The Suburban SW10DELC is built for the way RVers actually travel. At a full-hookup campground, plug in and let the 1,440-watt electric element do the work quietly and efficiently – no propane consumed, no generator running. On the road or boondocking, fire up the 12,000 BTU gas burner for fast, reliable hot water. When you need hot water in a hurry – guests arriving, everyone showering at once – run gas and electric simultaneously for a combined 16.2 gallons per hour recovery rate that's faster than any other water heater in its class.2-Year WarrantyMade in USADSI Ignition
Fast LP gas heating on the road
Campground power, no propane
Industry-leading fast recovery
Plug-in 120V – no hardwiring
Tip: Use combined mode when you need hot water quickly – perfect for campsite arrival, morning routines with multiple users, or after heavy use.
The SW10DELC uses Suburban's proven Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) system for LP gas operation. When the interior switch calls for gas heat, the DSI module creates an electronic spark to light the burner instantly – no pilot light to maintain, no relighting after travel, no wasted propane sitting at idle.
What DSI Means for You: DSI is controlled by a wall-mounted interior switch (sold separately). Flip it on, the burner lights automatically. Flip it off, the gas shuts off completely. It's the same reliable technology found in Suburban's premium gas appliances – simple, safe, and effective.
No Pilot Light Advantages: No propane consumed when not heating, no pilot flame to blow out in windy conditions or after travel, no manual relighting procedure – just automatic hot water on demand.
The "C" in SW10DELC stands for Cord – this model includes a 120V power cord and relay that allows the electric heating element to simply plug into a standard 120V outlet or power management system. This is the key difference from the hardwired SW10DE/SW10DEL models.
SW10DELC Model Code Breakdown:
The relay allows the electric element to be controlled via the same interior switch as the gas burner, giving you a clean, integrated user experience.
SW10DELC (This Model – Corded): • Includes 120V power cord and relay • Electric element plugs into outlet or RV power distribution • Simpler installation for electric connection • Ideal for replacement installs where 120V outlet exists SW10DEL (Hardwired – Different Model): • Electric element connects via hardwired 120V leads • Requires direct wiring into RV electrical panel • Preferred for OEM factory-wired installations Note: Both models fit the same cutout and deliver identical heating performance. The difference is only in how 120V power connects to the electric element.
The 1,440-watt Incoloy electric heating element is specifically engineered for the voltage variations common at campgrounds and with RV generators. Incoloy is a nickel-iron-chromium alloy that resists corrosion and scale buildup far better than standard steel elements, resulting in longer element life and consistent heating performance.
Why Incoloy Matters: Standard steel heating elements corrode and fail faster in the mineral-rich water common across different campground water supplies. The Incoloy element resists this corrosion, maintaining efficiency and reliability across years of use in varying water conditions.
Electric-Only Advantage: Running on electric at campgrounds lets you conserve your LP propane supply for cooking, heating, or refrigeration – or simply save money by using included shore power instead of burning gas.
Porcelain Lining: The interior of the steel tank is coated with porcelain to create a smooth, corrosion-resistant surface that protects the tank from the minerals and electrochemical reactions that cause bare steel tanks to fail prematurely. Properly maintained, a Suburban porcelain-lined tank can last two to three times longer than the 3-year limited warranty period.
Pressure-Tested Twice: Every tank is pressure-tested twice during manufacturing to verify structural integrity before it ever ships. This extra step ensures you're getting a tank that meets Suburban's standards for safe, long-term RV use.
Replaceable Anode Rod: The magnesium anode rod sacrificially absorbs electrochemical corrosion that would otherwise attack the tank lining and steel. As the anode rod corrodes instead of the tank, it dramatically extends tank life. The rod is inspectable and replaceable – a simple annual maintenance task that protects your investment.
Copolymer Foam Insulation: The insulation jacket is specifically molded to fit the contours of the tank, minimizing air gaps and heat loss. This keeps your water hot longer between heating cycles, reducing how often the burner or element needs to run.
The SW10DELC (5330A) is a drop-in replacement for these Suburban 10-gallon models (same 16-3/8" × 16-3/8" × 20-1/2" cutout): • SW10P, SW10PR, SW10PE, SW10PER (pilot light models – upgrade to DSI) • SW10D, SW10DE, SW10DEC, SW10DEM, SW10DM (DSI models) • SW10DEL, SW10DELC (same series – direct replacement) Note: This model does not include the motor-aid (M) function. If your existing furnace uses motor-aid, select the SW10DEM model instead.
All gas controls, electrical connections, and the DSI module are enclosed in a one-piece, die-formed metal housing. This protects sensitive components from road debris, moisture, and weather while still allowing easy access for inspection, service, or connection to the gas line and electrical supply.
Exterior Gas Line Connection: The gas inlet is on the exterior of the unit for straightforward connection to the RV's LP gas supply. No interior access is required for gas hookup.
Large Diameter Drain: The generously sized tank drain allows for fast, complete flushing during seasonal winterization or maintenance – an important advantage over smaller drain connections on competing water heaters.
