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mchero's avatar
mchero
Explorer
Oct 23, 2018

Winter camping with the Atwood XT water heater

Wondering if others have done this.

When winter camping in below freezing temps we will need to keep the water heater on during the winter months to prevent freezing.
Problem is the gas side pumps thru the propane PLUS the exposed flue pipe expels lots of heat when not lit.
I'm thinking of installing a switch on the outside of the heater that will disable the gas valve and inserting some insulation to somewhat prevent heat loss.
If I loose 120vac due to storm/downed power lines i would simply open cover, remove insulation, flip external switch then hit the gas switch inside so its back to propane.
Any others done this?
  • As I stated, you CANNOT disrupt the LP gas Valve wiring. Verified by Atwood. If you disconnect the Gas valve the 120 side will NOT function. The circuit board does read the gas Valve coil on 120 and if there is no reading, will lock out the operation of the 120. Doug
  • The point of heating the water to a higher temp is to stretch the capacity to act like a 16 gal vs a 10 gal HWH.
    It is an attempt at achieving luxury (long shower) while constraining build cost.
    I replaced the mixer valve and use the ultra hot water to sanitize our eating/cooking ware.

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