There are two main manufacturers of RV water heaters, Atwood and Suburban with the majority of RV water heaters and motor home water heaters being either one or the other. The RVs, which do not come with one of these water heaters, are typically in the higher priced range for motor homes which use instantaneous water heaters or some variety of engine assist water heater.
For those units that do have the Suburban water heater, you will typically find them with tanks ranging from 4 to 6 gallons with standard-mount doors. One of the main benefits of the Suburban RV water heater is their longer performance life primarily due to the two protective parts and systems, one of which is the anode rod that almost neutralizes the aggressive water action on the metal tank. The other protective element is the porcelain lining made of a corrosion resistant material to prevent the heated water from drastically harming your RV heating unit. Suburban Water Heaters are offered with a three-year warranty, but to prolong the unit life, proper maintenance is recommended.
The second brand and equally as good as the Suburban is the Atwood Water Heater. This style of water heater features a patented through-tube combustion chamber which utilizes the pilot flame to help maintain water temperature thus preventing heat energy loss. Atwood units are very lightweight and compact which allows them to fit into spaces as small as 121/2" x 16" allowing all controls to be accessible from the front for easy servicing. A large number of Atwood Water Heaters feature a heat exchange system that allows the water from the vehicles engine to be piped to the water heater and then returned to the engines cooling system as cool fresh water. For units that have this option the water in the heater storage tank is first heated by the waste heat from the engine while driving so you will use far less LP gas. The Atwood high-performance models deliver about 27% more hot water than standard water heaters. The mix of both gas and electric provides an increased recovery rate of 50% over the standard gas heater.
For both Suburban and Atwood units which are gas, they use either pilot light or direct spark ignition. RV Water heaters with ignition system with direct spark ignition are best in areas that typically see a large amount of bad weather so you can control the water heater and heating process with a remote switch from inside of the RV. For units that are equipped with pilot lights there is reignitor which keeps you from having to relight the pilot when it is extinguished or when the gas supply is turned off.
The RV’s and Motor homes that are equipped with the 6 to 16 gallon size of Suburban water heater are fast recovery units with 12,000 BTU gas input and provide as much as10.2 gallons per hour recovery and with a specially designed insulation jacket, more heat remains used and less heat loss. By utilizing both an electric heating element and gas burner at the same time it is possible to achieve an even faster recovery rate.
Since they are small in size, Suburban RV water heaters can be installed very easily and are convenient to use, operate and maintain. Even if you have an RV heating unit from other manufacturer installed it can be replaced and with Suburban accessories the installation is a snap.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Atwood Water Heaters
Over the past 30 years Atwood has been designing and manufacturing water heaters for motor homes, trailers and many types of recreational vehicles. Atwood got it start by using the special techniques for the marine industry and quickly saw the application for use in the RV industry and has since become the leader in this market. Atwood is the largest manufacturer of specialized water heaters for recreation vehicles and marine use worldwide, with a great many years of experience building lightweight, reliable products for difficult mobile conditions.
Atwood Water Heaters come in a variety of models including electric, liquid propane-fueled and combination gas/electric units. Although Atwood water heaters are not tankless, the design of their tanks and the unit that contains the heat exchanger allows the water heater to operate in much the same way as many compact tankless units. Because of this, Atwood water heaters give you a wide selection when deciding on a fuel type based on each customers RV needs.
The design and functionality of the Atwood water heaters insure that water is heated quickly and efficiently and the patented design makes sure that they deliver every possible ounce of usable hot water from the tank. Atwood’s proven reliability as a leader in manufacturing water heaters gives every customer the assurance and satisfaction they want. Each one of the electric water heaters manufactured by Atwood comes fully equipped with a high quality incalloy heating element. This revolutionary designed allows each Atwood Water Heater to operate even when the tank accidently runs dry.
Atwood Water Heaters are built with efficiency in mind. One way Atwood proves this is with the development of efficient heat exchangers that quickly heat water when under power. Atwood has focused on developing each component for the maximum efficiency based on the capacity of each unit. Because of this each heat exchanger is specifically designed for the water heater's capacity resulting in the least amount ot time to heat up. Atwood Water heater heat exchangers use double tube construction that helps to prevent the possibility of containments entering the fresh water system.
