I don't mean to be rude but, as I said there is quite a bit of info on this forum. I just did a search using hydronic heat in the forum search bar and came up with quite a few hits as well as pictures and diagrams. Many of them mine. I try to respond to as many as I can because I have done it and it works quite well. I, however, don't like to type long explanations again. I'm quite happy to answer questions about how and why I did things.
I don't have propane, probably not for any of the reasons you cited, I just don't like messing with it.
I have seen some mention of "on demand hot water" on this post. If you are saying that you can get domestic hot water "on demand" with a hydronic system it don't work that way. You still need some sort of water heater, I have a marine water heater that uses a built in heat exchanger or 120VAC to heat the water. If you are saying that you are going to use an on demand hot water heater to get cabin heat it will take a pretty big unit to heat the water.
It was pointed out quite early in my planning stages that you don't want engine coolant (poison) where, in the event of a failure, it could contaminate your domestic hot water. I actually have three water systems. Engine (poison antifreeze),heat (non poison antifreeze) and domestic. There is a heat exchanger in each system. Theoretically, if both heat exchangers fail, the domestic water could be contaminated but, I don't really see that happening.
It's not that you're being rude, especially since you are joining the conversation. But this is a forum where ideas are exchanged all the time and to stifle that would be counter-productive. Plus, I like it fresh. :wink1:
As to your main points, The hydronics in my bus will be easily accessible for maintenance. No part of the system will be able to contaminate the water system. Each system is closed and does not cross-contaminate the other. Plus, there are ways of installing plumbing without leaks - even in a constantly moving bus.
The manufacturers disagree with you on the
On-Demand Hot Water front.
Here is what one manufacturer says about their system:
RV Heating Products from Aqua-Hot
"At its most basic level, Aqua-Hot hydronic heating uses tubing to run hot liquid into heat exchangers that disperse heated air into living areas. Coils, with potable water running through them, wrap around the boiler to transport hot water to faucets and appliances. A variety of heat sources are used depending on the system, but all use some combination of the vehicle's engine surplus heat, diesel fuel or propane and AC shore power.
Benefits of Having Aqua-Hot Heating
Just what do RV owners find so superior about their Aqua-Hot system? Why do most insist they’ll never buy another RV without one? It’s simple – Six Wonderful Comfort Zones!
- Even Heat
- Instant Hot Water
- Quiet Heating
- Low Emissions
- Added Value
- Service Centers
1. Even Heating – There are no hot or cold spots.
Aqua-Hot heating systems are in-floor with multiple heat zones throughout your RV. Each heat zone, up to five, is equipped with a sensor. When a heat zone drops below the temperature you’ve set, the heat exchanger automatically circulates moist heat from floor to ceiling and side to side ensuring your entire living area remains a comfortable consistent temperature.
2. Instant Hot Water – Hot water with zero recovery time.
Water is pumped from your water supply through piping that is heated in your Aqua-Hot unit and then delivered to your faucets. As long as you have an endless supply of water, the on-demand system delivers all the hot water you need for shower after shower, laundry and dishes.
3. Quiet Heating – System is whisper quiet when running.
Warm air flows into your living area through quiet, gently circulating fans, leaving you to enjoy only the noise of nature, giving you the perfect environment for a nap or good night’s sleep. Plus, the gentle circulation keeps your interior air pressure even, preventing existing interior heat from being forced out and lost through cracks around the doors or windows.
4. Fume Free Heating – Low emissions technology for odorless heat.
Advanced, low emission technology virtually eliminates fuel odor for you and your neighbors. Noxious fumes have no place in your RV on in nature, so breathe free.
5. Added value – Thousands of dollars of value added for resale.
NADA Recreation Vehicle Appraisal Guide (2013 edition) allows over $9k in value for an Aqua-Hot Heating System confirming an Aqua-Hot system to be a valuable addition to your coach or fifth wheel (2013 year models) when it comes time to sell and trade-up. Plus some of our systems offer an engine preheat option, cutting down on your engine wear and tear which is certainly added value for resale.
6. Service Centers – Factory trained & certified professionals to service your system
Aqua-Hot has over 160 Factory Authorized Service Centers, including mobile service technicians located around North America – a network we’re still growing. This means there is probably a center nearby if you need service or help and that you can feel comfortable and confident with the level of work and service you’ll receive.
Once you experience an Aqua-Hot heating system, you'll understand why nothing feels better than being in your Comfort Zone."
In other words, the boiler is the heater for both the water and the air. If it doesn't work that way, then they are lying and should be exposed.
Peace.
