Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank Review

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt: First Use to Final Thoughts

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is a purpose-built accessory designed to transform your Camp Chef Alpine Cylinder burner into a mobile, high-capacity hot water dispenser. Constructed of 20-gauge stainless steel and featuring a brass spigot, this tank promises convenient access to hot water in any outdoor setting. What truly sets it apart is its compatibility with the Camp Chef CS14 burner, offering a streamlined cooking and water heating solution.

My adventures often take me to remote locations, whether it’s for multi-day hunting trips or leading wilderness survival courses. I’ve always struggled with efficiently heating large quantities of water for cooking, cleaning, and, most importantly, hydrating. Existing solutions were either too small, too cumbersome, or too fuel-intensive.

Upon unboxing, the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt felt solid and well-constructed. The stainless steel had a quality feel, and the hinged lid and brass spigot seemed durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Its weight was manageable considering the 12-quart capacity.

Before settling on the Camp Chef water tank, I considered a couple of alternatives: a portable propane water heater and a traditional stovetop kettle. The propane heater seemed overkill in terms of complexity and fuel consumption for my needs. A kettle would require constant refilling and monitoring, especially when dealing with larger groups.

My initial impression was positive. The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt appeared to be a practical solution that could streamline my outdoor cooking and water heating tasks. I was excited to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt during a weekend backcountry camping trip. I set it up on my Camp Chef CS14 burner, filled it with water from a nearby stream (after filtering, of course!), and fired up the burner. The burner heated the water faster than expected.

The tank performed well in relatively mild conditions (around 60°F and dry). The brass spigot dispensed hot water smoothly and reliably. Filling water bottles and preparing hot meals was a breeze.

The only initial surprise was the amount of condensation that formed on the outside of the tank. This was particularly noticeable as the water approached boiling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt has proven to be a reliable and useful piece of kit. I’ve used it on numerous camping trips, as well as at outdoor shooting ranges to make coffee and quick meals. It has held up well.

Durability-wise, the 20-gauge stainless steel shows only minor scratches and scuffs, which are to be expected with regular outdoor use. The hinged lid still operates smoothly. The brass spigot remains leak-free.

Cleaning the tank is relatively easy, thanks to the full-length hinged lid providing easy access to the interior. I typically just rinse it out with hot water and a mild detergent after each use. Compared to constantly boiling smaller pots of water over a campfire, the Camp Chef water tank is significantly more convenient and efficient.

Breaking Down the Features of Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Camp Chef. This brand is known for its durable and practical outdoor cooking solutions.
• Color: Black. The black color is likely a powder coating on parts other than the stainless tank, which helps prevent rust and improve the tank’s appearance.
• Width: 6.5 inches. This is a relatively compact width for easy transport and storage.
• Length: 23.5 inches. The length is suitable for the CS14 burner.
• Condition: New. A new tank ensures pristine condition and optimal performance.
• Fabric/Material: 20 Gauge Stainless Steel. Stainless steel ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for holding potable water.
• Weight: 9 lb. The weight is reasonable for a 12-quart stainless steel tank.
• Liquid Capacity: 12 quarts (3 gallons). This is a substantial capacity suitable for group camping or extended trips.
• Fit: CS14. The tank is specifically designed to fit Camp Chef’s Alpine Cylinder burner (CS14).

These specifications are important because they dictate the tank’s durability, capacity, ease of use, and compatibility with the intended burner. The stainless steel construction ensures the tank can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. The 12-quart capacity offers ample hot water for cooking, cleaning, and drinking, making it ideal for group settings.

Performance & Functionality

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt performs its intended function admirably. It efficiently heats and dispenses water when paired with the CS14 burner. The brass spigot provides a controlled flow of hot water, and the hinged lid makes it easy to refill the tank and clean it.

The main strength is its large capacity and efficient heating capability. A minor weakness is the potential for condensation buildup. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a portable hot water tank.

Design & Ergonomics

The tank’s design is simple and functional. The 20-gauge stainless steel construction feels robust, and the hinged lid is easy to operate. At 9 lbs empty, it’s manageable to carry and position on the burner.

The unit’s design is very user-friendly. There’s minimal learning curve and ease of use is quite high.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction, the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is expected to last for many years with proper care. Occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that’s typically required. The brass spigot may require occasional lubrication with food-grade grease to ensure smooth operation.

It appears easy to maintain and repair. The simple design lends itself well to longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt itself doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a fairly self-contained unit. However, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the Camp Chef CS14 burner. Using a windscreen around the burner can further improve heating efficiency, especially in windy conditions.

There are very few customization options. However, the tank is quite compatible with many aftermarket cleaning solutions designed for stainless steel cookware.

Pros and Cons of Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

Who Should Buy Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt?

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is perfect for:

• Campers who need a large supply of hot water for cooking and cleaning.
• Hunters or outdoor enthusiasts who set up base camps for extended periods.
• Survivalists or preppers who want a reliable off-grid water heating solution.
• Anyone using a Camp Chef CS14 burner and looking to expand its functionality.

This product might not be ideal for solo backpackers who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear. Someone looking for something to heat single cups of water will find this to be overkill.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality water filter or purification system to ensure the water used in the tank is safe for consumption.

Conclusion on Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt

The Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt is a well-built and highly functional accessory that significantly enhances the capabilities of the Camp Chef CS14 burner. Its large capacity, durable construction, and convenient features make it an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable hot water solution in the outdoors.

At $99.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the convenience it provides. It’s an investment that will pay off in terms of time saved and improved comfort during outdoor adventures.

I would highly recommend the Camp Chef Cylinder Cooking System Water Tank 12 Qt to anyone looking to streamline their outdoor cooking and water heating setup. It’s a valuable addition to any camping or survival kit. Stop boiling small pots of water and upgrade your camp kitchen today!