COMPANION AQUAHEAT LiTHIUM - User Manual

The Companion Aquaheat Lithium Gas Shower is a portable outdoor appliance designed to provide heated water for washing and cleaning purposes. It is not intended for supplying drinking water. This gas shower is built for outdoor use only, emphasizing the importance of well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide hazards. It should never be used in enclosed spaces such as caravans, tents, marine craft, cars, or mobile homes.

Function Description

The Aquaheat Lithium Gas Shower heats water using a gas burner, powered by either a ULPG refillable cylinder or a disposable Propane cartridge. It features an automatic ignition system and a digital display that shows the inlet and outlet water temperatures, as well as the battery charge level. The appliance is designed to operate with source water temperatures of 20°C or below, capable of raising the outlet water temperature by a maximum of 30°C. For safety, the burner automatically shuts off if the outlet water temperature exceeds 50°C (+/- 2°C) and will relight once the temperature falls below 45°C. Water flow is essential for the burner to ignite; if the water supply is restricted or ceases, the burner will extinguish and not relight until flow recommences. The unit is also equipped with a tilt switch, which shuts down the appliance if it is moved during operation or placed on an unstable surface.

The device includes a pump that submerges into a water reservoir to draw in water. It is crucial to use clean water and avoid salt water from rivers, lakes, or the ocean. The heated water is then dispensed through a shower head with a flow switch, allowing users to control the water flow. The gas control knob enables adjustment of the water temperature to achieve the desired level.

Usage Features

Setting up the Aquaheat Lithium Gas Shower involves a few straightforward steps. First, all components should be removed from the storage bag, and the appliance placed on a solid, non-combustible surface. Hoses must be straightened to remove kinks or twists. The gas cartridge or hose is then screwed onto the gas regulator, ensuring a secure connection and checking for leaks with soapy water. The pump power lead connects to the pump connection socket, and the pump hose attaches to the water inlet on the front of the appliance. Finally, the pump is submerged in a suitable clean water reservoir, and the shower hose is connected to the water outlet.

To operate, the power button is pressed to switch on the unit. Users should check the battery charge level and connect to an AC or DC adaptor if insufficient power is available. The gas temperature control is set to a central position between MIN and MAX, and the START button is pressed to initiate water flow. The electronic ignition will then ignite the burner, indicated by a flame icon on the display and an increasing outlet water temperature readout. The water temperature can be adjusted using the gas control knob. Water flow can be stopped at any time by sliding the flow switch on the shower head to the OFF position, which will extinguish the burner while the pump continues to operate. When finished, the power button is pressed to turn off the appliance.

For storage, the appliance is turned off, and all hoses are disconnected and held vertically to drain excess water. The gas cartridge or hose is unscrewed and removed. The appliance should then be tipped towards the front and to one side to drain any remaining water from the heat exchanger.

The appliance is fitted with a 12V battery pack and can be recharged using the included DC charge lead or an optional AC adaptor. The charging system allows the battery to be recharged even while the unit is in operation, though recharge times will increase. To recharge, the unit must be switched on, and the battery charge level illuminated. The DC input socket (red) at the rear of the appliance is used for charging, and the battery charge level indicator will flash from red to green, confirming charging. Once fully charged, the battery levels will stop flashing and remain illuminated.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the Aquaheat Lithium Gas Shower. All connections should be checked for tightness, and gas connections leak-tested with soapy water before each use. Never use a flame to check for leaks. The appliance should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, leaks, or incorrect operation, such as flaring burners, lighting issues, damaged connections, or leaks from seals. If any such symptoms are identified, users should not attempt repairs but contact customer service or an authorized service agent.

Seals between the appliance and the gas cartridge, as well as the gas hose, must be in good condition and properly in place before connecting the gas container. The appliance should not be used if seals are damaged or worn, or if it is leaking or not operating properly.

When changing gas cartridges, this must be done outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from people, animals, and ignition sources.

For cleaning, all surfaces and areas of the appliance should be wiped down with warm soapy water and a mild detergent, taking care not to allow water to enter the burner outlets. The appliance should never be submerged in a sink or bowl, and abrasive cleaners or bleach should not be used.

The appliance should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated location, free from direct sunlight. It must not be stored while still connected to the gas cylinder or cartridge. The cylinder or cartridge should be disconnected and stored in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat, and ignition sources. If stored indoors, the location must comply with standard AS/NZS1596.

To maintain battery life, if the appliance is not being used or stored, it must be recharged every three months. Failure to do so may result in battery failure. It is recommended to allow the unit to be charged to 100% to maintain battery life and condition.

The appliance is equipped with a water restrictor plug inside the shower head handle, which slows water flow to increase outlet temperature. This plug can be removed if higher flow or lower temperatures are desired, especially in hotter conditions. Users should retain the plug and refit it in cooler conditions.

In case of operational issues, a troubleshooting guide is provided, addressing common problems like no water flow, the unit not switching on, the burner not lighting, or water temperature issues. The appliance also displays error codes (E1, E3, E4, E6, E7, E8) to help diagnose specific problems, such as flame issues, water outlet malfunctions, over-temperature shutdowns, or tilt switch activations. For persistent issues or error codes, contacting customer service is advised.