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djkeev
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Joined: September 30, 2007
Posts: 32634
Location: Reading Pennsylvania
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danfromsyr
Samba Member
Joined: March 01, 2004
Posts: 15144
Location: Syracuse, NY
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 Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 4:50 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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new they're fairly quiet.. but each person has their own level of tolerance.
me I run fan while I sleep 365 for the white noise..
other's will wake up if a lady bug farts.
you will become surprised how much you will use the heat.. it's nice even while sitting in the doorway enjoying a fall afternoon..
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davevickery
Samba Member
Joined: July 16, 2005
Posts: 2887
Location: Fort Collins, CO
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| Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 5:41 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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Hi Dave, I think the best overall heater I have had so far was the Atwood Hyrdroflame. I haven't owned a Propex yet, but people who had 6K BTU propexes seemed impressed by the amount of heat mine put out.
I noticed they have upgraded the hydro flame line up. Around $450-500 online. http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/272346707370?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true
The new model is slightly taller and narrower than the old hydro flame series so it probably fits into that little cabinet better. It was just a little tight working around the 120 Volt outlet.
The best thing about these heaters is they are simple and reliable. Installing them in the cubby hole cabinet next to the fridge works awesome aside from giving up that handy compartment.
HTH,
Dave |
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ragnarhairybreeks
Samba Member
Joined: October 26, 2009
Posts: 1890
Location: Sidney B.C. Canada
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| Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 6:15 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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Dave,
Doesn't that model still have the disadvantage of being long, 20" and so will project out from the cupboard install you describe?
Dimensions etc here
http://www.americanrvcompany.com/assets/images/atw...rnaces.pdf
If it wasn't for that I would have bought one for that location. As it turned out I was lucky to find a used propex in wreckers yard and put that between front seats.
Alistair
_________________
'86 7 passenger syncro, converted to westy pop top, project still in progress
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VWinVT
Samba Member
Joined: April 21, 2013
Posts: 1541
Location: North East Kingdom
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| Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 6:20 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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I would not want to give up an inch of interior storage if I didn't absolutely have to. I would pay the extra money for the externally mounted Propex for this reason.
I am considering, however, a 6 gallon hot water tank/heater that will occupy the small cubby storage space....there aren't any other viable,options for this type of electric/coolant heat exchanger system. So, I guess this is why I would opt for,the external Propex. Either way, we will both be warm in our vans! 
_________________
1981 Westfalia with a 2001 Cabrio ABA
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Big wheel turns by the grace of God.
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davevickery
Samba Member
Joined: July 16, 2005
Posts: 2887
Location: Fort Collins, CO
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| Posted: Tue Oct 04, 2016 7:26 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| ragnarhairybreeks wrote: |
Dave,
Doesn't that model still have the disadvantage of being long, 20" and so will project out from the cupboard install you describe? Alistair |
Here was my install of the hydroflame. The sheet metal frame in back could be trimmed a bit as shown in someone's thread. It still needed a spacer but it worked fine and looked decent I think.
The new heater has a different fan that is supposed to be quieter and is lower draw (down from 3.4 to 2.4 and cycling so less actual draw than that). Anyway, I looked at some of pictures of the unit and it looks like the box can also be trimmed, maybe even more than the prior model with the large squirrel cage fan. I'm interested to see pics of the first (guinea pig) install but a quick look says to me it will fit at least as well.
| VWinVT wrote: |
| I would not want to give up an inch of interior storage if I didn't absolutely have to. I would pay the extra money for the externally mounted Propex for this reason. |
I hear that and for some people that is a deciding factor. I found having the heater there worked out great for several reasons and I quickly got over cutting into the cabinet and adjusted to not having that space. Only reason I mention it, it is hard to know in advance what you are going to like or dislike until you have installed it. For example, you may consider reliability when you are trying to decide, but when you have a heater, it is the absolute tops on your list. So is having an aux LP tank or fitting so you don't run out. And people don't really have a good gauge on what is the right amount of heat output until you are using it. Just saying, YMMV. |
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Stephenmarklay
Samba Member
Joined: August 10, 2016
Posts: 526
Location: Spokane
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| Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 4:16 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| djkeev wrote: |
I was just looking at the Atwood and Surburban furnaces today.
I wonder how the noise level is on them?
I just can't wrap my head around the reality of paying almost $1,000 for a Propex or similar unit considering the amount it will be used.
I also distain the smell and moisture from using a little buddy or similar heater so that is pushing me towards a furnace.
We rarely sleep with much heat supplied, even at home in the dead of Winter we'll have a window cracked open.
Just having thoughts..........
