Over the last several years, technology has simply been getting better all the time. Newfound inventiveness has brought amazing gadgets from baseboard heaters to vacuum cleaners to tower fans and air conditioning, and now to high-efficiency Best RV Tankless Water heater.
This explosion of innovation has capitalized the van life, off-road, and truck-camper into all sorts of remarkable luxuries and livability as you travel across the country shifting from location to location.
If you are seeking to upgrade your RV into a comfortable and personalized experience, we have broken down for you a buying guide for the Best RV tankless water heaters. Our Trusted reviews will help you in making the best choice In the midst of the outdoors.
Just a quick tip when you go shopping for an RV tankless water heater for your camper, the tankless water heater working mechanism is based on water inflow and the temperature rise of that particular location.
The average temperature rise in the northern regions is slower than the average rise in the southern regions and also the water spends less time in the heater.
RV Tankless Water heater has a flow switch in the water line that turns them on when sufficient flow is detected. Usually, a flow of about ½ gallon per minute or more is required to turn the unit on. So you might use a little more energy to warm your water in the northern regions than in the southern regions.
Nonetheless, going tankless will increase energy efficiency, lower operating costs, save on space, and also they have a long lifespan typically 10 to 15 years.
For this review, we are particular about the efficiency and economic considerations of each RV Tankless Water heater. A major advantage for most tankless water heaters is that the actual cost of running is lower than upfront costs.
If you keep reading, we have a chronology based on countless customer reviews of selected RV Tankless Water heaters that will offer on-demand hot water needs while saving you on energy costs.
Best Pick + Editor’s
Lifetime warranty, worth every penny, great quality, easy to install, and excellent water heater. Highly recommended
Budget Pick
Excellent water heater and most positive customer reviews with 5-star ratings
The Best RV Tankless Water Heater
| Item | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Eco Smart Eco 11 RV Electric Tankless | 4.4/5 | $$$ |
| 2. Precisontemp RV-550 Wall Vented | 4.2/5 | $$$ |
| 3. Suburban SW6DE RV WTR HTR | 4.3/5 | $$$ |
| 4. Bosch Heater Tronic Electric Mini | 4.1 /5 | $$$ |
| 5. Atwood Mobile Products 96110 Pilot | 4.2/5 | $$$ |
| 6. Girard Tankless Water Heater 2GWHAM | 4.3/5 | $$$ |
All reviews are well convincing so let’s dive in.
1. Eco Smart Eco 11 RV Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Never run out of hot water.
- Patented Self Modulating.
- Lifetime warranty.
EcoSmart offers the most advanced technology in water heating with their patented self-modulating technology which regulates how much energy is needed to heat the hot water needed.
EcoSmart models are known to be the only electric tankless water heater with a lifetime warranty on the market.
The EcoSmart Eco 11 is a product from EcoSmart Company with special features that you will undeniably love. It offers energy efficiency with a uniform factor of 0.98.
By buying this unit, you will be amazed by how it will quickly give instant hot water with minimal use of energy. It’s the most efficient RV water heater. With this model, you can save up to 65% in water heating costs, which is very ideal for RV owners.
Like other models of Tankless water heaters, the ECO11 prices are high compared to the traditional tank water heater. The high initial investment is what scares away a lot of people from buying a product but the cost breaks even in the long run.
With ECO11 tankless water heaters, you’ll need the skill of a professional technician to make sure that the repairs are done right, which will obviously cost you money.
Find out below for a quick summary of more of its features and benefits.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Endless Supply of Hot Water
It provides an endless on-demand supply of hot water at the point of use. Unlike traditional tank water heaters, the ECO 11 will heat the water as it passes through it. You won’t have to wait long for the water to fill before you start using it.
The biggest concern for any tankless water heater buyer is how much they are going to save. However, with ECO 11, you are guaranteed to cut your energy cost in half since ECO 11 is an on-demand and instantaneous supplier of hot water. It works by quickly heating water through a heat exchanger.
- Great for Small Spaces
The ECO 11 is ideal for small point-of-use applications. It is small and compact in size measuring 3.75 by 8 by 11.5 inches long and weighs 6.5 pounds making them easy to mount on the wall or the floor. They can also blend in seamlessly with existing décor when installed in a visible location.
- Durable and High Quality
A tank water heater will last between 10 and 13 years while tankless water heaters can last up to 15 years. The ECO 11 is sure to be durable. With its lifetime warranty, you are guaranteed efficient operation and continuous hot water supply.
Also, with an unlimited warranty, you are guaranteed professional technical support whenever you encounter a problem.
