You can easily convert a hot dog cart water system from the “passive” gravity flow to a more reliable, pressurized on- demand system. A few years ago, small portable on-demand water heaters became available and more importantly, affordable.

Initially these heaters were marketed to folks living off the grid or to campers. Manufacturers of food carts began using them and states took notice. Now states are beginning to require pressurized water systems on food carts, trailers and hot dog carts.

WHY WOULD YOU CONVERT A HOT DOG CART WATER SYSTEM?

There are pros and cons to either type of system but ultimately, the pressurized on-demand system rules the day and is why recommend you watch the video on how to convert a hot dog cart water system. It will save you time and is more reliable. This is why many states are amending their food codes to include either mandatory conversions of a hot dog cart water system or requiring any new cart licenses to include the feature.

Passive Water System

A passive hot water system uses gravity to push water through lines. The hot water line passes over or near the burners in the burner box (steam table) and heats up. When hot side of faucet is opened, hot water built up in lines runs out.

PRO

• A simple system with very little to go wrong
• Inexpensive
• Requires no extra fuel usage
• Cuts down on over usage of water

CON

• Very limited amount of hot water per use
• Tendency to spit and sputter when turning on faucet
• Pressure build up in lines causing blowout in tank or line if not relieved constantly
• No temperature control – scalding hot or cold only
• Very little pressure
• Reduced volume

Pressurized On-Demand Water System

PRO

• Reliable and constant pressure
• Endless hot water (as long as you have water in your fresh water tank)
• Adjustable temperatures to meet state codes
• Reliable temperature with no fluctuations
• Constant volume (not a trickle)

CON

• More expensive
• More things to go wrong
• More equipment maintenance
• Flow rate (volume) is higher and so water usage has to be limited to maintain a daily supply

UPGRADING AND CONVERTING A HOT DOG CART WATER SYSTEM

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

• PEX type food safe water line and some connectors
• On Demand Water Heater
• Small 12v Rechargeable Battery
• 12v On-demand Pump
• LP Gas Splitter Y
• LP Gas Regulator

You'll need some basic tools but you can also get any plumber to hook it up. I recommend you supply the parts (less the plumbing lines) to the plumber to avoid the up-charges.

View most on demand water system parts right here on one page.

VIDEO ON CONVERTING A HOT DOG CART WATER SYSTEM