Theojkett
New Member
Hey gang,
Okay I know going into this there are going to be a lot of "we've done this topic already" and naysayers. Humor me.
I have a small 624 off-grid cabin in upstate NY powered by solar, wind and generator (when I'm there). I currently use propane and it is expensive, I'm not there all the time and I need to keep the place above freezing (at least 50 degrees) when I'm not there. SO, I have this 20 gallon electric water heater that I'm not currently using. So I thought, let me get a recirc pump, some pex tubing, some baseboards, create a closed system. Knowing it is only a 20 gallon tank and 1400 watts max, if I set the temp down about 50% I should be good. I'm going to do a test run with it first of course.
My questions are:
1. Will I need to install an expansion tank?
2. Will I need to hook the system up to the water system with a backflow valve for at least filling the system.
3. Do I need to install a pressure relief valve and guage somewhere in the run?
I don't see any reason why this wouldn't work. Again, I'm not looking to keep the place at 72 degrees whether if I'm there or not. Just need to keep things from freezing in there.
I've piped the whole place with Pex now and it's wonderful and easy to work with.
Your insight, professionalism and good old fashion DIY'er know-how is greatly appreciated.
Theo
Okay I know going into this there are going to be a lot of "we've done this topic already" and naysayers. Humor me.
I have a small 624 off-grid cabin in upstate NY powered by solar, wind and generator (when I'm there). I currently use propane and it is expensive, I'm not there all the time and I need to keep the place above freezing (at least 50 degrees) when I'm not there. SO, I have this 20 gallon electric water heater that I'm not currently using. So I thought, let me get a recirc pump, some pex tubing, some baseboards, create a closed system. Knowing it is only a 20 gallon tank and 1400 watts max, if I set the temp down about 50% I should be good. I'm going to do a test run with it first of course.
My questions are:
1. Will I need to install an expansion tank?
2. Will I need to hook the system up to the water system with a backflow valve for at least filling the system.
3. Do I need to install a pressure relief valve and guage somewhere in the run?
I don't see any reason why this wouldn't work. Again, I'm not looking to keep the place at 72 degrees whether if I'm there or not. Just need to keep things from freezing in there.
I've piped the whole place with Pex now and it's wonderful and easy to work with.
Your insight, professionalism and good old fashion DIY'er know-how is greatly appreciated.
Theo