7 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV
It’s annoying when you want to take a good hot shower after a day-long trip only to find out there’s no water heater for your RV. A total mood killer – I know how that strikes!
As much as impossible it might seem to have a water heater installed in your RV– it’s not! By choosing the best electric tankless water heater for an RV, you can now enjoy a good ol’ hot shower without a hassle.
The reason is these electric tankless water heaters don’t need a lot of room or natural gas to function. Instead, they’re considerably small in size and use electric power to heat your water on demand, saving you a lot of money.
Anyways, to help you pick the best one, I’ve gone through countless expert’s and buyers reviews to find out the right products. Read on to find the suitable one for you.
Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV- Overview
An electric tankless water heater is the type of water heater that warms your water on-demand right when you turn on the faucets, unlike a traditional water heater which comes with a 6-10 gallon size preheated water.
This type of water heater is right for RV users as it doesn’t need a lot of storage and any natural gas. Instead, it entirely runs on electricity, saving you tons of costly bills.
Moreover, as it’s lightweight and small in size compared to the traditional water heaters, you can easily fit it in any tight space – making it more suitable for your RV.
How Does an Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV Works
An electric element instantly heats the cold water when you turn on the faucets. You don’t have to wait a lot for the water to get heated.
It doesn’t need any storage tank filled with hot water, unlike a traditional water heater. Hence, the name ‘tankless’. You get to enjoy an unlimited supply of hot water as that’s one of the specialties of these electric water heaters.
This system makes the electric tankless water heater cost-effective, which is best suited for any RV user.
Benefits of Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV
If you compare the traditional water heaters with the electric tankless water heaters, then be sure; you’ll go for the electric tankless water heater.
The reason is, it has a lot of benefits when it comes down to using it for your RV.
Like –
- Unlimited hot water supply that you’ll never run out of hot water.
- Highly Energy-efficient as it only heats the amount of water you need.
- Lightweight and small in size for which you can store it in any corner of your RV.
- Saves utility bills as it uses 20%- 50% less energy.
- Lasts longer and needs low maintenance.
Best Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV
You can’t compromise anything when it comes down to buying an electric tankless water heater for your RV. So, considering the output, voltage, and all the other ins and out, I’ve come up with an in-depth review of some of the best ones that’s in the market right now.
1. Camplux Tankless Propane Water Heater
Specifications
- Voltage: 120 V
- Water Flow Rate: 5.28 GPM
- Water Pressure: 7.0-150 PSI
- Amperage Capacity: 40A
- Wattage: 40KW
If you’re looking for a tankless water heater that’ll cover a hot shower session for all your buddies in an RV, then the Camplux Tankless Propane Water heater is just for you.
This heater has a water flow rate of 5.28 GPM that will allow you to enjoy endless hot water. It can instantly activate on-demand as it has a water pressure of 7.0- 150 PSI. Not to mention, the maximum power is up to 150,000Btu/Hr.
As a result, you and all your buddies can take a hot shower as much as you want without a hassle. One of the exciting things about this water heater is that it never blows out cold water and has automatic temperature control systems. It has a heat efficiency of up to 92% that saves a lot of energy.
Thus, you don’t have to worry about increasing or decreasing the heat level of the water as it maintains the perfect temperature.
This propane tankless water heater also has a built-in vent pipe which provides good ventilation of the device. So it doesn’t get too heated as the air can pass back and forth.
Other than that, I found this heater fascinating as it has an intelligent monitoring system with a PCB startup. This system monitors potential fire or increased hydropower.
Therefore, you’ll get a timely warning if there’s ever a gas fire hydropower leakage and ensure the safety of your family and friends.
Moreover, it’s coated with a CNS-approved combustion V-type stainless steel, making it durable and long-lasting.
Pros:
- Automatic flow rate activation
- Cost-effective by saving energy
- Good ventilation performance
- Automatic temperature controls
- Ensures safety with multiple protection systems
Cons:
- Not suitable for installing above 2000 feet or 600m.
2. SIO Green IR288 v2 POU Infrared Electric Tankless Water Heater
Specifications
- Voltage: 220-240v
- Water Flow Rate: 1.0GPM-4.5GM
- Amperage Capacity: 40A
- Wire Gauge: 2 x 8AWG
- Wattage: 9.0 KW
If you’re looking for a water heater that’s not only cost-efficient but also prevents corrosion, the SIO Green IR288 v2 infrared electric tankless water heater is the right one for you. That’s because it uses infrared technology.
