You have just had a great day out and now need to take a shower – quick. Are you ready to wait for a whole hour to get the hot water tank ready? You may even have to wait a little longer if you are several, sharing one bathroom and you happen to be the last in the line. Eventually, you may even find that the hot water reservoir has run out by the time it gets to your turn. You must be thinking how nice it would be if you had installed a best tankless water heater for RV (Recreational Vehicle), camper or travel trailer.
Quick navigation guide;
Tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer comparison guide
How does a tankless water heater work?
Benefits of choosing the best tankless water heater
Tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer reviewed
- The NEW RV ATWOOD 6 GALLON GC6AA- 10E
- Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series
- Excel TANKLESS GAS WATER HEATER
- Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG Indoor Tankless Water Heater
- EcoSmart ECO 11
- Eccotemp i12-LP
Tips and precautions when using the RV tankless water heater
Final thoughts on the tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer
The tankless water heaters for RV, camper or travel trailer comparison
| Tankless water heater brand | power | More info |
|---|---|---|
| NEW RV ATWOOD GC6AA-10E | gas/electric | |
| Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series | natural gas | |
| Excel | LPG Propane | |
| Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG Indoor | natural gas | |
| EcoSmart ECO 11 | electric | |
| Eccotemp i12-LP | liquid propane |
How does an RV, camper or travel trailer tankless water heater for work?
A tankless water heater is an obvious choice when it comes to heating water in recreational vehicles, campers or travel trailers. As the name implies, it has no tank.
To enjoy a constant flow of hot water, you open the water faucet, the burner senses the water flow and starts the heating process. So what benefits accrue from this type of heating?
The benefits of choosing a tankless water heater for camper, RV, or travel trailer
- You are assured of a limitless source of hot water. Well, you only need to turn on the water faucet and as soon as the water starts flowing, it is immediately heated.
- No waiting for water to heat up as you get the hot water on demand.
- You do not have to refill the tank
- Saving on the energy bill as you only warm the water needed. You may save up to 50% off the propane consumption.
- The heating unit has a lower risk of spilling
- Space saver…The tankless water heater is also smaller and thus takes less space than a standard hot water tank heater which is a great plus given that you have limited RV, camper or travel trailer available space.
How to choose the RV, camper or travel trailer Tankless Water Heater
Source of power
You may power your RV tankless water heater via electricity, propane, natural gas or battery cell.
Which one suits you best? Note that the battery and propane units are a good choice for the RVs since they are more portable unlike the electric.
The propane powered tankless water heaters for camper also provide more water temperature increase than the electric units. Additionally, the electric units are more costly to run per unit.
On the other hand, the RV electric tankless water heaters are also faster to install. The electric powered units have lower maintenance and are quieter than the propane powered units.
Water consumption
Before you commence shopping for a travel trailer tankless water heater, it is advisable to have an estimate of how much hot water you consume per minute. This will roughly give you a clear idea about the actual size of water heating unit you need.
In most cases, the average water consumption in gallon per minute (GPM) may range as follows;
- Kitchen and bathroom sink 2.2 GPM
- Dishwasher 1.3 GPM
- Clothes washing machine 3.3 GPM
- Shower and bathtub 2.5 GPM
Will you be using the above facilities /appliances at the same time or at different times? Add up the GPMs of the various facilities and choose the most preferred RV tankless water heater that matches your demand.
The smaller the heater, the slower the water flow rate and may only handle one faucet.
The hot water temperature you want
Know your incoming water temperature and the hot water temperature desired at each of the outlets. The outlets could be the sink, shower, bath tub, washing machine etc.
To determine the rise needed subtract the hot water temperature desired from the incoming water temperature (source).
Once the rise desired is determined, ensure that the tankless water heater for RV, camper, or travel trailer is best capable of meeting the demand.
Some heaters may not heat very cold water. Also note that some heaters can thermostatically control the hot water temperature in which case the thermostat varies the output temperature based on the inlet water flow and corresponding temperature.
The RV Heater BTU Capacity
Note that The British Thermal Unit (BTU) refers to the heating capacity of the unit. While choosing the right BTU capacity, consider the ground water temperatures of the different locations you intend to visit.
