Can water heater run while towing? Here's why . . .

[profdant139]

I am thinking about installing a water-heater-powered underbelly tank heating system -- several of our members have already done so. A very big and daunting project, but I think it is within my competence.

The advantage of using the water heater to keep the fresh water tank from freezing is that it works even without hookups, while the electric tank heaters don't. (And I can't use my furnace to heat the tanks, both because it uses a lot of power and because there is no way to hook up a duct to the existing furnace.)

But here is my concern: if I am traveling in cold weather (let's say about zero degrees Fahrenheit) all day long, the fresh water tank is going to freeze, even if I enclose and insulate the underbelly (which of course I am going to do). So I would want to run the water heater while in transit, to keep the tank minimally warm.

At last, my question: is that possible? Will it stay lit? My fridge flame used to blow out on the road, until I installed a metal shroud around it. Would I have to do the same thing to the water heater? Is that safe?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[midnightsadie]

I think its a good idea you could install a adjustable thermostat, no need for 130 deg water. don,t think it,ll blow out you,ll have to test that.

[Old-Biscuit]

Fridge flame blew out cause of airflow thru lower access/vent cover....lots of airflow

Water heater.....outside door/panel is fairly enclosed so flame should stay lit/relight as needed

Issue......
Water going to tank will be 130*F/140*F (depending on which brand) and then once all the water is heated it will be HOT water in your fresh water tank

You mentioned 'others have done these'-----what/how did they do it???

They do make DC Tank Heater Pads. Easier to run larger DC Charge line from truck to camper battery to maintain camper battery drain

[Lwiddis]

"or burn a lot of propane trying to get all that water hot."

That would be my concern. Its not stayin in an insulated tank so isn't it going to be running non-stop?

[donn0128]

So, your plan is to circulate water out of the potable tank thru thr water heater? I assume your plannjng on some sort of bypass so your not trying to use hot water all the time.
Can it be done? Sure, anything is possible. Will the WH keep running and not blow out going down the road? Maybe, maybe not. Likely it will blow out, or burn a lot of propane trying to get all that water hot.