Calorifier - does it matter if it's no full of water?

[Canopy Locked]

Not wishing to hijaack the current thread re calorifier, my question is simple.

The domestic water system on my boat is empty currently (awaiting new tank) - am I all right running the engine with no water in the calorifier. I know (assume?) it's just a heat exchanger, but have no wish to damage thro ignorance.

thanks
rob

 

[scottie]

There should be no problem in doing this you will only end up heating the air in the empty calorifier

 

[Greg2]

You are right, it is simply a heat exchanger which, in effect, is simply a bit of extra piping added to the engine coolant system. I don't think there is any problem with running when the calorifier is empty. I have done it with no adverse effects

 

[sundancer9000]

dry calorifier

Should be no problem as long as the pressure release valve is working. If not, heating air in an enclosed metal cannister is a potential explosion risk! To be safe usually there is two simple inline stop cocks one comming and one going to the engine just close these.

 

[TrueBlue]

Should be no problem as long as the pressure release valve is working. If not, heating air in an enclosed metal cannister is a potential explosion risk! To be safe usually there is two simple inline stop cocks one comming and one going to the engine just close these.

If you're worried about that then do the following:-

Turn the water pump off
Open any of the hot taps.

You now have a vented hot water cylinder....

 

[Canopy Locked]

If you're worried about that then do the following:-

Turn the water pump off
Open any of the hot taps.

You now have a vented hot water cylinder....

Thanks all!

 

[Bloater]

Remember to make sure the immersion heater is not turned on when connected up to shore power!

 

[[2068]]

Yes, running it empty but heated by engines will be fine - all you are doing is pumping hot water around a pipe.
Switching on the electric immersion coil would be a very bad idea