Then choose the tankless water heating unit for your RV that is capable of heating the cold groundwater in the various locations.
Installation
Space
How much space is available for installation of the water heater? Ensure that the water heater size will be accommodated in the available space
Electrical/ gas / water systems and fittings
What specifications do you have in the RV, camper or travel trailer versus the requirements of the preferred tankless water heater?
Fittings
Which fittings are required? Are they part of the manufacturer’s package? Which ones do you need to buy?
Where will you place the tankless water heater?
It is recommended you first check the size of the opening you have on your RV, camper or travel trailer. Would the opening in the sidewall require adjusting so as to accommodate your choice of tankless water heater or will it snugly fit in?
Protection
You will be using your RV, camper or travel trailer in varied climatic conditions and terrains. How is the water heater protected against poor weather and rough terrain?
Is the heating unit protected against power outages as well as electronic ignition triggered by excessive heat?
Energy-efficiency
Choose the best tankless water heater with an Energy Star certification as it may be more efficient. According to ENERGY STAR® estimates, a typical family can enjoy a saving of $100 or more per year when they choose an ENERGY STAR qualified tankless water heater( source).
Also consider models that have an intermittent ignition device (IID) instead of a standing pilot light. However, should you fall in love with a heater that have the standing pilot, you can still save energy by switching it off when the water heating unit is not in use.
Additional features
Temperature adjustment
Be on the look-out for water temperature adjustment features. The feature could be a simple knob or automated flow controls.
Safety
It is also necessary to review the safety and warranty features.
Durability
Does the best tankless water heater for RV, camper or trailer have a glass lining in the tank to minimize corrosion?
Are the drain valves located close to the base of the heater made or brass or plastic? Brass is more durable than plastic.
What is the heat exchanger made of? Copper heat exchangers are more durable, thermal efficient, corrosion resistant etc.
Simple and easy to understand operation
Does the heater come with a the digital display where you can conveniently operate, customize and monitor the heater operations as well as the collector and tank temperatures, pressure readings etc.
Warranty
A manufacturer who believes in the product quality will offer longer warranty. You are better off choosing the tankless water heating unit for RV, camper or travel trailer that has a longer warranty
Weight
The lighter the RV tankless water heater, the easier it is to handle.
Maintenance
How easy is the maintenance?
Price
Consider the respective camper tankless water heater cost plus the installation against the budget. While at it, make sure that the unit you choose meets your major needs.
It is good to note that the longer lasting high quality travel trailer tankless water heating unit will certainly cost more.
Make your choice from these tankless water heaters for RV, camper or travel trailer reviewed below;
1. The NEW RV ATWOOD 6 GALLON GC6AA- 10E;
GAS/ELECTRIC combo tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer
Size and weight
This unit weighs 19 pounds when empty and measures 16″ wide, 12.5″ high and 16 7/8″ deep.
Power source
LP gas and Electric
Installation
You can easily mount the unit on the side wall. And, you can set it to gas, electric, or both for faster water heating. The package also comes with a white powder-coated door and switch.
Performance
This quiet and efficient water heater has a 6-Gallon Capacity direct Spark Ignition with an 8,800 BTU Input or 1400 watt . The Recovery Rate is 11.6 Gal/Hr on LP / 6.2 Gal/Hr on Electric / 17.8 Gal/Hr on Combo.
Safety
To protect this best RV tankless water heater and improve safety the unit has an inbuilt high temperature limit switch, temperature control and pressure relief.
Durability
This gas electric combo travel trailer tankless water heater has aluminum clad tanks which eliminates the need to have the aluminum anode to protect from corrosion.
Maintenance
The servicing of NEW RV ATWOOD 6 GALLON GC6AA- 10E is made simple as 95% of the parts can be replaced or serviced through the exterior door. No need for those servicing the unit to enter your RV, camper or travel trailer.
