The 15 Best RV Tankless Water Heaters (Review) in 2022

When you’re camping in chilly weather, a nice hot shower might be all you need to forget that you’re living in an RV rather than in the absolute comfort of your own home. That said, camping in the wild does not mean you have to sacrifice certain luxury, and hot showers in cool weather is a must-have. A hot water tank can serve this purpose, but for a decently long shower, or multiple companions using hot water at the same time, you will need the best RV tankless water heater to enjoy such a perk.

An RV tankless water heater system is designed specifically for the RV setting and thus offers many advantages compared to the traditional tank-based system. Rather than storing hot water in a storage tank and heating small batches of water at a time like conventional heaters, RV tankless water heater systems quickly and constantly heat water on demand at the very moment you turn on the hot water knob, so you could access a limitless supply of hot water. 

This type of heater is also engineered to be compact with easy installation, as well as to save water and use energy efficiently. Thus, in the long run, you can expect to save quite an amount on water and electricity bills. 

That said, to pick the best tankless water heater for RV based on your budget and needs, there are certain things you must consider before making a purchase, since these systems differ somewhat from what you would find in your home. 

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to choose the most suitable model for your rig, including how an RV tankless water heater system works, its unique benefits, the different types, most important buying criteria, followed by a list of the most prestigious manufacturers and our own handpicked list of the very best RV tankless water heater units on the market. You will also find, towards the end of this article, handy installation guide, maintenance tips as well as useful answers to frequently asked questions by fellow RVers.

There is something for every camper in this list, with top-notch models of varying price points, types and features catering for different needs and group sizes. Each shortlisted model offers a good balance of key buying criteria, has solid construction and functionality, and has been tested by countless full-time RVers and professionals alike, based on the many RV tankless water heater reviews that we’ve carefully browsed through.

Best RV Tankless Water Heaters Comparison Chart

	Product's name	Price	Key Features	More Info
No products found.	No products found.	$$$$	Output: 2.6 GPM Dimensions: 25.5 x 13.625 x 7 Inches Weight: 27 Pounds	No products found.
	CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE AY132S Propane Water Heater, White, 5 L	$$$$	Output: 1.32 GPM Dimensions: 11.42 x 4.33 x 14.8 Inches Weight: 14 Pounds	See Latest Price
	EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater, 13KW at 240 Volts with...	$200.67	Output: 3.1 GPM Dimensions: 11.5 x 8 x 3.75 Inches Weight: 6.65 Pounds	See Latest Price
	MAREY GA10LP Power 10L 3.1 GPM Propane Gas Tankless Water Heater, Liquid,...	$239.96	Output: 3.1 GPM Dimensions: 13.6 x 23.6 x 6.9 Inches Weight: 21 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Camplux 10L Outdoor 2.64 GPM Digital Display Portable Propane Gas Tankless...	$$$$	Output: 2.64 GPM Dimensions: 12.8 x 6.1 x 21.65 Inches Weight: 23.6 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Eccotemp FVI12-LP Liquid Propane Gas Tankless Water Heaters, White	$$$$	Output: 4.0 GPM Dimensions: 24.75 x 15.25 x 6 Inches Weight: 33 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Rinnai V65iP Non-Condensing Propane Tankless Water Heater, Indoor...	$$$$	Output: 6.5 GPM Dimensions: 26.9 x 14.04 x 9.27 Inches Weight: 45.6 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Eccotemp i12-LP Water Heater, 4 GPM, Black	$$$$	Output: 4.0 GPM Dimensions: 17.00 x 29.00 x 11.00 Inches Weight: 28.9 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Suburban - 5117A Water Heaters 6 Gallon	$$$$	Output: 6.0 GPM Dimensions: 17.00 x 29.00 x 11.00 Inches Weight: 28.9 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Atwood Mobile Products 96110 Pilot Ignition Water Heater - 6 Gallon	$$$$	Output: 14.3 GPM Dimensions: 16.5 x 12.5 x 18.0 Inches Weight: 28.9 Pounds	See Latest Price
	PrecisionTemp RV-550 Tankless Water Heater - Wall Vented	$$$$	Output: 6.0 GPM Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.5 x 14.25 Inches Weight: 32.0 Pounds	See Latest Price
No products found.	No products found.	$$$$	Output: 1.6 GPM Dimensions: 25 x 15 x 8 Inches Weight: 14.0 Pounds	No products found.
	Excel Pro Tankless Gas Water Heater NATURAL GAS 6.6 GPM Whole House and for...	$$$$	Output: 6.6 GPM Dimensions: 14.5 x 23 x 5.5 Inches Weight: 36.0 Pounds	See Latest Price
	Suburban SW6DE RV Water Heater Camper Trailer DSI Elec/lp w/White Door	$$$$	Noise level is low Marvelous ruggedness Good values for the cost	See Latest Price
	Rinnai RU80EN Ultra-NOx tankless Water Heater, Large, Silver	$$$$	Output: 8.0 GPM Dimensions: 26.0 x 18.5 x 10 Inches Weight: 70.0 Pounds	See Latest Price

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RV Tankless Water Heater Basics

What is it and how does it work?

