive. But TWO ways to heat is better than one.
One user posted its great to arrive end of day with full tank of super hot water ... Yes sir I agree with that!!
Here is from a 2009 RV.NET post...... Any idea how much this costs to install at an RV dealer?
Quote:
My only concern, comming from the automotive industry, would be letting the coach builder touch the engine coolant system. Too many variables (flow, volume, etc) to calculate, and a much longer run would put variables that I don't know if I would like.
My 1990 Winnebago Warrior has the Motor Aid package also. This heats the hot water tank and provides cabin heat. The owner's manual says it also provides more heat-removing capacity for the engine. The thermostat should prevent it from ever over-cooling the engine.
I'd think if they have been doing this for 20 years if there were problems they have hopefully been ironed out.
Steve
I haven't decided if even gas or diesel, but likely will be a gas Ford 450 21 ft.
Is it worth it and what is an easy way to reuse engine heat? I am also looking at putting a water tank next to tail exhaust, as lots of room down there for a big tank! But all that work gets expensive and don't feel it's worth it. Perhaps simply use solar panels (they now are so cheap), then I don't even have to drive. But TWO ways to heat is better than one.
One user posted its great to arrive end of day with full tank of super hot water ... Yes sir I agree with that!!
Here is from a 2009 RV.NET post...... Any idea how much this costs to install at an RV dealer?
Quote:
My only concern, comming from the automotive industry, would be letting the coach builder touch the engine coolant system. Too many variables (flow, volume, etc) to calculate, and a much longer run would put variables that I don't know if I would like.
My 1990 Winnebago Warrior has the Motor Aid package also. This heats the hot water tank and provides cabin heat. The owner's manual says it also provides more heat-removing capacity for the engine. The thermostat should prevent it from ever over-cooling the engine.
I'd think if they have been doing this for 20 years if there were problems they have hopefully been ironed out.
Steve
