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Hot water tank - Element problem!

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by Mikeyessir, Dec 31, 2014.

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  1. Capt J, Jan 18, 2015
    #21
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    Fort Lauderdale
    They usually use way too much electricity at once for a yacht. Also, they have issues of their own, especially with hard water. Stuck solenoids etc. Also need a constant water pressure for them to work correctly and you don't have that on a yacht unless you have a variable speed water pump, which most don't.
  2. NEO56, Jan 19, 2015
    #22
    NEO56

    NEO56 Member

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    Learn something new everyday...thanks J.
  3. Mikeyessir, Jan 20, 2015
    #23
    Mikeyessir

    Mikeyessir New Member

    Joined:
    Dec 31, 2014
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    MED
    Hello,

    Still waiting for new elements. I have discontinued use of the chlorine for now, flushed all tanks and the fresh water system. Our water is softened and put through polywound and chemical/bacteria filters so won't be a problem for now.

    We cannot alter the setup of the hot water system because the boat is still under warranty + there is no need to once we find the cause of the fault.

    Talking to one engineer on the docks last week we talked about how there is only two people on the boat all winter and running two hot water tanks with 6 elements on constantly with hot chlorinated water would rapidly corrode the stainless.

    So once we receive the new elements I will run the thermostats at a lower temperature setting, one tank in operation at once (alternating every other week). With the discontinued use of the chlorine we can just wait and see what happens.

    I went onboard another boat the same as us with the same system and traced all their wiring so I know we are good in that area.

    The manufacturer of the elements are convinced we are boiling the tanks dry but I know this isn't the case because i've checked the vents are working properly etc.
  4. dennismc, Jan 20, 2015
    #24
    dennismc

    dennismc Senior Member

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    Do not operate the tanks at under 125 f as the chance of legionella exists at lower HW temps.
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