Sean...and Mitch...
Sean...from your description it appears the the PO bypassed the water heater to winterize the fresh water system, which is recommended because it eliminates the need for antifreeze in the water heater.
Mitch...
Seems to me that teeing the head intake into the head sink drain is a lot simpler...but hey...it's your boat..so if you're happy with a flush water tank, I'm happy with it.
And apparently your neighbor with the 40 footer didn't have a clue about how to CORRECTLY install a dock water connection...'cuz everyone who does have a clue knows that a pressure reducer is an integral part of any dock water system. And everyone who does know anything about dock water systems also knows that you NEVER leave the boat, even for just an hour, or turn in for the night without first turning off the water on the dock...'cuz although pressure reducer valves ARE essential, knowledgeable folks also know that there are only two kinds--those that have failed, and those that will.
So yes...a dock water connection DOES require close attention, but they're a LOT safer than your horror story implies.
Sean...from your description it appears the the PO bypassed the water heater to winterize the fresh water system, which is recommended because it eliminates the need for antifreeze in the water heater.
Mitch...
Seems to me that teeing the head intake into the head sink drain is a lot simpler...but hey...it's your boat..so if you're happy with a flush water tank, I'm happy with it.
And apparently your neighbor with the 40 footer didn't have a clue about how to CORRECTLY install a dock water connection...'cuz everyone who does have a clue knows that a pressure reducer is an integral part of any dock water system. And everyone who does know anything about dock water systems also knows that you NEVER leave the boat, even for just an hour, or turn in for the night without first turning off the water on the dock...'cuz although pressure reducer valves ARE essential, knowledgeable folks also know that there are only two kinds--those that have failed, and those that will.
So yes...a dock water connection DOES require close attention, but they're a LOT safer than your horror story implies.