Electric heater replacing Janitrol.

[Bradley Snyder]

Hello All,
I'm a relatively new member, and finally got myself a PA30 that I've been dreaming of for years. I've owned/operated many other light twins and really dislike Janitrol heaters (or any combustion style heater for that matter, I actually have the C&D in this 30). I read an article from an AOPA a few years back about a highly modified PA39 that had electric heaters (also a 24v electric system). Anybody have any information about that, or opinion for or against for that matter? Thanks, first post if many probably.
Brad

PS. I'm an MEI and teach in my PA30 and another PA39, I know that's becoming more rare.

[N3322G]

Brad,

Welcome to Comanche ownership!

Since I own a 39, I usually pay pretty good attention to any of the other 155 39s. I don't recall your example but perhaps someone else might.

Having learned to fly the twin in Chicago are, we had lots of experience with the Janitrol heater, or not, depending upon the day. We have sort of fixed that problem by moving to Ft Worth area.

[SLIMDREDGER]

I know of one PA30 that has the electric heater installed. It requires a much larger generator (alternator??) to be installed to drive it. My sense is that the heat produced is not equivalent to the fuel burning heaters. I don't think many were installed in the fleet, and I have not seen them advertised for years and doubt if they are still available.

Al Powers ICS 2978

[Kristin Winter]

Having done much of my flying in the upper Midwest in a variety of twin engine aircraft, including the Twinkie, I have made my peace with the Janitrol/Southwind heaters. Follow the maintenance instructions and overhaul when recommended and they are safe and effective.

It is good to know that there are other instructors around. I teach in all the Comanches on the left coast.

[Fred Eisert]

The twin with the electric heater was in F Lee Baileys comanche. The electrical system was upgraded to take the increased load and from what I recall it was not really adequate to heat the cabin. If your Janitrol was a 25,000 Btu/Hr heater that would be 7.3 KW. At 28V that would work out to a rather large 260 amps. The electric heater might be good for warmer climates. Of course you could run two large alternators.....