Whether you’re relaxing in your RV after a hard day at work or seeing loved ones, or if you’ve just gotten over a cold. There are many situations where running out of hot water is the worst thing that may happen.
Table Of Contents
−- Best tankless water heaters – Top 8 picks
- 1. Camplux 5L portable propane tankless water heater
- 2. Camplux 10L 2.64GPM Outdoor Portable Tankless Water Heater
- 3. Eccotemp L10 Propane Portable Tankless Water Heater
- 4. Excel Propane Tankless Water Heater
- 5. EZ 202 portable propane tankless water heater
- 6. Girard 2GWHAM Propane Tankless Water Heater
- 7. PrecisionTemp RV-550 tankless water heater
- 8. Camp Chef HWD5 Triton Water Heater
- 9 Bosch mini electric tankless water heater for small RVs
- Do tankless water heaters run on electric or propane?
- Why is the water coming out of the faucet colder than the control panel states?
- Are tankless water heaters harder to install in an RV?
- Can you install a tankless water heater below the sink?
- How to convert an RV water heater to tankless?
- Do I have to use the shower head, or is it okay to connect directly to the hot water side of a faucet?
- Do I still need to clean my tankless water heater?
- What is the difference between a condensing water heater and a non-condensing one?
- Can I mount a tankless water heater in any part of my RV?
- Do I need a water pump for my tankless water heater?
Most RV water heaters only store 6 to 10 gallons of water, making this especially common. However, you’re lucky since this is not the case for you. Tankless hot water heaters are an increasingly popular choice for those who are concerned about never running out of hot water again (at least as long as their heater is on).
Tankless water heaters guarantee that your RV is constantly well-stocked with usable hot water by providing constant, on-demand access to hot water.
Let’s look at how they operate and some of our favorite examples.
Best tankless water heaters – Top 8 picks
Below are some of our recommendations for tankless water heaters.
1. Camplux 5L portable propane tankless water heater
You may use the Camplux 5L model as a standard water heater, or if the weather is good, you can use it as an outdoor shower. All you’ll need is a way to get propane.
Additionally, it has a customizable flow rate and consumes less fuel than many similar units, which makes it an excellent choice. Finally, because it operates on propane, it may be used even when the power is down. However, one disadvantage is that draining may be a hassle.
A folding handle on this tankless water heater makes it simple to transport or hang from a hook. Because it’s a portable heater, it runs on propane and is powered by two D-cell batteries. Although batteries are not included in the package, you may get away with purchasing them separately because of the device’s low cost.
This model is intended for outdoor use to avoid dangerous amounts of carbon dioxide. However, it may be installed inside with enough ventilation. The top and bottom mounting brackets are also included, and the screw holes are easily accessible with a screwdriver.
One disadvantage of this specific device is that the burners are susceptible to failure even when there is a small breeze. When the wind is stronger at higher altitudes, it’s almost worthless.
The heater’s burners will stop working if used in a horizontal posture. The folding hanger makes it easy to use while holding it in your hand, or you may hang it up in a secure location. On the other hand, the handle may become excessively hot from the top-venting heat and immobile after usage.
An adaptor is required for NPT fittings when piping water through the device since the water lines utilize 12″ BSP. In addition, when the heater is not in use, some people have seen water seeping out. Therefore washers may be required.
The good news is that everything you need to operate the unit right away is included in the package, including a gas regulator, hose, and shower head. When it’s frozen, you’ll want a drain stopper, so you don’t ruin your pipes by leaving water in them.
Starting pressure of 2.5 psi is reasonable once your plumbing is finished, but if you utilize stagnant water sources, even a modest water pump will enhance flow. The desired temperature of the hot water may be easily controlled as long as the pressure is constant. Unfortunately, thermostat readouts are nonexistent in this one, so you will have to guess how hot it is each time you use them.