This technology uses Quartz instead of metallic heating tubes, which prevents corrosion, calcium deposit, and even limescale deposit.
With this heater, you can take a hot shower mindlessly or wash dishes anytime as it uses 110 V or 220 volts to only heat the water you use. This saves both time and money at the same time. Moreover, it’s ideal for any home application as you can set the current from 10A to 40A, resulting in 1.5kW to 9.5kW of power.
But since this heater uses Quartz instead of metal, you’ll enjoy a corrosion-free Heater while saving money without worrying about maintenance.
Other than that, it’s less than 20 inches which are perfect for your RV as you can install it in any small place like your kitchen, small bathrooms, cabinet, sinks, and even store rooms. It’s also suitable for use as a booster for hotels, hybrid with tanks, stores, or restaurants without an issue.
Interestingly, the device has an adjustable heating mode that has both manual and automatic modes to heat your water. This mode gives you the option to set your temperature however you like – either manually or automatically.
This heater is energy-efficient– meaning, it saves a lot of energy which also tends to reduce all that electricity bill. You also don’t need to think about its maintenance as it’s made with durable elements and saves you the maintenance cost.
Pros:
- Adjustable temperature controls
- Completely corrosion-free
- Easy maintenance
- Quick and easy installation
- Environmental friendly
Cons:
- Requires additional products for the installation
3. Bosch Tronic 3000 Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater
Specifications:
- Voltage: 120V
- Water Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM- 7 GPM
- Water Pressure: 150 PSI
- Amperage: 12A
- Wattage: 1.4KW
The Bosch Tronic 3000 electric mini-tank water heater is best suited for people who hate to wait in the shower. The reason is that it recovers hot pretty fast for having a power range of 1440 watts. So, you don’t have to worry about waiting for the water to get warm.
Moreover, With a water flow rate of up to 7 gallons, you can use warm water instantly when you turn on the faucet.
What I found unique about this heater is that the tank is coated with a glass line material. For this reason, it offers strong durability and longevity, indeed.
It also has CFC-free foam insulation with a thermal efficiency of 98%, which makes it more energy-efficient and saves you a lot of energy costs.
Again, this heater has optimal usage for three options. One of which is that you can use it as a supporting tool for another water heater. Another is that you can independently use it for your sink. And lastly, you can use it as a buffer heater that experiences cold water.
In addition, it’s perfect for your RV as it needs little to no storage and can be stored like – your kitchen sink and your bathroom. Not to mention it’s also suitable for installing in apartments, basements, garages, and even pool houses.
Pros:
- Provides instant warm water
- Durable material for its glass-lined tank
- Easy to maintain
- Lightweight and suitable for small places
- Usable for both commercial and residential purposes.
Cons:
- Irregular fluctuating temperatures before the water is heated.
4. Ecosmart POU 3.5 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Specifications:
- Voltage: 120 V
- Water Flow Rate: 0.5 – 1.5 GPM
- Wattage: 3.5 KW
- Wire: 10 AWG
- Amperage: 29A
The Ecosmart POU 3.5 electric tankless water is ideal for you if you’re fond of point-of-use appliances. That’s because this heater will provide you instant hot water with a 20 amperage.
It’s great for places like bars, washrooms, boats, bars, strip malls, doctor’s offices, and of course – your RV. Hence, it’s so versatile.
Not just in versatility, it’s incredibly convenient as you can enjoy unlimited hot water right on demand. Unlike traditional water heaters, this heater runs on a 3.5 KW with a 120 voltage, which never runs out of hot water. So, you can enjoy warm water as much as you want.
Featuring advanced technology, this heater uses only the right amount of energy to heat the water when needed. So as extra energy isn’t wasted, the additional bill doesn’t pop up. This feature makes the heater cost-effective and saves you money by 60% of that heating costs.
It also packs digital flexible temperature control. This offers one-degree alteration system control of 80 – 140 ℉, for which you can fully control the temperature however you like.
Moreover, unlike traditional water heaters, this heater is small-sized, saving you a lot of space, up to 90% in your RV. You can be worry-free as this heater doesn’t need too much storage.
Pros:
- On-demand heater water
- Convenient energy supply
- Cost-effective product
- Saves space leaving more storage
- Reduces water and energy waste
Cons:
- Limited water flow rate capacity
5. Camplux ME25 Mini Tank Electric Water Heater
Specifications:
- Voltage: 120V
- Water Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
- Water pressure: 150PSI
- Wattage: 1.4 KW
Who doesn’t fancy a heater that is both cost-efficient and high in quality? That’s right– Almost everyone! And if you’re one of those too, you’ll love the Camplux ME25 Mini Tank Electric Water Heater as it offers you both these features.