The outer construction developed for every Atwood water heater is designed from corrosion resistant materials and is designed to stand even the harshest of environments that customers may choose to take their recreational vehicles into. Atwood has placed special attention to even the smallest of details including the edges and corners to assure the greatest safety. Even things such as the cubic shape and lightweight aluminum-alloy tank were considered when determining the greater flexibility when using water heaters with the vast number of RV floor plans.
Atwood Water Heaters are a favorite among RVers because with most models they can heat up in less than 30 minutes creating a generous amount of water to make everyone’s trip on the road an enjoyable one. When designing their units, Atwood takes all mobile hot water needs into consideration and as a result has produced a full line of products to suit every RV model and customer tastes.
If you are looking to replace an old or worn out water heater or are simply wanting something more efficient, you first need to start by consider what your hot water needs are. Think about the size of the tank that will you currently have and whether the new Atwood model you have chosen will fit in your recreational vehicle without hindering movement. Even though every Atwood water heater tank is designed to be space saving, like any other water heater, if filled to capacity new units can easily add between 70 and 200 pounds to your trailer or motor home.
Although size is an important factor, the next most important item to consider is the fuel type based on the current capabilities of your RV or trailer. As previously stated, Atwood Water Heaters are made to run on 120-volt electricity, liquid propane or a combination of the two. One feature when considering a gas unit is its standing pilot light which helps to maintain a constant temperature for added fuel efficiency. If you are considering a model that uses liquid propane or the combination gas/electric you must remember that they require a minimum input of 8,800 or 10,000 BTU depending size. As an example, with a gas-fired unit that has a 10-gallon water heater with 10,000 BTU inputs will produce a maximum of 8.4 gallons of hot water per hour. The units that are a combo of gas and electric feature the simultaneous use of the gas burner as well as the electric heating element. When they are used together it is possible for an 8,800 BTU unit with a 1,500-Watt element to generate as much as 13.5 gallons per hour. With the new Atwood 10-gallon exothermal gas/electric combo water heater, customers have seen as much as 50% more hot water than the standard electric unit.
Every Atwood water heater is designed to be lightweight, easy to install or replace and serviceable by any reputable RV dealer. The addition of fiberglass insulation around the interior of the storage tank helps to keep hot water ho continuously. The fact that they have reviewed so many manufacturer designs when designing their units insures the maximum possible space-saving when you incorporate any unit into the layout of your recreational vehicle. With decades of experience and thousands of units sold, Atwood is positioned to remain number one in the design and manufacture of compact water heating units and specialty water heaters serving both the RV and marine markets.
Atwood Water Heaters come in a variety of models including electric, liquid propane-fueled and combination gas/electric units. Although Atwood water heaters are not tankless, the design of their tanks and the unit that contains the heat exchanger allows the water heater to operate in much the same way as many compact tankless units. Because of this, Atwood water heaters give you a wide selection when deciding on a fuel type based on each customers RV needs.
The design and functionality of the Atwood water heaters insure that water is heated quickly and efficiently and the patented design makes sure that they deliver every possible ounce of usable hot water from the tank. Atwood’s proven reliability as a leader in manufacturing water heaters gives every customer the assurance and satisfaction they want. Each one of the electric water heaters manufactured by Atwood comes fully equipped with a high quality incalloy heating element. This revolutionary designed allows each Atwood Water Heater to operate even when the tank accidently runs dry.
Atwood Water Heaters are built with efficiency in mind. One way Atwood proves this is with the development of efficient heat exchangers that quickly heat water when under power. Atwood has focused on developing each component for the maximum efficiency based on the capacity of each unit. Because of this each heat exchanger is specifically designed for the water heater's capacity resulting in the least amount ot time to heat up. Atwood Water heater heat exchangers use double tube construction that helps to prevent the possibility of containments entering the fresh water system.
The outer construction developed for every Atwood water heater is designed from corrosion resistant materials and is designed to stand even the harshest of environments that customers may choose to take their recreational vehicles into. Atwood has placed special attention to even the smallest of details including the edges and corners to assure the greatest safety. Even things such as the cubic shape and lightweight aluminum-alloy tank were considered when determining the greater flexibility when using water heaters with the vast number of RV floor plans.
Atwood Water Heaters are a favorite among RVers because with most models they can heat up in less than 30 minutes creating a generous amount of water to make everyone’s trip on the road an enjoyable one. When designing their units, Atwood takes all mobile hot water needs into consideration and as a result has produced a full line of products to suit every RV model and customer tastes.
