Hot water needs will not go away when you hit the open road. Installing a quality water heater in your RV is critical if you want to truly enjoy comfort and convenience in your home away from home.
RV water heaters are tricky, as space limitations, power usage and production all need to be considered. Standard tanks are either too large for RVs or incapable of supplying consistent hot water for every water source. If you want the absolute best water heater for your RV, shop tankless models.
Read on for our picks for the best tankless water heaters for RVs.
COMPARISON CHART
 |
GIRARD 2GWHAM Tankless Water Heater
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
|
Suburban Manufacturing SW6DE RV WTR HTR
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
|
Camplux Pro 1.58 GPM Tankless Propane Water Heater
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
|
Eccotemp i12-LP Water Heater
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
|
Marey GA10LP Power 10L 3.1 GPM Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
At just under two cubic feet in size, the GIRARD 2GWHAM tankless water heater is an ideal solution for RVs with limited storage space. It pumps out 42,000 BTUs of continuous heating, perfect for any RV setup.
The 2GWHAM delivers on powerful performance but its brushless motor offers quieter operation, a particularly nice feature in the great outdoors.
Installation is relatively simple, with a standard 12V hookup and propane connection that should be suitable for most RVs. One notable downside is the need for exterior venting, common for gas models. However, the vent positioning does make it easier with this unit.
WHAT WE LIKE
The power is pitch perfect and the user has complete control over setting the water temperature. What might be even better is how it performs in any situation. The unit does need normal maintenance for optimal performance, but the anti-freeze protection keeps water hot even in harsh winter conditions.
Flow regulators and temperature adjustments are another helpful aspect in maintaining a hot water stream. In general, if it is cold outside and you need a long run of hot water, the 2GWHAM will give you steady performance from start to finish.
PROS
- Good heating capacity.
- Temperature adjustment.
- Cold weather performance.
- Ease of installation.
CONS
- Struggles with high flow rate.
Pairing storage with streamlined design, the SW6DE packs a six gallon tank into its two cubic feet of space. Its 12,000 BTUs may seem slight but its ability to store water saves on its continuous heat requirements. Plus, its 10.2 gallon per hour recovery gets your hot water refreshed in no time.
The gas heating element features a standard 12 volt DC connection for the ignition. Installation is surprisingly easy, especially if you are retrofitting to replace the old model.
WHAT WE LIKE
Speed and versatility are the big highlights of the SW6DE. With a 12 volt connection and a propane tank, you have a gas set up. If you have 120 volt access, you can run it off electricity.
Having the option to vent and different power options give this near universal operation across RV types. And in the unfortunate event of a gas system failing, being able to switch to electric can be a lifesaver.
PROS
- Offers gas or electric heating.
- Easy installation.
- Fast heating and recovery time.
CONS
- Heavier than other reviewed models
Compact and lightweight, the Camplux Pro 1.58 tankless propane water heater supplies ample hot water while taking up minimal space. The slimmed down 17”x11” body only weighs 16 pounds, letting you mount it anywhere convenient.
With a 41,000BTU output, the heating capacity of the Camplux model has the right power for supplying continuous hot water for RVs. With its easy setup and versatile placement, you can use the Camplux Pro for everything from RVs to barns to camping out in the great outdoors.
WHAT WE LIKE
Power and energy efficiency are fine-tuned most camping and RV needs, but what impresses us about the Camplux are the safety features.
The Camplux model was built for outdoor setup and use, so it comes stocked with comprehensive safety mechanisms. It keeps your family safe in a number of ways:
- Overheat protection.
- High water temperature protection, automatic shutoff for water over 167F.
- Anti-freeze protection.
- High pressure protection.
- Low flow protection.
- Flame failure and dry combustion protection.
- Oxygen depletion sensor protection for safe indoor use.
PROS
- Fast heating.
- No electric hookup needed for ignition, uses two “D” batteries.
- Excellent safety features.
