When it comes to upgrades on your RV, few things make the experience more comfortable than hot water. Whether it’s a warm shower after a day’s hiking or washing dishes after a long meal prep, having reliable hot water on board is a game changer.
As someone who’s installed and serviced countless RV water heaters over the years, I can tell you that choosing the right system isn’t always straightforward. There are several types to consider, each with its own benefits and quirks.
One of the big decisions most RVers face is whether to go tankless or stick with a traditional tank-style water heater. Tank models come with the familiarity of stored hot water, which means you can get instant access to heated water for a limited amount of time. Tankless systems, on the other hand, heat water on demand—so you won’t run out mid-shower, but they often require a bit more power or propane and come with different installation considerations.
Of course, brand reputation and installation complexity also play a key role in narrowing down your options. Certain brands like Suburban and Atwood have long been the standard in RV water heating, but newer players like Girard and Camco have brought some interesting innovations, particularly in hybrid and tankless technologies. Electric models, like those from GE, are also gaining traction among boondockers who prefer off-grid solar setups or purely electric systems.
In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the top RV water heater brands and models—including both tank and tankless options—to help you decide which upgrade suits your rig best. I’ve included details from my hands-on experience and customer feedback, focusing on real-world reliability, efficiency, and ease of use.
Best for: On-demand hot water with propane efficiency.
I first installed the Girard Tankless RV Water Heater on a 27-foot travel trailer last season, and I was impressed with how compact and efficient it was. At 42,000 BTU, it delivers rapid heating power that can keep up with several appliances or faucets simultaneously. Unlike traditional tank units that store heated water, the Girard heats water only when you need it, so running out of hot water is practically a non-issue.
From a design standpoint, the Girard is elegantly simple and space-conscious. It’s mounted on an exterior wall of the RV and vents directly outside, which frees up precious interior cabinet room. The unit features a digital control panel that lets users fine-tune water temperature between 90°F and 140°F—a nice range to accommodate preferences from warm dishwater to a steamy shower.
One feature that left a positive impression during installation was the precision venting system that Girard engineered. Proper venting is critical, especially with propane-fueled tankless systems, to avoid combustion byproducts accumulating inside the rig or causing backdraft. The girard’s coaxial venting system ensures intake and exhaust are balanced—even in windy conditions—reducing the chance of dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Girard shines as a relatively low-propane-consumption unit. Because there’s no stored water to keep warm around the clock, it avoids constant standby heat loss—which is a common energy thief in tank systems. From personal observation, RVers using this model tend to report noticeable propane savings, especially on extended trips.
On the flip side, tankless heaters like this one do require a bit of infrastructure investment. Installation can be more labor-intensive, involving new vent runs and adjustments to propane supply lines that may be undersized for the higher flow demand. For DIYers, this can be a sticking point, and I usually advise professional assistance for the initial setup.
In daily use, the only other consideration is that very low flow rates (e.g., a trickle of water) may not consistently trigger the burner, leading to cooler-than-desired water initially. This is a minor quirk common to all tankless units but can be mitigated by adjusting flow rates or temperature presets.
Overall, for Rvers seeking a compact, modern tankless propane option that prioritizes efficiency and endless hot water, the Girard 42000 BTU unit is hard to beat. It’s a smart choice for travel trailers and larger motorhomes alike—and once installed, it transforms the onboard water heating experience.
Buy Girard Tankless RV Water Heater
Best for: Traditional tank-style reliability and affordability.
Dometic has long been a stalwart in the RV appliance space, and their 6-gallon gas water heater is a workhorse that’s both familiar and trustworthy. It’s one of the first units I worked on when I started in this industry, and honestly, it’s a dependable choice that many RV owners swear by.
The 6-gallon capacity strikes a middle ground that caters well to solo travelers and couples. While it won’t power endless hot showers for a large family, it offers sufficient volume for day-to-day needs with reasonable water conservation. Heating times typically fall in the 20-30 minute range, depending on initial water temperature and ambient conditions, which is comparable to many competitors.
One thing that stands out to me about the Dometic unit is its robust construction. The tank is made from glass-lined steel to reduce corrosion risk, and it features a pilot light or, in newer models, direct spark ignition for simplified startup. This helps reduce propane usage and maintenance headaches associated with standing pilot lights.
The insulation around the tank is thick and effective, largely preventing heat loss during downtime—a major factor for energy-conscious RVers. Dometic’s water heaters also come equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR valve) for safety, which is absolutely critical for sealed water heating systems.