The continuous hot water duration is limited to 20 minutes, like with other tankless portable water heaters. This may not be enough time for certain people. In most cases, shutting it off before the time limit has expired would start the countdown all over again. It is also smaller and produces less heat compared to other popular heaters. Camplux has larger versions with greater power, but they’re less portable.
Pros
- Retractable handle for easy storage
- The package includes a shower head, hose, and gas regulator.
- 2.5 psi is a low starting pressure.
- Freeze protection for winter seasons
Cons
- Surface heats up
- Flames are easily put out with just a small wisp of air.
- No temperature display
- Fittings are not universally available to users in the United States.
- Continuous hot water has a 20-minute time restriction.
2. Camplux 10L 2.64GPM Outdoor Portable Tankless Water Heater
The new 10l Camplux tankless water heater is a step from the previous 5l model. Water is heated using a propane-powered heater that is ignited by two AA batteries. As a result, it’s mainly intended for outside usage and includes an exhaust vent on top. However, it doesn’t come with a rain cover nor a folding handle resulting in difficulty in transport.
The screw holes on the bottom of the device are simple to reach with a screwdriver, but the mounting bracket on top is difficult to reach. Once the unit is installed, there is adequate room in the rear for air to flow. To use the heater inside, you’ll need to build a flue vent or make other arrangements for adequate ventilation in the room.
The water lines in the device utilize a 12″ BSP for plumbing fluids, and while it’s not the most common standard, there are adapters in the box for NPT fittings. The kit comes with a hose, shower head, and gas regulator, all of which are welcome additions. The Full/Eco knob helps you save money on propane by letting you adjust it based on the temperature of the input.
Taking the water out is as simple as pulling the drain stopper. Frozen water within the heater must be avoided to get the most out of it.
If your water supply is a faucet with a high flow, a starting pressure of 3.6 psi will be more than adequate to start the unit. A water pump is not necessary for gravity-fed sources, although it is highly recommended.
Hot water takes a few minutes to flow out of a faucet with constant pressure. Fortunately, unlike the other less expensive type, this one has a thermostat readout, making it simple to determine how hot the output will be.
There is a 20-minute timer on the continuous hot water supply, but you can get around it by turning off the device and turning it back on again before the timer expires. This isn’t a deal breaker if you’re the kind to turn off the water while not in use.
Pros
- Using the Full/Eco knob reduces propane use.
- Comes with a thermostat display
- Drain stopper for easy water collection and draining
- 3.6 psi of low-pressure start-up pressure
- The package contains a shower head, hose, gas regulator, and several adapters.
Cons
- No handle
- No rain cover
- Screwdriver access to the top mounting bracket is hampered.
- Takes time to produce hot water
- Only produces hot water for a maximum of 20 minutes
3. Eccotemp L10 Propane Portable Tankless Water Heater
The Eccotemp L10, like the Camplux 5L, is lightweight and portable, and unlike many tankless water heaters, it only uses energy when needed. Because of its toughness and mobility may also be used as an outdoor shower when camping in distant locations. On the other hand, it is much heavier than other portable devices.
The burners of this tankless water heater run on propane, while two D-cell batteries provide the ignition. Even though batteries aren’t included, having the rain hat in the package is a nice touch. This cap is a godsend if your heater is outside, where it’s vulnerable to water damage from the elements.
For portability, I would have preferred an actual handle rather than having to hold on to the mounting bracket. I particularly like that the screw holes are easily accessible with a screwdriver, are almost half an inch farther from the rear, and have enough room when mounted on a wall to allow air circulation.
Since the system lacks a pump, you’ll need to use a pressured input to control the water flow. If your water supply isn’t as pressured as a garden faucet, you’ll almost always need a pump to meet the recommended beginning pressure of 20 psi.
It does not come with a shower head or hose. However, the fittings are universally used at 12″ NPT. Shower heads and hoses of all brands may be used with the adapters, and quick connects are included in the package. There is also a gas regulator, and a propane tank of 20 pounds or more may be used without any issues.
