KEENE 12 V HOOKAH?

[Flyguy]

Does anyone have recent experience with Keene's 12 V hookah? Or, have there been any recent modifications that would make the current 12 V model more efficient / effective? Some of the older posts have said they have problems with the unit "keeping up" etc. Thanks,
Jim

 

[Arkie John]

I seriously considered them. They are a nice bunch of folks, but in the end I decided that their system would put me operating at their maximum all the time. Plus, the batteries they use are absolutely out of this world in price. For a good day of diving it would have taken at least two of these batteries.

I really wanted an electric set up because I don't want to attract attention (the noise). But I had no real choice. I bought a Brownie gasoline version and am forced to dive during inclement weather or at other times when swimmers are not around. The unit itself is not so loud, but with one diver, the ever-present blow-off (pressure relief) valve is a constant nuisance to crowds. But at least I can dive for four hours if I wish, above one atmosphere and there is no issue with not having a full day. lol

Maybe someday a really good electric unit will come available. When it is, I would surely consider a purchase after selling off the Brownie.

aj

 

[grumpyolman]

I've got a Joe Sink hookah with a 2.5 HP Honda on it. I too am plagued with the engine noise and the pop-off valve. In talking with the folks who manufacture the unit I told them I never used it deeper than 3 or 4' and usually by myself (not two divers being supplied). I haven't tried it yet, but they suggested I could reduce the speed of the engine to the point where it was supplying just enough air that I could work in the shallow water. The engine wouldn't make as much noise as it was running slower and it would certainly reduce how often the pop-off valve went. I haven't gotten around to trying it yet but thought I'd pass the idea on to you. If you give it a try please let me know how it works. Jim

 

[MikeDahms]

I don't have any experience with hookah systems gas or electric but I do have a lot of experience underwater detecting and it can be very worth while. What I mean is the expense of the batteries could be well worth it by getting far more time in the water. I don't know the cost of the batteries but I do know the current spot price of gold. I also very much enjoyed underwater detecting and would give a lot to be able to do it again, best to you, Mike.

 

[grumpyolman]

For all the same reasons as above, I too am investigating the 12VDC units. You'll be looking at a marine deep cycle group 27 or 31 battery. The 31 is supposed to last another half hour. The good batteries were around $250 each. I am convinced if you get a top of the line battery, the repeated deep discharging will give a battery life of about 5 years. A standard automotive battery from the same group will be dammaged after a short period of time..