Dave |
I am going to be getting a propex. I know there are other great options like the atwood or gas/diesel furnaces to. I like the form factor of the propex and it seems to be well tested in our vans. I hear little in the way of problems.
I am with you though. It is pricey. I also won’t sleep with it on. Though it would be nice to have it getting ready for bed and when I get up. I do like that it would tend to dry the air also. That is double bonus.
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Stephenmarklay
Samba Member
Joined: August 10, 2016
Posts: 526
Location: Spokane
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| Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 4:20 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| davevickery wrote: |
Hi Dave, I think the best overall heater I have had so far was the Atwood Hyrdroflame. I haven't owned a Propex yet, but people who had 6K BTU propexes seemed impressed by the amount of heat mine put out.
I noticed they have upgraded the hydro flame line up. Around $450-500 online. http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/272346707370?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_noapp=true
The new model is slightly taller and narrower than the old hydro flame series so it probably fits into that little cabinet better. It was just a little tight working around the 120 Volt outlet.
The best thing about these heaters is they are simple and reliable. Installing them in the cubby hole cabinet next to the fridge works awesome aside from giving up that handy compartment.
HTH,
Dave |
True but with the propex you are giving up space too, normally under the seat which I use a lot. The little cubby normally gets canned food or something but I would almost rather loose that space. Since I am running a second LP tank the under-seat routing with the propex is nice.
That atwood looks darn slick though.
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Stephenmarklay
Samba Member
Joined: August 10, 2016
Posts: 526
Location: Spokane
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| Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 4:27 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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[quote="Stephenmarklay"]
| djkeev wrote: |
I was just looking at the Atwood and Surburban furnaces today.
I wonder how the noise level is on them?
I just can't wrap my head around the reality of paying almost $1,000 for a Propex or similar unit considering the amount it will be used.
I also distain the smell and moisture from using a little buddy or similar heater so that is pushing me towards a furnace.
We rarely sleep with much heat supplied, even at home in the dead of Winter we'll have a window cracked open.
Just having thoughts..........
Dave |
I am going to be getting a propex. I know there are other great options like the atwood or gas/diesel furnaces to. I like the form factor of the propex and it seems to be well tested in our vans. I hear little in the way of problems. It also draws less current than the Atwood which is a plus.
I am with you though. It is pricey. I also won’t sleep with it on. Though it would be nice to have it getting ready for bed and when I get up. I do like that it would tend to dry the air also. That is double bonus.
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jberger
Samba Member
Joined: November 17, 2003
Posts: 2476
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| Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 8:59 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| djkeev wrote: |
I was just looking at the Atwood and Surburban furnaces today.
I wonder how the noise level is on them?
I just can't wrap my head around the reality of paying almost $1,000 for a Propex or similar unit considering the amount it will be used.
I also distain the smell and moisture from using a little buddy or similar heater so that is pushing me towards a furnace.
We rarely sleep with much heat supplied, even at home in the dead of Winter we'll have a window cracked open.
Just having thoughts..........
Dave |
I have installed and used both. The Atwood uses a bit more power and space. I believe it has slightly more BTU. You can adjust the cycling temps (low and high threshold) on an atwood, not on propex. Have to cut another hole in the side of the van with the Atwood, two small holes underneath for the propex.. My personal van has the Propex in the same cabinet that the Atwood is shown. Out of site, out of mind. Instant heat when bringing the kids to school on a cold morning. We love it. |
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bobbyblack 
Samba Member
Joined: May 21, 2015
Posts: 4352
Location: United States, Iowa
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| Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 8:40 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| djkeev wrote: |
I was just looking at the Atwood and Surburban furnaces today.
I wonder how the noise level is on them?
I just can't wrap my head around the reality of paying almost $1,000 for a Propex or similar unit considering the amount it will be used.
I also distain the smell and moisture from using a little buddy or similar heater so that is pushing me towards a furnace.
We rarely sleep with much heat supplied, even at home in the dead of Winter we'll have a window cracked open.
Just having thoughts..........
Dave |
Ok Dave, here is another angle for you to look into:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Eccotemp-1-5-GPM-Portab...574393-_-N
Mount that somewhere on the outside, maybe a swingaway off the rear bumper. Can hook this baby up to a radiant floor, pump hot water through to taste. Put some thought into it, 37,000 BTU is pretty serious. Im betting that you'd find it quiet. Maybe a little blower somewhere to warm things up quick, but mostly just Pex under Pergo. Obviously, use antifreeze.