Controlling water flow and temperature together to produce your desired output requires a steady supply of water as an input. Unfortunately, there is no thermostat, so you’ll have to make educated guesses about how hot the temperature is.
For this reason, it is unsuitable for winter usage since there is no freeze protection. In addition, burners may perish in strong winds, so use caution if you’re over 4000 feet in elevation. Finally, be aware that the device will automatically switch off after 20 minutes of continuous hot water supply.
Pros
- With a screwdriver, it is simple to get to the screw holes.
- Included are a rain cover and a gas regulator.
- Quick and simple shower head and hose of any brand installation
- When you restart the device, the hot water timer is reset.
Cons
- There are no batteries included in the package.
- The lack of a handle
- The burners cannot be ignited without a pressurized input.
- The timer on the hot water only lasts for 20 minutes.
- There was no shower head included in the package.
4. Excel Propane Tankless Water Heater
This Excel tankless water heater requires just 2 psi of water pressure to operate, and it can operate at pressures as high as 120 psi, making it more versatile than other tankless heaters.
It tends to sputter when used with water less than 50 degrees (although it can function down to 40 at a reduced flow rate). However, it has received positive reviews and is well-designed. Installing it, on the other hand, maybe a hassle.
Unlike traditional water heaters, this tankless water heater runs on propane and emits no flue gas as a result of the usage of this technology. Instead, excel’s unique technology converts methane and nitrous oxide from combustion into carbon monoxide and vapor.
As a result, no smoke is produced, making this a green option. In addition, one set of D-cell batteries is included in the package. I discovered it to be a useful small convenience for the first time.
While the device may be installed inside or outdoors, the top can become very hot due to the heat exchange. So installing it in an area with adequate ventilation is critical. It may also be toxic since it emits carbon monoxide, so keep an eye out for that if you’re in a small area.
For optimal performance, Excel advises mounting this upright. Mounting holes on the rear offer a good airflow allowance, so you should be able to put it just about anyplace.
Plumbing the system requires a minimum input pressure of two psi, which is sufficient for gravity-fed sources as long as the water flow is constant. This is particularly useful if you often move between various water sources and have fluctuating water pressure. Without freeze protection, using it in the winter means emptying it by hand to keep it from freezing and breaking.
Because it comes with normal 12″ NPT connections, you may use whatever brand of shower or hose you choose rather than wanting a shower head or hose included in the package. Also, only a brass adapter is included in the package; neither a gas regulator nor a thermostat is included.
Because of the low beginning pressure, the heater can operate at elevations up to 7000 feet without a problem, which is astonishing.
This heater, like many others, has a 20-minute timer before it turns off.
Pros
- This device produces no smoke
- Two D-cell batteries are included in the package.
- Working at high altitudes with just a 2 psi starting pressure
- Shower head and hose adapters of any brand may be easily attached.
Cons
- When utilized inside, be cautious of excessive carbon monoxide.
- When operating, the top of the device may get very hot.
- The hot water is only available for 20 minutes.
- the package did not include a shower head, hose, or gas regulator
5. EZ 202 portable propane tankless water heater
The EZ 202, like the Eccotemp L10, is a small, lightweight heater. A handle would have made transporting it much simpler. Some customers have had trouble with the setup procedure, but it’s quite simple to use otherwise. Many thanks to its difficult-to-reach wall-mounting brackets that make it more difficult to install.
Powered by two D-cell batteries, this tankless heater heats water using propane.
Ample vents on the bottom of the EZ202 make it easy for air to flow through. The drawback is that the flame will be rapidly extinguished in windy circumstances. Also, if you want to use it outdoors, you’ll need something to cover the exhaust vent since it doesn’t come with one.
If you plan on using the unit inside, you’ll need to find a way to get the flue gas out of the room. It is efficient in its propane usage and has one of the highest flow rates for portable units, up to 3.2 gallons per minute.
When plumbing your unit, you’ll notice that the water inlet and outlet fittings are brass, while the gas inlet is steel. This is a nice little detail to have. This helps to differentiate between the water and gas lines.