Unless you live and camp where it’s warm all year round, an RV tankless water heater would be a must-have appliance, in fact, one of the first additions you must get for your rig. In comparison, traditional water heaters require a storage tank to store heated water and thus you will need to wait for the water in the tank to reach the desired temperature before you could use it. Meanwhile, these tankless systems supply us with continued supply of hot water on demand. It does so by heating water directly and almost instantly the very second you turn on the hot water knob and the water starts flowing out your faucet or showerhead. 

The moment the hot water tap is turned on, the water heater switches on, the cold water flows through pipes along a heat transfer, which will heat the water instantaneously either using an electric element or a gas burner. This means RV tankless water heaters could deliver continued supply of hot water. In winter, you won’t need to let your shower run for a while until the hot water comes out, as we all do.

Benefit of RV tankless water heater

Instant hot water: It is one of the most important features of a tankless system, which is why it is sometimes called RV on demand water heater or RV instant hot water heater systems. With it, you will not run out of hot water supply especially if you will get units that have higher recovery rate, usually a combination of gas and electric element used, that can churn out more gallons of hot water per hour of use. More on recovery rate in a later section, “important buying criteria”.

Save water: Since a tankless system heats water almost instantly, you no longer have to waste water by letting it go down the drain in the shower while you’re waiting for the hot water to come out. Compared to traditional tank heaters, which may take two to three minutes or more to churn out hot water, tankless systems conserve water, helping you save on water bills and save the environment as well.

Hot water for more than one source at the same time: With the ability to heat water quickly and efficiently, a tankless system is more suitable for big groups and families, when different occupants might want to use hot water at the same time: one might shower while another is washing the dishes.

Energy efficiency: In the case of a water heater with a tank, energy can be wasted because the water needs to be heated again and again until it reaches desired temperature. An RV tankless water heater instantaneously heats the water without having to store it in a tank, thus is more energy efficient and will reduce your bills in the long run. 

Smaller size: Tankless units are also more lightweight and compact, taking up less space in your RV and allows for easy installation and arrangement. You can easily move it around or store it away when not in use. Reviews from professionals and some full-time RVers reveal that these RV tankless water heater only takes up almost half the space that a standard water heater would use.

Lower maintenance: An RV tankless water heater doesn’t require a storage tank, so you don’t need to winterize it when the freezing months come, which can be quite a lot of work.

Lifespan: Recent innovations in materials and design have helped to extend the lifespan of RV tankless water heater systems. Indeed, the best RV tankless water heaters can last up to 15 or even 20 years, while traditional water heaters only have a lifespan of 6 to 10 years. 

The Best Tankless Water Heaters For RV: Our Handpicked List

Different people tend to have different preferences so particular models could receive highly conflicting opinions. Still, in the case that you look for a good buy, it’s strongly recommended that you check out the water heaters reviewed down below.

If you are familiar with the different types of RV tankless water heater and their characteristics, and know what you’re looking for based on your budget and needs, feel free to jump to dive into our delicious handpicked list of the absolute best RV tankless water heater below. 

Otherwise, skip to the next two sections to learn more about the features and benefits of different types of RV on demand water heater, as well as the most important buying criteria that you must consider before making a purchase. After all, each category and each model has its unique features as well as pros and cons, so the best RV tankless water heater would depend on your priorities. 

That said, we made sure the list below would cover a good variety of different types of tankless systems, as well as features and price points, and of course each model has been proven to be functional and durable, so once you have determined what you’re looking for, you’d definitely find something in this list to satisfy your requirements.

1. Eccotemp L10 – Best Of The Best

No products found.

Why This Is The Best:

Engineered to be set up and put away in a matter of moments,  Eccotemp L10 proves to be an excellent water heater for outdoor showers. Packing manual temperature control, the Eccotemp unit allows enthusiasts of RVing to change the water temperature as they see fit. Besides that, the water pressure is adjustable as well so it’s a breeze to get a customized shower experience. Needless to say, to people that like to shower on the go, Eccotemp L10 is undoubtedly the best RV tankless water heater money can buy.

Since the water heater from Eccotemp incorporates battery-powered electric ignition, it works reliably in an assortment of camping conditions. That is going to be a major plus if you travel extensively and want a dependable supply of hot water. About the fuel, Eccotemp L10 runs on gas which means you could hook it up to standard 20-pound propane tanks. Upon purchase, the Eccotemp water heater comes with accessories such as gas regulator, gas hose, garden hose adapter and others.

To maintain safe operation, Eccotemp L10 has an automatic 20-minute shutoff timer that reset once water stops then starts again. Because of that, the model of Eccotemp possesses a sublime safety record compared to typical water heaters on the market.