If you are looking to replace an old or worn out water heater or are simply wanting something more efficient, you first need to start by consider what your hot water needs are. Think about the size of the tank that will you currently have and whether the new Atwood model you have chosen will fit in your recreational vehicle without hindering movement. Even though every Atwood water heater tank is designed to be space saving, like any other water heater, if filled to capacity new units can easily add between 70 and 200 pounds to your trailer or motor home.
Although size is an important factor, the next most important item to consider is the fuel type based on the current capabilities of your RV or trailer. As previously stated, Atwood Water Heaters are made to run on 120-volt electricity, liquid propane or a combination of the two. One feature when considering a gas unit is its standing pilot light which helps to maintain a constant temperature for added fuel efficiency. If you are considering a model that uses liquid propane or the combination gas/electric you must remember that they require a minimum input of 8,800 or 10,000 BTU depending size. As an example, with a gas-fired unit that has a 10-gallon water heater with 10,000 BTU inputs will produce a maximum of 8.4 gallons of hot water per hour. The units that are a combo of gas and electric feature the simultaneous use of the gas burner as well as the electric heating element. When they are used together it is possible for an 8,800 BTU unit with a 1,500-Watt element to generate as much as 13.5 gallons per hour. With the new Atwood 10-gallon exothermal gas/electric combo water heater, customers have seen as much as 50% more hot water than the standard electric unit.
Every Atwood water heater is designed to be lightweight, easy to install or replace and serviceable by any reputable RV dealer. The addition of fiberglass insulation around the interior of the storage tank helps to keep hot water ho continuously. The fact that they have reviewed so many manufacturer designs when designing their units insures the maximum possible space-saving when you incorporate any unit into the layout of your recreational vehicle. With decades of experience and thousands of units sold, Atwood is positioned to remain number one in the design and manufacture of compact water heating units and specialty water heaters serving both the RV and marine markets.
Friday, July 9, 2010
RV Water Heater Anode Rods
If you have a RV water heater it is likely you have an anode rod in the inner tank. This little critter is probably the most unknown friend to most campers that there is. The anode rod in your water heater is a part in the water heater that makes the inner tank last longer.
Have you ever heard the expression “the sacrificial lamb”? This is what the water heater anode rod is. It sacrifices itself so that the inner tank of your water heater can last an extreme amount of time longer than had it not been in there. I was in Florida once and a RV Repair Facility / RV Parts Store had an entire wall of inner tanks for water heaters. I asked why they had so many and this began my education on the all important water heater anode rod.
They explained that the water there had minerals in it that just played havoc on the inner tanks. It ate into the aluminum tanks and created pin holes which of course caused the inner tanks to leak, especially while the tank was under pressure. While this area was severe, almost all areas have water that will cause this. The culprits are usually high contents of iron and or sulphates.
The answer to some degree is the anode rod, which, depending on your water heater most likely will be about three quarters of an inch in diameter and four and a half to nine and a half inches long. Some are made from aluminum or magnesium. It is most likely threaded in the beginning with a hex head on the end and the remainder being smooth. The anode rod acts kind of like a magnet. It attracts the minerals that eat into the lining of a tank and causes them to eat into the rod instead.
Since many campers don’t even realize they have one, it is our hope that this article will be informative enough that it will inspire action to check this baby at least once a year. It is an easy replacement and actually quite inexpensive, especially if you do it yourself. The part is probably only ten to thirteen dollars and can be removed and replaced in less than twenty minutes.
To do this simply turn off the rv water heater and wait until all water in the tank is cooled and has no risk of being hot enough to burn you. Lift the pop off safety valve up to release pressure and to allow air into the tank and then simply unscrew the anode rod. The water will drain quite quickly. It will even drain faster by opening a couple of faucets inside the coach. When the water has drained out of the water heater just screw the new anode rod back into the opening. The most commonly used tool is a one and one sixteenth thin wall socket.
One might ask how they would know if the anode rod needs to be replaced. You can do this by removing the anode rod as explained in the previous paragraph and when you remove it just look and see how damaged it is. It is my opinion that if it is has been sacrificed more than half of its original size to go ahead and replace it. If however, budget is a constraint, you can put it back in and just check it again a little later down the road and replace when you think it has nothing else to give. Just remember that it is a lot cheaper and easier to replace an anode rod than an inner tank. Always keep in mind how much of an integral part the rod plays in extending the life of your inner tank.
