mchero - If it is in the 400WATT range I would try and use it on my inverter for when camping off the power grid. Would sure beat using up my propane to keep hot water going... Once the heat is up to temperature the gas furnace doesnt kick on very much here... Probably same deal with an electric element.
I need it for a PLAN B in my setup for sure.... My hot water may be my source of HYDRONIC HEAT for my trailer soon so will need HOT WATER all the time when camping off the power grid. I have got to get rid of my trailer propane heater and its high current 12VDC fan for sure...
Of course if the HOT ROD is high current then my INVERTER will be too small to run that... I need to run down the specs on it. I have seen lower wattage elements available in the 400-500WATT range.
I did see something hiding behind the propane igniter - didnt know if that was your HOT WATER drain plug or not. Hopefully the photo is making its location looking like its behind the igniter. My Suburban Model is definitely out of the way of anything on the bottom like I showed in my photo. I remove this plug to drain my hot water heater when winterizing.
What you got sounds interesting...
My entire water heater is of course covered with a heat pad so if the temperature sensor has to touch the metal case of the hot water heater than you will have to cut some of the padding out to attach the sensor. Sure don't want to drill a hole through the outer case hehe...
Roy Ken
