ᐅ Boiler Size in a Converted Circus Wagon (with Plans)

Hello everyone

As a temporary living space (during the house renovation), I am currently building a caravan that stylistically resembles a circus wagon. It includes a small shower and a compact kitchen. (Plans are attached as a PDF)

My original idea to heat the water with an instant water heater turned out to be unfeasible (too high power consumption). So, the only option left is a boiler. It should not be larger than necessary, as space is limited. I am even considering purchasing a horizontal model and installing it below the floor, essentially in the chassis, and surrounding it with an insulated wall.

The question is: How big does it need to be? It must be sufficient for 2 people to shower within one hour (assuming the showering time is kept as short as necessary). Various figures regarding water consumption for showers and the minimum size of a boiler for a small two-person household circulate online. I think it should be at least 100 liters (26 gallons).

Does anyone have experience with this? Any recommendations?

Thanks and best regards

Michael

Have you also checked out the caravan/heavy vehicle section at specialty stores? Take a look at Truma. They are a well-known manufacturer of water heaters. Prices start at 200 € and up.

How do you plan to heat the vehicle? Where will the wardrobe be located? What is the estimated budget? How do you intend to seal the shower to keep it watertight?
I’m a camper and looking forward to hearing more about your plans. 🙂

EveundGerd schrieb:

How do you heat the trailer? Where is the wardrobe located? What is the estimated cost? How do you plan to waterproof the shower properly?
I’m a camper and looking forward to your details. 🙂

We will heat the trailer electrically. The wardrobe will be placed where a wood stove is currently planned. I originally wanted to build the shower enclosure with Phermacell panels, but I have been recommended Wedi boards by several people. As for the cost... we’ll see. It won’t be cheap.

One question still open is how large the water heater needs to be. Does anyone have experience with that?

Michael

I just watched a report on TV about tiny houses and quickly skimmed the website: I thought there were also building plans and similar resources available there. Are there no details regarding your question on that site?

In my opinion, the tankless water heater is sufficient. A boiler is unnecessary since the tankless water heater works like an instantaneous water heater.

Why don’t you buy a caravan?

Michael CH schrieb:
The Wedi panels were recommended to me from various sources. Costs… we’ll see. It won’t be cheap.

Since you mentioned the topic (a bit off-topic here):
Wedi panels are definitely better in terms of thermal insulation but also significantly more expensive than Fermacell boards. I used Wedi panels for a bathroom renovation, for example, also around the window reveal where the old plaster came off when removing tiles. However, Wedi panels are not as smooth as Fermacell and require either a layer of render or at least a full-surface skim coat if you’re not tiling over them anyway. On the other hand, they are excellent because tiles or other coverings can be directly adhered to them.