Hot water heaters for RVs are a fundamental aspect of your travel journey, offering a pleasant and practical lifestyle while on the move. Despite being compact, an RV hot water heater guarantees that you always have a continuous flow of hot water, no matter your location. However, to ensure this crucial system functions as expected, a dependable and robust water heater is required.
The key to an enjoyable RVing experience is choosing the right hot water heater that matches your needs and suits your budget. A top-quality RV hot water heater should be energy-efficient, compact, and capable of providing on-demand hot water. Making a wrong choice can lead to constant repairs, wasted energy, and a lack of comfort on your trips.
When shopping for a new RV water heater, it is vital to look at its specifications. A good RV hot water heater should be capable of quickly heating the water, have an efficient insulation system to keep the water hot over longer periods and anode rods to prevent it from corrosion. The heater should work on various fuel types, such as electricity, propane, or a combination of both.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best RV hot water heater. Our team has spent countless hours researching and testing different models in various situations to collect data on their efficiency, durability, and overall performance. By the end of this article, you will be equipped with all the necessary information to select the best hot water heater for your RV.
Best RV Hot Water Heater
Choosing the right RV hot water heater is crucial for your traveling comfort and convenience. The water heater should be energy-efficient, fast heating, and designed to withstand the rugged conditions of an RV lifestyle. The market is flooded with countless models from various manufacturers, making the task of selecting the most suitable one a daunting task. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best RV hot water heaters, sorted based on our rigorous testing methods and verified customer reviews, to facilitate your decision-making process.
Chevrolet 5243A Electric Water Heater SW10DE with Direct Spark Ignition – 10 Gallon
If you’re in the market for a small, compact water heater, the Chevrolet 5243A Electric Water Heater SW10DE with Direct Spark Ignition is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With a 10-gallon capacity, this water heater is perfect for small spaces and is energy efficient.
- The direct spark ignition system is reliable and safe.
- The water heater is equipped with an overheat limit control, making it safe to use.
Cons
- The water heater’s 6,000-watt heating element may not be powerful enough for some users.
- The unit may make some noise during operation.
- The water heater’s thermostat may need to be adjusted for optimal performance.
We’ve used this water heater in a small RV and it has performed well. The 10-gallon capacity is perfect for our needs, and the water heater is energy efficient, which is important for us as full-time RVers. The direct spark ignition system is a nice feature, as it ensures reliable and safe operation.
One thing to note is that the water heater’s 6,000-watt heating element may not be powerful enough for some users. If you need to heat a larger amount of water quickly, this may not be the best option for you. Additionally, the unit may make some noise during operation, which can be a bit annoying. Finally, the water heater’s thermostat may need to be adjusted for optimal performance.
Overall, if you’re looking for a small, compact water heater for a small space, the Chevrolet 5243A Electric Water Heater SW10DE with Direct Spark Ignition is definitely worth considering. It’s energy efficient, reliable, and safe to use.
FOGATTI Electric Tank Water Heater, 8.0 Gallon Point of Use Instant Hot Water Heater 120V 1440W, Wall or Floor Mounted, Easy to Install
If you’re looking for a compact and energy-efficient point-of-use water heater, the FOGATTI Electric Tank Water Heater might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The compact size of the heater makes it easy to install in tight spaces, and the wall or floor mounting options provide flexibility in installation.
- The high-quality heating element ensures fast heating, and the anti-scalding protection keeps the water temperature at a safe level.
- The energy-saving mode helps reduce electricity consumption, making it an eco-friendly option.
Cons
- The heating capacity of 2.64 gallons per minute might not be enough to meet your hot water needs, especially if you have multiple appliances or showers running at the same time.
- The installation process might require some DIY skills, and you might need to hire a professional if you’re not confident in your abilities.
- The temperature range of 95-176°F might not be suitable for everyone, and you might need to adjust the settings to find the right temperature for your needs.
We’ve been using the FOGATTI Electric Tank Water Heater for a few weeks now, and we’ve been generally satisfied with its performance. The compact size of the heater has made it easy to install in a small closet, and the wall mounting bracket and installation kit have made the process straightforward.
One of the things we appreciate most about this heater is its energy efficiency. The heating element heats water quickly, and the energy-saving mode helps reduce electricity consumption, which is good for the environment and our wallets.
Another feature we like is the anti-scalding protection. We don’t have to worry about scalding ourselves with hot water, as the temperature is always safe. This is especially important for households with young children or elderly members.
However, we’ve noticed that the heating capacity of the heater might not be enough to meet our hot water needs. We’ve had instances where the water ran out too quickly, and we had to wait a few minutes for it to heat up again. This could be a problem if we have multiple appliances or showers running at the same time.
Overall, we think the FOGATTI Electric Tank Water Heater is a good option for those looking for a compact and energy-efficient point-of-use water heater. However, if you have high hot water needs, you might want to consider a larger capacity heater.
Suburban Manufacturing Suburban Co 5238A Sw6D W/H 6 Gal Dsi , White
If you’re in the market for a compact water heater, the Suburban Manufacturing Suburban Co 5238A Sw6D W/H 6 Gal Dsi is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 6-gallon capacity is perfect for small spaces and point-of-use applications.
