Aluminum Water Heater Tanks

[Hkalan]

Hello,

I am not finding much "real world" feedback on aluminum tank water heaters. I have an 11 gallon glass lined 1,000w electric with heat exchange from the starboard engine. I would like to replace with a 20 gallon.

I found a local Kuuma Marine dealer close to the marina, but the units they have in stock are all aluminum tank.

Anyone HAVE or HAD an aluminum tank water heater ???

Would love to know your opinion on aluminum water heater tanks !!

Alan

[Tim R.]

If you want it to last, buy a water heater with a SS tank. I cannot imagine an aluminum tank and a steel based heating element working very well together. Annode rods for RV water heaters are made from aluminum.

As for Kuuma, not impressed with any of their products. They ruined all the grill designs they acquired from Force 10.

I would go with an Isotherm.

[sailorchic34]

Aluminum water heaters are a use it 5 years and toss sort. I had a weld fail at 5 years. If you want a long life heater, get SS or glassed lined. Both cost more but will last 10+ years.

[Dockhead]

Calorifiers are an inherent PITA. Go for sturdy copper and don't try to save money. Even then, don't hope for more than 10 years. I wouldn't touch alu in this application. It's asking for trouble.