Even though the beginning pressure is modest (2.9 psi), if your gravity-fed system doesn’t have a steady flow of water, you’ll require a small pump. A backup water pump is essential in locations without access to running water.
The water line fittings are 12″ NPT, and a shower head or hose is included in the package. Also, there is no gas regulator, which is disappointing considering the price. Fortunately, a thermostat readout is available (unlike other cheaper models).
With the Winter/Summer knob, you can regulate your use of propane according to the outside temperature. It’s a good way to save gas, particularly in the summer when heating water that’s already heated because the temperature uses much less gas.
Turning on the unit and wanting hot water straight away? Just crank the flame up and the flow down a notch. As soon as your hot water starts to run low, the system will automatically turn itself off after 20 minutes to avoid overheating. Using hot water for anything more than this will require turning the device off and back on. Also, remember that the heater will automatically shut off if the temperature rises to 190 degrees Fahrenheit (88 degrees Celsius).
Pros
- It’s easy to tell the difference between water and gas lines.
- This model has a low starting pressure of 2.9 psi and is equipped with a temperature readout. The shower
- head and hose are included.
Cons
- It does not come with batteries.
- When there is a lot of wind, it is more susceptible to fading out.
- It’s missing a rain cover and gas regulator.
- There is just a 20-minute hot water cycle.
6. Girard 2GWHAM Propane Tankless Water Heater
Those looking for a lot more power should check out the 1GWHAF’s upgraded cousin, the 1GWHAF+. Its freeze protection capabilities make it considerably more suited for four-season usage.
Compared to the 1GWHAF, the 2GWHAM is noticeably quieter. In addition, because it operates on propane, doesn’t need special pipes, and self-regulates, you can use it anywhere. The mounting equipment, on the other hand, must be bought separately.
An RV’s six-gallon tank water heater may be replaced with this tankless heater. Fortunately, Girard sells adapters for common water heater manufacturers, including Atwood and Suburban, and the unit’s door depends on your RV’s make and model. The door will need to be ordered individually from Girard’s website.
You’ll need a 12V power supply to operate the appliance, which runs on propane. Digital temperature control is included in the box, but the cooling fan’s speed cannot be adjusted when the heater is operating. This makes a very loud noise (although not as loud as the previous model). If you keep the heater on all day, you can hear it even from outside the RV, which is inconvenient.
When it comes to changing the unit, it is rather simple, but there is one chance in the wiring, which is particularly noticeable when replacing an Atwood unit. When wiring the controller, just utilize the brown wire and leave the blue and brown wires out. The blue cable, it turns out, is not the ground connection but rather another light indication for the control panel.
The water line includes a 12″ NPT fitting, and the water input control valve is a nice feature when plumbing the device. Instead of a compression fitting, the gas line uses a 3/8″ flare fitting, as specified in the instructions. The instructions may be deceiving for anybody who doesn’t realize that a compression fitting isn’t the best choice for a gas pipe.
This tankless water heater’s continuous hot water supply lasts for just 20 minutes. This seems to be insufficient for a bigger unit. It appears to work if you switch it off before the 20-minute mark, but it’s easy to forget.
Keep in mind that if the temperature in the shower or sink exceeds 95 degrees Fahrenheit, the unit will not be able to keep up with the volume. So, unfortunately, you can’t use hot water in the sink and shower simultaneously if you want water warmer than 95 degrees.
Because it is more exposed to cold weather than smaller water heaters, this heater has freeze protection so that it may be used in the winter. It’s common knowledge that having access to quick hot water is essential during cold blizzards, particularly if you live at a higher elevation.
Pros
- Atwood and Suburban water heaters are directly interchangeable.
- Girard has replacement doors for several types of RVs.
- It has a digital controller for easy operation.
- it’s equipped with anti-freeze technology
Cons
- Unable to adjust the speed of the cooling fan makes it noisy
- Flare fittings are used in gas lines, although the instructions do not accurately describe this.