Just as a little additional information the huge majority or RV water heaters are produced under two brand names. The Atwood and the Suburban brands. The Suburban RV water heater is the only one to have an anode rod as a standard part. The Atwood brand of RV water heaters have an aluminum tank where the Suburban has a steel tank but it is porcelain lined.
If you have any questions on parts for your RV water heater or any other RV Parts or RV Accessories you can find the internet a great place or resource for additional information and can contact one of the many RV Parts Dealers online or you can also contact your local RV Dealership or RV Repair.
Have you ever heard the expression “the sacrificial lamb”? This is what the water heater anode rod is. It sacrifices itself so that the inner tank of your water heater can last an extreme amount of time longer than had it not been in there. I was in Florida once and a RV Repair Facility / RV Parts Store had an entire wall of inner tanks for water heaters. I asked why they had so many and this began my education on the all important water heater anode rod.
They explained that the water there had minerals in it that just played havoc on the inner tanks. It ate into the aluminum tanks and created pin holes which of course caused the inner tanks to leak, especially while the tank was under pressure. While this area was severe, almost all areas have water that will cause this. The culprits are usually high contents of iron and or sulphates.
The answer to some degree is the anode rod, which, depending on your water heater most likely will be about three quarters of an inch in diameter and four and a half to nine and a half inches long. Some are made from aluminum or magnesium. It is most likely threaded in the beginning with a hex head on the end and the remainder being smooth. The anode rod acts kind of like a magnet. It attracts the minerals that eat into the lining of a tank and causes them to eat into the rod instead.
Since many campers don’t even realize they have one, it is our hope that this article will be informative enough that it will inspire action to check this baby at least once a year. It is an easy replacement and actually quite inexpensive, especially if you do it yourself. The part is probably only ten to thirteen dollars and can be removed and replaced in less than twenty minutes.
To do this simply turn off the rv water heater and wait until all water in the tank is cooled and has no risk of being hot enough to burn you. Lift the pop off safety valve up to release pressure and to allow air into the tank and then simply unscrew the anode rod. The water will drain quite quickly. It will even drain faster by opening a couple of faucets inside the coach. When the water has drained out of the water heater just screw the new anode rod back into the opening. The most commonly used tool is a one and one sixteenth thin wall socket.
One might ask how they would know if the anode rod needs to be replaced. You can do this by removing the anode rod as explained in the previous paragraph and when you remove it just look and see how damaged it is. It is my opinion that if it is has been sacrificed more than half of its original size to go ahead and replace it. If however, budget is a constraint, you can put it back in and just check it again a little later down the road and replace when you think it has nothing else to give. Just remember that it is a lot cheaper and easier to replace an anode rod than an inner tank. Always keep in mind how much of an integral part the rod plays in extending the life of your inner tank.
Just as a little additional information the huge majority or RV water heaters are produced under two brand names. The Atwood and the Suburban brands. The Suburban RV water heater is the only one to have an anode rod as a standard part. The Atwood brand of RV water heaters have an aluminum tank where the Suburban has a steel tank but it is porcelain lined.
If you have any questions on parts for your RV water heater or any other RV Parts or RV Accessories you can find the internet a great place or resource for additional information and can contact one of the many RV Parts Dealers online or you can also contact your local RV Dealership or RV Repair.
Camper Toilets - What is the Fix?
The toilet that you have in your camper makes a big difference in the cost of repair, even if you do not realize it. Some campers think that repairing a toilet is cheaper than replacing it. If you are the “Do it yourself” type camper that may be the true, however this article will help to educate the rest of us in order for you to make a well informed decision.
The Thetford and Sealand toilets both have parts that are easily obtained, at least for most models I should say. It is most likely that you have a Thetford rv toilet in your camper since the Thetford Aqua Magic Four has been installed in the largest number of RV’s by far. I have found that if you are not a do it yourselfer it is for sure in most cases less expensive to replace the toilet rather than repair it. There are some simple repairs that make it possible to repair it for less than replacing it, but you should consider however, that if it is an older toilet that future repairs are quite probable. With that in mind you still might want to consider replacing rather than repairing.
If you do in fact choose to replace it, there is a good chance that you have an Aqua Magic IV which is no longer produced and has been replaced with the new Aqua Magic V. If you are replacing your toilet and have the Thetford Aqua Magic IV, there are other options such as the Thetford Aqua Magic Style Plus or Thetford Bravura Toilet as well as choices from the Sealand line of toilets. You will have to choose whether you want a hand or foot flush, and whether you want to stay with plastic or upgrade to china. You will also have the choice of adding a water saver. Regardless of which choice you make you will most likely be happy with the quality and dependability of any product available.
