Tankless propane camp shower

jredone · 06-02-2020, 10:51 AM

This question goes for the tankless outdoor showers (camplux, eccotemp, triton, etc...)

So most of my camping in done in Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, most of which being 7000+ feet above sea level. All of these tankless heater showers have some reviews with the system not functioning at these elevations. Or some function but very inefficiently. I did call several companies none of which offer a high altitude conversion kit or a suggestion for that matter to make these system function properly at these levels.

So this got me thinking maybe if there is a lower pressure regulator out there for our propane tanks to limit the amount of fuel would in turn allow the water heater to function properly. Assuming at those altitudes the fuel/air mixture is too rich causing inefficient sooty flame or no ignition at all.

Did some googling and couldn't find any simple lower pressure regulator attachments for my propane tank. Its a 10lb aluminum marine tank.
Any suggestions? Maybe even a different product or company that i have not come across suitable for high altitude camping?

Diesel water heater is out of the question and I'm not looking for hot water inside of the van. Just looking for simple small and portable system. I installed a quick connect water port on the exterior of my van for outdoor hose use. Wouldn't mind the comfort of having the occasional hot water shower.

Im sure someone on here has had this issue before and found a solution, figured id try to get some input and recommendations.

cheers all
Joe

dig255 · 06-02-2020, 12:17 PM

This is an adjustable regulator.

jredone · 06-02-2020, 12:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dig255

This is an adjustable regulator.

Have you used this before? Curious how easy it’ll be to go from the standard .5 psi to a lower pressure. I’ve come across these but have need seen anyone speak about their experience with a similar situation to mine.

dig255 · 06-02-2020, 12:57 PM

No I have not. Think with a little trial and error you could get a good flame. It's only $20 bucks so not to painful to try. Good luck. Following. I have the ecotemp and have used it at 8000 didn't notice problem but I don't need scolding hot just enough to take the chill off, and very sparing short showers. Water supply issues.

dig255 · 06-02-2020, 01:05 PM

Now I read it is for high pressure adjust probably won't help

jredone · 06-02-2020, 01:24 PM

Just ordered the camp chef Triton. Spoke with them and apparently it’s been tested up to 7500ft with no issues. We’ll see I guess. Still curious if anyone had this issue and found a solution.

KDB · 06-02-2020, 06:17 PM

I just picked up one of these from Joolca. Others have probably seen it. It get's pretty heavy rotation on social media. I have yet to use mine and will report back when i do. I was unable to find any kind of altitude specs but i'd like to say it'll work at reasonable altitude and does have additional btu capacity others don't. I do intend to use mine at elevation so im staying hopeful i wont have any issues.
https://www.vanlife.com.au/brand-rev.../joolca-hottap

jredone · 06-02-2020, 06:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KDB

I just picked up one of these from Joolca. Others have probably seen it. It get's pretty heavy rotation on social media. I have yet to use mine and will report back when i do. I was unable to find any kind of altitude specs but i'd like to say it'll work at reasonable altitude and does have additional btu capacity others don't. I do intend to use mine at elevation so im staying hopeful i wont have any issues.
https://www.vanlife.com.au/brand-rev.../joolca-hottap

That was actually number 1 on my list. Would have loved to get my hands on one of these but they are on back order until 6/30. I have a trip coming up So unfortunately I settled on the camp chef. Would love to hear your input on this. If the camp chef doesn’t work out I will for sure be picking up one of these.

KDB · 06-04-2020, 06:55 PM

I ordered mine back in march i believe. Just got it a week or so ago. I'll make sure to update the thread once i give it some regular use.

jredone · 06-04-2020, 07:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KDB

I ordered mine back in march i believe. Just got it a week or so ago. I'll make sure to update the thread once i give it some regular use.

Sounds good looking forward to hearing about it. I’ll do the same with the Triton. I’ll be in Crested Butte for a few weeks in July. Most of the camping with be 9000+