Foretravel Owners' Forum

Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Tech Talk => Topic started by: Peter on February 25, 2021, 04:33:46 pm

Title: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Peter on February 25, 2021, 04:33:46 pm
My coach is stored for the winter here in Canada.
My aquahot flow was below the cold mark on the indicator bottle and when I started the aqua hot and totally warmed it up recently the antifreeze still was low. I add antifreeze until just below the hot indicator and left it running for awhile.
After shutting it down and leaving it for a couple of weeks in extreme winter conditions -13 f etc I looked again and the fluid was almost non existent n the indicator. Do I have to be worried about this at  this moment or should I just check it in the spring.? I did remove the aqua hot panels and there was no fluid on the bay floors...none.
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: folivier on February 25, 2021, 04:54:10 pm
While it's still cool open the radiator cap on the aquahot and make sure the coolant is completely full. Then run a cycle and check the level in the overflow tank, top it off it's low.  The hose from the tank to the overflow needs to be leakfree so you may want to replace it.
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: turbojack on February 25, 2021, 04:55:09 pm
I would say wait to spring and then check it.    We will wait to see what Rudy says.
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Michelle on February 25, 2021, 06:55:49 pm
The hose from the tank to the overflow needs to be leakfree so you may want to replace it.

The overflow hose is notorious for developing cracks as it ages (and goes through thermal cycles).  Check the ends, especially where it attaches to the radiator cap on the Aquahot.

Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Rudy on February 25, 2021, 07:55:58 pm
Well Peter,  I would not worry about the coolant level till you bring the coach out of storage.  Open the radiator cap and fill the tank full of 50/50 engine antifreeze and distilled water.  Check the radiator cap is in good condition and the overflow hose on the radiator cap barb is supple and has a clamp.  When the burner brings the coolant up to temp and cycles off, fill the overflow bottle to the hot line.

I trust you have loaded the Aqua Hot fresh water loop with pink fresh water antifreeze.  If not, please call me in the spring when you bring it out of storage to get a new reman heater.  Fresh water in the loop will split the copper pipe loop which is very difficult to repair other than a reman heater.  This is a $$$$$ issue in your area.  Bless you if you did winterize it.
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Peter on February 25, 2021, 08:22:06 pm
I had it professionally done because I was just learning about the unit. I have called him and he confirmed the unit was filled with pink.....I guess I will see in the spring....and he would be liable. What is the first thing to look for IF it was not done correctly?
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Rudy on February 25, 2021, 09:42:15 pm
If fresh water loop is split, lots of fresh water will be leaking from the tank area when you pressurize the fresh water system.  It probably is just fine.
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Peter on February 26, 2021, 09:59:09 am
here is crossing my fingers....Rudy...remember this post in about 1 month and a half when I discover victory or defeat....
Peter
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: Peter on February 26, 2021, 10:00:10 am
also...if it is leaking will I be able to see it with the stainless cover on or will I have to take it off to view?
Title: Re: Aqua hot overflow
Post by: stevec22 on February 26, 2021, 12:36:44 pm
Peter, I was advised to remove the stainless steel cover and leave it off the aquahot.  I was told it keeps too much heat in the area around the electronics. 

I keep mine stored at home and will put it back when I sell my coach.  Don't throw it away because it is expensive to replace.

Rudy can give  a professional opinion on this.

With the cover on, you will see water under the coach below the aquahot if you have a leak.