Let me start by saying this heated hose is a game-changer for winter camping. I've used it in single-digit temperatures, and it performed flawlessly, keeping my water flowing without a hitch. The adjustable thermostat is super intuitive – I love being able to set my preferred temperature range (37.4°F to 59°F) and forget about it.
The heating element works impressively fast. I timed it – within minutes of turning it on, I could feel the warmth spreading through the hose. The heavy-duty construction gives me confidence it'll last through rough RV use. Unlike cheaper models I've tried, this one doesn't feel like it'll kink or crack in cold weather.
However, I did hit some snags. The digital display absolutely needs better waterproofing. After one rainy night (despite my makeshift plastic bag cover), mine shorted out. Cupohus should really sell replacement displays separately. Also, while marketed as 'drinking water safe,' I noticed a slight plastic taste initially. It faded after a few uses, but purists might want to consider an additional filter.
The replaceable thermostat system is genius – when mine acted up, I could bypass it temporarily while waiting for replacement parts. That said, their customer service response was slower than I'd like. Pro tip: Document your purchase carefully, as warranty info seems inconsistently included.
For RVers facing harsh winters, this hose is worth the investment despite its flaws. Just be prepared to baby the display during wet weather and maybe run some water through before drinking. When it works (which is most of the time), it's absolutely brilliant at preventing frozen pipes.