There are different models of ECO smart tankless water heaters each with different voltage; amperage. You will get the right advice on what will work for you.
- Temperature Control
ECO 11 comes with a temperature /pressure relief valve installed that regulates the flow of hot water in two water fixtures, such as two sinks. This is done by simply tapping into the cold water line and installing the water heater directly at the sink to provide hot water.
The thermostat tankless will boost the water temperature for long pipes that may connect to your sanitation or dishwashers.
To get hot water where it’s needed, when it’s needed, a better solution is to use ECO 11.
With ECO11; waiting for hot water is eliminated with its instant point of use application, unlike traditional tank water heaters which required plumbing a hot water line to every sink.
Product information
- Wattage: 13000 watts.
- Size: 12 x 8 x 4
- Item Weight: 6.5 pounds.
2. Precisontemp RV-550 Wall VentedTankless Water Heater- for RVs
- Reliable, proven VariFlame.
- Designed, assembled, and tested in the USA.
- Baby-proof protection against radiant heat.
Precisontemp specializes in making tankless water heaters specifically for RVs and boats. Their products are designed, assembled, and tested in the US. This guarantees you a good deal about any of their product.
This particular tankless water heater stands out among RV tankless water heaters because of its anti-freezing protection which is in-built for four-season use. This makes Precisontemp RV-550 a versatile tankless water heater to work in different environments.
Learn below for more of its key features and the benefits it has to offer.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Save On Energy
Precisontemp RV-550 Tankless heater is operational whenever hot water is needed, unlike traditional tank water heaters.
Once it’s installed, its self-gas modulation technology self-adjusts the gas usage based on variation in water flow and incoming water temperature.
It’ll heat water really fast with 55000 BTU and the flow rate is good enough to give you good quality shower whenever you want to. With this water heater, you can save up to 40% of both water and energy.
The self-adjusting ensures consistency of water without overheating or not heating enough depending on the weather.
- Instant Hot Water
Precisontemp RV 550 water heater operates when the hot water tap is turned on. It heats the water that passes through it meaning you no longer have to wait long for hot water to flow from your tap or shower.
On-demand hot water supply uses up to 50% less propane providing up to 940 gallons of hot water unlike when hot water was stored.
- Compact
Precisontemp RV 550 tankless heater is rather small, measuring 13.5 by 13.5 by 14.5 inches and weighing as much as a 10-gallon tank meaning you can easily install it in your RV, unlike traditional tank water heaters that would need a rather large space.
Product information
- Item Weight: 32 pounds
- Model Number: RV-550
- Power Source:
- 12V, Propane, 110V (with the purchase of a 12V converter)
3. Suburban SW6DE RV WTR HTR 1 PK-Manufacturing
- Weight: 32.9 lbs.
- 6-gallon water tank.
- 12,000 btu rating.
With Suburban SW6DE you get assured of the features of a tankless water heater that a typical RV owner is looking for when buying a tankless water heater.
An outdoor water heater shouldn’t be metallic and should have the capacity to fit into the RV high recovery gas, gas-electric, and motor aid because heated water doesn’t do well with metals. That’s why; it’s designed with porcelain and an anode rod to absorb electrolytic action.
Also, suburban SW6DE boasts 6-gallon gas hot water with an output of 12000 BTU and a recovery rate of 10.2 gallons per hour.
Despite the initial investment cost of the Suburban SW6DE being high, it’s worth it in the long run.
To learn about this RV water heater, read below for a quick summary of this unit’s key features and benefits.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Quality for Long Life
The porcelain-lined Suburban tank if properly maintained can last twice or triple its warranty period, which cuts the cost of early replacements.
You can be sure that the unit is in good working condition because the manufacturer has the policy of testing the pressure to ensure it’s up to standard.
- Minimize Wait Time for Hot Water
There is a minimal stand-by loss of heat with Suburban SW6DE unlike with a traditional tank water heater.
With a 12000 BTU, you get guaranteed good hot water output with optimal operation of 1.0 GPM and a minimum of 0.5 GPM. Regardless of the flow rate or incoming water temperature this range is good.
- Easy to install
It’s very easy to install in your RV due to its detailed instruction and wiring diagrams. One important tip about installation is that for the older model trailer, you will need to run an independent 12V power line to the unit. It’s the only way the DSI system will work. Without 12V, it’s hard to run on gas.
Product information
- Dimensions: 19.19 x 12.7 x 12.7 inches.
- Manufacturer: SUBURBAN MFG.
