The Camplux 16L Outdoor Propane Gas Water Heater offers efficient and on-demand hot water with a tankless design, eliminating the need for preheating and providing unlimited hot water. With a high heating capacity of 170,000 BTU and a maximum flow rate of 7.5 GPM, it suits 3-4 outlet points, making it ideal for a whole family. Boasting a UEF over 0.81, it ensures high energy conversion and reduced energy loss.
The unit is CSA certified for safety and durability, incorporating advanced technology. The built-in forced exhaust fan ensures stable combustion, even in external wind conditions, and the compact design facilitates easy installation. Fogatti backs the product with a 5-year warranty on the heat exchanger and a 2-year warranty on other parts. Installation should comply with local codes and be performed by a licensed professional.
Pros:
- Efficient Shipping and Installation:
- Prompt shipping within hours of ordering.
- Easy installation, requiring less time than the removal of the old water heater.
- Instant Hot Water:
- Instantaneous hot water supply as soon as everything is hooked up.
- Compact and Space-Saving Design:
- Space-saving tankless design takes up less room than traditional water heaters.
- Efficiently utilizes space without unnecessary bells and whistles.
- Ventilation and Safety Features:
- Installation includes a safe and effective vent for the burner.
- Incorporates a Z-Vent 3 Inch Horizontal Vent Kit for proper ventilation.
- Valve installation kit and scale filter contribute to safety and minimize scaling.
- Energy and Cost Savings:
- Provides LP savings and economic benefits.
- Economical reasoning and cost-effective pricing.
- Delivers hot water on demand, reducing energy waste.
- Reliability and Durability:
- Known for good reliability and durability.
- Well-assembled and functional unit with a heavy build.
- Expected to offer many years of trouble-free operation.
- Good for Specific Use Cases:
- Suitable for van camping, providing consistent hot water for various activities.
- Ideal for two people with good advice to opt for more than a 5.5 GPM unit.
- Excellent Customer Support:
- Responsive and helpful tech support, addressing issues promptly.
- Positive experience with manufacturer’s support services.
- Adjustment for Altitude:
- Adjustable fan threshold for higher altitude units, resolving error code issues.
- Tech support provides instructions on how to adapt the unit for specific conditions.
- Refund Policy:
- Positive experience with the company’s refund policy due to a malfunctioning unit.
- Company’s willingness to support customers and address issues effectively.
Cons:
- Limited Certified Installers:
- Difficulty finding certified gas fitters willing to install the unit, particularly in certain regions.
- Unfamiliarity of gas fitters with the brand due to its association with the RV community.
- Potential Installation Costs:
- High installation costs exceeding $1000, including the need for gas intake upgrades.
- Uncertainty about the cost-effectiveness of installation due to potential upgrades.
- Canadian Installation Challenges:
- Challenges in finding certified gas fitters in Ontario, Canada, for installation.
- Unpopularity in residential use in certain regions, causing installation difficulties.
- Winter Freezing Issues:
- Vulnerability to freezing in extremely cold climates, impacting performance.
- Malfunction in negative temperatures, necessitating additional insulation for prevention.
- Delay for Hot Water:
- Inevitable small delay for hot water, requiring adjustment to expectations.
In conclusion, the Camplux 16L Outdoor Propane Gas Water Heater receives praise for its efficient shipping, easy installation, instant hot water, space-saving design, safety features, and overall reliability. However, challenges with certified installers, potential shipping concerns, installation costs, and climate-specific issues present notable considerations for prospective buyers. Despite some drawbacks, the unit remains a cost-effective and reliable choice for those seeking on-demand hot water in various applications.