Answering the common RV buyer need: find hot water solutions that fit travel trailers, with reliable performance whether you’re boondocking or plugged in. This guide covers five top options for different campers and use cases, balancing efficiency, installation, and ease of maintenance. The best choice depends on whether you want on-demand tankless heat or a compact tank-style heater. Below, you’ll see who each product is best for and why it stands out. A quick summary table follows to compare key points at a glance.
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW10DE | Tank | Owners needing residential-like durability | Porcelain-lined steel tank and optional electric element |
| Ranein RV Tankless Water Heater 65,000 BTU | Tankless | Families seeking continuous hot water | High flow up to 3.9 GPM with temperature control |
| ORBEK 60,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater | Tankless | Campers needing remote operation | Remote control and high-altitude capability |
| ORBEK 60,000 BTU Tankless with Remote & High Altitude | Tankless | RVs needing compact upgrade | Smart features and simple retrofit options |
| RVPart Pro Tankless Water Heater 60,000 BTU | Tankless | RV enthusiasts prioritizing safety features | Built-in pressure reducing valve and protections |
Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW10DE
The Suburban SW10DE uses a durable porcelain-lined steel tank designed for long life, closely mirroring residential performance. It includes a replaceable anode rod for corrosion protection and doubles as a drain. An optional electric heating element adds flexibility for sites with electrical power. Best for RV owners who want a traditional tank heater with reliable maintenance access.
Best for: RV users who prioritize a familiar tank-style system and straightforward maintenance. Limitations: does not provide instant hot water like tankless options; requires cold-weather hydration planning.
Ranein RV Tankless Water Heater 65,000 BTU
This 65,000 BTU tankless heater delivers instant hot water with up to 3.9 GPM, suitable for back-to-back showers and dishwashing. It features precise temperature control from 95°F to 124°F and is designed for easy RV replacement of older tank systems. Best for: larger RV families needing consistent hot water without preheating. Caution: installation requires compatible cutouts and proper venting for safety and performance.
ORBEK 60,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater (Remote, High Altitude)
Orbek offers a 60,000 BTU tankless system. It heats water instantly and includes brushless DC fans and oxygen-free copper heat exchangers, aiding altitude performance. A smart remote controls temperature and reports error codes. Best for: RVers who want remote operation and high-altitude reliability. Consideration: ensure your RV space accommodates the external venting and mounting kit required for retrofit.
ORBEK 60,000 BTU Tankless Water Heater (3.5 GPM)
This model provides up to 3.5 GPM with 60,000 BTU, enabling continuous hot water for multiple uses. It includes an automatic temperature control range from 95°F to 123°F via remote, and is designed for easy retrofits with standard 12.8″ × 12.8″ openings. Best for: RVs needing a compact, high-output tankless solution. Limitation: door measurements and external installation kits are sold separately.
RVPart Pro RV Tankless Water Heater
RVPart Pro provides a 60,000 BTU propane on-demand system with up to 3.5 GPM. It includes a built-in 150 PSI pressure reducing valve and protective features such as flame failure, over-temperature, and anti-freeze protections. Best for: RVers who value safety features and straightforward operation. Caution: ensure compatibility with your RV’s gas and electrical systems before upgrading.
Buying Guide
What type fits your RV? Tank heaters store hot water but take longer to heat and have limited flow. Tankless heaters deliver continuous hot water and are space-efficient but require proper venting and electrical/gas setup. Consider your typical usage, climate, and whether you want to upgrade from an existing Suburban or Atwood system.
Key considerations
- Heat source: Electric, propane, or dual-fuel options affect camping style and energy costs.
- Flow rate: GPM determines how many outlets can run simultaneously; higher GPM is better for families.
- Elevation and climate: Some units are optimized for high altitude and cold mornings.
- Installation space: Check mounting dimensions, cutout openings, and venting requirements.
- Maintenance: Anode rods, drain valves, and protective features extend lifespan.
What to choose by scenario
- Best for traditional RVs with reliable replacement parts: Suburban SW10DE tank model.
- Best for large families or long trips: Tankless options with high GPM like 3.9 GPM models.
- Best for retrofit upgrades: Tankless units with standard cutouts and remote controls.
- Best for rugged climates and high altitude: Models advertised as high-altitude capable with stable performance.
Installation and safety tips
- Follow manufacturer instructions for mounting, venting, and gas/line connections.
- Verify compatibility with your RV’s electrical system and propane supply.
- Schedule professional installation if you are unfamiliar with gas or electrical wiring.
FAQ
- What is the difference between tank and tankless RV water heaters? Answer: Tank heaters store hot water in a tank, while tankless heaters heat water on demand for continuous supply.
- Do RV tankless heaters work well at high altitude? Answer: Many are designed to adapt to high altitude with features like high-altitude operation and oxygen-free copper heat exchangers.
- Can I upgrade my RV to a tankless system easily? Answer: Some models are designed for standard cutouts and can replace older tank heaters with retrofit kits.
- Is a remote control useful for RV hot water? Answer: Yes, it adds convenient temperature control and error code monitoring in one place.
- Do tankless heaters consume more propane? Answer: They can be more efficient in use due to on-demand heating, but overall consumption depends on demand and settings.
- What maintenance is needed? Answer: Regular inspection of connections, cleaning filters, and replacing anode rods or seals as recommended.