- Model number: 5239A
4. Bosch Heater Tronic Electric Mini-Tankless Water3000 T 4 Gallon -(ES4)
- INDEPENDENT INSTALLATION.
- CONVENIENT HOT WATER HEATER.
- LONG-LASTING QUALITY.
Bosch units point-of-use electric mini-tanks are German engineered gas and Electric appliances whose two brand names are the most popular in North America.
They are available in three compact sizes, and they are all designed to meet the Energy Star requirements with low greenhouse gas production and energy usage.
They use the most superior, innovative technology which heats water with 98% thermal efficiency.
Bosch technology provides a life expectancy of an average of 15 years and great numbers of parts are replaceable.
Bosch unit’s main advantages are high-efficiency Ceramic Burner, real-time diagnostic for troubleshooting, and failure codes for easy diagnostics and repair.
The particular point of use mini tank the Bosch Tronic 3000 T Electric mini tank, is the most interesting unit due to its hydro-generated ignition, which makes the model energy independent.
It uses a small turbine wheel to create enough electricity for lighting the burner. It’s one of the tankless water heaters that I would recommend to RV owners.
A summary of its important features and the value they offer you are listed below.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Point of use water supply
The Bosch Tronic 3000 T Electric mini tank can fit seamlessly in small spaces. They have a sleek and attractive design; thereby they can be installed in any visible location minimizing the time for hot water.
- Long-lasting quality
Glass-lined material that typically lasts for 15 years. The material insulates the unit against heat loss therefore there is minimal standby heat loss. This in turn cuts down on your energy cost.
- Multiple application
Great for a wide range of locations! This unit can supply on-demand hot water needs to multiple locations. They can play as a primary water heating source for a single sink, as a supplement source to an existing heater far from the sink of a buffer tankless water heater for another heater experiencing intermittent cold water.
- Suitable for small spaces
Bosch Tronic 3000 T is lightweight and compact in size measuring 13.75 W x 13.75 H x 13.5 D Inches. They easily fit under a sink or mounted on the floor or wall. No matter the configuration, they are sure to supply you with instantaneous hot water.
Product information
- Model Number: ES4 Tronic 3000 T.
- Manufacturer: BOSCH THERMO TECHNOLOGY.
- Voltage: 120 volts
5. Atwood Mobile Products 96110 Pilot Ignition Water Heater
- Capacity is 6-gallon liquid.
- Input is 8,800 British thermal units.
- The recovery rate is 7.4 gallons per hour.
If you are looking to get a modern tankless water heater that will work for your RVs or trailer during a weekend escape pod or you might want one for a tiny house, cabin, or mobile washing, the Atwood water heater looks to strike great equipment.
With Atwood being a specialized manufacturer of water heaters for RVs with 30 years of experience in quality products, you will definitely love the Atwood Mobile pilot ignition tankless water heater.
This product can run on both gas and electricity with a capacity of 8800 BTU which is decent enough to deliver a consistently hot water supply.
The price is also taken care of without a compromise on its quality. To conclude, below is a quick summary of its key features, its benefits, and the pros and cons.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Can Run both On Gas and Electricity
Its combo design is to supply consistent hot water running both on gas and electricity with water taking just about 10 minutes.
With 8800 BTU, this unit can deliver 6.2 GPH on electricity, 11.6 GPH on LPG, and 17.8 GPH when gas and electricity are combined.
With this energy supply, you will give you a great experience when taking a shower or when you need hot water for dishes.
- Aluminum Clad Tank
The material is highly durable and is proven to resist rusting and corrosion. It’s made with a temperature and pressure relief switch for safety. With proper maintenance, the water heater can last up to 15 years.
For enhanced maximum energy efficiency, the aluminum-clad tank is insulated with thick CFC-free foam insulation, unlike the old fiberglass. This is to prevent loss of heat enabling them to conserve heat.
Product information
- Item Weight: 14.3 pounds.
- Manufacturer: Atwood Mobile Products.
- Model: 96110
6. Girard Tankless Water Heater 2GWHAM On-Demand
- No special LP gas lines or special ones.
- Regulates the burner to maintain.
- 42,000 BTUs which provides.
For an ideal RV tankless water heater, we have given the Girard 2GWHAM On Demand Tankless Water Heater careful consideration and decided to give it a nod. After digging through the depth of its features and qualities, we found that its features are ideal for a camper.
It’s a propane tankless water heater that is powerful enough to provide 42000 BTU of heating power. This energy supply is mostly ideal during the chilly winter months.