Installation is typically straightforward because Dometic water heaters often fit into OEM cutouts or mounting brackets. For those upgrading older models, this minimizes the plumbing and wiring work needed. Replacement parts for Dometic heaters are widely available, including anode rods, thermocouples, and igniters, which extends the life expectancy of the unit.
In real-world use, I’ve seen Dometic water heaters endure the rigors of RV travel—from vibrations on dirt roads to cold winter use in Arctic-like conditions. Users routinely report reliability and consistent performance over many years.
However, there are some inherent limitations. Traditional tank models mean you carry the added weight and space of the water mass, and once the hot water in the tank runs out, you’ll be waiting for a refill and reheat cycle. For some, this intermittent availability can mean shorter showers or staggered usage.
Overall, if you want a time-proven, cost-effective, and relatively straightforward RV water heater, the Dometic 6-gallon gas model not only meets that criterion—it has earned a reputation as a dependable partner on many journeys.
Buy Dometic Gas 6 Gallon Water Heater
Best for: Energy-saving electric and propane hybrid operation.
Innovation is often about solving competing challenges, and the Camco RV Hot Water Hybrid Heater does exactly that by combining electric and propane heating into one adaptable system. The 10-gallon tank size makes it a suitable choice for families or larger rigs looking to extend hot water availability without sacrificing flexibility.
The core benefit lies in its hybrid fuel capability. When connected to shore power, the electric element takes precedence, keeping propane untouched and saving fuel costs. Conversely, when off-grid or boondocking without power hookups, the unit automatically switches over to propane. This automatic shift is seamless, handled by an internal thermostat and relay system, meaning no fiddling with switches or settings.
Installing the Camco hybrid is a bit more involved than standard tank heaters. You’ll need access to a 120V AC circuit for the electric element, alongside propane gas lines, which means proper coordination between electrical and plumbing systems. Fortunately, the manual provides detailed installation instructions, and most experienced RV technicians find this process manageable.
The unit boasts solid insulation around the tank, which helps maintain water temperature efficiently during downtime. Based on feedback from a friend's fifth wheel where I installed one, it ran quietly and consistently, with no noticeable propane usage when plugged in at RV parks.
Because of the 10-gallon size, it’s ideal for households with up to 3-4 people or for RVers who want the peace of mind to run multiple showers, kitchen sinks, and exterior wash-down stations without worrying about running dry.
In my experience, this heater strikes a unique position in the market. Electric-only water heaters tend to be small or point-of-use, and propane-only tanks have limited fuel flexibility. The Camco hybrid provides a sensible solution that works across a broad range of camping scenarios.
Maintenance remains straightforward with routine tank flushing to prevent sediment buildup and occasional inspection of the electric element and propane components. While it might be marginally heavier and bulkier than pure propane tank heaters, the benefits of dual-fuel operation typically outweigh these considerations.
For RVers who frequently transition between campgrounds with shore power and boondocking locations, the Camco RV Hot Water Hybrid Heater offers an efficient, adaptable, and hassle-free water heating experience.
Buy Camco RV Hot Water Hybrid Heater
Best for: Versatile fuel options and dependable performance.
Suburban is practically a household name in the RV world, especially when it comes to water heaters. Their direct spark and electric models have proven themselves on thousands of RVs with a reputation for durability and ease of use.
What draws me to Suburban heaters is their modular engineering. This design philosophy simplifies repairs and diagnostics, something I’ve personally appreciated when working on rigs where quick turnaround is essential. From a DIY perspective, parts like the igniters, thermocouples, and heating elements are relatively easy to source and replace.
The direct spark ignition technology has a clear advantage over older pilot light systems. Not only does it conserve propane by firing up only when demanded, but it also reduces cold start problems and flameouts common in dusty or windy environments. This can save RVers both fuel and frustration when on the move.
Suburban offers several tank sizes, with 6 gallons being perhaps the most popular for small to mid-size rigs such as camper vans, popup campers, and lightweight trailers. This size provides a good balance, delivering enough hot water for daily needs while occupying minimal cabinetry space.
Another benefit is the availability of electric-only versions. These cater especially to RVers who stay on hookups for extended periods and want to minimize propane use. Their electric units tend to be well insulated and maintain water temperatures efficiently.
Over the years, Suburban’s quality control has been solid. I’ve seen very few early failures, and their customer service is responsive, providing quick access to technical help and replacement parts. This support network is invaluable, especially for those who travel far from major service centers.
On installation, Suburban water heaters typically fit into existing mounting locations designed for similar 6-gallon units, which simplifies upgrades or replacements. Venting should be checked for secure seals and obstruction-free intake/exhaust pathways during installation or periodic maintenance.
