DIY: Instant Hot Water Heater

Instant Hot Water Heater

This video illustrates how a fine stream of cold water can create some instant steam and hot water. If the flow rate was 1/4 of this 9 GPH, solid steam would result. Too fine a water stream and the Leidenfrost Effect would prevent proper absorption.

Shot on a cold Florida day of 46F, the starting water temperature was 56F and then reached a source temperature of 135F. After the 2 foot drop and outdoor leaching, the collecting temperature was 97F.

You will need:

1.) Sun

2.) Copper pipe [better heat conductor than steel; aluminum may melt]

3.) Cinder block

4.) Leaky garden hose

5.) Hot water container

6.) Plexiglass parabolic mirror (instructions below)

Making a Plexiglass Parabolic Mirror

You will need:

1.) Drill

2.) Plywood

3.) Table saw

4.) Glass pot lid

5.) Mirrored plexiglass, 1/8"

6.) Household oven set at 250F

Pipe the water flow downhill to a shower head and all you'll need is a little privacy.

Of course, the instant hot water heater works great for bathwater too. ;) - c

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Shanghai Noon: Uno Mas!

Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson playing a Chinese drinkin' game in the movie Shanghai Noon. Trailer Music: Cowboy by Kid Rock.