We’re camping outside (RV) while work is being done on our house – We hooked this hot water heater up outside of the shed and fill a un-insulated steel tub. We’ve been using it several times a week to take a bath all through the Winter here in N California where temps around the mid 30’s are common here. The key for a super hot bath was to add a hose water restrictor to the cold water IN pipe (See pics) You can dial down the flow even more with this ‘ til the water is scolding hot. It does take 15 to 20 mins to run the bath, but oh what a treat!

Shared by James Benidorm

2. Camplux AY132 – Editor’s Choice

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Featuring a compact body, Camplux AY132 easily fits in a wide range of recreational vehicles. Thanks to the integration of a carrying handle, moving the water heater of Camplux from spot to spot is a walk in the park too. Being a gas model, Camplux AY132 is best used out in the open but if necessary, you could install it inside your rig assuming that the interior is well-ventilated. The Camplux unit would shut down automatically if oxygen in the surrounding drops below a predetermined level so rest assured.

Regarding installation, the setup process of Camplux AY132 is undemanding and only lasts a few minutes in the usual cases. In addition to that, similar to many of its market competitors, the model from Camplux relies on batteries for ignition so its reliability is outstanding. As Camplux AY132 also employs innovative heating technology, the operating expense tends to be reasonable. Unsurprisingly, the unit of Camplux is considered to be the best RV tankless water heater at its price range for cost-conscious enthusiasts of RVing.

About temperature and pressure, Camplux AY132 lets users apply adjustments through the knobs located at the front of the unit. Thus, everyone could have enjoyable showers while using the tankless water heater for travel trailer made by Camplux.

We live off grid in Hawaii. We use this for two sinks and a shower. It’s just my husband and I that use the hot water and we’ve used this for about 7 months now without any problems. Also, it uses very little propane and the water pressure is perfect! I’ll buy another one of these some day. Two thumbs up!!!

Shared by Jennifer Creasey

3. EcoSmart ECO 11 – Editor’s Choice

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

You seek a solid electric hot water heater for campers? If that is so, you should check out EcoSmart ECO 11. Boasting the latest self-modulating technology, the model from EcoSmart would precisely regulate the energy output to ensure optimal heating. As a result, EcoSmart ECO 11 is able to help enthusiasts of RVing save energy and cut down the utility bill. Moreover, depending on the climates, the EcoSmart water heater can provide hot water to various applications at the same time.

In terms of control, EcoSmart ECO 11 utilizes an intuitive digital interface that permits users to set the temperature of water in increments of one degree. Therefore, tuning the temperature to individual liking is going to be a piece of cake. Aside from that, EcoSmart ECO 11 has a rather slim and sleek design so it frees up floor space inside recreational vehicles for more essential items. The water heater made by EcoSmart is quite light as well, hence, RVers could install and remove it at will.

So as to reassure customers, EcoSmart backs its water heater with a limited lifetime warranty. That is why if you want to have an insurance policy then EcoSmart ECO 11 would be the best RV tankless water heater you can buy.

I purchased this unit to replace a standard 50 gallon electric water heater. The price of a kilowatt hour of electricity here on the Big Island of Hawaii is .39 cents, and going to go higher. Installation was pretty straight forward with a cardboard template to mark the 3 holes required to mount the unit. I had to use reducers to get from 3/4 inch to 1/2 inch for the connection to the unit. I used the brass adapters supplied with the unit to make the connection to standard 1/2 inch stainless hose. Teflon tape is required to make sure there is no leaking from the brass adapters.

The unit says that a 50 amp breaker should be used with #6 wire. I wired the unit temporarily using the #10 (30 amp) wire that went to the original heater. The current draw with a shower and sink faucet wide open was 38 amps with an inlet water temp of 70 degrees. I ran a new circuit of #8 wire as the water temp here is never going to get lower than 70 degrees. If you live in a cold climate or have a well I am sure the current draw will be higher so the #6 wire should be used.

The temperature regulation with this unit is very stable. I have it set to 115 degrees and have no problem in the shower when a sink or dish washer comes on and demands more hot water flow.

Shared by David A Tate

4. Marey GA10LP Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Capable of delivering endless volumes of water on demand, Marey GA10LP is held in high esteem by countless RVers. Designed to run on gas, the Marey unit is deemed to be well-suited for settings that face power shortages. Even the ignition mechanism of Marey GA10LP is powered by batteries so you would never have to worry about running out of hot water. Besides that, possessing a high-quality corrosion-resistant heat exchanger, the water heater from Marey can work for a lifetime.

As Marey GA10LP happens to have a humble profile, it takes up less space than traditional RV water heaters. Thus, it should be a breeze for you to find a spot for the model from Marey on your rig without having to ditch something. Additionally, Marey GA10LP is built to be rustproof which completely eliminates the issue of water loss caused by leaks. Last but not least, the Marey water heater has combustion and gas pressure protection so it’s safe to use.

With multiple points of use, Marey GA10LP could steadily supply hot water to an assortment of applications at once. Because of that, if you have to simultaneously run many applications that require hot water, you need to add the Marey unit to your shortlist.