With a microprocessor that automatically detects changes in the weather pattern, it’s able to adjust the heat requirements.
Girard 2GWHAM tankless water heater is a very stable and reliable tankless water heater with other amazing qualities. For a brief description of its product features, the benefits they provide, and the pros and cons, find out below.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Energy efficient
It operates without the excessive use of energy. With a capacity of using less than amps of power in normal operation and about amps when cold weather protection is activated, this is If it is definitely a plus for you if you love to travel often.
Its microprocessor also regulates the use of energy by monitoring the weather while being consistent in providing hot water.
ECO 11 comes with a temperature /pressure relief valve installed that regulates the flow of hot water in two water fixtures, such as two sinks.
This is done by simply tapping into the cold water line and installing the water heater directly at the sink to provide hot water.
The thermostat tankless will boost the water temperature for long pipes that may connect to your sanitation or dishwashers.
To get hot water where it’s needed, when it’s needed, a better solution is to use ECO 11.
With ECO11; waiting for hot water is eliminated with its instant point of use application, unlike traditional tank water heaters which required plumbing a hot water line to every sink.
- Quiet operation
With Girard 2GWHAM tankless water heater, you will not get interrupted by unwarranted noise while relaxing, or noisy hot showers while living in your RV, or in a tiny house. Its brushless motor makes the motor run quietly.
As it runs quietly, it also simultaneously conserves both water and energy.
- Anti-freezing protection
Girard 2GWHAM tankless water heater will not waste propane thanks to its anti-freezing protection. The anti-freezing protection protects the system when it senses freezing temperatures.
In order for the anti-freezing protection system to function, your 12 volts and gas supply should remain on.
Product information
- Model Number: 2GWHAM.
- Brand: GIRARD.
- Dimensions: 36.8 x 45.2 x 37.1 cm.
7. Marey GA 10LP Power 3.1 GPM PropaneTankless Water Heater-Gas
- No electrical connection is required.
- Unlimited hot water whenever is needed.
- Provide endless hot water on demand.
The market is flooded with many slide-in options and the Marey GA 10LP Power 3.1 GPM Tankless Water Heater making on the list was a tough call. This unit got us smitten with some of the nice qualities that made us put it on our list of the best RV tankless water heaters.
From among its utilities and wealth of features, it boasts an 87% in energy efficiency and a 3.1 GPM flow rate.
From the outside, it’s compact in size but this is not a reason to doubt its performance capabilities because it will function just as optimally as any other RV tankless water heater.
Besides, it has a lot of positive reviews from experienced RV owners.
For about Marey GA 10LP, read below for a quick summary of its product features and benefits.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Runs on either propane or natural gas
Its combo design is to supply consistent hot water running both on natural gas and propane.
With 8800 BTU, this unit can deliver 11.6 GPH on LPG and 17.8 GPH when natural gas and propane are combined.
With this energy supply, you will give you a great experience when taking a shower or when you need hot water for dishes.
It’s an on-demand tankless water heater that is operational whenever hot water is needed, unlike traditional tank water heaters.
- Energy efficient
Once the Marey GA 10LP is installed, it’s self gas modulation technology self-adjusts the gas usage based on variation in water flow and incoming water temperature. The self-adjusting ensures consistency of water without overheating or not heating enough depending on the weather.
It’ll heat water really fast with BTU and the flow rate is good enough to give you good quality shower whenever you want to. With this water heater, you can save up to 40% of both water and energy.
- Easy to install
It’s very easy to install in your RV due to its detailed instruction and wiring diagrams.
Product information
- Dimensions: 6.9 x 13.6 x 23.6 inches.
- Part Number: MARGA10LP.
- Size: Liquid Propane.
8. Camplux 2.64 GPM 10L Outdoor Digital Portable RV Propane Gas -Tankless Water Heater
- Flame Failure Device, anti-Freezing.
- Eco/Full Switch Function.
- Complex Water Heater Comes with Everything.
For van life lovers, you will want to try Camplux 10 L outdoor 2.64 because there is plenty to like in this small and relatively affordable tankless water heater.
Key for the outdoor experience, the Camplux water heater is made with everything you will need plus CSA approved gas regulator.
Its maximum power output of 68000 BTU/ hour assures you that you will get an instant endless supply of hot water easily wherever you are.
To double the tankless water heater for an outdoor experience, it’s portable enough to be used simply around the house.