With a 2.5 GPM, you get to enjoy the endless warm water and heats only the amount of water you need to use. This function saves energy and reduces extra heating costs– making it more efficient.
And the quality of this heater is assured, as it’s coated with a glass-lined tank. For this feature, it is not only durable but also long-lasting.
Moreover, there’s a thermostat control that comes with CSA listed relieve valve in this device, which you get to adjust the temperature as you wish. This temperature control prevents overheating and ensures safety of the users. There’s even a freeze protection indicator to prevent damage to the system due to freezing fluids.
Not to mention, for having a 43.3 inches cord plugs, the installation is suitable for any independent use. And you get to enjoy instant warm water for its fast water recovery with a maximum pressure of 150PSI.
It also saves a lot of space in your RV as it’s small in size and doesn’t need too much storage. This mini heater can also be installed in places like- basement, kitchen station, garage attic, basin, wet bar and even a boat.
So, if you’re looking for a convenient water heater, this is the one for you.
Pros:
- Fast hot water recovery
- Quick and easy installation
- Ensured durability with glass-lined body
- Easy temperature control systems
- Cost-effective and saves energy
Cons:
- Risk of freezing when not used for a long time.
6. RINKMO Electric Tankless Water Heater
Specifications:
- Voltage: 208V/ 240V
- Water Flow Rate: 0.4 GPM/1.5L PM
- Wire: 12AWG
- Wattage: 6 KW
- Amperage: 25A
If you deire to buy a water heater that will always provide you with clean water and has a safe system, then you should lock your eyes on the RINKMO Electric Tankless Water heater.
It features a smart technology that makes this heater 10 times safer for everyone, including babies. And inner electricity and water lines are separated – meaning any rust and corrosion are prevented from building up. So you can always experience clean and fresh water.
Moreover, the device can save up to 40% energy by using 6KW power, which heats water instantly in seconds without wasting a drop of by.
And you also get to save additional heating costs as it saves 50% extra water heating cost. Thus, this not only saves you from wasting energy but also saves a lot of your money.
This small-sized heater stays away from eating up extra storage in your RV and leaves you more room, unlike the traditional water heaters. So you can use your extra rooms rationally without worrying about your heater taking extra space.
It also has a built-in technology that calculates the temperature you want with the current temperature and adjusts the power input, giving you your desired temperature water.
Again, when it reaches above 167°F or is lower than 37°F, you will be warned beforehand for its auto protection– giving you a safer temperature control protection.
Pros:
- Energy Efficient water heating system
- Saves extra heating costs
- Prevent rust or corrosion build-up
- Saves valuable storage
- Easy to maintain
Cons:
- Requires professional help for installation
7. Focket Electric Tankless Water Heater
Specifications:
- Voltage: 110V
- Power: 4500W
- Water temperature: 55°C
Appliances that are made with advanced technology and give your RV that luxurious effect serves as a great addition to its interiors. And that’s why you should go for the Pocket Electric Tankless Water Heater.
With its high-defined LED display, you can keep track of the operating status of this heater and gives your RV that royal effect. Not only that, it comes with a digital display of touch-pad controls which makes it easier for you to set the temperature settings.
Thus, you won’t have to think about mixed hot and cold water because this heater has a constant temperature control system that sets the temperature just at the right spot– at 55°C.
This 4500W water heater instantly heats your water. So you don’t need to wait for the water to turn hot anymore. Another thing I liked about this heater is that it’s coated with tempered glass, which gives it a smooth and fashionable texture. Trust me; this one will make your RV super luxurious.
Moreover, the device has a stainless steel-equipped body which makes it more durable and safe for you to use in the long run. It’s also scratch-proof and water-resistant, which increases its durability.
Besides your RV, it can also be used for bars, schools, community, and even hair salons.
Pros:
- Constantly heats water
- Waterproof and scratch resistance
- Tracking working status
- Provides instant heated water
- Durable and safe for its strong materials
Cons:
- Costly maintenance
Things to Consider While Buying the Best Electric Tankless Water Heater For RV
It might get confusing to hunt down the best electric tankless water heater for RV among so many options out there. This is why I’ve reviewed some of the best ones out there.
But it’s essential to look for some factors while you go shopping to get the best results. Some of these factors are stated below.
