Bowen/Atwood LP to Atwood LP/ELEC./DSI?

[65 overlander]

I'm updating to a new Atwood H2O heater, and the new one has AC Electric
ability. My question is ,What is the best way to wire into AC loop?
Thank you in advance!
Jeff

[Creampuff]

Originally Posted by 65 overlander

I'm updating to a new Atwood H2O heater, and the new one has AC Electric
ability. My question is ,What is the best way to wire into AC loop?
Thank you in advance!
Jeff

If your rig does not have a rooftop A/C then there usually will be a spare circuit you can use in the breaker box. Otherwise you may be able to jump off one of your receptacle circuits, but you may have to lift some inner skin.

[65 overlander]

I do have the A/C , so splice it is! Thankyou for the quick reply!

[dwightdi]

If you intend to run your roof air at the same time the water heater is pulling power you will overload the circuit. You can not simply splice into a circuit that is being used. You will have to add a new breaker and line.

[Silvertwinkie]

I agree. Though physically it can be done, there is a reason Airstream told me no way when had asked that the Safari I was going to special order to have the electric/LP heat source as the Classics. They told me the electrical is different and I took that as a whole nuther circuit. If you have your heart set on a dual fuel type H20 heater, the I would also caution you on the draw amps you're about to share with another load area. I agree, a dedicated circut seems like the right way to go. If you were adding an outlet for a light or even a flat panel TV, I'd say sure, splice away, but you need to be aware that the heating element will draw far more than most devices. I'd reconsider your plans.

[markdoane]

The usual wiring method was to run it on a 20a appliance circuit that also powered the 12V converter.

Wire it through a switch with a 'power on' light, so you can turn it off if necessary.

I believe the heater consumes 1400-1500 watts.

[SafeHarbor]

Mark's info is right in line with what the sticker on my Bowen two-way says: 12.5 amps @ 120V.

Lamar

[87MH]

Originally Posted by 65 overlander

I'm updating to a new Atwood H2O heater, and the new one has AC Electric ability. My question is ,What is the best way to wire into AC loop? Jeff

Jeff:

You should really consider the installation of an appliance selector switch. A marine store should be able to provide a four position switch to allow you to choose ONE of the high amperage appliances while on 30 amp shore power.

Examples of the heavy amperage items on the "switch" would be

Front AC
Rear AC
Ice Maker
Microwave
Compactor
Electric Water Heater
Electric Oven

If the electric WH and the AC (or any other "big" load) should ever come on at the same time you would almost certainly "blow" the protective circuit on a 30 amp shore power pole.

Luck.

[65 overlander]

By all means will I do it right. After 4 years on a submarine, Doing something half ass was not an option. Thankyou for all the responses
Jeff

[Pick]

For as little propane as a water heater uses, why bother? In nice weather my water heater ran for WEEKS on one 30 pound tank, taking one shower a day, and doing dishes at night.

Mine has the electric element. Never used it.