Pressure Relief Valve: The factory-installed pressure and temperature relief valve automatically releases if tank pressure or temperature reaches unsafe levels, protecting the tank and your RV from damage.
Professional Installation Required: Gas appliance installation must be performed by a qualified RV technician or licensed gas appliance installer. Connections Required: • LP gas supply line (exterior connection) • 12V DC power for DSI ignition module • 120V AC power cord (included) for electric element • Cold water inlet and hot water outlet connections • Pressure/temperature relief valve drain line Interior Switch: The DSI gas ignition (and electric element relay) is controlled by a separately sold interior wall switch – required for operation. Access Door: Exterior access door (standard or flush mount) sold separately. Choose to match your RV's exterior profile and color. Cutout Dimensions: 16-3/8" H × 16-3/8" W × 20-1/2" D – fits same opening as all prior Suburban 10-gallon models. Installation Note: Do not install below a slide-out or under an overhang. Unit must have a clear, unobstructed exterior vent area.
Temperature-Regulated Thermostat: The thermostat maintains water at 135°F (57°C) – hot enough for effective use while staying within safe operating parameters. This is a fixed, non-adjustable temperature preset. Always test water temperature before use to avoid scalding.
Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve: Automatically opens if tank pressure or temperature exceeds safe limits, safely discharging water to prevent dangerous overpressure buildup.
DSI Flame Monitoring: The electronic ignition module monitors for a confirmed flame after ignition. If ignition fails, the gas valve shuts off automatically – no unburned gas accumulation.
Foam Insulation Heat Containment: The copolymer insulation jacket keeps heat in the tank and away from surrounding cabinet materials, reducing heat transfer to adjacent RV structure.
The 5330A water heater unit does NOT include all components needed for a complete installation. You will also need: • Interior On/Off Switch (required) – Controls both the DSI gas burner and electric element relay. Available in single or dual switch configurations. • Exterior Access Door (required) – Standard or flush mount styles available in white or black to match your RV exterior. • Mounting Screws and Sealing Tape – For securing unit and sealing against exterior wall. • Anode Rod – Already installed from the factory; spares recommended for ongoing maintenance. Shop all compatible accessories to complete your installation.
Use Gas Mode When: • Traveling between campgrounds (fastest recovery on the road) • Dry camping or boondocking without shore power • Running on generator and want to conserve generator load • Quick recovery needed after heavy hot water use Use Electric Mode When: • Connected to 30-amp or 50-amp shore power at a campground • Trying to conserve LP propane for cooking, refrigerator, or heating • Extended stays where overnight electric heating makes sense • You want silent, flame-free hot water heating Use Combined Mode When: • You need hot water fast (16.2 GPH recovery) • Multiple people are showering back-to-back • You arrived at camp and need hot water immediately • Water demand is high and you have both LP and shore power available
• You want maximum flexibility – gas, electric, or both • You camp at hookup sites and want to use shore power • You also boondock and need reliable LP gas heating • You want the fastest possible hot water recovery • You're replacing a Suburban 10-gallon pilot or DSI unit • You prefer a plug-in electric connection over hardwiring • Your RV has an existing 16-3/8" × 16-3/8" cutout
Direct replacement (same cutout, same performance): SW10DEL, SW10DELC Upgrade replacement (same cutout, adds DSI + electric): SW10P, SW10PR, SW10PE, SW10PER SW10D, SW10DE, SW10DEC, SW10DEM, SW10DM Not compatible with motor-aid installations – use SW10DEM if motor-aid is required.
Industry Pioneer: Suburban pioneered direct spark ignition and horizontal-vent water heaters for RVs – trusted since the late 1960s Made in USA: Manufactured in Suburban's American facility Double Pressure Tested: Every tank pressure-tested twice before shipment Parts Availability: Elements, anode rods, relays, and service parts widely available Nationwide Service: Authorized dealer and service network across the US 2-Year Warranty: Covers the complete unit; 3-year on the porcelain-lined tank
• Gas appliances must be installed by qualified RV technicians • Water heater must be filled with water before operating • Always test water temperature before use – 135°F can scald • Do not install below a slide-out or under any overhang • Do not install facing front of RV • Test all gas connections for leaks after installation • Inspect and replace anode rod annually for tank protection • Drain and winterize tank when temperatures drop below freezing
• Professional installation required – Gas appliances must be installed by a qualified service technician • Fill tank with water before operating – Running a dry tank will damage the electric element and void warranty • Water is hot – 135°F set temperature can cause scalding; always test before use, especially with children present • Access door required – Unit must have a properly sealed exterior door; do not operate without door installed • Interior switch required – DSI ignition and electric relay will not operate without the separately sold interior switch • Gas leak testing mandatory – All LP connections must be tested with approved leak detection solution after installation • Do not install below slide-out – Vent must be free and clear of any overhang or slide-out mechanism • Winterize when freezing – Drain tank and blow out water lines when temperatures drop below 32°F to prevent damage