A Lightweight Solution for Onboard Hot Water
The Whale S300W is built around the idea that a reliable hot water supply should not come at the cost of precious onboard space or added weight. With an 11-litre (3 US gallon) capacity and a total weight of just 14 lbs, this is the lightest water heater in the Whale Heat range. For smaller sailboats, powerboats, and cruising vessels where every kilogram counts, that weight advantage is a genuine benefit on the water.
The horizontal orientation and compact footprint of 14.50 inches wide by 13 inches high by 14 inches deep make it straightforward to fit into lockers, under berths, or in engine compartments where larger units simply would not work. Despite its small size, it is built to the same robust standards as larger Whale Heat models.
Robust Construction Built for the Marine Environment
Marine water heaters face conditions that would quickly degrade lesser products: vibration, humidity, salt air, and the constant movement of a vessel underway. The S300W addresses these challenges with an aluminium tank and a white epoxy-coated aluminium exterior jacket. The epoxy coating provides corrosion resistance while giving the unit a clean, neutral appearance that sits comfortably alongside other white onboard equipment.
Mounting brackets are welded directly to the inner tank rather than attached to the outer jacket, providing a secure and stable installation that holds firm even in rough conditions. The double-wall heat exchanger design adds an additional layer of durability and thermal efficiency, and the large 3/4-inch drain valve makes seasonal maintenance and winterisation straightforward.
Side Heat Exchanger for Flexible Installation
The S300W features a side-mounted heat exchanger, which allows engine coolant or other heat sources to pre-heat the tank water while the vessel is underway. This dual-source capability means you can take advantage of waste engine heat to warm your water supply without relying solely on shore power or the onboard electrical system, helping to conserve energy during extended passages.
The side position of the heat exchanger also offers practical installation advantages, as it can simplify plumbing runs depending on the layout of your engine room or mechanical space. Combined with the horizontal tank orientation, this gives installers more flexibility when working within confined areas.
Safety Controls and Pressure Management
The S300W comes equipped with integrated safety features designed to protect both the vessel and its occupants. An integrated pressure relief valve is built into the unit, and a temperature and pressure drain tube is included to safely direct any discharge away from sensitive areas. The system is rated to 150 PSI, and the 120V AC electrical circuit is designed for use with a 15-amp circuit breaker.
The heater is also ignition protected, an important consideration for installations in or near spaces where fuel vapours may be present. These safety provisions reflect the unit's compliance with ABYC, CE, and UL standards.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Installation of the S300W requires a 120V AC shore power connection and a 15-amp dedicated circuit. The horizontal mounting orientation should be maintained as specified, and the welded mounting brackets on the inner tank provide solid attachment points for securing the unit to a bulkhead or structural surface.
To extend the service life of the aluminium tank, Whale Heat recommends the use of magnesium anodes, which are sold separately. Anodes act as sacrificial protection against galvanic corrosion and are a standard part of routine maintenance for aluminium marine water heaters. The large 3/4-inch drain valve simplifies flushing and draining the tank at the end of the season or when servicing the system.
- Magnesium anodes are sold separately and are recommended for longer tank life.
- Maintain horizontal orientation during installation as specified.
- Use a dedicated 15-amp circuit breaker for the 120V AC connection.
- Flush and drain via the 3/4-inch drain valve for seasonal lay-up.
Specifications
- Model Number: S300W
- Tank Capacity: 3 US Gallons (11 litres)
- Tank Material: Aluminum
- Exterior Jacket: White epoxy coated aluminum
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Heat Exchanger Position: Side
- Power: 120 Volt AC / 1500 Watts
- Circuit Breaker: 15 Amp
- PSI Rating: 150 PSI
- Weight: 14 lbs
- Dimensions: 14.50" W x 13" H x 14" D
- Drain Valve Size: 3/4"
- Heat Exchanger Type: Double-wall
- Standards Compliance: Meets or exceeds ABYC, CE, and UL standards
Key Features
- Lightest in the Whale Heat lineup: at 14 lbs, saves valuable weight on smaller vessels where every kilogram matters.
- Compact footprint: fits into tight lockers, under berths, and confined engine spaces where larger heaters cannot.
- Side-mounted heat exchanger: allows engine coolant to pre-heat tank water underway, reducing reliance on shore power.
- Double-wall heat exchanger construction: adds durability and improves thermal transfer efficiency.
- Welded mounting brackets on the inner tank: provide a secure, vibration-resistant installation that holds firm offshore.
- White epoxy-coated aluminium exterior: resists corrosion and blends with existing onboard equipment.
- Integrated pressure relief valve and included drain tube: protect the vessel and occupants from over-pressure conditions.
- Ignition-protected design: safe for installation in spaces where fuel vapours may be present.
- Large 3/4-inch drain valve: simplifies seasonal draining, flushing, and routine maintenance.
- Meets or exceeds ABYC, CE, and UL standards: supports compliance requirements for insurance and regulated waters.
- Magnesium anode compatibility: supports sacrificial anode protection to extend aluminium tank service life (anodes sold separately).
|