- There is a 20-minute time limit on the use of continuous hot water
- The unit’s maximum hot water temperature is 95 degrees Fahrenheit, which is inadequate for most uses.
7. PrecisionTemp RV-550 tankless water heater
Despite being one of the more costly models, the RV-550 pays for itself over time because of its exceptional efficiency. For example, a 20-pound propane tank can warm up to 940 gallons of liquid.
Because of its size and weight, it’s perfect for RVs, but it may also be utilized in other places, such as tiny houses, where space is limited, like a 10-gallon water heater. It has a high flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute and is very quiet. The only downside is the cost.
A 10-gallon propane tank water heater may be replaced with this tankless propane water heater by connecting your RV’s power supply and heating the water. If your RV heater compartment is very large, the PrecisionTemp has adaptor mounts.
When putting it together, keep in mind that the front and rear of the unit are tapered. Another camper I know replaced his Atwood 6-gallon tank but just measured the rear end of it.
When he initially tried to install the heater, the hole was too small, and he had to enlarge it to fit the opening on the front. Because it’s a drop-in replacement for a 10-gallon water heater, there’s a void within the opening. Nothing that can’t be fixed with a few wood spacers.
In addition to the standard white color, you may request the door in a raw metal finish. For a little extra fee, PrecisionTemp claims that you can even select the color of the unit to match the outside of your RV.
The heater’s cables are a different color after installation, but the handbook explains how to connect them to the existing controller in great detail. However, unlike the Girard 2GWHAMk, you will not be provided with a new controller or a thermostat readout. Even if this is cumbersome, at least it has built-in anti-freeze (thermostat detects 38 degrees Fahrenheit of input).
Water lines utilize 12″ NPT connections, while gas lines use 3/8″ flare fittings when piping gas through the system. However, unlike the Girard model, this one does not have a valve controlling the amount of water it receives. Adding flow valves to the piping isn’t difficult. Thus this isn’t a deal breaker for me.
It takes a long time to obtain a constant hot water supply if the input pressure fluctuates since it depends on water pressure to function properly. If the pressure drops during peak hours, it’s almost worthless on campsites. It also happens to be annoying when it goes off for no apparent reason.
When everything is up and running, I recommend you turn the hot water on and use a dial to set the appropriate temperature for the cooler water.
You may have hot water for as long as you want as long as the pressure remains constant. Contrary to conventional units, which tend to shut off after 20 minutes, the continuous hot water unit has no time restriction. As a bonus, it operates in colder and windier climates like those found at higher altitudes.
This system shuts down instantly when you start it at a low input temperature below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, when applying anti-freeze, PrecisionTemp recommends that you don’t use more than a pint at a time.
Pros
- Adapter mounts and custom-painted doors are available via PrecisionTemp’s online store.
- Has a freeze-protection feature for winter usage and has an unlimited hot water time limit.
Cons
- There isn’t a digital controller included in the package.
- There is no temperature display.
- With low and erratic pressure, it fails to function properly
8. Camp Chef HWD5 Triton Water Heater
Two D-cell batteries power this propane-powered, space-saving tankless water heater for ignition. The large handle makes it convenient to carry, and the screw holes make it simple to mount on a wall with a screwdriver. Also, it comes with a stand, making it easy to transport.
A garden hose adapter is provided in the package for use with the 12″ NPT water lines. A shower head and hose are provided, which is a welcome bonus, but no gas regulator exists. When not used, the device needs a drain plug to empty the contents. It’s a bummer since this also protects against freezing while using a heater in the cold.
After the water and gas are ready, a starting pressure of 25 psi is required for the burners to ignite. A water pump is also required for stagnant water sources. It has a lower maximum pressure of 80 psi than other heaters of comparable size. There’s no thermostat either, so you have no clue how hot the water will be until it comes out of the faucet.
