Catalytic Heater Install
I'm going to be installing a Wave 8 catalytic heater in my fifth wheel and am aware of concerns and cautions concerning oxygen depletion, moisture condensation, propane leaks, and the need to protect ...
Forum Discussion
daamac wrote:
I'm going to be installing a Wave 8 catalytic heater in my fifth wheel and am aware of concerns and cautions concerning oxygen depletion, moisture condensation, propane leaks, and the need to protect the catalyst pad from dust. The heater will be portable, that is not attached to a wall. I have questions in three areas:
1) I would supply propane to the heater via a flexible hose. I'd like to have a quick connect fitting at each end of the hose. Is there any reason this connection method is not a good idea? Is there one type or brand of quick connect fitting that is best - that is, more durable or less prone to leaking? Is there one type or brand of propane supply hose that is best - more flexible, resistant to damage?
I have a quick connect on the propane supply side of the hose, but the propane tank is located on the ground outside of the RV. I just use a small wrench to disconnect at the heater.
2) Can the heater be moved when it is on? Is there a grab handle on it of some sort?
Yes you can move it while it is on, but you need to keep it stable so the tip over switch is not activated. There is a handle at the top back side of the heater, but it will be hot. An oven mitt will keep you from too much heat while handling. I just grab hold of a leg on the bottom and use the oven mitt at the back topside.
3) Any vital piece of information about catalytic heaters that I need to know?
Mice have been known to pirate the burner mat material for nest makings, so you will want to secure it somehow. Olympian/Camco makes a dust cover that is a good investment. Since you will be using it as a portable unit, they make legs for it that will provide a more stable setting. I have the cover for my Wave-6 and bought a roll of 2 sided Velcro that I use to secure the cover at the bottom where critters might be inclined to get in. While traveling and in storage the heater is placed face down(after cooling) on the couch with the cover on and the front legs fitting down in the space between the back and seat of the couch. It has never moved during travel, and I have been over some pretty rough road surfaces.
Thanks for all replies.
