Camplux BD158C Outdoor Propane Hot Water Heater Review - Pros and Cons featured image

Camplux BD158C Outdoor Propane Hot Water Heater Review – Pros and Cons

The Camplux BD158C Outdoor Propane Hot Water Heater delivers 1.58 GPM of on-demand instant water, boasting a powerful output of 41,000 BTU/hour and incorporating 11.5% energy-saving technology. This lightweight, portable heater, weighing just 14 lbs, is versatile for use in various outdoor settings, including camping, RVs, poolside, and for pet washing, offering convenience and efficiency.

It operates on a standard 20 lbs liquid propane tank with an electronic ignition powered by 2 D-type batteries, featuring a weather-protected design with a 3.54” diameter rain cap. The unit is capable of functioning at low water pressures from 3.0 PSI, making it suitable for camping and off-grid living. Safety is prioritized with 6-in-1 protection, including flameout, anti-freezing, and over-heating protections, ensuring user safety. It is crucial to follow the safety tips provided, such as checking gas inlets for leaks with soapy water and avoiding the use of Teflon tape to prevent gas leakage.

Pros:

  1. Instant Hot Water: Users appreciate the instant access to hot water, eliminating the wait time for showers, dishwashing, and other tasks, making it ideal for off-grid living and camping.
  2. Portability: Its lightweight design and ease of setup make it a favorite for outdoor activities, including camping and poolside showers, offering the luxury of hot water anywhere.
  3. Temperature Control: The heater provides responsive and reliable temperature control, enabling users to adjust the water temperature to their preference, even in cold conditions.
  4. Efficiency: The heater is noted for its fast heating capability and energy efficiency, offering significant savings on water heating costs and conserving energy.
  5. Versatility: Beyond traditional uses, innovative applications such as heating pool water and enhancing outdoor showers have been highlighted, showcasing the unit’s versatility.
  6. Customer Service: Positive experiences with customer service, including prompt responses and support for issues like parts replacement and troubleshooting, contribute to user satisfaction.
  7. Durability and Quality: Many users report the heater’s durability and quality, with effective operation over months and even through challenging weather conditions.
  8. Safety Features: The inclusion of multiple protection functions, such as flameout and over-heating protection, ensures user safety and peace of mind.

Cons:

  1. Inconsistent Temperature Reading: Problems with inaccurate temperature readings and fluctuating water temperatures have been noted, impacting the comfort and reliability of the hot water supply.
  2. Vulnerability to Freezing: The unit’s susceptibility to damage from freezing temperatures necessitates careful winterization, including draining to prevent pipe breakage.
  3. Ventilation Requirements: The need for proper ventilation, especially in enclosed spaces, requires thoughtful installation to ensure safety when using propane fuel.
  4. Dependency on Batteries: The reliance on batteries for ignition can be a minor inconvenience, with the need for replacements to maintain consistent operation.

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In summary, the Camplux BD158C Outdoor Propane Hot Water Heater is praised for its portability, efficiency, and the convenience it offers for a variety of outdoor and off-grid applications. While there are some concerns about component durability and temperature consistency, overall satisfaction is high, particularly due to its adaptability, customer support, and safety features. It stands as a recommended solution for those needing reliable hot water in settings without traditional infrastructure.