Once your hot water is up and running, you must keep an eye out for wind since the burners are prone to burning out in strong gusts. However, unlike the other models on this list, you cannot restart the unit after using it for the full 20 minutes.
Pros
- Conveniently portable, with both a handle and a stand included
- You’ll get a shower head, hose, and several adapters in the package.
Cons
- There is no gas regulator included in the package.
- The 80 psi maximum pressure is lower than that of comparable heaters.
- There is no thermostat, and there is no drain stopper to prevent the pipes from freezing.
- Even after restarting the device, the timer for hot water does not reset.
9 Bosch mini electric tankless water heater for small RVs
With a 4-gallon capacity, the Bosch ES4 Tronic 3000 T Electric water heater blows beyond expectations for a tankless water heater in an RV. If necessary, you may tuck this 13.75 x 13.5 x 13.75-inch item beneath your RV’s kitchen or bathroom sink.
An ordinary 120-volt AC wall socket is all required to power it; a 3-foot power cable is also included. But if you want, you may connect it to a second, bigger hot tank to have more on-demand capacity.
The Bosch ES4 Tronic 3000 features a temperature control dial and a temperature and pressure relief valve that allow you to fine-tune the temperature range. In addition, the tank’s inside is coated with glass, making it more soundproof and resistant to corrosion.
A compact tankless water heater like the Bosch ES4 is a great option for RVers who want an instant water heater that works on 120 AC and can be placed beneath a sink.
Pros
- In terms of volume, the unit’s 4-gallon capacity is remarkable for a device that can be placed beneath an RV sink.
- Impressive corrosion resistance due to glass-lined interior
Cons
- As a result of its size, the electric element’s lifespan will be constrained and may last just for the duration of its guarantee.
How Does an RV Tankless Water Heater Work?
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, heat water as it passes through the device. This in-line process means water enters the heater, gets heated while traveling through, and then exits via a different outlet. This constant flow system removes the need for a large water storage tank, thereby reducing the weight of your RV and potentially saving you money on fuel.
Types of RV Tankless Water Heaters
Let’s look at the different types of tankless water heaters you can install in your RV:
Electric RV Tankless Water Heaters
Electric tankless water heaters are a popular choice among RV owners due to their eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. You can power these heaters using a generator or a solar panel, and they boast a 99% efficiency rating. Plus, they don’t produce any greenhouse gases during operation.
Gas RV Tankless Water Heaters
These heaters run on either kerosene or propane, requiring appropriate venting for optimal operation. While they do release greenhouse gases, they are more energy-efficient at 85%.
Non-Condensing RV Tankless Water Heaters
These heaters use a heat exchanger to heat the water on demand. While reliable, they require stainless steel venting for the hot exhaust, which can be costly.
Condensing RV Tankless Water Heaters
These heaters reuse heat from the exhaust in a second heat exchanger, achieving efficiency between 92-94%. They are less expensive and use PVC vents but may consume more energy when only a small amount of water is used at a time.
Sizing Your RV Tankless Water Heater
The amount of water you typically use will guide the size and type of tankless system you need. For example, showers, toilets, and kitchen sinks can use between one to three gallons per minute. Also, consider your RV’s water capacity; a heater that can provide 6 gallons of hot water per minute might be excessive for an RV with only a 12-gallon freshwater tank.
Most RVers are seeking better showers, which typically require 2-3 gallons of hot water per minute. However, your personal needs may vary.
Cost of RV Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters can range in price, with some models available for under $500 and others costing more. Keep in mind, these prices often don’t include installation or any additional components needed for operation in your RV.
While tankless water heaters may be more expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run. They have lower running costs, last up to five times longer than traditional heaters, and can provide an estimated energy savings of 8-14% according to Energy.gov.
Pros and Cons of Tankless On-Demand Water Heaters
Like any product, tankless water heaters have their pros and cons.