To learn more about the Camplux water heater, we have highlighted its key features and benefits
What our team likes and its benefits
- Gas Powered, Compact, and Light Weight
As a gas tankless water heater, it will save you 30% of energy cost because gas uses high power burners to quickly heat water as it runs through the heat exchanger. Its ignition is with 2 D cell batteries, which is great for gas and off-grid situations.
They are also energy-efficient units capable to give a maximum power output of 68,000 BTU/ hour with 11.5% energy-saving technology.
The unit takes up less space than conventional types measuring 12.8 by 6.1 by 21.65 inches.
- Anti-Freezing Protection, Flame Failure, and Dry Combustion Protection
These units are exposed to rain and possibly freezing temperatures that’s why they are inbuilt with extra weatherproofing to ensure they are tightly sealed and protected.
With innovative combustion technology and advanced multiple protection for safety purposes, this unit is highly suitable for beach or family vacations and mountain cabins
- Simple Control Dials for Temperature and Pressure
The complex 10L operating range is elevations above 2000 ft. With simple dials, you can control the water pressure ranging from 3.6～to 110.0 PSI with the ideal operating range being 2.64 GPM.
Product information
- Average Battery Life: 180 days.
- Material: Iron, Metal, Copper.
- Manufacturer: Complex.
- Dimensions: 12.8 x 7.1 x 21.654inches
9. Eccotemp L5 Portable Summerville SC USA, Outdoor Tankless Water Heater
- Runs on a standard 20 lb. liquid.
- Being Designed in Summerville SC USA.
- Lightweight, easy to Carry, and Compact.
The Eccotemp L5 is a truly ingenious rig. Outwardly, it looks like a rugged tankless water heater but if you take a look at it, you will realize it poses a wealth of utility and features.
It’s an American product designed and developed in Summerville SC with a CSA certificate.
This product is meant for outdoor use because the design is lightweight and easy to use. It’s a suitable tool for camping; traveling in an RV or anywhere else where you may need an instant and reliable continuous supply of hot water.
The Eccotemp L5 Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater is the original and best-selling portable propane water heater on the market today.
To learn more about Eccotemp L5 check out below for more of its key features and benefits.
What our team likes and its benefits
- Gas Powered 20 Lb Portable Tankless Water Heater
If you are off-grid or you are in a location where electricity is not readily available, the Eccotemp L5 20 lb heater will run perfectly heating your water. The liquid propane tank is also equipped with an electric ignition which is ideal also if you use supplementary 2 “D” cell battery power.
- Easy To Use Temperature and Pressure Control
Rated at 1.5 GPM, the Eccotemp L5 produces hot water with water pressure as low as 20PSI and achieves temperatures ranging from 50-140 degrees F. Simply adjust the water and gas flow by dialing to achieve your desired temperature.
Eccotemp L5 has an operating propane gas pressure that operates at 0.4PSI which is good for washing your car, washing your boat, taking a hot shower, or even washing your horse and the will help make daily tasks much easier.
- Hot Water On-Demand
With Eccotemp L5, time is of the essence. It won’t waste your time while heating your water.
Unlike conventional water heaters, where you wait for hot water to travel from your old tank to your shower, Eccotemp recirculates hot water through your pipes to get you hot water fast.
You can waste the equivalent of twenty-four 16-ounce bottles of water every time with conventional water heaters
Product information
- Item Weight: 11.2 pounds.
- Dimensions: 11.4 x 4.8 x 15.9 inches.
- Manufacturer: Eccotemp Systems, LLC
10. Rinnai V Series Hot Tankless HE Water Heater (Outdoor Installation)
- Residential Factory Warranty – 120 months.
- Endless hot water for your entire home.
- Up to 5.3 GPM hot water flow rate.
Germany has Bosch. The US has Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters. Rinnai water heaters have been in business for nearly 100 years and there is a reason; their unsurpassed innovation and quality.
Take its Rinnai V series HE tankless water heater.
It’s a high-efficiency tankless water heater that uses natural gas to supply you with continuous hot water. Its Smart technological advancements such as Wi-Fi monitoring can monitor the efficiency of your tankless water heater before you ever experience a break in service.
Let’s look at a quick summary of its key features and benefits and its pros and cons and conclude on our list of the best RV tankless water heaters.
What our team likes and its benefits
- 100 years of Confidence
With Rinnai, you can be sure of its capacity to supply all of your water heating needs. It’s reputable to be the #1 selling gas tankless water heating brand in North America.
Numerous customers have reported that the unit heats water very efficiently and it runs hot in under a minute. Using the unit is also easy. It’s run by using a knob. Just turning the knob will set the temperature.
