Heat water with Propex heater?

[mobileempire]

I'm using a Propex 2800 heater to heat the van and all is working well but
I need something to heat my water to keep it from freezing , normally I've been just setting my 5 gallon water jug in front of the Propex until the water reaches my desired temp , this has worked so far but as the temps outside dropped below freezing I started thinking about building a insulated box and then pipeing in a tube from the Propex , is this a good idea or would I better off getting a propane powered water heater?
I would like to keep everything as simple as possible , less wiring and less Plumbing etc.

[mobileempire]

@ Handbasket ,, You might want to research Dickenson Newport propane heaters too ,
The Dickeson Newport might have less amp draw then the Propex , I think the Propex draws 2 amps to run the 12 volt fan , I heard the Dickenson Newport takes up more space though.

[Handbasket]

Thanks, Mobile. I suspect it's a good bit quieter than the 16,000 Btu direct-venting Suburban 'jet engine' furnace that's been used for years (decades?) in many B's and some small C's like my Tiger.

I'm seriously thinking about buying one to retrofit to my Tiger. I'll do some trials & measuring tomorrow when it's supposed to be cold (30's down to teens) to decide which size I need & can fit.

Jim, "If you get to thinking you're of some importance, try ordering your cat around."

[mobileempire]

@ Handbasket , I really like the Propex , my van is insulated pretty good except the cab portian and the Propex keeps me warm in the winter , the cab area stays kind of chilli , as for noise you just hear the fan which is' nt very loud and you also hear a constant rush of hot air blowing out which is a relief .
It sounds like a hot air balloon being heated up except much more quiet.

[stan909]

Many on sportsmobileforums.com use the Propex. Might try asking there.

[Handbasket]

I don't see a problem, unless the outlet air from the heater is hot enough to soften or melt the water container. Remember to put an air outlet on it. Probably won't get hot enough for expansion to to be a problem, but best not to heat a totally-full jug.

I've been happy with my installed Suburban WH's, but they do require a sizable hole in the side of the van. My '06 Tiger uses a 3-gallon manual-light version. Nicer than it sounds, since it can be set to use just the pilot light for protection in freezing weather. But I gather you don't have an actual water 'system', so you'd need a pump and all that stuff.

The little LP heaters for tent campers would work, but you's need to provide a safe spot and ventilation without fail.

May I ask about your Propex furnace? Where'd you get it? How noisy is it? Any problems?

Jim, "Strong, like a bull. Smart, like a fence post."

[Shadow_Catcher]

The Propex vents the combustion gas outside the van so I do not see any reason you can't do an insulated box and pull some of the hot air to heat some water. You Do however need to make sure it does not get too hot.

[mobileempire]

Do you power the Ceramic heater with a Generator?

[Fastpaddler]

I would not recommend a propane-powered water heater such as a simple burner or other gas unit INSIDE your rig, Dangerous. Outside ok. I guess we all might be intrigued at your set up for winter camping. Give us the lowdown.SOunds interesting. I use a ceramic heater in my RV but never leave it on at night.

cheers