This is a great on demand water heater for the price. It was fairly easy to install. The hardest part was finding the right vent pieces for the spot we have it installed. It takes some fine tuning and experimentation to get the temperature settings where they need to be. It all depends on your specific plumbing system and personal preference. It does get very hot in the highest setting so it takes some adjusting to get it just right. I highly recommend this unit. So far so good!

Shared by Melissa

5. Camplux  10L Outdoor BW264 Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

By incorporating modern energy-saving technology, Camplux BW264 reduces the operating expense but still allows enthusiasts of RVing to access hot water as they need. Furthermore, the water heater from Camplux has multilayered protection so its safety level is splendid compared to the average units. Compact and light, Camplux BW264 is often held in high esteem by RVers that like to stay adaptable while traveling. Since it’s accompanied by hardware too, the Camplux model is easy to set up.

Being a gas water heater, Camplux BW264 should be used in the outdoors but with proper venting arrangements, you could put it indoors as well. The unit of Camplux integrates electronic ignition powered by batteries, therefore, its operation is stable. In use, Camplux  BW264 let the users manage the pressure and the temperature of the water through respective turn knobs. Interestingly, the water heater made by Camplux also features a gas knob that you can use to change the consumption rate bases on the climate.

As for the cost, Camplux BW264 is inexpensive so it suits the shopping budget of ordinary enthusiasts of RVing nowadays. All in all, once it comes to cost-values, the Camplux model is definitely the best RV tankless water heater.

Setup was easy. Water turned on and off with shut-off valve on the hand sprayer. Water flow lights burner. Tested and works perfectly. Water flow and temperature easy to adjust. Flow from sprayer was strong with normal hose pressure. I purchased an additional 11.5 foot sprayer hose so I could locate the water heater farther away from the where the water will be used. The unit comes with easy connect hose fittings, but the are unique. I would like to see an attachment kit so these plastic fittings can be reordered. Plastic part inevitably crack or wear out. Having more on had would be good planning. There are brass fittings from standard hose thread connections…it’s only the quick snap-on quick disconnect parts that are made of plastic. Maximum temperature reached on the front display was 140 degrees. That was with the temperature dial turned up to maximum and the water flow to minimum. This is a very efficient water heater. I plan to use this water heater for emergencies and for pool side showers in the summer.

Shared by Oh-Well-Darn

6. Eccotemp FVI12-LP Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Thanks to its ability to generate intense gas-fueled flame, Eccotemp FVI12-LP could instantly heat up water as it passes through the heat exchanger. Naturally, for RVers that want to get hot water in a timely manner, the model of Eccotemp is certainly the best RV tankless water heater. It’s worth noting that Eccotemp FVI12-LP is an on-demand water heater: it only runs if there is a demand for hot water. Hence, the unit from Eccotemp helps you conserve gas for other appliances in your rig.

Eccotemp FVI12-LP packs a flush digital temperature display so users should be able to tell the current temperature at a glance. To change the temperature of the water, you can use the front-mounted turn knobs to apply whatever adjustments that you see fit. In addition, as Eccotemp FVI12-LP has standard water fittings, adapting it to particular water setups would be a cakewalk. With a low noise output, the water heater made by Eccotemp guarantees a tranquil experience.

Employing a lightweight space-saving design, Eccotemp FVI12-LP could be easily stored and moved. As long as it receives gas and power for its electronic ignition system, the RV instant hot water heater from Eccotemp is going to work like a charm.

7. Rinnai V65iP Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Equipped with ThermaCirc360 technology, Rinnai V65iP can recirculate hot water through the pipes and accelerate the delivery of hot water to applications. Because of that, if you keep the Rinnai water heater around, you could access hot water in a blink of an eye. Also, since  Rinnai V65iP only heats water on demand, it uses less energy than classic water heaters for RV. That means the unit of Rinnai cuts down CO2 emission as well as gas consumption.

Packing a compact design that allows installations in non-traditional locations for water heaters, Rinnai V65iP would let RV save space inside recreational vehicles. Additionally, the model from Rinnai has a basic no-nonsense digital display so enthusiasts of RVing could increase and decrease the temperature as they like. If necessary, it’s possible for users to fit a WiFi control module to Rinnai V65iP for remote control. Therefore, you don’t have to stand next to the water heater Rinnai to monitor and manipulate its operation.

One interesting thing about Rinnai V65iP is that all of its components are replaceable so if something breaks down, you can easily grab replacements.

8. Eccotemp i12-LP Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Featuring advanced low flow ignition technology, Eccotemp i12-LP lets enthusiasts of RVing enjoy an interrupted flow of hot water. As the unit made by Eccotemp uses standard water fittings and accompanies horizontal venting, installing it is just a breeze. Instead of pilot light,  Eccotemp i12-LP utilizes electronic ignition so it could readily produce hot water all day long. Also, the model from Eccotemp is highly compact which makes it a good buy for RVers that have small rigs.