WATER FLOW RATE
This is one of the essential factors you’ve to look for. That’s because the water flow rate tells you its capacity in gallons which you need to select according to your needs.
If you want an electric heater for showering, then the minimum flow rate is 2 GPM, whereas if it’s for your sinks, you’ll need a minimum 1 GPM flow rate.
For showers, you can go for the Bosch Tronic 3000 electric, and for sinks you go for the Ecosmart POU 3.5 electric tankless water heater.
SIZE
You should always calculate the amount of water consumption before shopping for a tankless water heater for your RV. This gives you an idea of the size you need.
Like, for toilets and bathtubs, you’ll need 2- 4.5 gallons per minute. For example- an SIO IR288 v2 POU Electric heater will do the job.
But for showers, you’ll need from 1.5 to 3GPM. Like- the Camplux Tankless Propane Water Heater.
HEATING CAPACITY
You must look for the heating Capacity of the heater you’re going to get to see if it meets your requirements. Water’s heating Capacity is usually measured in BTU( British Thermal Unit).
The heating capacity is higher when the BTUs are higher. So, when the capacity is of 30,000 BTU’ you’ll get enough heat. Like the Camplus tankless propane water heater. So, go for the heaters higher in BTU’s that’s more than 15,000 BTUs, as it might not provide enough heat.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Energy efficiency is one of key features to look for when buying a water heater. As an electric tankless water heater doesn’t need preheated water and instantly heats the water, it saves a lot of energy. Hence, energy-efficient.
But that doesn’t mean every electric tankless water heater has the same level of energy efficiency.
To select the best electric heater for your RV, you should go for the certified and tested heater for its energy efficiency. Like- the Rinko Electric and Ecosmart POU 3.5 tankless heaters.
LOCATION AND SPACE
As space is a precious asset in an RV, you must have enough space in the location where you’ll install the tankless water heater.
Check the dimensions of the heater you’re going to purchase along with the dimensions of your space and compare them. If they match, then go for it.
Make sure there’s a power source where you’re going to install that heater. Like- RINKMO Electric and Camplux ME25 Mini tankless water heater.
TEMPERATURE
There are electric heaters that have both adjustable and fixed temperature templates. Whether you want adjustable temperature options or fixed digital temperature, make sure to look for heaters with your requirements.
For adjustable temperature, you can choose the SIO Green IR288 v2 POU Electric tankless heater. And for the fixed temperature, you can choose the Focket electric tankless heater.
MAINTENANCE AND CONTROLLING SYSTEM
Sometimes it’s hard to maintain heaters constantly as it needs professional help. So, if you’re one of them, go for heaters that have an advanced controlling system.
Ultimately that results in easy maintenance. For example, the Bosch Tronic 3000 electric and the SIO Green IR288 V2 POU are tankless water heaters of this caliber.
SAFETY MEASUREMENTS
The heater’s safety matters a lot as heaters can be prone to danger. So it’s better to look for heaters that are built with strong materials and ensure the safety of users.
Like- The Focket electric and RINKMO Electric tankless water heater fall in this category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an RV tankless water heater myself?
Yes! You most definitely can. As most RV users have plumbing experience, you can install one yourself. But if you can’t, you don’t have to worry. As you always take help from a professional.
Can I install a tankless water heater under the RV’s sink?
It depends! If you want a tankless heater particularly to fit under the RV’s sink, you have to look for small heaters and take less storage because there are a lot of heaters out there that are big and might not fit under your sink.
Do I need to clean a tankless water heater?
Yes, specifically if it has been kept out of use for a long time. That’s because keeping a heater out of use for a long time builds up germs and might get rustic. So you should clean a heater before you start to use it again.
Is an electric tankless water heater easy to maintain?
Yes and no. Some of the electric tankless water heaters offer you easy maintenance for which you won’t face any problem. But some of these heaters do not offer easy maintenance. In that case, you can take help from an electrician.
Final Thoughts on Tankless Electric Water Heater For RV
Electric water heaters are a necessity when it comes down to taking hot showers in peace. And it’s best suited for RV’s as it doesn’t take too much space.
Hopefully, you were able to choose the best electric tankless water heater for RV from this review. But if couldn’t, then don’t stress yourself out.
Well, now if you ask for some suggestions from me, here they are.
In terms of performance, you can choose the Bosch Tronic electric tankless heater as it offers a water flow rate of up to 7GPM.
Besides, if you want the most affordable one, then go for the RINKMO Electric Tankless heater. And for a durable one, you should go for the Focket Electric tankless heater.