- Endless on Demand Hot Water
Get assured of a continuous supply of hot water with Rinnai V65eN HE tankless water heater whether you’re camping with the family, spending a day at the lake, or lounging around the pool.
Its average flow rate of 6.5 GPM is enough to put an end to scheduling the time between taking a piping hot shower, doing a load of laundry, or running a dishwasher because it will never run out of hot water.
Sustainable Reliability
It’s a smart investment for now and in the future to have Rinnai V65eN HE Tankless because every part of a Rinnai Tankless water heater is replicable. With this product, you’ll save money because the average life expectancy is 20 years, and also the components can be easily swapped vs. buying a whole new system.
Product information
- Color: V53DeP – Propane/5.3 GPM.
- Item Weight: 33 pounds.
- Manufacturer: Rinnai
FAQS
What Is An RV Tankless Water Heater?
Tankless water heaters for RV are compact in size and provide a steady flow of hot water for as long as you need it.
The tankless water heater is known to be more energy-efficient than conventional water heaters because the tankless models eliminate the need for reheating stored water.
There are many brands of tankless water heaters each having different performance capabilities, but the most important quality is the ability to save energy while offering on-demand hot water.
Tankless water heaters are very energy efficient. The Energy Factor, EF, tankless water heaters are over .81. By comparison, a standard traditional tank-type water heater has an EF of around .62, so you can see that they are inherently more efficient than a storage type water heater.
A higher EF is one of many reasons why tankless water heaters cost less to operate. A typical RV tankless water heater has no standing pilot light, no stand by loss, and the burners modulate to maintain maximum efficiency.
Their mode of operation is also simple. When the faucet is opened, the water flows through the unit, which heats it to the temperature you’ve digitally set. When the faucet is closed, it automatically goes to standby mode.
What Are the Most Trusted RV Water Heater Brands in the market?
The best appliances that are Energy Star qualified, based on the latest technology, engineering, available features, and benefits it offers are just as mentioned above.
- Eco Smart Eco 11 RV Electric Tankless Water Heater
A High quality electric tankless heater that’s “green” with reduced energy usage, water consumption, NOx, and CO2 emission.
In builder’s magazine “The Most Popular Products” eco-smart company has been consistently voted among the best of all manufacturers.
- Precisontemp RV-550 Tankless Water Heater- Wall Vented
This one is also among the top five brands because of its performance and efficiency, available features, and reliability.
It uses an Incomplete Combustion Avoidance Device (ICAD system) to monitor and optimize gas combustion. By turning the water heater off, carbon monoxide production is prevented.
Overheat Limiter Wrap or fire protection sensor is used to protect against the risk of fire, by surrounding the combustion chamber with a plastic film and detecting overheating around the heat exchanger.
Flame Failure Protection and Anti-boil Protector are the other two safety elements that are designed and implemented in the unit and your protection.
- Suburban RV Manufacturing SW6DE RV WTR HTR 1 PK
This unit is an award-winning water heating system and certified by GAMA, an independent testing agency for government standards and certifications.
Suburban products are equipped with a sensing burner technology and the Exclusive Guardian OFW, overheat film wrap, both of them designed for safety and better performance.
- Bosch Electric Mini-Tankless Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4)
This unit was designed to be powered off by a standard 120V AC. It features an external control dial that allows you to accurately adjust the temperature range, as well as the temperature and pressure relief valve.
The interior glass lining insulates the unit providing superior insulation and corrosion resistance.
- Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Tankless Water Heater
Girard tankless water heaters are propane-fueled water heaters that can be used comfortably, providing enough BTU. It is standing-out features include a brushless motor that is designed to operate smoothly.
It also features anti-freezing protection, to ensure it continues being operational during cold chilly months.
- Marey GA 10LP Power 3.1 GPM Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater
It’s an impressively compact and easy-to-install RV tankless water heater, that can provide hot water on demand with a flow rate of 3.1GPM.
It can run on either propane or natural gas. With an impressive 87% energy efficiency rating, it’s a good water heater for most campers.
- Atwood RV Mobile Products 96110 Pilot Ignition Water Heater
This unit is capable of running on both gas and electricity. With an impressive 95% energy efficiency, this unit will save a lot of energy. They are also made of aluminum-clad that is rust and corrosion-resistant. This also makes them last a long time before planning to buy a new unit.
- Things to Consider When Buying Tankless Water Heater for RV
Tankless water heaters are a great way to provide all the hot water you need for an outdoor pod. They also provide a way for you to reduce the amount of money you spend each month on energy costs. Both gas and electric tankless heater models are proven to be efficient, cost-effective, long-lasting, and a good investment.