As for the user interface, Eccotemp i12-LP has a stylish black tempered glass panel that incorporates LED display controls. Through the controls, you can turn the water heater on/off, change the temperature, measure the output and so on. Eccotemp i12-LP possesses a handy child lock designed to keep the youngsters from unwittingly messing up the operation settings. So if you intend to bring your kids along while traveling then the Eccotemp unit would be the best RV tankless water heater for you.

About post-purchase support, Eccotemp i12-LP is backed with a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty. In the case that your Eccotemp tankless water heater fails due to manufacturing defects, you could claim a free replacement.

9.  Suburban 5117A Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Constructed using porcelain-lined steel, Suburban 5117A could take everything that people throw at it. Even the controls are protected in a one-piece die-formed metal housing that stops outdoor elements from getting in. As a result, the water heater from Suburban is held in high esteem by full-time RVers that prioritize endurance. Besides that, since Suburban 5117A has a copolymer insulation jacket, it substantially reduces heat loss in use and allows enthusiasts of RVing to save gas.

Compared to the usual water heaters for RV on the market, the unit of Suburban boasts a fast recovery rate so it can deliver lots of hot water to the users in relatively few cycles. In terms of installation, packing a highly accessible gas line connection, Suburban 5117A is deemed very easy to set up. Thus, the Suburban model tends to be well-liked by DIY RVers that seek functional water heaters with uncomplicated installations. Suburban 5117A uses pilot light for gas ignition though, therefore, you might have to relight it every now and then.  

Regarding maintenance, RVers don’t have to pay special attention to the Suburban water heater. All you need to do is to swap the replaceable anode rod periodically to prevent  Suburban 5117A from getting rusty.

10. Atwood 96110 Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Basic and practical, Atwood 96110 gives a good account of itself in lots of environments which is why it’s an excellent companion for off-roading. Being a gas water heater with pilot light ignition,  the Atwood unit permits enthusiasts of RVing to secure hot water even if electricity is unavailable. Once you reach the camping site, you simply need to light up the pilot light and you would have hot water after half an hour. As it also has a compact body, the Atwood unit is capable of fitting limited spaces so you could easily add it to your rig.

About installation, the setup process of Atwood 96110 is straightforward so you don’t have to be a professional mechanic in order to get it working. In addition to that, to increase resistance against elements, the access door of the model from Atwood is powder-coated. Unsurprisingly, the reliability of Atwood 96110 receives positive remarks from various RV tankless water heater reviews. The water heater made by Atwood contains a temperature switch, a thermostat and a pressure/temperature relief valve as well.

For cost, Atwood 96110 indeed seems to be expensive for an RV tankless hot water heater but the values it offers nonetheless match its price tag. Atwood backs its units with a decent 2-year warranty too.

11. PrecisionTemp RV-550 Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Looking for a quality purpose-design RV tankless water heater? Then PrecisionTemp RV-550 is going to be what you need. Designed specifically for four-season use, the model of PrecisionTemp guarantees a constant flow of hot water around the year. Thanks to the integration of built-in freeze protection,  PrecisionTemp RV-550 would remain operational as the outside temperature drops low. Moreover, as the PrecisionTemp water heater has an electric ignition system, enthusiasts of RVing don’t have to wait too long to get hot water.

Featuring employing automatic gas modulation, PrecisionTemp RV-550 self-adjusts gas usage based on temperature as well as rate of flow. Hence, the unit made by PrecisionTemp could maintain stable temperature control which addresses issues like overheating in the summer and inadequate heating in the winter. Besides that, PrecisionTemp RV-550 happens to be an RV on demand water heater that only activates if people need hot water. So the PrecisionTemp model can help RVers cut down the utility bill and save some bucks.

Since PrecisionTemp RV-550 is rather light in its class, getting it into position should be a walk in the park. The simple setup process means virtually everyone could install the PrecisionTemp unit with common tools.

12. EZtankless EZ101 Tankless Water Heater

No products found.

Why We Love It

Boasting fully-automatic operation, EZ101 of EZtankless can supply hot water mere moments after you turn on the shower faucet. As the ignition system of the EZtankless water heater draws power from D-cell batteries, it works like a charm in all kinds of conditions. Additionally, by incorporating robust low-pressure start-up, EZtankless EZ101 is able to work at pressure as low as 10 PSI. That is why once it comes to high-altitude camping, the unit of EZtankless is the best RV tankless water heater available for purchase nowadays.

To deliver an optimal experience, EZtankless EZ101 packs three dials that let RVers manage the numbers of burners, intensity of the flame and water flow. Because of that, it’s a breeze for you to tune the operation of the EZtankless model to your liking. As for the installation, the water inlet, the water outlet and the gas inlet all concentrate on the bottom EZtankless EZ101 so setting it up is a piece of cake. With a lightweight construction, the unit of EZtankless proves to be highly portable as well.

In terms of safety, EZtankless EZ101 has a 20-minute timer that reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in layouts with less than ideal ventilation. If the water supply is interrupted, the water heater made by EZtankless would promptly proceed to close the gas valve.  

