At the end of a long day of traveling in your RV, there are few things more luxurious than a relaxing hot shower. And, there are few things more displeasing and frustrating than dealing with a defunct water heater that either won’t get hot or won’t stay hot.
While your RV water heater certainly isn’t the most glamorous part of your home on wheels, it is arguably the one that can define whether or not you have a good day. From those blissful morning showers to the cozy evenings spent washing dishes after a hearty meal, your RV water heater is there, quietly doing its job…until it’s not.
Like all good frequently-used appliances, your poor RV water heater won’t last forever. If yours is on the fritz, it may be time to bid farewell to “Old Faithful” and usher in a new era of warm water bliss. So, grab your favorite mug, settle into your comfiest camping chair, and let's dive into why it's high time to replace that tired old water heater.
Types of RV Water Heaters
There are typically two different types of RV water heaters to choose from: on-demand tankless or the more traditional tank-style water heater.
As you might expect, tankless water heaters take up less space since they don’t store gallons of hot water. Rather, they work by heating up the water as it flows through the unit. This also ensures that you don’t run out of hot water before you’re done fully enjoying the luxury of your RV shower. Who doesn’t want unlimited, on-demand hot water?!
Tankless water heaters are particularly great choices for smaller RVs that are tight on space. However, they can be more complicated to install and do demand higher upfront costs. Additionally, tankless water heaters require a minimum flow rate to activate the heating elements. So, in situations where only a small amount of water is needed, or if the water flow is too weak, the heater might not turn on.
Tank-style RV water heaters are very similar to those in your home, but are much smaller and more compact. An RV tank-style water heater will typically hold 6-10 gallons of water, whereas the typical home water heater will hold over 40 gallons.
Electric or Propane
Most RV water heaters use either electricity or gas (typically propane) to heat the water. Some models feature a combination of either source that you can switch between as desired.
Electric RV water heaters use a heating element to heat the water. These are particularly convenient when the RV is connected to a shore power source or is equipped with a generator.
However, it’s important to note that if you are leaning toward a tankless model, you’ll likely be looking at a propane setup. Electric tankless water heaters require a substantial amount of electricity to operate effectively – generally more than an RV’s electrical system can handle. While there are some portable standalone units that can be a good match for RV use, they usually provide a much lower flow rate and water temperature.
Propane water heaters use a burner to heat the water and are ideal for situations where electric hookups are not available. They tend to heat water faster than electric models and can be more efficient under certain conditions.
As noted, some RVs feature water heaters that can operate on either electricity or propane. This type of water heater allows RV users to switch between energy sources. For example, you might use propane while traveling or camping off-grid and then switch to electricity when staying at a campground with electric hookups.
RV Water Heater Lifespan
Overall, tankless water heaters tend to have longer lifespans than their traditional tank-style counterparts. This is primarily because they do not continuously heat a large volume of water, which reduces wear and tear along with sediment buildup.
In general, you can expect your traditional RV water heater to last around 10 years, possibly longer if you’re good about keeping up with servicing and draining the unit during winterization. For tankless units, the lifespan increases to about 15-20 years.
Like any appliance though, the longevity of an RV water heater can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors:
Usage & Maintenance. Regular maintenance and proper usage can extend the lifespan of an RV water heater. This includes flushing the tank periodically, inspecting and replacing anode rods if necessary, and ensuring proper ventilation. Not overtaxing your water heater with long showers that require lots of heat will also help extend its life.
Water Quality. The quality of water used in the RV can affect the lifespan of the water heater, as well. Hard water with high mineral content can cause sediment buildup and corrosion, leading to premature failure – yes, even on tankless units that don’t hold the water. In that case, it can clog or damage the heating elements.
Unit Quality. Simply put: you get what you pay for. Higher-quality RV water heaters are typically made with more durable materials and components, which can better withstand the rigors of frequent use. Investing in a reputable brand known for reliability and excellence – like Suburban Manufacturing, Dometic, Furrion, or Girard Products – can lead to fewer maintenance issues, lower long-term costs, and a generally longer service life.
Signs Your RV Water Heater is Wearing Out
Keep an eye out for signs that your RV water heater may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Telltale signals include: leaks, unusual noises during operation, inconsistent heating, or rust and corrosion on the unit.
Another sign to watch for is if your RV water heater becomes less efficient. Higher energy consumption or a decrease in heating speed, performance, or capacity are all signs that your water heater may be on its last leg.
While there's no set rule for when to replace an RV water heater, it's generally a good idea to consider replacement if the unit is more than 10-15 years old or if you notice significant signs of wear or performance decline. Faulty or aging water heaters can pose safety risks, including the potential for leaks, gas leaks (in the case of propane-powered heaters), or even fires. It's essential to prioritize safety and replace your water heater promptly.
The good news is that most RV water heater replacements can be done yourself with a little research, know-how, and the proper tools. This can save you plenty of cash versus having a professional plumber install it for you. The interwebs are rife with DIY tutorials and tips to help guide you through the process. Keep in mind though, there is no shame in hiring this job out if you’re uncertain and want to make sure it’s done right the first time.
Reliable Water Heater Makes and Models
When choosing a water heater for replacement or upgrade, selecting a reliable model from a trusted manufacturer is crucial. Check out some of our top picks to click below.
Dometic 6-Gallon RV Water Heater. The Dometic 6-gallon water heater is a compact and durable option with a solid reputation among long-time camping enthusiasts. It’s easy to install on your own and it’s also easy to get replacement parts and accessories for this popular model.
Suburban Manufacturing RV Water Heater. The Suburban Advantage line of RV water heaters is also very popular, since it’s offered in 4, 6, 10, 12, and 16 gallons. It’s a versatile choice for any RV and features a porcelain-lined steel tank for added longevity. As an added bonus, the anode is easily replaceable, extending the life of the water heater even further.
Girard Systems Tankless RV Water Heater. Girard Systems is under the umbrella of Lippert, a well-known and well-respected company in the RV industry. Offering one of the best-selling tankless water heaters in the RV industry, Girard develops its units with state-of-the-art electronics and components. Girard tankless water heaters don’t require any special plumbing or LP gas lines to install and are super energy efficient, providing you practically instantaneous hot water for as long as you want it.
Furrion Tankless RV Water Heater. With a heating capacity of 2.4 gallons per minute and a powerful 60,000 BTU, Furrion’s gas-powered tankless water heaters ensure an instantaneous and consistent supply of hot water in your RV – even when temperatures drop to 39°F. Also under the Lippert brand, the company uses components engineered for life on the road, ensuring they stand up to intense shock and vibration encountered by uneven terrain and an on-the-go lifestyle.
Portable Camp Showers
For the true “roughing it” crew or those who prefer to travel super light in an ultra-compact camper van or travel trailer, an RV water heater isn’t likely to be on your list of must-haves. However, it’s still nice to enjoy a warm rinse after a long day of hiking or exploring.
That’s where a portable camp shower can be a game changer. These “showers” hook up virtually anywhere and stow easily in even the smallest of spaces when not in use. Some of them even feature solar function to help warm the water for added luxury.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional tank-style RV water heater, an innovative tankless design, or something uniquely portable for off-grid excursions, Parts Via can provide the perfect solution to meet your needs.