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FAQ

What caravan and/or motorhome manufacturers currently fit Alde central heating and hot water systems into their range?

Alde systems are usually fitted into higher end models.

>Our European installed base

What level should I fill the fluid in the expansion tank to?

When the fluid is cold it should stand approximately 10 mm above the Min mark.

Propane or butane – what type of LPG (liquid petroleum gas) should I use?

Propane. Alde UK recommends the use of propane in all Alde (and SMEV) systems within the UK.

The operating temperature ranges of propane and butane are different, and will impact performance even at mild temperatures. The gas in a smaller bottle will cool quicker as it is tapped than in a larger bottle, and bottles chilled overnight may not warm to operating temperature again during the day. Thus the size of a bottle and the temperature at which it's stored will also impact performance.

BS 5482 Part 1 states, "For butane cylinders, satisfactory service might not be obtained at temperatures of less than 10 °C; the most suitable temperature range is from 13 to 30 °C. For temperatures less than 13 °C, the use of propane should be considered."

Propane will operate down to -42 °C and is more suitable for the British climate.

Be aware that Campingaz (formerly Camping Gaz) is butane, and therefore not recommended for use our systems.

What type of fluid is the heating system filled with?

A 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and clean water.

Ethylene glycol antifreeze is also used for car radiator systems, and is commonly available from fuel stations and car accessory retailers.

Alde UK use Comma Super Coldmaster Concentrated Antifreeze with 2 year Longlife protection. Castrol Antifreeze NF (Grade Code 1729) with 2 year service life is also suitable.

Can I operate my central heating while the domestic water is drained down?

Yes.

How much fluid is in the central heating system?

Varies. As a rough guide, most caravans and motorhomes hold 10-13 litres, boats 15-25 litres, portable cabins 18-22 litres.

What general maintenance should I carry out?

Your vendor should provide a maintenance schedule, though the following can be assumed:

The ethylene glycol fluid should be replaced according to vendor's instructions. Most vendors use antifreeze with a 2 year protection from new.

Make a visual inspection of the boiler's air inlet and exhaust outlet hose. Check that the hoses are still secured and undamaged, and that the external flue is clear and free of obstruction. Contact your dealer if the hose is damaged.

An annual gas tightness test should be carried out in accordance with the relevant regulations.

What is the power output of the Alde aluminium convectors?

The convectors put out ≈400 W per metre. Doubled up, they put out ≈600 W per metre.

Can copper parts be used in the system?

No.

There are aluminium contact surfaces in the boiler, and copper parts will cause corrosive galvanic action in any aluminium parts of the system.

Tips

Fitting

When fitting out your vehicle the Alde system is as flexible as you are, but Alde UK has some advice for getting the best performance out of your system, and for avoiding some common design mistakes.

>System design

Servicing

Alde heating systems will have service requirements set by the vendor, based on their system design and relevant legislation.

Alde UK uses a network of certified service agents throughout the country.

>Arrange a service