Warranty
The NEW RV ATWOOD 6 GALLON GC6AA- 10E comes with a 2 year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Works perfectly and efficiently
- You may use gas or electricity or both for faster heating
- Durable
- Easy access when servicing
Cons
- Some users propose that the installation instructions need more clarity
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2. Rinnai RUC98iN Ultra Series:
Multiple facilities RV, camper or travel trailer Tankless Water Heater
Size
This best tankless water heater for RV weighs 61.7 pounds Width: 18.5″ Height: 26″ Depth: 10″ Weight: 61.7 lbs Gas
Power
95% Thermal Efficiency Natural gas or propane
Installation
You install Rinnai RUC98iN Indoors. The water connection is 3/4″. Use a softener where you have hard water
Performance
You get to enjoy hot water ranging 98° F to 140° F for residential installations such as the RV. For commercial purposes, the temperature ranges 98° F to 185° F. For the commercial installations, remember to purchase the commercial Controller separately.
Energy efficiency
The condensing technology and Electronic Ignition that comes with Rinnai RUC98iN tankless enables the water heater to be more efficient.
BTU Capacity
This best RV tankless water heater has a BTU input between 15,200BTUs to 199,000BTUs
Safety
Rinnai RUC98iN meets the California and Texas NOx Emissions Standards.
Warranty
The limited warranty on this RV tankless water heating unit is 12 Years on the heat exchanger, 5 years on parts and 1 year on labor for residential installations. Please note that you have the option to extend the labor warranty to 5 years.
Pros
- UNLIMITED hot water supply to multiple facilities shower, bathtub etc.) even when running at the same time.
- Efficient condensing technology
- Quiet operator
Cons
- High budget unit
Would you like to know if this tankless water heater fits within your budget?
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3. Excel Water heater:
Best low pressure (PSI) start RV tankless water heater
Power source
LPG PROPANE GAS
Size
With the Excel Gas Water Heater, you get a compact design that saves you space. The heater measures 11.6 inches width, 4.46 inches deep and 13.5 inches height.
Installation
Save yourself from cumbersome and costly installation of flues and ductwork with this vent-free RV tankless water heater. It is installed indoors and easily connected to the existing hot water piping.
The Gas and Water connections are 1/2″ NPT Male. You also get a free gas regulator LPG flare brass adaptor.
Performance
For optimal performance, the incoming cold water temperature should be above 50°F. In case the temperatures are lower (40°F), reduce the water flow rate to achieve desired results.
This best tankless water heater for RV, camper or trailer supplies you with over 96 gallons of hot water per hour (1.6 GPM or 5.5 liters per minute).
While at it, the water temperature will rise by 45°F. This means that if the inlet water temperature is at 60 °F, you expect the heating unit to instantly deliver 96 gallons of hot water per hour at 1o5 °F.
Moreover, this on demand water heater comes with an exclusive magnetic water flow sensor technology enabling the unit to start at low water pressure. This means that you still get your hot shower despite low water pressure in your RV.
Whereas other tankless heaters may require at least 20-30 psi to start up, the Excel Gas Water Heater only requires 2 psi and up to 120 psi water pressure.
Furthermore, you do not have to worry about a power outage or no power supply in the RV, camper or travel trailer. The hot water supply will not run out as the 2 size “D” batteries will ignite the electronic spark module.
Efficiency
The water heating unit comes with the Igniter Electrode electronic technology that requires no standing pilot. This allows you to save up to 25% gas consumption when compared to pilot lighted heaters.
The Excel Gas Water Heater’s pure copper (Oxygen free) heat exchanger conducts and transfers heat fast and efficiently.
BTU Power Rating
38,000 Btus
Safety
The best tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer comes with a state of the art ODS (Oxygen Depletion Safety shutoff device).
It is good to note that the ODS Vent-Free technology is to gas what a circuit breaker is to electricity.
The technology enables the water heating unit to shut off when low oxygen levels are sensed until the space is properly ventilated and enough oxygen introduced.
Pros
- Fits in a small area
- Low pressure start
- Easy installation
- Saves fuel
- Awesome ventless design
- Oxygen depletion sensor a great plus
Cons
- Space above heater may get hot. Keep it open to dissipate the heat
Would you like to know if this tankless water heater fits within your budget?
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4. Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG:
6.6 GPM Best Camper Tankless Water Heater
Size
This on demand camper tankless water heater weighs 38 pounds and measures 20.25″ height, 13.75″ width and 7.75″ deep.
Installation
The 140,000 BTU tankless water heater for RV comes with a power cord which plugs to an AC 120V electrical outlet. The heating unit is vented via a 4-Inch category III stainless steel.
