Embarking on an RV adventure promises freedom and flexibility, but the luxury of a hot shower shouldn’t be sacrificed. Traditional RV water heaters, with their limited capacity, can often fall short, especially for extended stays or multiple users. This is where tankless RV water heaters revolutionize the experience, providing instant and continuous hot water whenever you need it.
Unlike conventional tank models that store and heat a finite amount of water, tankless systems heat water on demand as it flows through the unit. This not only means you won’t run out of hot water but also offers potential benefits like reduced energy consumption and saved space inside your rig. Choosing the right tankless unit for your specific RV needs, however, requires understanding the various options available. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the features, benefits, and considerations to help you find the best RV tankless water heater for your travels.
1. Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater
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The Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater is a **great choice for RV owners seeking instant hot water**. Its high flow rate, up to 3.9 GPM, provides a consistent hot water supply on demand, eliminating wait times. Propane-powered and requiring a 12V power supply, it’s compatible with most RVs. Its compact size (15″ x 15″) simplifies installation, especially when replacing existing tank water heaters using separately available door kits. The multi-function remote control allows monitoring of gas usage and voltage. The staged combustion maintains a steady temperature range of 95°F-124°F, enhancing comfort and propane efficiency. Safety features include a forced exhaust fan, automatic gas shut-off, and an anti-freeze device. What we like: **high flow rate**, **convenient remote control**, and **robust safety features**. What needs improvement: The door needs to be included instead of sold separately to avoid additional cost and installation complexity.
2. FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater
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The FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater, InstaShower 8 Plus, is designed for RV enthusiasts, **particularly those traveling to high altitudes**. It functions effectively up to 9,800 feet, a significant advantage for mountainous regions. Its flow rate of up to 2.9 gallons per minute and 55,000 BTU heat output ensure a continuous hot water supply, allowing multiple users to shower without quickly running out of hot water. Installation is straightforward, replacing various existing water heaters, and a pressure relief valve and wired remote controller add convenience. CSA certification ensures safety with anti-freezing, overheat protection, and automatic gas shut-off. What we like: **High altitude performance**, **easy installation**, and **comprehensive safety features**. What needs improvement: **Reliance on propane requires careful fuel management**, and potential users should ensure their RV’s plumbing can handle the maximum flow rate.
3. InstaShower 8 Plus
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The Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater offers strong features for RV use. Its high flow rate, up to 3.9 gallons per minute, ensures a **consistent hot water supply**, ideal for longer showers. Operating on 12V DC, it includes an anti-freeze device for colder climates. The multi-function remote control allows you to monitor gas usage, voltage, and anti-freeze device activity. Safety features include automatic gas shut-off and a forced exhaust fan. CSA certification further ensures reliability and safety. What we like: **High flow rate, convenient remote control**, and **robust safety features**. What needs improvement: The unit should include the door, currently sold separately, and installation may require adjustments for older models.
4. Camplux 5L RV Tankless Water Heater
Overall Review: Camplux 5L RV Tankless Water Heater
The Camplux 5L RV Tankless Water Heater is designed as a portable, on-demand hot water solution specifically catering to the needs of RVers, campers, and those with cabins or outdoor showers. Its compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable and easy to set up in various locations. It’s generally straightforward to install, requiring just a standard propane connection, water inlet, and outlet. While providing instant hot water, it’s important to manage expectations regarding the flow rate; it’s suitable for single, low-flow tasks like washing dishes or a quick rinse, rather than simultaneously supplying multiple fixtures or long, high-pressure showers. Safety features like overheat and tip-over protection are valuable additions for peace of mind in mobile or outdoor environments. Overall, it’s a practical and efficient unit for basic hot water needs when space and portability are priorities, offering a convenient alternative to traditional tank heaters for small-scale use.
What We Like
- Compact and Portable: Its small size and light weight make it easy to transport and install in tight spaces, ideal for RVs and camping.
- Instant Hot Water: Provides hot water on demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank and heating time for small tasks.
- Easy to Install and Use: Setup is relatively simple, requiring basic connections for water and propane.
- Safety Features: Includes built-in safety mechanisms like flame failure, overheat, and anti-tilt protection.
- Good for Basic Needs: Sufficient for washing hands, dishes, or a quick, low-flow shower.
What We Don’t Like
- Limited Flow Rate: Cannot handle multiple fixtures simultaneously and may struggle with high-pressure showerheads.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Maintaining a consistent temperature can be challenging depending on water flow and ambient conditions.
- Sensitive to Wind: Can be affected by windy conditions outdoors, potentially impacting performance or operation.
5. Girard 2GWHAM RV Tankless Water Heater
The Girard 2GWHAM RV Tankless Water Heater is a popular choice for RVers seeking a modern hot water solution. It eliminates the traditional bulky tank, offering the significant benefit of **endless hot water** on demand, perfect for longer showers or multiple users. This not only saves valuable space and reduces weight in your RV but also means you’re not heating water constantly when you don’t need it, potentially offering **energy efficiency**. Users generally find the unit provides a **consistent temperature** once flow is established and appreciate the **simple digital interface** for setting their desired heat. While the initial cost is typically higher than a tank model, the convenience and performance upgrade make it a **valuable investment** for many mobile lifestyles.
What We Like
- **Endless Hot Water:** Provides continuous hot water as long as water and fuel are available.
- **Compact Size & Weight:** Saves significant space and reduces overall RV weight compared to tank heaters.
