Heater Boxes 101
In this training, we’re diving into your pumper truck’s heated water boxes—so your hoses and valves are ready for action, no matter the season.
Did you know that our pumper trucks are built for winter? Each truck is equipped with heated water boxes designed to prevent your hoses and valves from freezing in low temperatures. Inside the heated water box, you’ll find the hoses and tank shut-off valves. When the temperature drops below 32°F, these heaters become essential to keeping your system running smoothly.
To use your water box make sure the master water switch inside your truck is turned on and remains on all day! DO NOT turn this switch off at any point throughout the day or the heater box will freeze within minutes. With the master switch on we can now open the water box and flip the heater switch to the right setting. If your truck has a high/low swtich — use LOW on cold days, and HIGH on those extra cold days in the single digits.
Next, when it’s time to use water, always turn the water pump on from inside the water box, rather than using the master switch in the cab. This ensures the heater works properly and prevents strain on your truck’s electrical system.
Speaking of strains on your battery, never leave the water pump switch on inside your heater box while driving as this will drain your battery and once that battery dies your truck may stop running and you’re guaranteed to have a bad day!
Finally, remember: using the correct switches and procedures through winter keeps your truck — and you — from freezing up. Stay warm, stay alert, and keep your equipment ready for whatever the season brings.