Edit: Use Wirsbo, not Pex.. I was mis-remembering the stuff I got at the heating/plumbing shop for my DIY in home water heat setup. I don't know if the square footage of the main floor would be enough btu of radiant emission tho. Might take higher temp than that little mini on-demand heater can put out (90F) but maybe that can be adjusted higher. Also have to figure out a cowling for that little heater, I don't think its meant to get rained into. There is a little bigger one that you could also use a heat exchange plate with, provide heat loop for interior heating AND hot water for shower. I'd go with quick connectors if possible for getting unit out of the way when its warm out.
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'87 Westy 'Flossie','86 Westy 'R1','86 tintop GL - Subi2.2 'J2','83.5 stock tintop L 'ZoomBus','74 Karmann Ghia, '63 Notch |
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Stephenmarklay
Samba Member
Joined: August 10, 2016
Posts: 526
Location: Spokane
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| Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 4:01 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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Funny thing thing: I started this thread in 2008! When I got back into my van I could not remember my username etc so I guess I have two accounts 
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1985 Westfalia. Project 2017. |
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Stephenmarklay
Samba Member
Joined: August 10, 2016
Posts: 526
Location: Spokane
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| Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 4:43 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| djkeev wrote: |
I was just looking at the Atwood and Surburban furnaces today.
I wonder how the noise level is on them?
I just can't wrap my head around the reality of paying almost $1,000 for a Propex or similar unit considering the amount it will be used.
I also distain the smell and moisture from using a little buddy or similar heater so that is pushing me towards a furnace.
We rarely sleep with much heat supplied, even at home in the dead of Winter we'll have a window cracked open.
Just having thoughts..........
Dave |
I would have thought with the post Brexit pound to dollar conversion that the propex prices would have come down. They are available in the UK for about $500. Shipping has to be calculated in but...
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rcook52459
Samba Member
Joined: August 24, 2011
Posts: 492
Location: PORTLAND ORE
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| Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 4:55 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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here's my install.fan noise doesn't bother me and works great.thermostat above closet door,so easy to reach.
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davevickery
Samba Member
Joined: July 16, 2005
Posts: 2887
Location: Fort Collins, CO
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| Posted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 7:47 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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Here is a good deal on these heaters. Limited quantity but if you were looking for an excuse to spend some money, this is almost $200 off.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Atwood-AFSAD12-RV-Caravan-...mp;vxp=mtr
Only $329 shipped vs. about $500 normally. They are new but missing the grill. You could probably use something from Home Depot or buy just the cover from Atwood. |
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fxr
Samba Member
Joined: December 07, 2014
Posts: 2325
Location: Bay area CA
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| Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 10:44 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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I'm currently looking at adding a heater to the van. We've been using a Mr Buddy heater - but that won't work if it's too high an altitude or too cold.
Any feedback on whether these Atwood ones work OK at 8-9,000 ft?
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1984 1.9l EJ22 Westy Wolfsburg Edition
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davevickery
Samba Member
Joined: July 16, 2005
Posts: 2887
Location: Fort Collins, CO
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| Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 11:01 am Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| Mine worked fine at high elevation. I think they are simpler and more reliable than the other options. They seem to be less fussy. I got one after I moved to Colorado because the Buddy heater I was using would not work in the parking lots of Ski Areas. The low oxygen shutoffs would trigger. |
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GWTWTLW
Samba Member
Joined: April 22, 2008
Posts: 2174
Location: Portland, OR
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| Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 12:28 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| fxr wrote: |
Any feedback on whether these Atwood ones work OK at 8-9,000 ft? |
I use mine in Telluride (9K) every year. It works great.
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danfromsyr
Samba Member
Joined: March 01, 2004
Posts: 15144
Location: Syracuse, NY
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| Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 1:02 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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they'll work fine at elevations, but I would suggest that if you are going to rely (with your comfort/life) on one, you should install a 2nd propane tank and switching valves/regulator.
either find a good used westy take off to R&R
or buy a new larger propane tank from one of the vendors.
or rig it to use a 20# bottle when parked/camped.
the atwoods are about 72% efficient vs the propex at about 92% efficient.
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davevickery
Samba Member
Joined: July 16, 2005
Posts: 2887
Location: Fort Collins, CO
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| Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 1:18 pm Post subject: Re: Atwood Furnace |
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| danfromsyr wrote: |
they'll work fine at elevations, but I would suggest that if you are going to rely (with your comfort/life) on one, you should install a 2nd propane tank and switching valves/regulator.
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For sure with one of these you want to have an auxillary fitting or second tank. But once you have that setup, who cares about a few bucks worth of propane for the number of times you are going to winter camp. In the spring and fall, the regular tank is sufficient for a few hours here and there.
What I did was add a tee and a quick disconnect fitting into the the copper lines (with connection outside the van) so I could use a 1 gallon or 5 gallon portable tank.
Last edited by davevickery on Tue Oct 17, 2017 5:55 pm; edited 1 time in total |
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