Please note that the water connection (¾ inch) location is at the bottom of the unit.
Performance
Depending on climatic conditions, The Takagi T-KJr2 can provide you with enough hot water for two bathrooms in warmer climates or one in cooler climates. With this best tankless water heater for RV, you get 6.6 GPM max water flow rate.
For temperature control, the unit comes with an Inlet, outlet thermistors for Energy factor of 0.81-0.83.
The Btu capacity ranges from 19500 BTUs to 140000 BTUs.
This camper water heating unit has a Copper heat exchanger and Non-condensing technology.
For your convenience, a remote control is a standard feature with this tankless water heater.
Warranty
For residential use, you get a limited warranty –15-year on the heat exchanger and 5 year on parts. You also get 1 year labor manufacturer approved for warranty repairs paid directly to the authorized service provider.
When used commercially, you get 10 years on the heat exchanger and 5 year parts (residential only. 5/3 in commercial applications).
Warranties are only valid if unit is installed by a properly licensed technician.
Safety
Takagi T-KJr2-IN-NG has Safety features such as troubleshooting diagnostic codes freeze, overheat and surge protection
Pros
- Maintain water at high temperature
- Compact size
- Simple connections
Cons
- Need extra installation components like pressure relief valve stainless steel exhaust vents, hoses, fittings etc. for proper installation.
- Make sure your gas line is ¾”
- Professional installation required to claim warranty
Would you like to know if this tankless water heater fits within your budget?
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5. EcoSmart ECO 11:
Best electric powered Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV, camper or travel trailer
Size
This 11.8 KW compact unit fits nicely in your packed RV. It weighs 6.65 pounds and measures 11.5″ height, 8″ Width and 3.75″ deep. ECO 11 can provide hot water for one shower in colder climates, or two showers in warmer climates.
Power source
Electric
Installation
Fit this on demand RV tankless water heater to the 11Kw at 220V or 13kw at 240V single phase electrical power system. Use 1/2″ CF Pipe fitting.
Safety
This heating unit is UL-499, ETL Listed certified.
Performance
Eco 11 activation flow is 0.3 GPM and you get to enjoy a hot shower from a 47 degree F inlet water temperature at 1.5 GPM. As the climate warms up, the water flow rate improves.
For example, at 77 degrees F water inlet temperature, you still get the same 105 degree F hot water but the water flow rate improves to 3.5 GPM.
You can use the Ecosmart ECO11 in colder climates for low flow application such as a sink.
The inbuilt Digital display temperature control enables you have control of the water temperature as you set the temperature in 1 Degree increments.
Moreover, the heating elements are designed for durability and threaded for easier replacement. No wonder the lifetime warranty!
It is advisable to fit a filter to the cold water inlet especially for hard water filtering to protect the heating elements.
Efficiency
You will simply love the most advanced self-modulating technology which enables you to save up to 60% on the water heating costs.
Convenience
For your convenience, you get a remote to control the water temperature
Warranty
What about the Lifetime limited warranty for residential use…Wow!
Pros
- Provides continuous hot water
- Quite a space saver
- Heater well built
- Digital read out makes it easy to set desired temperature
Cons
- Not good for very cold climates
- To avoid voiding warranty, professional installation advised
Would you like to know if this tankless water heater fits within your budget?
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6. Eccotemp i12-LP:
The Sleek 3 GPM Tankless Water Heater for RV, camper or travel trailer
Weight
This sleek black tempered glass paneled tankless water heater weighs 29 pounds and measures 15”x24”x4”
Power
You power this unit on liquid propane and only consumes gas when the hot water is on.
Performance
The Eccotemp i12-LP Tankless Water Heater is field tested and recommended for used at 5500 feet or less elevation.
You get to enjoy a flow rate of 3 gallons per minute from this best RV tankless water heater. Moreover, the temperature is raised by 35-40 degree F temperature rise when operating at flow rate of 3GPM and 77 degree F with a 1.5 GPM flow rate. The hot water capacity range is 0.6 – 4.8 GPM.
Furthermore, you get to precisely manage the water temperature via the fully automatic temperature controls. While at it, the touch screen LED temperature displays the output temperature and GPM flow.