Pros:
- Energy-efficient
- Reduces propane usage by up to 50% (for gas heaters)
- Decreases operating costs
- Saves space compared to traditional tanks
- Provides continuous water flow
- No need for a storage tank (or winterizing it)
- Less prone to leaks
Cons:
- Can lead to water waste if misplaced
- Water temperature may not be as consistent in some models
- Higher initial investment compared to traditional water heaters
Considerations Before Purchasing
Before you make your purchase, here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- Placement: Certain models perform better with colder water and are designed for winter use.
- BTU requirements: A higher-capacity heater may be necessary if you desire a home-like shower experience.
- Power supply: Decide if you prefer propane-fueled heaters (often with battery-operated igniters) or electric ones.
- Space: Consider the amount of space in your RV for a water heater.
Also, while it’s possible to convert your existing water heater to a tankless one, be aware that this may require a significant amount of preparation, including potentially hiring a professional.
Key Features to Look for in an RV Tankless Water Heater
Brand
Today’s top three tankless water heater manufacturers are Atwood, Suburban, and Girard. No matter what brand you choose, ensure that you buy the right size to fit your existing RV.
Size
Tankless water heaters are more compact compared to traditional tank heaters. However, you will need to measure and purchase a new door separately.
Flow Rate (GPM)
GPM stands for gallon per minute, which is the unit used to express flow rate. The burner in a tankless water heater ignites once a minimum flow rate is achieved. If the burner’s flow rate is too low, it may not light, leading to dissatisfaction with the heater.
BTU
BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is the unit of measurement for how much energy each gas appliance uses. Consider it as the “horsepower” of the machine. A high-BTU water heater heats water more quickly or to a higher temperature.
Water Pressure (PSI)
All hot water heaters need a certain amount of water pressure (measured in PSI) to ignite. However, in tankless heaters, the flow rate is more important than the PSI.
Other Considerations
Space is a crucial consideration in an RV. Make sure the water heater you choose doesn’t take up too much room. Check for features that protect the heater from power shortages and peaks, accidental activation of electronic ignition triggers by high temperatures, and safe operation in poor weather and challenging terrain.
Leading Brands
- Excel: Founded in 2004 and based in Miami, Florida, Excel distributes the gasFlex flexible gas pipe system and the Excel tankless gas water heater line.
- The Girard Group: This San Clemente, California-based company is a leading seller of tankless water heaters in the RV industry.
- Suburban: Based in Dayton, Tennessee, Suburban Manufacturing is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of RV water heaters, kitchen appliances, and heating systems.
- Takagi: Takagi has been manufacturing tankless water heaters globally since 1952, with regional offices in California, Tennessee, New Jersey, and a global headquarters in Canada.
RV Tankless Water Heater Pricing
- Under $200: Small RV water heaters typically fall within this range, although their capacity and features may be limited.
- $200 to $500: This range includes some of the most popular RV tankless water heaters. They offer a good balance between efficiency and affordability.
- Over $500: Top-of-the-line tankless water heaters can cost up to $1000. These are often chosen by those living off the grid or in small cabins.
Conclusion
Of course, this is by no means a complete list. There are a few that I like, though. It’s possible that the tankless water heater best suited to your RV’s space and requirements isn’t included above since there are so many excellent options. That’s all right. Just remember to do your homework, read reviews, and contact the company with any questions you have along the way.
It’s much simpler to locate tankless water heaters if you know what you’re searching for, so do your research beforehand.
When you finally locate the ideal equipment, don’t forget to seek expert assistance. If you mess up the installation, you risk having an excellent water heater fail.
I hope you found this list useful, and please don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tankless water heaters run on electric or propane?
A tankless water heater can only be run on either propane or electricity. The water heaters in RVs run on a 12-volt direct current (DC).
Why is the water coming out of the faucet colder than the control panel states?
The temperature of the hot water that comes out of your heater’s output valve will match the setting on the control panel. Using your RV plumbing will cause the water to chill somewhat. More distant fixtures will be cooler than those closer to the heater. As a result, temperature variations are possible, although they are likely to be minor.
Are tankless water heaters harder to install in an RV?