While both gas and electric tankless water heaters are an effective way of providing hot water, they do have some differences that you need to compare.
Installing a new tankless water heater is not inexpensive, so you want to make sure you select the right one.
Below are things to look for when buying an RV tankless water heater.
- Trusted brand
The first thing to consider is the name brand. Has the company been manufacturing tankless water heaters for a long time or is this a new division of their company?
An established company will have spent a lot of resources on the research and development of its products thus yielding an overall better product.
- Efficiency
While tankless water heaters are very efficient, keep in mind that the best choice models in this department are the ones with combined technology because it combines both the technology of using gas and electricity.
It takes electricity longer to heat the water than when using gas. However, according to sources electricity has a higher energy of 99 % than gas which is 85%.
Moreover, it frequently costs more in monthly energy expenses to use a gas model than an electric one.
The higher EF the more energy-efficient the tankless water heater is.
Warranty
Using a comparable brand, model, and size; electric tankless water heaters typically have longer warranty periods compared to gas models this is because electric tankless water heaters include the latest technology.
Having longer warranty periods means that the manufacturer has confidence in its product.
- Portability
If you may want to choose an outdoor tankless water heater model, it should be lightweight enough especially if you plan to install it yourself. You should be able to easily hang the unit using the mounting bracket on the top or back of the unit.
Some tankless water heaters are very difficult and dangerous to install. This will likely increase the cost of a professional installation.
- The Environment
Do gas tankless water heaters use up a valuable resource that we need to conserve? This is a highly debated issue.
Many environmentalists feel the gas models pollute a natural resource that should be preserved.
When it comes to the area of overall safety, research testing has shown electric tankless water heaters are safer to use.
- Durability
While the minimum life span of a properly installed tankless water heater is 10 years, most of them last even longer. The life span is going to depend on a variety of factors including the size, how it was installed, the amount of corrosion and mineral build-up that accumulates in the brand, and the model.
Comparing similar sizes and brands, electric models have an average life span of 25 years with the span for a gas model being 20 years.
- Capacity
It’s important to estimate the level of water consumption to understand what size unit you need and select a unit that will sustain that capacity. Capacity is based on the gallons per minute (GPM). Most standard RVs have a capacity of 2 to 4 gallons per minute.
You will need to calculate the number of fixtures and their flow rates, which will run at the same time. For example, running 1 shower (2.5 GPM) and 1 bathroom faucet (1 GPM) at the same time requires 3.5 GPM of hot water.
Also, the temperature rise (TR) the unit can produce. If the mainline has a temperature of 55 F and you need to have the water heated to 110 F you would need a TR of 55 F.
However, there is no set standard on the TR. Manufacture “A” may rate a unit at 6.5 GPM with a TR of 45 F and Manufacture “B” may rate their unit at 6.5 GPM with a TR of 55 F. Manufacturer “B” is going to be a better fit for your needs if you need a TR of 55 F. it’s important to review the manufacturer’s TR graphs.
British Thermal Unit (BTU) is one more rating that manufacturers use to rate their tankless water heaters. A BTU is the amount of energy needed to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
In conjunction with the BTU rating, you will want to know if the gas valve is modulating. A modulating gas value adjusts the gas flow to match the needed energy to heat the needed water. For example, if you only need 1 GPM of water the unit will only burn enough gas to heat the 1 GPM of water.
Finally, you will want to know the max temperature a unit can heat water too. Most units will max out at 120 F. Some of the larger units can go up to 185 F. Most households will not need anything over 120 F, but you might have special circumstances to merit such a high water temperature.
Is it possible to install The Water Heaters at an altitude of 5,000 Or 6,000 Feet above Sea Level?
RV Tankless water heaters can be programmed to operate at altitudes up to 9,840 feet. Optional programming chips are available for altitudes greater than 3,280 feet above sea level.
One programming chip is available for altitudes between 3,280 – 6,560 feet, and a second optional chip is available for elevations between 6,560 – 9840 feet.
The chips are installed on the water heater circuit board (PCB). This is designed to ensure proper combustion at these higher altitudes.
How Much Can I Expect To Save On Energy Cost If I Install an RV Tankless Water Heater?
Test results have shown that a tankless gas water heater costs about 40% less to work than an electric water heater, and about 30% less than a natural gas water heater.
Thanks to government subsidies, tax credits, tax rebates, and sometimes additional local utility rebates tankless water heaters can compete favorably with traditional tank water heaters.