13. Excel Pro Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Being a modulated tankless water heater, Excel Pro automatically changes its heat output in response to the flow rate of water running through it. As a result, the unit of Excel is capable of maintaining temperature while optimizing gas consumption. Furthermore, Excel Pro has a user-friendly digital display that allows enthusiasts of RVing to adjust water temperature at will. So you just have set the temperature as you see fit and you can start enjoying a nice hot shower.

In order to facilitate the setup process, Excel Pro could be exhausted vertically (rooftops) as well as horizontally (wall vents). Thus, adapting the water heater from Excel to particular camping environments would be a cakewalk. Also, since Excel Pro utilizes a standard gas connection, you can quickly hook it up to the usual propane tanks. The ignition system of the Excel model is electric, therefore, its start-up sequence is considered to be pretty smooth. 

As for cost, Excel Pro appears to be costly but if you have money to spend then it’s by all accounts a good buy. It’s noteworthy that the tankless water heater made of Excel is backed with an extended manufacturer warranty as well.

14. Suburban 5121A Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Like Suburban 5117A but want a more reliable ignition system? In that case, Suburban 5121A is the unit for you. Packing direct spark ignition, the water heater from Suburban readily provides hot water to applications. Hence, with  Suburban 5121A on your rig, you could take a hot shower whenever you want which is certainly convenient. Similar to its cousin, the model of Suburban features a rather fast recovery rate so you don’t have to worry about rapid water cycles.

Possessing a durable porcelain-lined steel body, Suburban 5121A could handle shocks and vibrations well. Moreover, thanks to the presence of a resilient housing, the controls of the Suburban units are well-guarded against elements. Naturally, regarding endurance, Suburban 5121A is widely known to be the best RV tankless water heater in its price range. Aside from that, since it has a highly accessible exterior gas line connection, the tankless water heater made by Suburban is very simple to install.

In use, Suburban 5121A is able to keep heat loss to a minimum as it comes with an insulated jacket. That is why various enthusiasts of RVing that wish to conserve gas while traveling think highly of the Suburban unit.

15. Rinnai RU80EN Tankless Water Heater

Why We Love It:

Employing a condensing design with two heat exchangers to maximize heating values, Rinnai RU80EN is deemed to be a highly capable tankless water heater. Since it has a built-in recirculation program that cycles the external pump at preset parameters, the unit made by Rinnai could optimize gas consumption and keep the noise down. Because of that, Rinnai RU80EN is economical and it operates in a silent manner. In addition, the Rinnai water heater supports multiple venting arrangements so its adaptability is excellent.

So as to reduce the risk of long-term damage, Rinnai RU80EN incorporates enhanced scale detection which is handy. A temperature lock is included as well to prevent accidental/unauthorized changes to temperature settings. Thus, the tankless water heater from Rinnai could be put to good use in a wide range of camping setups. Though Rinnai RU80EN is more expensive than the average units on the market, it’s a worthwhile purchase nevertheless.

As proof of confidence, Rinnai offers everyone that decides to pick up its water heater a splendid warranty: 5-years for part and 1-year for labor. If you like to have peace of mind, you should consider getting Rinnai RU80EN.

Best RV Tankless Water: Buying Guide

Due to the special RV settings, when you are hunting for the best RV tankless water heater, there are important criteria to take into consideration. Which type or model is the most suitable for you depends on your budget, water consumption needs and the limitations of your rig, so you might  need to compromise based on your top priority.

Power Source

Tankless heaters are powered by natural gas, propane, and electricity, so check to see what source is already available in your RV. If it’s a single source, then you basically have no choice but to select a heater using that power supply. If you have more than one power source such as electric and gas, you can opt for a hybrid model. Otherwise, remember that gas heaters require more maintenance, less efficient and less green while electric ones are more expensive to buy and to operate in the long term.

BTU Per Hour

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and it’s usually used to measure the heating capacity of water heaters. That means as the BTU rating increases, more heat would be directed to the water. In other words, a higher rating translates into a faster ability to heat water in a short amount of time.

For reference, a gas-burning RV tankless water heater, a good ballpark to look for is between 30,000 to 50,000 BTUs per hour. This level is slightly lower than what you get from the traditional tank-based water heater in your house. 

So as to determine the ideal BTU rating for your RV tankless water heater, it’s essential that you consider, and even calculate as accurately as possible your average daily and monthly water consumption. Overall, if you don’t have particularly high demands or only travel solo, you could settle for a standard water heater; otherwise, if you need lots of hot water, it is best to opt for a high-BTU model so you won’t need to worry about only getting lukewarm water in freezing weather.

Size

Space for the water heater often varies substantially between vehicles, hence, you must pay attention to size to grab the best RV tankless water heater. The last thing you want to do is to spend big bucks on a huge water heater that your rig is simply incapable of accommodating. As a result, it’s widely advised that you use the specifications of your rig as references and decide accordingly. That would help you narrow down your shortlist as well.

Flow Rate/Water Output

If you travel with a few companions, you might want to run more than one hot water source at a time, so when looking for the best RV tankless water heater for your whole gang, do consider the flow rate or water output of a unit. 