If you’re a mechanically inclined do-it-yourselfer and you’ve done your research to locate the finest tankless water heater for your RV, installing one shouldn’t be too difficult.
Ensure you install it properly and attach the necessary gas, water, and electrical connections before using it.
While you’re at it, you should also verify the warranty coverage on your RV. To avoid voiding the guarantee, certain manufacturers demand expert installation.
Can you install a tankless water heater below the sink?
RV tankless water heaters may be mounted under the sink, which is an appealing alternative.
Ensure you can accommodate all connections without kinking or placing an electrical wire in a hazardous location before you commit to this choice by double-checking the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to convert an RV water heater to tankless?
The tankless conversion of your RV water heater necessitates some forethought. This is a smart decision since it allows you to save money on your heating bill. However, it must plan every step of the process, from selecting the appropriate heater to assembling the necessary equipment and calculating the total cost of ownership.
Once you’ve properly planned out all of this, you may begin the tankless water heater conversion in your RV. To prevent problems in the future, choose a professional installation service.
Do I have to use the shower head, or is it okay to connect directly to the hot water side of a faucet?
While using a shower head is recommended, connecting straight to the hot water side of the faucet is also perfectly fine. When the water faucet is turned on, the valve at the end of one of the service line’s intake pipes opens.
The intake pipes are located on the cold and hot water settings of each water appliance in your RV. This is where the cold and hot water supply pipes are connected. Thanks to these two pipe connections, your appliance will have access to both cold and hot water.
Do I still need to clean my tankless water heater?
Most tankless water heaters need to be cleaned regularly. The suggestions of various manufacturers may vary somewhat from one another. Your owner’s handbook should provide all the answers you’re looking for.
What is the difference between a condensing water heater and a non-condensing one?
A non-condensing RV tankless water heater utilizes a specialized heat exchanger to heat water on demand. This has the advantage of being very dependable as well as long-lasting. The disadvantage is that heavy-duty stainless steel venting is often required to discharge the hot exhaust gases. As a result, the final cost rises.
When using a condensing tankless water heater in an RV, heat is obtained by reusing exhaust system heat.
They are less energy efficient when used in short bursts like hand washing or rapidly rinsing soiled dishes one by one. However, since they utilize PVC venting, they are less expensive.
Can I mount a tankless water heater in any part of my RV?
Even the smallest tankless water heaters may be installed using drywall anchors on panel board walls.
While anchoring them to studs or other structural elements is preferable, this isn’t always an option, most notably in the presence of a more substantial unit.
You don’t want your expensive purchase to be damaged by road vibrations or to tumble off its mounts and shatter.
Do I need a water pump for my tankless water heater?
Your RV’s specific situation dictates the answer to this inquiry. Tankless water heaters without built-in pumps are an option if you have a large Class A motorhome with a working water pump. If so, you can save money.
People with popup campers or small travel trailers may need an additional water pump to take advantage of the tankless water heaters’ higher flow rate.
Tankless water heaters are sold separately by several manufacturers. After that, you’ll need a 12-Volt electric water pump, which you can connect.
An accessory pump designed to work with the tankless water heater is available with many of these units. You may even be able to get them all together in one place!
How to turn on a water heater in an RV?
There are just a few procedures involved in turning on the water heater in your RV. Most of the time, this entails first opening the bypass valve on the unit and enabling water to flow into the main tank. The next step is to find a nearby water outlet and connect your RV to it.
You can start pumping water right away thanks to the built-in pump. Turning on the hot water faucet at this time is also ideal. When the heater is switched on, water will flow through the tank’s pipes. Allow the water to fill the line before turning on the water heater.
Jay
Jay is a health and wellness enthusiast with expertise in water quality and nutrition. As a knowledgeable advocate for holistic well-being, Jay successfully manages Type 2 Diabetes through informed lifestyle choices. Committed to sharing reliable and authoritative insights, Jay combines firsthand experience with a passion for enhancing health."