Moreover, you get the Tested-Safe Electronic Ignition System which saves up power.
The BTU capacity
BTU capacity is between 25,000 BTUs minimum and 80,000 BTUs maximum.
Installation
The Eccotemp i12-LP Tankless Water Heater is wall mounted indoors to vent behind the wall. This on demand tankless water heater for RV comes with a ready to install horizontal stainless steel vent kit. Connect the water heater to 1/2″ NPT water fittings and plug it to a 110V electric outlet.
Energy efficiency
When idle, this 80000 BTU water heater pulls about 2 watts and 1.07 Amps when in operation.
Safety
This tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer has UL listed electrical components. Should you have children around, make use of the Child locking technology to prevent those prying little fingers from adjusting the controls.
Power ventilation for safety and efficiency.
Warranty
You get a limited five year replacement of defective parts after installation or 30 days after date of purchase- whichever comes first. The unit also comes with a Ten year limited warranty on replacement of heat exchanger when used by a single family (2 years for commercial use). In both cases, labor is NOT inclusive.
Pros
- Quickly heats up the water
- You can shower and wash dishes at the same time
- Modern attractive look
- You will love the Touchscreen and Easy to use digital control
- Quiet operation
- Spare parts available from the Eccotemp online store
Cons
- Freezing air temperature may freeze heat exchanger. You may need to drain water if freezing temperature is expected or add a backflow preventer / termination hood to prevent cold air from entering the heater.
- Not recommended for use above 5500 feet elevation
Would you like to know if this tankless water heater fits within your budget?
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Tips and precautions when using the RV tankless water heater
Although the camper/trailer tankless water heater is easy to utilize, proper use will prolong its life and save you time and money. Here are some helpful tips…
On receipt
Thoroughly check and ensure you have received all the components that should be in the package. Be on the look-out for damages, defects leakage or spillage. In case of any issues, take advantage of the return policy to get the unit replaced or get the warranty activated.
Installation
Where possible make use of brass nipples and fittings. Galvanized fittings may eventually corrode and leak at the threads. With the constant heating and cooling, plastic fittings expand and eventually the crack at the threads of the camper tankless water heater.
Cleaning
Follow the manufacturer instructions when cleaning, flushing, draining and restarting the camper tankless water heater. Always remember to switch off the power and shut off the water valves.
When removing the valve cap, take great care to slowly remove it from the service ports on hot and cold water valves.
Chemicals may cause damage to the water heater. Use the cleaning agent recommended by the manufacturer.
Operation
- Keep the best camper tankless water heater hot water lines as short as possible and well insulated.
- Turn on the hot water tap slowly to allow the air can pass via the pipe.
- For those hot water points that are far from where you have installed the RV tankless water heater, it might take some to have hot water flowing. The time taken is a factor of distance, inlet water temperature and water flow rate.
- Faster flow rates or cooler inlet temperatures may also result in lower water temperatures at the most distant water outlet
Energy saving
The cost of operating a pilot light in a tankless water heater varies from model to model. Ask the manufacturer how much gas the pilot light uses for the model you’re considering.
If you purchase a model that uses a standing pilot light, you can always turn it off when it’s not in use to save energy. This device resembles the spark ignition device on some gas kitchen ranges and ovens.
Safety
It is recommended that you have a carbon monoxide detector especially when using LPG or natural gas
Storage
Flush, drain and clean the travel trailer tankless water heater before storage.
Replacement
You cannot afford to wait for the RV, camper or travel trailer tankless water heater to fail so that you can get to replace it. The need for hot water will certainly not wait!
Plan in advance so that you have time to select the most appropriate heating unit. Remember that you may need to adjust the existing gas lines, water faucets, vents etc. to accommodate the preferred unit.
Final thoughts on the tankless water heater for RV, camper or travel trailer
The best RV, camper or travel trailer tankless water heater is a great appliance to install in your recreational vehicle. Furthermore, the water heating unit is small enough to find a place in the available space. What about the endless supply of hot water as and when needed! Moreover, the energy saving features in the unit saves your pocket too…
Enjoy your day as you look forward to that endless hot shower…..
Remember to keep your room safely heated with the most energy efficient space heater
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