One minor drawback is that some older Suburban water heaters lack digital controls and rely on manual adjustments, which may not appeal to tech-savvy RVers. However, newer models often include thermostat dials and safety features like over-temperature cutoffs, improving usability and safety.
In summary, Suburban direct spark and electric water heaters deliver a dependable, time-tested solution that works well for a broad range of RVers. Whether you’re seeking reliability, ease of maintenance, or serviceability, Suburban remains a top contender.
Buy Suburban Direct Spark/Electric Water Heater
Best for: Quick recovery and energy-efficient upgrades.
The Valterra Hot Rod XP represents a newer breed of RV water heaters that focus on fast recovery rates and modern features. It targets RVers who want to keep up with dynamic usage patterns—think multiple quick showers or frequent handwashing throughout the day.
Valterra’s key innovation lies in its powerful 6-gallon tank heater equipped with electronic ignition and “self-cleaning” burner technology. What does that mean? This feature reduces the buildup of soot and carbon deposits on the burner, a frequent cause of slow starts and uneven heating in older or poorly maintained models.
From installing and servicing a few Hot Rod XP units recently, I’ve found the ignition system impressively reliable. The electronic spark igniter kicks in promptly, eliminating the need for pilot lights and reducing propane waste. It’s especially handy in cold start situations where quick heat delivery is critical.
The recovery time on the Hot Rod XP is notably quicker than many comparable models. Whereas traditional 6-gallon tanks might take 30+ minutes to heat from cold, this unit can reduce that dramatically, getting hot water ready faster. This is a major benefit for families or groups who demand higher hot water turnover.
Additionally, the heater boasts robust insulation, minimizing heat loss when idle and enhancing fuel efficiency. The wiring and control assemblies are well laid out, making troubleshooting and repairs easier for technicians and savvy RV owners. Another plus is the straightforward replacement of the anode rod, which helps prolong tank life.
The unit’s compact size and relatively low weight make it compatible as a direct replacement for many existing RV water heaters. Valterra also offers friendly customer support and comprehensive manuals, which I’ve found useful when answering questions for clients far from service shops.
On the downside, the Hot Rod XP, while fairly priced, isn’t the cheapest 6-gallon option on the market. However, the investment pays off with reduced maintenance needs and quicker hot water availability.
If you’re upgrading a tired or slow-to-heat water heater, the Valterra Hot Rod XP is an excellent choice that blends advanced features with practical considerations.
Buy Valterra DGROXP Hot Rod XP Water Heater
Best for: Trusted brand quality combining tankless convenience.
Suburban’s entrance into the tankless RV water heater market was highly anticipated, and from my experience, their model delivers on expectations. Combining decades of expertise with modern tankless technology, Suburban has crafted a water heater that responds well to the evolving demands of modern RVers.
Unlike their traditional tank heaters, the Suburban tankless design provides continuous hot water without the space penalty of a bulky tank. This is especially valuable for camper vans, Class B motorhomes, and other rigs where interior real estate is at a premium.
The heater runs on propane with an output that accommodates typical RV usage, roughly equivalent to a 30,000 to 42,000 BTU burner, making it capable of handling multiple hot water draws. Suburban integrated safety features like freeze protection and flame failure sensors, which are critical for peace of mind during camping in colder climates or when the unit is idle.
Another highlight is the heater’s corrosion-resistant heat exchanger, which is crafted from materials that stand up well to hard water and fluctuating temperatures. This longevity consideration is important since water quality varies greatly from region to region.
Installation is generally more involved than tank units, requiring precise venting and proper propane line sizing to ensure consistent water temperature and safe operation. However, many professional installers, including myself, find the steps clearly explained and manageable.
During actual use, customers often comment on the smooth, steady hot water flow and quiet operation, with minimal burner cycling. The control interface is user-friendly, often featuring digital temperature readouts and automatic shutdowns to save fuel.
One caveat is the higher upfront cost compared to tank models, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious RVers. That said, the long-term fuel savings, space efficiency, and endless hot water make Suburban’s tankless unit an investment worth considering—especially for those traveling with larger groups or that expect consistent hot water availability.
Buy Suburban Tankless RV Water Heater
Best for: Small-space and electric-only applications.
The GE Point of Use water heater stands apart as a specialized solution for small-scale, electric-only hot water needs. Its 2.5-gallon capacity and compact form factor make it a perfect fit for van-lifers, pop-up campers, or as a supplementary hot water source near specific faucets.
During installations I’ve overseen, these compact units excel when placed under sinks in small kitchens or bathrooms—providing instant hot water without the wait and without running extended hot water lines, which can lose heat.