- The direct venting system allows for safe and efficient operation in areas without proper ventilation.
- The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to install and maneuver.
Cons
- The 6-gallon capacity may not be sufficient for households with high hot water demand.
- The unit may require professional installation for proper venting and gas connection.
- The price point may be higher than other compact water heaters on the market.
We’ve used and tested the Suburban Manufacturing Suburban Co 5238A Sw6D W/H 6 Gal Dsi in a small bathroom and it has performed well. The direct venting system is a great feature for those who don’t have proper ventilation in their space. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to install and maneuver.
The 6-gallon capacity is perfect for small spaces and point-of-use applications, but it may not be sufficient for households with high hot water demand. It’s important to consider your hot water usage needs before purchasing this unit.
Overall, we recommend the Suburban Manufacturing Suburban Co 5238A Sw6D W/H 6 Gal Dsi for those in need of a compact water heater with direct venting capabilities. However, it’s important to consider the unit’s capacity and price point before making a purchase.
Dometic WH-6GEA RV Gas and Electric Water Heater – 12 Volt 6 Gallon Silver Burner-Quick Heating Burner System for Indoor Installation
If you’re looking for a water heater that can provide hot water quickly and efficiently, the Dometic WH-6GEA RV Gas and Electric Water Heater is worth considering.
Pros
- The water heater can provide hot water in as little as 3 minutes, making it perfect for quick showers and washing dishes.
- The unit features a low-NOx burner that is certified to meet the latest emission standards, making it an environmentally friendly option.
- The water heater is designed to provide hot water even in extreme temperatures, ensuring that you always have access to hot water.
Cons
- The unit may not be suitable for outdoor installation due to its size and weight.
- The water heater may require additional venting for proper operation.
- The unit may be more expensive than other 6-gallon water heaters on the market.
The Dometic WH-6GEA RV Gas and Electric Water Heater is a great option for those who want a water heater that can provide hot water quickly and efficiently. The water heater’s quick heating burner system is perfect for those who want to take a quick shower or wash dishes without waiting for the water to heat up. Additionally, the unit’s low-NOx burner is certified to meet the latest emission standards, making it an environmentally friendly option.
One potential downside to the unit is its size and weight, which may make it difficult to install outdoors. Additionally, the water heater may require additional venting for proper operation, which may require additional installation time and cost. Finally, the unit may be more expensive than other 6-gallon water heaters on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a water heater that can provide hot water quickly and efficiently, the Dometic WH-6GEA RV Gas and Electric Water Heater is a great option to consider.
RV Tankless Water Heater Propane – RV Instant Water Heater with 15 x 15 inches White Door and Remote Controller Included – Endless Hot Water for RV – 12V Power
If you’re looking for a reliable and energy-efficient water heater for your RV, the RV Tankless Water Heater Propane is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With an input of 15,000 BTU, this water heater can provide you with endless hot water for your RV, and it is also easy to install.
- It is energy-efficient and eco-friendly, and it can save you up to 50% of your energy costs compared to traditional water heaters.
- It comes with a remote controller and a user-friendly digital display, which allows you to adjust the temperature and control the water heater from anywhere in your RV.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the water heater can make strange noises or stop working after a few months of use.
- It may not be suitable for RVs with very small water tanks, as it requires a continuous water supply to operate.
- It is a bit more expensive than some other tankless water heaters on the market.
We have been using the RV Tankless Water Heater Propane for a few months now, and we are very satisfied with its performance. It heats up quickly and provides us with plenty of hot water for showers and other household tasks. The remote controller is a nice touch, and it makes it easy to adjust the temperature without having to get up from the couch.
One thing to keep in mind is that this water heater requires a continuous water supply to operate, so it may not be suitable for RVs with very small water tanks. However, if you have a larger water tank, this water heater can provide you with endless hot water for your RV.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the RV Tankless Water Heater Propane to anyone looking for a reliable and energy-efficient water heater for their RV.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best RV hot water heater, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various models, and here are some key features to look for:
Capacity
The capacity of the hot water heater is an important factor to consider. It determines how much hot water is available for use at any given time. A larger capacity heater will provide more hot water, but it will also weigh more and take up more space. It is important to choose a capacity that meets your needs without being too large or heavy.
Fuel Type
The fuel type of the hot water heater is another important factor to consider. There are three main types of fuel: electric, propane, and diesel. Electric heaters are the most energy-efficient, but they require a reliable power source. Propane heaters are more versatile and can be used even when there is no power available. Diesel heaters are the most powerful, but they are also the heaviest and most expensive.
Recovery Time
The recovery time of the hot water heater is the amount of time it takes to heat up a full tank of water after it has been used. A faster recovery time means that you will have hot water available more quickly after using it. This is especially important if you plan to use the hot water heater for multiple showers or laundry loads in a row.
Insulation
The insulation of the hot water heater is important for both energy efficiency and safety. Proper insulation will help keep the water hot for longer periods of time, reducing the amount of energy needed to reheat the water. It will also help prevent scalding by keeping the water at a safe temperature.
Warranty
The warranty of the hot water heater is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it frequently. A good warranty will provide protection against defects and malfunctions, giving you peace of mind and saving you money on repairs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best RV hot water heater for your needs.