This is measured by gallon per minute (GPM). The higher the flow rate, the more hot water sources you and your companions can use at the same time, including kitchen sink and shower.

To estimate how much flow you might need at any given time, you can assume that a shower stall in most RV’s will use between 1.5 to as much as 3-gallons per minute while the kitchen sink faucet will need roughly around 1.5 gallons per minute of hot water. Bathtub faucets and toilets typically consume even more at around 2.5 to 4.5 gallons per minute.

Here is a quick reference for basic water-consumption of appliances:

• Shower: 1.5 – 3 GPM
• Bathtub: 2 –  4 GPM
• Kitchen Sink: 1 – 1.5 GPM
• Dishwasher: 1 – 3 GPM
• Toilet: 0.5 – 1 GPM

Some camper water heater units can supply more than 2 gallons per minute, but the very best RV tankless water heater models can churn out up to 5 gallons of hot water per minute, depending on the model. In most cases, gas-powered heaters can produce higher flow rates than electric units. 

Recovery Rate

Recovery rate is the amount of hot water the water heater is capable of providing in a given period of time, measured in gallon per hour (GPH). The amount of hot water provided per hour will depend on several factors: the recovery efficiency, wattage of a heating element in an electric water heater, temperature rise and the time frame for which you are measuring the recovery rate. 

The recovery efficiency of a particular model, which measures how much of the total heat produced is absorbed into the water, varies depending on the power source. For instance, gas-fired tank-based residential water heaters generally have a 75% to 78% recovery efficiency. This means 75-78% of the total heat produced by the burner is absorbed into the water in the tank. Electric water heaters are said to have close to 100% recovery efficiency.

For example: In the case of an electric water heater, if the wattage of the elements is 4,000, the incoming water temperature is 40 degrees and you wish to heat the water to 120 degrees, i.e. an increase of 80 degrees, then the recovery rate is 20.5 gallon per hour (GPH) if calculated at 100% recovery efficiency for electric heaters.

Installation

As an RVer, you likely have to take care of many issues which is why you don’t need a water heater with complicated setups. Because of that, prior to picking up a particular model, you should make sure that you could master its installation. In addition, make sure the model you’re eyeing comes with complete accessories for a smooth installation, including required adapters, a showerhead, hoses, fittings and user manual.

Besides assessing water heaters directly, it’s a good idea to read customer reviews too to gain insights into the installation complexity of market models. If you have any questions, get in touch with the manufacturers to acquire reliable information.

Other Features

If you want a user-friendly unit with an easy control interface, you can also choose one with a digital screen, allowing you to adjust temperature based on your needs and preferences.

In addition, to ensure you will get many years of good service from your chosen unit, look for the best RV tankless water heaters equipped with fail-safe features, or in other words, some protections to keep it in good working order. This includes a design that prevents voltage shortages and spikes as well as accidental electronic ignition triggering due to excessive heat. It should also have features that protect it from the heavy beatings and vibrations on the road in rough terrain, basically solid construction and parts that secure the unit firmly in place.

Durability

Unless you happen to have the money to replace your water heater now and then, it’s strongly recommended that you give durability some thoughts. By taking a look at the designs, materials, finishes and so on, you can tell if the water heater you like is able to last. If you notice signs that indicate an easily compromised integrity, it’s best that you start looking for other models.

Price

Tankless water heaters for recreational vehicles come at various costs so there are fitting models for every shopping budget. Nonetheless, before committing to a purchase, you have to remember the rule of thumb: “You get what you pay for”. While it’s unnecessary to empty your wallet just to buy expensive premium-grade water heaters, you should also stay away from dirt-cheap models. To put together a sound budget, compile a list of desired features, seek out the water heaters that match the list and compare their prices.

Types Of Tankless Water Heaters For RV

RV tankless water heater systems are categorized by a few different power source options . The one that’s right for you might vary depending on where you plan to park up and what features are currently built into your RV, thus it is important to have some planning in this regard before deciding on a certain type. 

By power source, an RV tankless water heater can be categorized into: propane, electric, gas and hybrid water heaters. 

Gas Water Heaters

In most cases, this type requires propane, LP or kerosene to work. Tankless gas-powered water heater can have an efficiency of up to 85%.

Gas water heaters are reliable, thus ideal for campers who travel all year around. In addition, they have manageable operation expenses, thanks to the affordable gas cost.  

That said, to safely run gas water heaters, it’s necessary to set up venting arrangements to remove the exhaust. Compared to RV tankless electric water heater, this type requires venting to release exhaust, thus is not as friendly to the environment as their electricity-powered counterparts. 

Propane Water Heaters

Among the gas-powered heater systems, RV propane tankless water heater is the most common type of hot water heater for camper, simply because you can tap it into the existing propane system. Chances are if you previously had a propane heated traditional water heater, you can take advantage of the same plumbed line.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters run on electricity so unlike gas-powered units, they are greener as they don’t release exhausts. Depending on individual preferences, RVers can power models of the types using battery banks, generators, or solar energy. In addition to greenness and versatility, RV tankless electric water heater boasts a superior energy efficiency compared to gas water heaters, with up to 100% efficiency.