Their initial cost has come down and the payback on energy savings is often very substantial. According to various statistics, 30% to 40% of the energy cost is consumed by the water heater. Tankless water heaters can cut this by more than 50%.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of tankless water heaters
Pros
- Energy efficiency
Today’s units carry the energy star classification. The gas burner or electric heater modulates the energy, to the desired level to achieve the set temperature.
A typical RV tankless water heater lasts 3 times longer than a traditional tank water heater with no noticeable degradation in performance or efficiency over time.
Although tankless water heater uses almost the same amount of gas as a traditional water heater, it’s their energy efficiency in heating water instantaneously is what makes them better.
- Tankless Water Heaters are Safe
A tankless water heater is used only when hot water is needed. The gas burner is electronically ignited and constantly monitors the outside temperature and activates its antifreeze circuitry preventing a pipe freeze when needed.
It also monitors incoming water pressure, and flow and regulates outgoing hot water pressure and flow. Through this, the highly efficient burner and heat exchanger achieve high efficiency and save energy.
Also in case of a malfunction the unit shuts itself off and provides diagnostic information.
Besides, Tankless water heaters are also very green products and help reduce the carbon footprint.
- Unlimited Hot Water
An unlimited supply of hot water is available as it is heated as it passes through the system.
- Less Physical space is needed
Most tankless systems can be mounted on a wall or even internally in a building’s structure. This means less physical space has to be dedicated to the process. Even systems that can’t be mounted on walls take up less space than a tank-type heater.
- Reduced risk of water damage
No stored water means there is no risk of water damage from a tank failure or rupture, although the risk of damage from a pipe or fitting failure remains. Incorrectly piping in either the hot or cold lines to the tankless systems can result in water damage though.
- Long Term energy savings
Although the tankless systems are likely to cost more initially, in the long term they can result in cost savings, in some instances up to 50% savings. As water is heated as and when it is necessary, there’s no need to store any hot water.
With a tank, water is kept warm all day, even if it never gets used and heat will get lost through the tank walls. Excellent quality insulation can significantly reduce this.
Cons
- Minimum flow rate
A minimum flow rate that is usually around 0.5 gallons per minute is required for the water heater to operate. The problems arise when you want to use hot water for as little use as shaving. A very low flow rate causes the tankless water heater either not to come on at all or to come on and turn off again quickly.
Here the water mixture for hot and cold water is preset also known as cold water sandwiching and the volume is increased or decreased. The mixture ratio of cold and hot water is set according to the storage tank water heater temperature which is higher than the tankless water heater.
Here you’ve got potentially a situation where there won’t be enough flow rate to keep the unit on and the hot water coming from the shower won’t be hot enough.
It is easy to fix and adjust the mixture ratio of the valve to match the tankless water heater temperature. This situation might not be directly related to the tankless water heater but it affects its operation of it.
A tankless heater will send cold water first to gauge what kind of temperature is there. The hot water may not feed if people just need a little bit of water, such as when shaving.
Since tankless heaters regulate by electric controls, if there are a power outage homeowners will lose hot water.
How to install an RV water heater
Since tankless water heaters are quite sophisticated appliances the most critical aspect is their correct installation. They should be installed by licensed, factory-certified, and experienced professionals.
By far the most installed type of RV tankless water heater is the one powered by natural gas.
Electric models aren’t very economical because of mostly higher electric rates and potentially higher installation costs.
Electric tankless water heaters usually have a high electrical power demand and should need supply circuits of 100 A or more amperes.
This would require an upgrade to the existing electric system and that can be costly. Smaller electric tankless water heaters can be easily used because they require much less power and are very useful.
Conclusion
The idea of an RV tankless water heater is to heat the water only when you need it and almost instantaneously, so no storage tank for hot water.
Just other innovations tankless water heaters went through many designs over the decades. Most of the tankless water heaters were designed to be used at the point of use.
If you install an electric or gas-powered unit at the point you needed you would get hot water automatically after a few seconds whenever you turn the hot water faucet open.
Energy Efficiencies of 80% are common with tankless water heaters. This is largely due to knowing a storage tank with its associated standby heat loss. If not so, the overall efficiency would be much higher for electric tankless water heaters as well as for gas tankless RV water heaters.
Related Article:
- Best RV Water Pump Reviews
- Best Tankless Water Heater for Large
- Electric vs. Gas Tankless Water Heaters comparison
Get in touch with him on Facebook (James Smith), twitter (@ jamessmith) and YouTube (James Smith).
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