Best RV Water Heaters in 2022

Last update: January 14, 2023

Are RV hot water heaters interchangeable?

Different types of RV hot water heaters can be used in different types of RVs. The most common type of RV hot water heater is the propane water heater. These heaters use a small tank of propane to heat the water. Other types of RV hot water heaters include electric water heaters and tankless water heaters.

Can you put a bigger hot water heater in a camper?

If your camper came with a small hot water heater, you may be wondering if you can replace it with a bigger one. The answer is yes, you can put a bigger hot water heater in a camper, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to make sure that the new hot water heater will fit in the space that the old one occupied. Second, you need to make sure that the new hot water heater is compatible with the camper's electrical system. Finally, you need to make sure that the new hot water heater is

Can you put a tankless water heater in an RV?

Yes, you can put a tankless water heater in an RV. There are a few things to consider when doing so, such as the type of RV you have and the climate you live in. Tankless water heaters are a great option for RVs because they are more energy efficient and take up less space than traditional water heaters.

Can you run a RV water heater on gas and electric at the same time?

Yes, you can run a RV water heater on gas and electric at the same time. This can be helpful if you want to conserve propane or if you don't have access to a hookup.


Suburban 520900 120 Volt Electric Element Review:


This entered immediately. Just little background information: I changed the element in my travel trailer's 6 gallon water heater. I've included pictures of the new and old Elements as well as a rod I used to gauge the water heater's depth. As you can see, the new element is longer than the old one, but because the rod measures the depth of the tank, the longer element doesn't cause any issues there. Although the lengthier Element raises a lot of problems, it works excellently. Additionally, this element requires a 1 1/2 inch THIN WALL socket for installation and removal. To reach the element, you must also move the gas line. Remember to unhook the trailer, shut off the breaker, and let the water pressure drop before beginning this simple repair. This should wrap up the project, so good luck and be careful.



Camco Water Heater Tank Rinser-Cleanses and Removes Sediment that Collects at the Bottom of RV Water Heater, Extends Life of RV Water Heater (11691) Review:


I at last got around to cleaning the water heater in my RV. I searched for how-to videos on YouTube. This came in very handy for cleaning the Atwood 6 gal. water heater.Because of its modest flexibility, I was able to insert it through the apertures of the pressure valve and drain hole to clear out silt. I purchased my 1997 Class C recreational vehicle used. Scale came out so much! It continued to arrive. I kept the water in order to water my plants. I used the same nozzle to pour white vinegar for industrial cleaning from the pressure valve opening into the tank after flushing out (put drain plug back of course). you turn the pressure valve back on after adding 3 gal. of vinegar to the tank. To create a 50/50 vinegar water mixture, turn on the municipal water and fill the tank with 3 gallons of water. A hour later, turn on the water heater. After opening the pressure valve to release any remaining pressure (be careful as very hot water may shoot out), leave it open while you open the drain hole and drain all of the vinegar. You can use this water again on plants that like acid, like roses and palm trees—not desert vegetation. Use this wand to completely clean the tank after the vinegar has been drained from it. To ensure that there is no vinegar in the system, replace the drain stopper, switch on the city water, and flush all faucets, showers, and toilets. The entire procedure is visible on YouTube by searching for RV Geeks.Although there is a better device for that, this wand also cleans toilet tanks. Strongly advise purchasing as it will be very helpful in adding water pressure to your hose for all other forms of water cleaning.



RV Water Heater Anode Rod Review:


By preventing corrosion and impurities from entering your RV water heater tank, these anode rods are intended to eventually wear out and be replaced. The firm and this particular design are generating strong, well-made rods that suit those tanks without any problems. The only drawback is that they are shipped from China, thus delivery can be delayed than for other Amazon purchases despite the extremely affordable price.I'm completely satisfied with these rods and will buy more when the time comes. Five Stars for us, and a sincere and enthusiastic recommendation!