I have seen do it yourselfers replace a toilet and not replace the floor flange. This is silly. While you have the toilet removed it only makes sense to replace the floor flange and in most cases, when you purchase a new toilet, it will come with a new floor flange. Be careful when reconnecting your water line so as not to strip the threads. This is a common mistake and will lead to a lot more work that is unnecessary. Thetford also makes a great line of RV Porta Potties.
Make sure that you take the time to check out your options and find the RV toilet that is right for you. To some people, it might just be a toilet. However, if you plan on doing some serious RVing, it will be an important decision to make. I suggest you check with your local RV Dealer or shop online with one of the many RV Parts Dealer stores. Do your homework either way. Your local dealer will almost always be your best source of information and help. However, if you are shopping online, if that online store is a good one, they will be accessible either by phone or e-mail during normal business hours.
The Thetford and Sealand toilets both have parts that are easily obtained, at least for most models I should say. It is most likely that you have a Thetford rv toilet in your camper since the Thetford Aqua Magic Four has been installed in the largest number of RV’s by far. I have found that if you are not a do it yourselfer it is for sure in most cases less expensive to replace the toilet rather than repair it. There are some simple repairs that make it possible to repair it for less than replacing it, but you should consider however, that if it is an older toilet that future repairs are quite probable. With that in mind you still might want to consider replacing rather than repairing.
If you do in fact choose to replace it, there is a good chance that you have an Aqua Magic IV which is no longer produced and has been replaced with the new Aqua Magic V. If you are replacing your toilet and have the Thetford Aqua Magic IV, there are other options such as the Thetford Aqua Magic Style Plus or Thetford Bravura Toilet as well as choices from the Sealand line of toilets. You will have to choose whether you want a hand or foot flush, and whether you want to stay with plastic or upgrade to china. You will also have the choice of adding a water saver. Regardless of which choice you make you will most likely be happy with the quality and dependability of any product available.
I have seen do it yourselfers replace a toilet and not replace the floor flange. This is silly. While you have the toilet removed it only makes sense to replace the floor flange and in most cases, when you purchase a new toilet, it will come with a new floor flange. Be careful when reconnecting your water line so as not to strip the threads. This is a common mistake and will lead to a lot more work that is unnecessary. Thetford also makes a great line of RV Porta Potties.
Make sure that you take the time to check out your options and find the RV toilet that is right for you. To some people, it might just be a toilet. However, if you plan on doing some serious RVing, it will be an important decision to make. I suggest you check with your local RV Dealer or shop online with one of the many RV Parts Dealer stores. Do your homework either way. Your local dealer will almost always be your best source of information and help. However, if you are shopping online, if that online store is a good one, they will be accessible either by phone or e-mail during normal business hours.
RV Hardware for Beginners
When I first started camping it was frustrating to explain what I needed when it came to repair or replacement of my RV hardware because here were so many things that fall into the category of RV Hardware. So I am going to try and help the new camper (like me a few years ago) to understand some of the different terminologies. I am not going to go into all of them in this particular article, but focus mostly on the interior hardware. In this explanation I will discuss RV hardware normally found in the hardware section in most RV catalogs beginning with RV Cabinet Hardware.
Cabinet Hardware-RV cabinet hardware would be cabinet latches, positive latches, push latches, and bunk latches.
RV Cabinet Latches- Latches usually requires touching, pulling, or pushing, but usually has one moving part.
RV Cabinet Catches --Again these require pushing or pulling but will have more moving parts. There are also many more catches than latches. Most of them are commonly known as barrel catches, roller catches, magnetic catches, bulldog catches, and concealed roller catches. These are primarily to keep the cabinet door closed while in travel.
RV Cabinet Hinges – These are pretty self-explanatory, however, there different types of hinges. In addition to finishes such as brass hinges, antique finished hinges, stainless steel, and/or brushed nickel, there are hinges that are free swinging, self-closing and self supporting.
RV Cabinet Door Struts -- Cabinet door struts are mostly spring-loaded arms that keep the cabinet door raised when you open it, so that you don't have to hold the door up as you are trying to remove or place articles in the cabinet. These struts are most commonly found on doors that raise horizontally. They're very popular because they are user-friendly, at least most of the time.