An electric tankless water heater also tends to be relatively easy to install, and if you are relatively handy, you should be able to handle it all by yourself. On the downside, water heaters that run on electricity are more expensive than gas-powered counterparts and they have high power consumption.

Hybrid Water Heaters

If you value versatility and convenience, then hybrid water heaters would be exactly what you need. Designed to run on electricity as well as gas, models of the type allow enthusiasts of RVing to casually enjoy hot water at all times. Nevertheless, once it comes to available options, hybrid water heaters fall behind other heater types.

RV tankless water heaters also fall into either condensing or non-condensing categories. 

Condensing RV tankless water heater

A condensing RV tankless water heater essentially reuses the energy from the exhaust system to heat the water. As a result, condensing tankless water heaters are 92% to 94% efficient. 

Although these units use cheap PVC venting, which makes them more affordable than the non-condensing counterparts that use expensive stainless steel venting, they tend to be less energy efficient when you use them in short bursts like washing hands or quickly rinsing a small amount of dirty dishes. 

Non-condensing RV tankless water heater

A non-condensing RV tankless water heater uses a special type of heat exchanger to heat water on demand.

The benefit is that these systems tend to be highly reliable and long-lived, since it often requires heavy-duty stainless steel venting to release the hot exhaust gases. Such durable materials inevitably increase the cost of non-condensing units.

Premier Brands Of RV Tankless Water Heaters

It’s safe to say that the brand of a water heater has rather negligible influences on its actual performance. Nonetheless, it’s strongly recommended that you prioritize models made by the manufacturers down below.

Atwood

Atwood Mobile Products was founded in 1909 and entered the RV market in 1936. Atwood is now sold under the Dometic brand, and are known for RV products including water heaters, air conditioners, furnaces, and cooktops. 

Dometic

Being a long-established name in the RV industry, Dometic releases plenty of high-quality appliances including tankless water heaters. Unsurprisingly, Dometic is the all-time favorite of enthusiasts of RVing that seek solid products.

Rinnai

Founded back in 1920, Rinnai is deemed to be one of the leading brands once it comes to tankless water heaters. Models from Rinnai receive a shower of praise from RVers, novices as well as veterans.

Suburban

Able to build robust appliances that work reliably for many years, Suburban is respected by RV communities around the globe. If you wish to pick up a tankless water heater for camper that holds together, Suburban has excellent options for you.

The Girard Group

Girard Products, based in California, introduced its first RV tankless water heaters in 2009 and has quickly gained a solid reputation as one of the top-selling tankless water heater companies in the RV Industry.

Excel

Based in Miami, Florida, Excel focuses on flexible gas piping systems but it also makes outstanding tankless gas water heaters. Looking for a good water heater that runs on gas? If that is so, you should consider buying from Excel.  

Takagi

Known for incorporating quality materials and modern technologies into its products, Takagi never fails to meet the expectations of consumers. In addition, strict quality control means only the best water heaters could leave the factory.

Eccotemp

Recognized as among the global top manufacturers of the best RV tankless water heaters, Eccotemp offers a wide range of tankless and traditional water heaters available in liquid propane, natural gas and electricity for both indoor and outdoor application. Eccotemp takes pride in their high quality products as well as customer service and customer satisfaction.

How to Install Tankless Water Heater in RV

If you require a professional to install a tankless water heater in your RV, you will likely need to pay some $300 – $600, depending on how much conversion work needs to be done, and the complexity of the heater you have chosen.

However, if you have some basic plumbing and electrical experience, you should be able to get the installation done yourself, given that the model you bought comes with all the necessary parts and accessories. The instructions differ with each model, so make sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions. Tankless water heaters are truly necessities in the RV world nowadays, so if you’re getting a popular best-selling model, chances are high that you will be able to find detailed installation guide videos on Youtube. 

The general installation process are as follows:

• Disconnect the water supply to your RV.
• Remove the old water heater. Remember that you’ll most likely have some water left in the line, so be sure to place down a bucket and some towels to deal with spills.
• Determine a location for the heater, if you’re not installing it in the same spot as the old one. Make sure you check the measurements of the new model and that it would fit in the designated space. If you’re upgrading from a hot water tank, you may need to perform some conversion work. It is important to check with the manufacturer if this is the case.
• Hook up the water supply line.
• Connect the gas and/or electricity system.
• Ensure adequate ventilation for the unit to work efficiently.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to switch on the heater and you’re all set to enjoy your hot water.

FAQs About RV Tankless Water Heaters

You can also find our guides on how to choose the best RV shower head, best RV water hose, best RV water filter, best RV water pressure regulator, best RV water pump, best RV water softener with detailed reviews in RV Freshwater Systems category. In these reviews, we only include and recommend the best products with the highest ratings among highly sold products on the market.