Obsolete heater? Any insight would help.

[James Alberding]

I hope I am posting in the correct place. Its the only category I've been able to fine posts regarding heaters so far.

So I went out to the boat today to take measurements for a new holding tank and get some photos of the head among other things.

The next issue I need to tackle after the waste system is going to be the heater. I was told that it is not working, and I need to figure out if I can get it working or if I need to replace it. I am new with all of these systems so please forgive me if I sound oblivious.

I'm pretty sure that the heater is fueled by propane along with the cooking unit. I tried looking up information on the unit that I have, but can't find a website for the manufacturer. I read that they went belly up in the 80's. But I'm hoping that regardless of the manufacturer they all work similarly.

The unit is called "The Cat". The manufacturer is thermal systems, Inc. Since I don't know much about how this thing works, I'm not sure how to figure out what's wrong with it. Does anyone have any knowledge of the unit I have by chance?



Thanks for reading,
James

[minaret]

That's a propane catalytic heater. There have been some concerns with co2 emissions and oxygen reduction from catalytic heaters. I would consider replacing it.



http://www.cpsc.gov/library/foia/foia05/os/co03.pdf



http://www.ehow.com/facts_7299106_ca...-indoors_.html

[James Alberding]

Now that is info I need to know!!! Thank you minaret

[minaret]

Originally Posted by James Alberding

Now that is info I need to know!!! Thank you minaret

Of course. Many people do use these types of heaters with no problems, you just need to be aware of the issues. Ventilation is important. I would replace it because it's often cold here and I live aboard with kids, and so am concerned about such things. If you are not planning on living aboard or cruising long term and just need something to keep you warm for the odd week or two in the islands, it might be worth keeping. If you need something you can run long term start looking at diesel heaters. If you keep it make sure you have a propane sniffer installed.