Cabinet Drawer Hardware -- Cabinet door hardware is pretty much limited to drawer slides sockets, drawer bumpers, drawer slide kits. The slides in sockets are available in plastic and metal. It’s important to remember that if you are purchasing parts for cabinet drawers you will usually need to know if it is for the left or the right side.
RV Window Hardware is the next segment and covers quite a few part numbers and part types due to the variety and quantity of window cranks with differing sizes and shapes. There are a number of RV manufacturers that supply window covering hardware, but for the most part window covering hardware can be purchased through your local RV dealership or from an online RV Parts Dealer store. The parts I am referring to are snaps, hooks, blind quieter’s, curtain tracks, snap tape, curtain hold-down's, and curtains themselves.
RV Bed/ Door Gas Props -- Gas props are used mainly for doors, bed lifts and compartment doors. Gas props when replaced need to be replaced with the correct one. This is important because they need to match the length, pounds that they will hold, and the height that they will extend to. Using the wrong prop can cause damage and injury to both the RV and yourself. Make sure if you need help in this area to ask for it. Often times if you're replacing a gas prop you will need to replace the brackets as well. When securing them to the surface and you use the same holes, make sure not to strip it out even though you want it to be held tightly in place.
RV Compartment Door Hardware -- This type of hardware can be frustrating. RV baggage door catches and latches can be found in different shapes and sizes. While the reality is there are only a few types, there are many styles. RV baggage door catches can have either squared or rounded ends and come in white, kind of white (called colonial white), beige, black, and chrome colors as well as stainless steel. The circumference of most RV compartment doors or RV baggage doors, which ever you decide to call them, is almost always the same but the length usually comes in four sizes. They also have two different ways to secure the baggage doors, keyed meaning you can lock them, or thumb blocks, which secures the door, but does not lock them.
RV Entry Door Hardware - Entry door hardware consists of grab handles, and entry door holders. Grab handles are mounted on the side of the door and helps one enter the RV more safely. Door holders are used to hold the door open securely. RV door holders come in different lengths, angles, colors, and styles. When replacing a RV door holder, it is easy to take off and put on, and also easy to identify what you have.
I think this is enough information for this article. I will cover some other RV hardware in future articles. They will be talking about awning hardware, window awning hardware, RV door locks, and other related RV hardware.
Cabinet Hardware-RV cabinet hardware would be cabinet latches, positive latches, push latches, and bunk latches.
RV Cabinet Latches- Latches usually requires touching, pulling, or pushing, but usually has one moving part.
RV Cabinet Catches --Again these require pushing or pulling but will have more moving parts. There are also many more catches than latches. Most of them are commonly known as barrel catches, roller catches, magnetic catches, bulldog catches, and concealed roller catches. These are primarily to keep the cabinet door closed while in travel.
RV Cabinet Hinges – These are pretty self-explanatory, however, there different types of hinges. In addition to finishes such as brass hinges, antique finished hinges, stainless steel, and/or brushed nickel, there are hinges that are free swinging, self-closing and self supporting.
RV Cabinet Door Struts -- Cabinet door struts are mostly spring-loaded arms that keep the cabinet door raised when you open it, so that you don't have to hold the door up as you are trying to remove or place articles in the cabinet. These struts are most commonly found on doors that raise horizontally. They're very popular because they are user-friendly, at least most of the time.
Cabinet Drawer Hardware -- Cabinet door hardware is pretty much limited to drawer slides sockets, drawer bumpers, drawer slide kits. The slides in sockets are available in plastic and metal. It’s important to remember that if you are purchasing parts for cabinet drawers you will usually need to know if it is for the left or the right side.
RV Window Hardware is the next segment and covers quite a few part numbers and part types due to the variety and quantity of window cranks with differing sizes and shapes. There are a number of RV manufacturers that supply window covering hardware, but for the most part window covering hardware can be purchased through your local RV dealership or from an online RV Parts Dealer store. The parts I am referring to are snaps, hooks, blind quieter’s, curtain tracks, snap tape, curtain hold-down's, and curtains themselves.
