Water heater recommendation for a "landed" Sovereign?

[davida]

The 1979 31ft Sovereign we just bought needs a new water heater (not sure what happened to the first one). We're going to be putting it on an island property where it'll stay forever (or at least for a long time), where we'll have 110V access. I'm therefore looking for a model that can run on 110V. The tankless heaters seem to make sense to me, so we don't have to worry about the heater's tank capacity.

I'm considering buying the heater next week in Portland as these kinds of parts seem harder to find up here in BC, and something tells me the local RV place will have a significant premium on parts.

1) When I talked to the local RV guy (Marty from Sealand RV), he mentioned that the installation cost would depend on whether the AS had copper or plastic tubing. I don't have the AS yet -- is it guaranteed to be one way or another? He quoted me $478CAD for the part and 3-4 hours @ $75CAD/hr. That seems like expensive hot water =(. (I suspect he was not quoting me a 110V heater either).

2) Is installing the heater something a novice (who doesn't particularly like plumbing, and who doesn't have a lot of free time) should do, or should I just pay the pros?

3) Any recommendations on heater models and sources? I'll be visiting Curtis Trailers in Portland at least.

Thanks!

David

[davida]

I stumbled on http://www.electricwaterheaters.com/...terheaters.htm, and I wonder if for our use (110V, not propane), it wouldn't be more economical to get a point-of-use electric-only system?

[lewster]

David,

The RV-500 tankless water heater runs on propane only. If you don't have a source for LP, then it would not work for you. As far as a dual heat source unit, either Suburban or Atwood both make an LP/120VAC electric model in both 6 and 10 gal. capacities. The size depends on your anticipated usage.

3-4 hours seems like a long time for an install, but you might need additional work to fit it in. If you are not comfortable with plumbing or electrical, then the job is best left to those who are. Expect to pay significantly more than $478CAN for a dual heat model.

[FOB]

You should be able to find a small under sink style residental water heater at any of the big home improvement stores. I've seen them from 4 gal to 10 gal. You will likely need to do a little plumbing work but if 110v is what your after this should be your cheapest replacement option. It will also probably be cheaper to heat water depending on your use and local electric cost.