Camco Permanent Pump Converter Winterizing Kit- Allows You to Use Boat/RV Water Pump to Fill Pipes With Antifreeze - Lead Free, CSA Low Lead Content Certified (36543) Review:


There has been much discussion on how this valve limits flow. Although the orifice does reduce to roughly half the threaded part's inner diameter, it frequently doesn't matter.You might wonder why.Because the fittings you already have impede water flow if, like me, you have polyethylene tubing in your RV. The fittings that fit inside the poly tubing also differ in internal diameter. Take the 90-degree fits, for instance. Therefore, installing this valve has no effect.Despite knowing this, I still tested the fresh water pump's water flow both with and without it. No changes were made to the pump's flow rate, operation, or heating capacity.In order to test this, I filled a 3 gallon bucket to the top constantly both with and without the valve in place.No change at all, and I can now effectively winterize my camper without adding antifreeze to the sizable fresh water reservoir.The only situation I could think of where it would matter would not be flushing the toilet or washing dishes, but perhaps having a shower, even if it did little impede the water flow in my instance.I did test it, though, and there didn't appear to be any difference either way.Hope this is useful!



Camco 35953 8" Supreme Permanent By-Pass Kit for 6 Gallon Tank - Lead Free Review:


Depending on how much space there is around your RV water pump once you locate it, this is a pretty useful little package that can be installed quite easily. If it works when you try to use it, installation shouldn't take more than 5 to 10 minutes. Unfortunately, I was unable to make it function after installing it. Simply put, it was unable to remove the antifreeze from the jug! I spent an hour troubleshooting because I had to delete and reload the program three times to identify the issue! It was quite annoying! I eventually realized that the one and only component of the kit that the manufacturer had put together was missing a "O" ring. The pump stopped sucking air and began successfully siphoning the antifreeze out of the jug after I changed the O-ring from the brass cap that came on the brass valve into the screw-on plastic siphon tube cap that replaces it. After that, winterizing my camper just took a few minutes! With the help of this package, winterizing will become a much quicker and simpler task in the future. I strongly advise this kit if your camper did not previously have a siphon tube and bypass valve installed. Although it is not actually necessary, Camco's website offers a wonderful video that demonstrates how to install this if you are unsure.



Camco 57331 Olympian Wave-3 3000 BTU LP Gas Catalytic Heater Review:


