Customer Reviews

Koolatron 401-053 Black 12 Volt Auto Beverage Heater

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a very good water heater for the price ($20 when I got it).
The build isn't great, but it seems all right for not too heavy use.
One criticism I have though is that the product does not come with any
kind of user's manual; even though it's operation is very simple, having
specifications like power consumption would be great (I couldn't find
this anywhere on the box, the product itself, or the web for that matter!).
Finally, I would like to point out that water might take longer than you
expect to boil; this is probably true of any 12V heater, since it is
being powered by the car's battery.

I am giving this two stars because it worked, but the cord became too hot
to handle in use. I consider this a safety issue. I don't understand
why the manufacturers of 12V appliances that use anything above 25W don't
at least double the size of the wire so the cords do not become too hot
and more power is delivered to the actual appliance. Hot cord, less power
to the heating element. Also, the item had a chip out of the spout and
the plastic was scratched up. The quality was not very good. It did
heat the water which took a long time, but I am patient and I understand
that 12V appliances need to keep their power consumption "low" so as not
to exceed the ratings in the 12V plug in. I just want a fat cord so it
does not heat up so much that I can't touch it and it would improve the
time for heating the water. Based on ratings of similar items, the cord size is
a big issue. Come on manufacturers, where is the quality? Could I replace
the cord myself, probably but why do I have to do it? Disappointed.

Adding return experience on 23 Sept 2011. The product seller "Air & Water, Inc."
was very responsive. They started the refund process very quickly and I was
told I did not have to return the item to receive the refund. I could dispose
of it. I was very happy with their service and I would give the seller 5 stars.