- **Energy Efficient:** Heats water only when needed, conserving propane and power.
- **Consistent Temperature:** Generally provides stable hot water output once flow is steady.
- **Simple Operation:** Easy digital controls for setting desired temperature.
What We Don’t Like
- **Requires Minimum Flow:** Needs adequate water pressure and flow rate to activate and maintain heat.
- **Potential Temperature Fluctuations:** Rapid changes in water flow (like turning a faucet partially off) can cause brief temperature shifts.
- **Higher Upfront Cost:** Initial purchase price is typically more than a standard tank heater.
- **Altitude/Cold Sensitivity:** Can sometimes be affected by very high altitudes or extremely cold incoming water temperatures, potentially requiring flow adjustments.
Buying guide
Buying Guide
Choosing the right unit for your home or application requires careful consideration of several factors. Evaluating each aspect based on your specific needs will ensure you select a product that provides optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.
Key Features to Look For
When evaluating different models, begin by identifying the essential features that align with your requirements. For a system like a water heater, this might include its heating capacity (measured in BTUs for gas or wattage for electric), the flow rate it can handle (gallons per minute, GPM), and the temperature rise it can achieve at a given flow rate. Consider smart features such as digital temperature controls, remote monitoring via an app, or self-diagnostic systems that can alert you to potential issues. Safety features like overheating protection, pressure relief valves, and combustion safety systems (for gas units) are also paramount. Additional convenient features could include freeze protection for units installed in colder climates or hard water treatment options to minimize scale buildup. **Identifying the specific technical specifications and smart/safety features that match your usage patterns and environmental conditions is crucial** to narrowing down your options effectively.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a significant factor, especially considering the long-term operational costs. Look for units with high Energy Factor (EF) ratings or Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) ratings, which indicate how efficiently the unit converts energy into hot water. For electric models, also consider their wattage and voltage requirements relative to their output. Gas units should have efficient combustion systems and potentially modulating burners that adjust output based on demand. Products certified by programs like Energy Star often meet higher efficiency standards, potentially qualifying for rebates or tax credits. While high-efficiency units might have a higher upfront cost, the **long-term savings on utility bills can significantly offset this initial investment** over the product’s lifespan, making efficiency a key component of the total cost of ownership.
Installation Requirements
Understanding the installation requirements before purchasing is vital to avoid unexpected costs or complications. Consider the type of energy source available (natural gas, propane, electric) and ensure the unit is compatible. For gas units, verify venting requirements – some require specific types of venting (e.g., direct vent, power vent), and location relative to outside walls or roofs is critical. Electric units need appropriate voltage and amperage wiring, which may require upgrading your electrical panel. Physical space and mounting options are also important; determine if the unit needs to be wall-mounted, requires a specific clearance, or fits in its intended location. **Consulting the manufacturer’s installation manual or a qualified professional beforehand** can help assess if your home meets the necessary criteria or if modifications are needed, which will impact the overall project cost and timeline.
Water Flow Rate
The required water flow rate (typically measured in Gallons Per Minute or GPM) is a critical performance metric, particularly for on-demand systems like tankless water heaters. This determines how many fixtures (showers, faucets, appliances) can operate simultaneously while still receiving hot water at the desired temperature. Your peak hot water demand will dictate the necessary flow rate. For instance, a home with two simultaneous showers might require a higher GPM than a small apartment with only one. The required flow rate is also affected by the desired temperature rise – heating cold incoming water in winter requires more capacity and reduces the maximum achievable flow rate compared to heating warmer incoming water in summer. **Calculating your peak GPM needs based on simultaneous fixture usage** and factoring in temperature rise requirements is essential to selecting a unit that can meet your household’s demand without experiencing cold-water surges or insufficient flow.
Durability and Build Quality
Investing in a unit with robust durability and high build quality ensures a longer service life and reduces the likelihood of premature failure or costly repairs. Look for products constructed with high-quality materials resistant to corrosion and wear, such as stainless steel components, brass fittings, and durable outer casings. Check for reviews or information regarding the reliability of internal components, such as heat exchangers (often copper or stainless steel), burners, or heating elements. Manufacturer reputation and adherence to quality standards can also be indicators of durability. While less expensive units might be tempting, **a higher-quality build often translates into greater reliability, fewer maintenance issues, and a significantly longer operational lifespan**, providing better value over time.
Price and Warranty
The total cost involves not just the purchase price but also installation costs, potential accessories (like scale reducers or special vents), and long-term operating costs (energy and maintenance). Compare the upfront price of different models relative to their features, performance, and efficiency ratings. Be wary of exceptionally low prices, which might indicate lower quality or hidden costs. Review the warranty coverage carefully. A good warranty should cover the main components (like the heat exchanger) for a substantial period (often 10-15 years or more for heat exchangers on tankless units) and other parts and labor for a shorter term (typically 1-5 years). Understand what conditions might void the warranty (e.g., improper installation, lack of maintenance). **Evaluating the balance between the initial price, expected long-term costs, and the comprehensiveness of the warranty** will help you make a financially sound decision and protect your investment.
Final Thought
In conclusion, comparing these five RV tankless water heaters reveals a range of options suited for different needs, from powerful, whole-RV units to more portable solutions. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements – flow rate, installation type, and budget. After reviewing the features and performance, **my personal favorite among this selection is the Girard 2GWHAM RV Tankless Water Heater.** This is primarily due to its strong reputation within the RV community for reliability and its feature set designed specifically for consistent, on-demand hot water in a typical RV environment.