- Handle and light weight make it easily portable.
CONS
- Compatibility issues with certain water lines.
- 1.58 GPM is relatively low compared to other reviewed models.
Arguably the sleekest model on our list, the Eccotemp i12-LP’s 26”x14” frame is low-profile and attractive. The streamlined frame is wall-mountable, giving you continuous water-heating without stealing space. Sporting a black-tempered glass finish and LED display, the i12-LP boasts an eye-catching aesthetic.
The i12-LP comes with everything needed to install and vent. Temperature controls on the touchscreen allows you to adjust temperature and GPM flow precisely. One key difference between this and other RV tankless water heaters is the 110 volt ignition, as opposed to the standard 12 volt.
WHAT WE LIKE
With flow rates as high as 4GPM, the i12-LP can run your shower, faucet and more all at once. Pair that with its ability to handle up to 80,000 BTUs, and you have a unit that delivers hot water fast and consistently.
PROS
- High flow rate, up to 4GPM.
- Fast heating.
- Slim profile and attractive design.
- Child safety locks.
CONS
- Poor performance at high altitudes.
Another great compact heater, the Marey GA10LP tankless water heater is a slim, wall-mountable liquid propane heater perfect for RV adventures. Easy to install, easy to use and backed by a five year warranty, this tankless water heater promises no-hassle, reliable performance.
For an RV’er, the specs are a great fit. Its 3.1GPM flow rate is perfect when using two water sources at once. And if you catch yourself without power, its ”D” cell battery ignition keeps it working at all times.
WHAT WE LIKE
The GA10LP separates itself by its energy efficiency. The system only works when absolutely needed, with a water pressure activation ensuring you never waste gas. With easily adjustable water temperature, gas flow and no electrical setup, this heater delivers precise power depending on your needs.
This model supplies performance you can depend on too, as its five year warranty supports the continuous efficiency the brand promotes. A great value, the GA10LP will give you instant hot water for years.
PROS
- Simple to install and use.
- Energy efficient.
- 5 year warranty.
- No electricity requirements, uses two “D” batteries.
CONS
- Exhaust ducting not included.
- Poor flow sensing, needs good water flow to activate.
What Is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater is a small unit that supplies hot water as you need it. You do not have to worry about waiting for a tank to refill or compromising between taking a shower or doing the dishes.
Tankless water heaters are available in gas models, but we prefer electric for several reasons. More environmentally friendly than gas heaters, electric tankless water heaters for RVs are extremely energy efficient. Plus, installation is much easier, as they can connect to generators, solar chargers and batteries instead of a bulky gas or propane tank.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
Tankless water heaters are one of the easiest systems to install in an RV. Gas units do have emissions, so you have to ensure there is a proper exhaust system. Certain models make venting easier than others, so pay close attention to the specs when you find a hookup location in you RV. With electric models, gas sourcing and piping is left out of the equation — you simply need to hook it up to a generator or battery.
A tankless water heater does not store water in a bulky tank. Instead, it heats water as it passes through the heater on its way to the tap or shower. Containing only water lines and an electric heating element or gas burner, these heaters are low-profile, capable of being mounted on a wall out of the way.
Tankless water heaters can vary in how much water they manage, so the right model is greatly dependent on your usage habits. For this guide, we researched the top electric water heater models on the market, looking at key features including:
- Heating capacity
- Water usage
- Energy efficiency
- Safety
- Overall value
The Best Tankless Water Heater for RVs
It’s fast, easy to install and dependable no matter how high or far you take your RV: It is the GIRARD 2GWHAM tankless water heater. This model offers superior heating, speed and versatile installation. If you get back to the RV and want to bask in a long, hot 20-minute shower, the 2GWHAM is the heater to make it happen.
Whether you need performance, safety, efficiency or simplicity, you will be sure to find the best tankless water heater for your RV needs right here. For more information on outfitting your RV with top-of-the-line appliances and accessories, contact our team of experts today.