Being electric-only, the GE water heater pairs well with solar + battery power systems or RVs plugged into shore power. It’s whisper-quiet, has no fuel odors, and doesn’t require venting, making it a clean and simple addition.
An often overlooked advantage is its energy efficiency for small applications. Unlike larger propane or hybrid heaters, the GE’s relatively low wattage keeps power draws manageable—around 1440 watts—and its fast recovery cycle makes efficient use of the electrical current supplied.
Of course, capacity is limited by design. At 2.5 gallons, prolonged or multiple simultaneous uses will quickly deplete hot water availability. Therefore, it’s best viewed as a point-of-use heater rather than a primary hot water system for showering or heavy usage.
Additionally, electric water heaters place more demand on your battery bank and inverter system if off-grid, so energy management is key. But if you’re running primarily on shore power or have a robust solar system, the GE model delivers a “plug and play” way to install hot water in tight spaces.
From maintenance to lifespan, these units require minimal intervention—periodic flushing to avoid sediment buildup is generally sufficient.
In summary, the GE 2.5 Gallon Electric Point of Use Water Heater is ideal for small rigs or those looking to add localized electric hot water without complexity or additional fuel considerations.
Buy GE 2.5 Gallon Electric Point of Use Water Heater
Upgrading your RV water heater is a balance of personal preference, rig size, fuel availability, and budget. I’ve seen firsthand how the right system can transform the traveling experience, making showers and chores more pleasant and efficient.
If you crave endless hot water with maximum efficiency, tankless models like the Girard or Suburban tankless are worth the investment. They save space, reduce propane consumption, and provide steady hot water regardless of demand.
If you prefer tried-and-true reliability, brands like Dometic and Suburban’s tank heaters deliver consistent performance without complication or high upfront costs. These models benefit from decades of engineering refinement and a wide support network.
For those wanting flexibility, the Camco hybrid brings the best of propane and electric worlds combined, allowing you to adapt as your camping style or campground power availability changes. Meanwhile, Valterra’s Hot Rod XP offers rapid recovery and innovative burner technology for faster hot water readiness.
Electric-focused RVers with smaller rigs or efficient electrical power systems should also consider the GE 2.5 Gallon Point of Use heater for localized hot water needs without propane hassles.
Lastly, remember to factor in installation complexity and maintenance when choosing your new water heater. Tankless models typically require more technical installation and precise venting, while tank units can often be swapped with relative ease using existing hookups.
No matter which model you choose, a properly installed and maintained water heater will give you years of reliable hot water—and that’s the upgrade every RVer can appreciate.
Q: What’s the main difference between tankless and tank water heaters?
A: Tank water heaters store a fixed amount of hot water, delivering instant heat until the tank is depleted. Tankless systems heat water on demand, providing continuous hot water without running out, but usually require more power or propane and have more complex venting needs.
Q: Are tankless RV water heaters harder to install?
A: They can be more complex because of venting, fuel line sizing, and power requirements, but many professional installers (like myself) can handle upgrades smoothly. DIYers should be comfortable with propane, wiring, and plumbing before attempting installation.
Q: Can I use an electric water heater if I’m boondocking off-grid?
A: Electric water heaters consume significant power, so unless you have a robust solar and battery setup, they may not be practical for extended boondocking trips. Hybrid or propane options are often better suited for off-grid use.
Q: How often should I perform maintenance on my RV water heater?
A: Annual checks are recommended. This includes inspecting the anode rod, flushing the tank (for tank models), checking venting, and testing pressure relief valves. Keeping up with these steps extends your heater’s life and ensures safety.
Q: Is it possible to convert my water heater from propane to electric?
A: Some models offer conversion kits or dual-fuel options, but not all. It’s best to check with the manufacturer or a professional installer about the specific model you have or want to buy.
Q: What size water heater do I need for my RV?
A: It depends on how many people will use it and your water consumption habits. For solo to couple travelers, 6 gallons is usually sufficient. Families or those who prefer longer showers might want 10 gallons or tankless options for endless hot water.
Q: How important is venting when installing a tankless water heater in an RV?
A: Venting is critical for safety and performance. Proper intake and exhaust venting prevent combustion gases from entering your RV and ensure efficient burner operation. Incorrect venting can lead to backdrafts or unsafe carbon monoxide buildup.
Q: Can installing a tankless water heater save propane?
A: Yes, tankless water heaters avoid standby heat loss since they don’t keep water hot continuously. This often results in better propane efficiency, especially for RVers who use hot water intermittently or have longer trips.
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business – it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
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