RV Bed/ Door Gas Props -- Gas props are used mainly for doors, bed lifts and compartment doors. Gas props when replaced need to be replaced with the correct one. This is important because they need to match the length, pounds that they will hold, and the height that they will extend to. Using the wrong prop can cause damage and injury to both the RV and yourself. Make sure if you need help in this area to ask for it. Often times if you're replacing a gas prop you will need to replace the brackets as well. When securing them to the surface and you use the same holes, make sure not to strip it out even though you want it to be held tightly in place.
RV Compartment Door Hardware -- This type of hardware can be frustrating. RV baggage door catches and latches can be found in different shapes and sizes. While the reality is there are only a few types, there are many styles. RV baggage door catches can have either squared or rounded ends and come in white, kind of white (called colonial white), beige, black, and chrome colors as well as stainless steel. The circumference of most RV compartment doors or RV baggage doors, which ever you decide to call them, is almost always the same but the length usually comes in four sizes. They also have two different ways to secure the baggage doors, keyed meaning you can lock them, or thumb blocks, which secures the door, but does not lock them.
RV Entry Door Hardware - Entry door hardware consists of grab handles, and entry door holders. Grab handles are mounted on the side of the door and helps one enter the RV more safely. Door holders are used to hold the door open securely. RV door holders come in different lengths, angles, colors, and styles. When replacing a RV door holder, it is easy to take off and put on, and also easy to identify what you have.
I think this is enough information for this article. I will cover some other RV hardware in future articles. They will be talking about awning hardware, window awning hardware, RV door locks, and other related RV hardware.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Big Changes in Shurflo RV Water Pumps
If you have been around the RV life style for very long it does not matter if you have a Fifth Wheel, Travel Trailer, Motorhome, or Camper, you probably have heard of Shurflo water pumps. They go back a long way and the same is true if you have been around the marine industry. As for reputation, there is not another company out there that produces RV water pumps that is as respected as the Shurflo RV water pump producers. While many people have heard that big change in Shurflo Water pumps is coming, I am here to tell you that the change is already here. While the Shurflo model 2088 water pump has long been the standard, it has to make room for the next generation. It has been long over due, and with all the changes in RV design with larger and more significant selections and options, and with the concerns of many customers having been heard, the Shurflo RV water pump 2088 should have been replaced a lot earlier. Though it has been a tried and true performer- the time has come for a new family member.
It is exciting to see the all new series of RV water pumps come to the market. The next generation RV water pump is called the Revolution. And whew- a revolution it is. This all new model pumps three gallons per minute and up provides up to fifty five pounds of pressure per square inch. It has a unique single piece diaphragm with an internal by pass that will for sure extend the life of the pump. It does not rapid cycle like the old 2088 model and it is much quieter making these all great improvements and what we believe will surely please almost any RV and Camper enthusiast.
If you ever need to have your Shurflo water pump repaired, you might first consider upgrading to the Revolution. It is a definite replacement for the 2088 and if you consider the cost of the repair, upgrading to this next generation of pumps may well be worth the extra cost. In my mind it is worth the money to upgrade even if it doesn't need repaired.
Shurflo manufacturing has been meeting the needs of the RV and marine industry in the area of twelve volt RV water pumps for a long time and in my opinion has done it well. With this next generation of pumps I feel confident that Shurflo will hold on to its vast market share in the RV industry as well as its market share in the marine water pump arena.
Shurflo RV water pumps can easily be found at almost any reputable RV dealer, RV Parts Store, or online with many RV Parts Dealers. If you are buying on the internet make sure you get the right model the first time to make sure your savings are not lost on return fees. Contact your local dealer or call the internet store if you have any question about getting the right RV water pump for your rig.
It is exciting to see the all new series of RV water pumps come to the market. The next generation RV water pump is called the Revolution. And whew- a revolution it is. This all new model pumps three gallons per minute and up provides up to fifty five pounds of pressure per square inch. It has a unique single piece diaphragm with an internal by pass that will for sure extend the life of the pump. It does not rapid cycle like the old 2088 model and it is much quieter making these all great improvements and what we believe will surely please almost any RV and Camper enthusiast.
If you ever need to have your Shurflo water pump repaired, you might first consider upgrading to the Revolution. It is a definite replacement for the 2088 and if you consider the cost of the repair, upgrading to this next generation of pumps may well be worth the extra cost. In my mind it is worth the money to upgrade even if it doesn't need repaired.
Shurflo manufacturing has been meeting the needs of the RV and marine industry in the area of twelve volt RV water pumps for a long time and in my opinion has done it well. With this next generation of pumps I feel confident that Shurflo will hold on to its vast market share in the RV industry as well as its market share in the marine water pump arena.