Although written for the Wave 3, this evaluation also applies to the Wave 8. My original Wave heater, which I purchased ten years ago, has never given me any trouble; in fact, I still use it now. My wave 8 is still operating as a result of a few factors, which I will now list. Your surroundings, which differs from person to person, should be taken into account as the first factor for a long life. Are you a suitable candidate for this style of heater, you must ask yourself? This sort of heater is not the ideal option for you if your living space is dusty, full of dog and cat hair, or if you frequently cook fatty foods or smoke indoors.The heating pad is not made entirely of ceramic; instead, it has a metal frame and grate, platinum dust, which retains heat for the catalytic process to take place, and maybe high heat fiberglass or another material used in high temperature applications. In contrast to other heaters that necessitate a constant pilot light being on, this pad enables the safe and silent mixing of oxygen and propane without the use of a pilot light. Because the Wave heaters' pad needs to be kept clean in order to function correctly, you must take your surroundings into account when deciding where to place the warmer. There are solutions to the greasy smoke that permeates the air and sticks to everything in the kitchen, which is a horrible location.Place the heater as far away from the stove as you can. If at all feasible, make sure to use a cooktop hood to vent cooking odors. This is crucial; if at all feasible, switch off the heater and cover when it is cool. Because I followed the instructions and always covered my heater when not in use, my Wave 8 has lasted a very long time. The heater cover they sell for their heaters is excellent value, but it works best when it is put to use. The fact that I don't smoke, have pets, or live in a dusty environment is another factor in the longevity of my heater.I've used just about every kind of heater there is, and none of them compare to these heaters' 99.9% efficiency. One of the benefits of this type of system is also the heat; it is infrared and, like a wood-burning fireplace, you feel wonderful when the rays warm your skin. The absence of smells for the most of the process is another positive. You will only ever smell unburned propane when you initially fire it, and even then, it is only a very small amount and never a problem. All traces of unburned gases disappear once the pad has been operating at maximum temperature for approximately 10 minutes, at which point the heater is 99.9% efficient. Since their efficiency ratings are much lower, other heaters can't compare to this one and squander fuel in the form of unburned gas throughout the process. As a result, you may smell unburned fuel, which, if not vented, can even give you a headache. Unburned fuel is equivalent to a buildup of carbon monoxide, but because Wave heaters are so effective, the only emissions they produce are water and carbon dioxide, which is safe and will be loved by your plants.Let's examine how new users should light the heater. Since this is a catalytic heater, the process must be initiated with a flame during the first minute. The same kind of safety system used in water heaters and home heaters is included into this heater and blocks the flow of propane until the desired temperature is reached. The heater will continue to burn propane when it mixes with oxygen in the pad after the temperature has been attained and the pilot light has been extinguished.When you initially turn on the heater, it's typical to see a lot of unburned propane escape from the pad and catch fire. While this may shock you, there's no need to worry about your safety. This tiny amount of discharge is being burned by the pilot light, which will stop burning after the heater reaches operating temperature in about a minute. When operating properly, the pad surface will heat up to 900 degrees, at which point all gases will be safely and neatly burned. The manufacturer now claims that the temperature will remain below flash point, lower than 400 degrees, and they are true because temperature samples taken only an inch from the pad show values that are far lower than the pad's own.The Wave 3 and Wave 8 respond slightly differently when lighting compared to one another, and this difference can be attributed to the size or area of the pad. You can see a little light display when small pockets of unburned gases dance upward when ignited on the Wave 8's considerably larger pad. The Wave 3 can occasionally startle you due to its smaller pad, which causes its lightshow to be more concentrated and bluer in color. However, it only does this once and not usually during each heating cycle. For this, I've discovered a workaround. The temperature knob should be turned in for three seconds before being released for two seconds to start the pilot light. Now, after lighting the pilot light as usual, gently blow a few puffs of air in its direction (avoid placing your face too close to the heater while doing this). Any unburned propane that escapes the pad must be ignited. This is what exits initially and is considerably smaller because you primed the pad with some gas for a short period of time at the beginning. Once this gas ignites, the heater can burn the gas being pumped into the pad more efficiently and there won't be any additional discharges. So as you practice, you grow better, and lighting becomes a quick and amusing procedure.I've used the Wave 3 for modest chores and the Wave 8 for extended periods of time. BTU output is something to think about, and you should be aware that these heaters aren't designed to meet all of your heating requirements. Let's contrast these heaters with a 1500 watt oil-filled electric heater. The oil-filled heater produces 5,118 BTUs when you convert watts to BTUs. You can now comprehend heating capability when comparing the Wave 8 at 8000 BTUs to the Wave 3 at 3000 BTUs. The Wave heaters would win my vote if I had a choice between the two types of heaters since they produce better, more consistent heat, can operate without electricity, and are completely silent. I detest RV heating systems since they are both noisy and expensive to operate. Other heaters, such as those made by Buddy, are even more dangerous due to their heavy plastic construction and continuous flame, making them better suited for outdoor use than inside use.Don't get me wrong when I said that cats and dogs could be a problem; this heater will still function, but the pad's lifespan may be shortened. Fortunately, you can get a replacement put by the manufacturer. You will get greater value out of your investment if your circumstances, like mine, are better suited for a long-term heating solution. By significantly reducing my heating costs in the first year, my first Wave heater paid for itself.For the majority of folks, I would suggest this heater, but there are other models that are better suited for the spookier cats who should stick with electric and are gas-averse. I never regretted buying one of these Wave heaters, and everyone in my family agrees that they are much more comfortable.I generally agree with the manufacturer's recommendations for sufficient ventilation, but I've seen reviews where folks go above and above. One guy claimed that they opened two windows by two inches, which in my opinion is excessive. The appropriate amount will depend on your living situation.



Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Tankless Water Heater Review:


Updated after a year...The device is still functioning well! In the winter, with a 40-something inler water temperature, I'm getting a 73°F rise across the unit. This device is flawless in my opinion.Update after three months...It's still going strong AND uses less propane than the 12 gallon suburban would have. We are well aware that operating dsi heaters with an a.c. element and propane speeds up recovery. Unproblematic with the Girard device. Although there is a rise of 65°F across the entire unit, my thermostat is still set at 115°F. The best $500 I have ever spent was still for our coach. I only wish I had installed these in every one of our RVs! Momma is still content with her 25-minute showers, and I don't mind taking a little longer to warm up my arthritic bones before going to bed. I've read several other reviews that severely belittle this product. Three things to keep in mind: first, the flow rate must be at least 0.9 gpm and as pulse-free as feasible for the flow sensor to trip the control circuit. You will be struck with a slug of cold water if, when altering the temperature at your plumbing fixture (shower/sink), the hot water side flow dips below 0.9 gpm. I like to run the hot water with the temperature set at my preferred water temperature. As a result, any undesirable flow characteristics brought on by the notoriously low flow water fixtures connected to recreational vehicles are avoided. Last but not least, if you don't have shore connections, be sure to take your showers on time so that you don't end up with a full gray water tank. Keep in mind that you'll also need to acquire a replacement door that is particular to the OLD, OLD device you are replacing or retrofitting.We have never made a better purchase to enhance our RVing experience than this one. Installation was simple for me as a plumber. It took around two hours to attach our new 2017 Columbus fifth wheel using existing 12vdc to my "old/new" 10 gallon Suburban. For your existing opening and water heater brand, you will need to acquire a different door. You should be able to perform a self install if you have average aptitude and mechanical ability. Have a professional install if you are at all concerned. My wife and I both had our first-ever 10-minute showers in our fifth-wheel today. The heater does require a minimum flow rate of 0.9 gpm to ignite. Check that you can obtain at least 1 gpm through your shower head if you are using a pressure regulator for your shore connection. I used the time-tested method of a bucket and stopwatch and got 1.5 gpm. On the control panel, I also used the 12 volt direct current (vdc) from my water heater switch. You could hear some objections, but if you install this heater properly and supply adequate water flow, I promise you'll love it!



Camco 11533 4.5” Anode Rod with Drain for Atwood Aluminum Water Heater Review:


The plug and petcock drain are already placed on this anode rod. Since there are just three tiny sheet metal screws holding the exhaust flange of my hot water heater in place, I removed it to help clear the way for removal. I cleaned out the tank for seasonal maintenance using a garden hose and an RV rinse out attachment, both of which were manufactured by Camco, and a 7/8" open end wrench to remove the old anode and valve. To assist seal the Rod bushing, I used a few wraps of Teflon tape, but you could also use paste. being mindful not to tighten excessively. After replacing the exhaust outlet, I was ready to go. On our most recent trip, I checked the fittings for leaks and discovered that nothing was damaged. The old rod needed to be replaced since it was more than half worn out and because the tank had accumulated a lot of calcium and silt. This anode rod's quality and fit both pleased me. The previous one lasted for nearly 4 years.


Can you upgrade water heater in RV?

If your RV water heater is on the fritz, you may be wondering if you can simply upgrade it to a newer model. The good news is that yes, you can upgrade your RV water heater relatively easily. The process will vary depending on the type of RV water heater you have, but in general, you will need to remove the old water heater and then install the new one in its place. Make sure to follow the instructions that come with your new water heater to ensure a proper installation.

Do RV water heaters shut off automatically?

Yes, most RV water heaters will shut off automatically when the water temperature reaches a certain level. This is to prevent the water from getting too hot and causing damage to the unit.

How do I get unlimited hot water in my RV?

If you want to have an unlimited supply of hot water while you are RVing, there are a few things that you can do. One option is to purchase a tankless water heater. These work by heating the water as it is being used, so you will never run out. Another option is to install a solar water heater. These are great if you are going to be RVing in an area where there is plenty of sun. They will heat the water for you using the power of the sun, so you will never have to worry about running out of hot water.

How do you know a water heater is going bad?

If your water heater is making strange noises, leaking water, or not providing enough hot water, it may be time to replace it. These are all signs that your water heater is going bad.

How long does a 20 lb propane tank last in an RV?

A 20 lb propane tank will last approximately 15-20 hours in an RV. This will of course vary depending on how much heat or how many appliances are being used.

How long does a 30 pound propane tank last in an RV?

A 30 pound propane tank will last for about 28 hours in an RV. This is based on using a 40,000 BTU RV furnace.