Secon #: Title
Aqua-Hot® 400-D Use & Care Guide 12
p.
De-Winterization:
To de-winterize the Aqua-Hot system, completely fill the
fresh water storage tank. Open and close the interior and
exterior faucets, one at a time, until only clear water is pre-
sent.
Disinfecting the Water System:
Aqua-Hot systems contain copper tubing and are not com-
patible to prolonged exposure to sodium hypochlorite
(bleach or liquid bleach). Using products containing bleach,
including water refreshers, may cause corrosion of the
domestic water coil, resulting in a catastrophic failure of
the Aqua-Hot system by creating leaks that cannot be
repaired. This damage is not covered by the Aqua-Hot war-
ranty.
If disinfecting the hot water heating system be sure to follow
NFPA 1192 Standard on Recreational Vehicles’
“Instructions for Disinfection of Potable Water Systems.”
These instructions can be found by visiting the National Fire
Protection Association online at www.nfpa.org.
Fluids:
Overview:
When the antifreeze and water heating solution needs
replenishing, remove the expansion tank’s cap and fill to the
“HOT” level mark. When refilling, open the air release valve
located on the expansion tank connection to release air
pockets. Be sure the valve is closed when finished by hand
tightening.
Care & Maintenance
Types:
Due to the significant impact of various types of anti-
freeze on the Aqua-Hot system, it is necessary to provide a
thorough explanation regarding what should and should not
be used. It’s very important use the correct type of anti-
freeze for adequate operation and condition of the Aqua-Hot
System. The necessary type of antifreeze is propylene glycol
based “boiler” type deemed “Generally Recognized as Safe”
by the FDA. Propylene glycol is a safer alternative to the
more toxic ethylene glycol antifreeze.
RV and Marine antifreeze types are propylene glycol
based, but formulated specifically for “winterizing” applica-
tion ONLY. Although RV and Marine antifreeze is often
“Generally Recognized as Safe” by the FDA, it should never
be used in the Aqua-Hot System because it’s not formulated
to transfer heat, which is absolutely essential for the func-
tionality of the Aqua-Hot.
Automotive Antifreeze/Coolant types of antifreeze are
propylene glycol based and formulated specifically to pro-
tect the automotive engines against, corrosion, freezing
temperatures, and overheating. In addition, they have excel-
lent heat transfer and thermal conductivity characteristics.
Although these types of antifreeze are considered less toxic
and safer than ethylene glycol, they are not “Generally Rec-
ognized as Safe” by the FDA. Therefore, they must be
marked with “harmful if swallowed” warning label. Due to
the potentially hazardous properties, Automotive Antifreeze/
Coolant should NEVER be used in an Aqua-Hot System.
Mixture Recommendations:
To ensure maximum performance and longevity of the
Aqua-Hot system, it has been determined to use distilled, de
-ionized, or soft water in commination with concentrated
propylene glycol for the antifreeze and water heating solu-
tion. Concentrated propylene glycol should be diluted with
high-quality (distilled, diluted, or soft) water, which is 80
ppm or less in total hardness. In order to find this infor-
mation, the local water agency should have up-to-date water
quality reports, which will indicate is the local tap water
meets the requirements.
Hard water possesses a high-level of calcium and mag-
nesium ions, which deplete the propylene glycol antifreeze’s
corrosion inhibitors. This causes the antifreeze and water
heating solution to turn acidic, which can corrode the Aqua-
Hot’s boiler tank and associated components prematurely.
Keep in mind that using high-quality water is only necessary
for mixing concentrated propylene glycol antifreeze with