Shurflo RV water pumps can easily be found at almost any reputable RV dealer, RV Parts Store, or online with many RV Parts Dealers. If you are buying on the internet make sure you get the right model the first time to make sure your savings are not lost on return fees. Contact your local dealer or call the internet store if you have any question about getting the right RV water pump for your rig.
RV Water Heater Selection
If you are like most of us campers you truly count on your water heater in your rv. Having an RV is a great luxury that many people enjoy for a variety of reasons. However, it is also something that involves a lot of responsibility and maintenance so that you can enjoy your RVing experience without the frustration of having no hot water. If you need an RV water heater replacement you can replace it with the same one, but you can upgrade if you so choose.
Whether you have a Suburban RV water heater or Atwood RV water heater, you can find all the models and also repair parts online or at your local RV dealer. If you have a six gallon heater you will probably want to stay with that capacity, but can pick one to replace it with that also has a direct spark ignition, electric (120v ) option or both. You don't necessarily have to stay with the same brand, but you will want to check the rough opening to make sure the one you pick will fit if you are upgrading. You will want to decide if you want one that has an aluminum tank with an anode rod or one with a glass tank. You will find these easily as you do your homework. There are two brands that dominate the RV market. They are the Suburban Water heater and the Atwood water heater. They both are very reputable and have readily available repair parts and great customer support.
Your RV needs to be in good working order, and that includes having a high quality, functional water heater so that you can take showers or use hot water whenever you might need it. Whether you're taking a trip for the long haul or just going away for the weekend, having a functional RV is going to make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone. One of the best tips I could give you to make sure that this is the case is to test it before you leave on your trip. While this will not guarantee that it will work when you get there or that it won't become inoperable while you are using it, I feel confident that it will for sure give you much greater odds for a great trip.
As I said earlier you can find both water heater replacements and repair parts for Suburban and Atwood at most RV dealerships and online RV stores. If you shop online make sure that they have a phone number prominently displayed and a "Contact Us" tab or an "ask a question" tab so if you need help you can get it. I hope this has been of some help in your quest to fix or replace your RV water heater. Here is a list of both brands most popular models.
Here are some of the most common and or popular model numbers in both Atwood RV water heaters and Suburban RV water heaters:
Suburban SW6P
Suburban SW6DE
Suburban SW10D
Suburban SW10DE
Atwood RV water heaters
Atwood G6A-7
Atwood G6A8E
Atwood GCH6AA
Atwood GCH10A-4E
Whether you have a Suburban RV water heater or Atwood RV water heater, you can find all the models and also repair parts online or at your local RV dealer. If you have a six gallon heater you will probably want to stay with that capacity, but can pick one to replace it with that also has a direct spark ignition, electric (120v ) option or both. You don't necessarily have to stay with the same brand, but you will want to check the rough opening to make sure the one you pick will fit if you are upgrading. You will want to decide if you want one that has an aluminum tank with an anode rod or one with a glass tank. You will find these easily as you do your homework. There are two brands that dominate the RV market. They are the Suburban Water heater and the Atwood water heater. They both are very reputable and have readily available repair parts and great customer support.
Your RV needs to be in good working order, and that includes having a high quality, functional water heater so that you can take showers or use hot water whenever you might need it. Whether you're taking a trip for the long haul or just going away for the weekend, having a functional RV is going to make the experience much more enjoyable for everyone. One of the best tips I could give you to make sure that this is the case is to test it before you leave on your trip. While this will not guarantee that it will work when you get there or that it won't become inoperable while you are using it, I feel confident that it will for sure give you much greater odds for a great trip.
As I said earlier you can find both water heater replacements and repair parts for Suburban and Atwood at most RV dealerships and online RV stores. If you shop online make sure that they have a phone number prominently displayed and a "Contact Us" tab or an "ask a question" tab so if you need help you can get it. I hope this has been of some help in your quest to fix or replace your RV water heater. Here is a list of both brands most popular models.
Here are some of the most common and or popular model numbers in both Atwood RV water heaters and Suburban RV water heaters:
Suburban SW6P
Suburban SW6DE
Suburban SW10D
Suburban SW10DE
Atwood RV water heaters
Atwood G6A-7
Atwood G6A8E
Atwood GCH6AA
Atwood GCH10A-4E
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