Hi to all POC members,

Having changed the blown element ( 1KW ) and the RCCB on the dash , the only heating element I could get locally is a 3KW replacement.

The wiring looks ' up to the job ' , but when I switch on the rocker switch on the dash it switches ' off ' after a few seconds ? Not sure if the switch contacts are burnt/dirty , or the dash rocker switch is not able to take the current draw ?

Anyone had experience of the same problem ? and does anyone have the answer ?

Thanks.

Check for a short between neutral and earth, live and earth etc. Check for water in the tank (I think you did this?), look for corrosion on the terminals ie. high resistance.

Mark ,

Thanks for your suggestions , will get another heating element nearer the original spec. , its just that living on an Island , smaller than the Isle of White , you cannot always get precisely what you need.
Clearly the current draw is too high for the switch .
Have a good week-end.
Cheers
Bob Wilson

Certainly, if the breaker is not rated high enough it will pop, if everything else is working and the cables are not getting warm with use then a higher rated switch/breaker is feasible but as I am not on the boat I cannot confirm that everything will be OK, best to consult with a local electrician or marine engineer. If you do keep the 3kW then check that the thermostat is functioning correctly too.

Alternatively, having a water heater that can run on 1/2 power would also be a great advantage so that you could have the water heating and still have capacity on your 16amp shore supply for cooking etc.

Hi all you POC members from Sunny Malta !

Changed the Element for a 1.5KW , all worked well . Obviously the temporary 3KW element had a much higher current draw and the heater switch couldn't cope with the extra load !

Interestingly , the element would blow , in theory , if the water tank became empty , say , as a result of a shower ? If so , can't see any safety feature to prevent this from happening as the thermostat only controls water temperature not the element from going ' open circuit ' ?

' P ' bracket bearings Princess 360 , has anyone had to change them ? Is it straight forward , do you need any specialist equipment ?

Happy Sailing this Summer , if your calling in Malta we're in the Grand Harbour Marina , hope to see you.

Bob Wilson.