Best RV Tankless Water Heaters: Electric and Propane on-Demand Options
Yes—on‑demand hot water is possible for RVs with propane or 12V electric powered tankless heaters. This guide compares top RV tankless water heaters to help you choose the right model for your travel lifestyle. Ideal buyers include full‑time RVers needing steady hot water, families sharing showers, and campers upgrading from traditional tank heaters. Below is a quick table of the five best options and who they suit.
| Product | Fuel Type | BTU / Flow | |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater (Black/White) | Propane | 60,000 BTU, up to 3.5–3.9 GPM | Busy RV families needing on‑demand hot water and altitude resilience |
| APUS RV Tankless Water Heater (68,000 BTU, 3.9 GPM, Black Door) | Propane | 68,000 BTU, 3.9 GPM | Compact installs with high flow for showers and kitchens |
| RVPart Pro RV Tankless Water Heater (60,000 BTU, Black Door) | Propane | 60,000 BTU | Built‑in features and straightforward operation for RVs |
| FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus (15″ x 15″ Door) 60,000 BTU | Propane | 55,000–60,000 BTU range stated, up to 2.9 GPM | High altitude use and retrofit flexibility for various doors |
| APUS RV Tankless Water Heater (68,000 BTU, White Door) | Propane | 68,000 BTU, 3.9 GPM | Slim installation footprint with high altitude readiness |
Note: All models listed are designed for RVs and campers, use propane for on‑demand heating, and require 12V DC systems or compatible power for operation and remote controls where applicable. Some units offer door size options or remote controls to simplify retrofits and replacements.
ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater
Powered by 60,000 BTU propane, this unit delivers on‑demand hot water with a flow around 3.5–3.9 GPM for showers and dishes. It uses oxygen‑free copper heat exchangers and brushless DC fans to support high altitude operation up to 9,800 feet. The product employs staged combustion to maintain stable temperatures and conserve propane. It includes a remote control for temperature adjustment and fault code display. Best for RV families and travelers who want reliable hot water while driving to high elevations.
- Best for: Busy RV families needing consistent hot water
- Limitation: Door and installation dimensions must be matched to your RV cutouts
APUS RV Tankless Water Heater (68,000 BTU, Black Door)
This APUS unit delivers 68,000 BTU with 3.9 GPM hot water flow, designed for RVs and campers. It is compact (about 15×15 inches) and easy to install with 12V DC power and standard pipe fittings. It supports high altitude operation up to 9,800 feet and includes safety features for reliable performance in varied environments. Best for RVs seeking a high‑flow option with a straightforward retrofit into existing spaces.
- Best for: RV owners needing strong flow without large space
- Limitation: Door size compatibility may vary by model
RVPart Pro RV Tankless Water Heater (60,000 BTU)
RVPart Pro provides 60,000 BTU of heat with a 3.5–3.9 GPM range. It features a built‑in 150 PSI pressure reducing valve and a microcomputer panel for temperature control and fault codes. Its design emphasizes user‑friendly operation and compatibility with many RV configurations, including high altitude use up to 5,000+ feet. Best for RV travelers who want easy temperature control and built‑in plumbing features.
- Best for: RV users prioritizing built‑in pressure relief and easy troubleshooting
- Limitation: Altitude performance listed up to about 5,000 ft; performance may vary at higher elevations
FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus RV Tankless Water Heater
FOGATTI InstaShower 8 Plus offers high altitude readiness up to 9,800 feet with staged combustion to avoid hot spots and propane waste. It fits multiple door sizes (15×15″, 15×18″, 18×18″) and provides on‑demand hot water via propane with a remote for convenience. Best for RVs needing retrofit flexibility and reliable performance at high elevations, with the option to replace various older tank models.
- Best for: RVs requiring retrofit versatility and high altitude operation
- Limitation: Some door size configurations require specific retrofit planning
APUS RV Tankless Water Heater (68,000 BTU, White Door)
This APUS model provides 68,000 BTU and 3.9 GPM for on‑demand hot water, with a white door variant for installation aesthetics. It is designed for quick RV installation, requires only a 12V DC power connection, and supports high altitude use up to 9,800 feet. Best for RV owners who want a compact unit with a clean door look and reliable performance in varied terrains.
- Best for: RVs wanting a slim profile and easy electrical hookup
- Limitation: Ensure door size compatibility with your current opening
Buying Guide for RV Tankless Water Heaters
Key considerations help ensure you pick the right unit for your RV life.
- Fuel source and energy efficiency: Propane units provide on‑demand hot water without a power draw, but propane cost and availability matter. Electric/12V options exist but often depend on shore power or solar capabilities.
- Hot water flow (GPM) vs. needs: Most RVs benefit from 3.5–3.9 GPM for multiple simultaneous uses. If you take rapid showers or run multiple fixtures, higher flow helps prevent cold bursts.
- Altitude performance: Look for high altitude readiness (up to 9,800 feet or more) to ensure consistent operation during mountain trips.
- Installation footprint: Check door size, mounting space, and venting/vent clearance requirements. Some models replace older door openings or standard tank water heaters.
- Controls and diagnostics: Remote controls or microcomputer panels simplify temperature adjustments and fault code troubleshooting on the go.
- Reliability and maintenance: Materials like oxygen‑free copper heat exchangers and staged combustion contribute to efficiency and longevity; verify maintenance needs for your setup.
- Compatibility and upgrades: If upgrading from a tank heater, verify retrofit compatibility with existing RV plumbing and electrical systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical GPM range for RV tankless heaters?
Most models deliver about 3.5–3.9 GPM, suitable for a full shower and kitchen use in an RV.” - Do these heaters require permanent electrical connections?
Propane tankless models operate independently of shore power but some features like remote controls may require 12V DC power. - Can I install a tankless heater in an older RV?
Yes, many models are designed for retrofit with standard door sizes and common NPT fittings, but verify door opening and mounting dimensions. - Are high altitude ratings important for mountain trips?
Yes. High altitude readiness helps prevent performance loss when traveling to higher elevations.