Short Intro: Choosing the right 12V propane tankless water heater for your RV or off-grid setup affects comfort, fuel use, and installation ease. The table below summarizes five highly relevant units selected for their 12V compatibility, propane operation, and RV-focused features.
| Product | BTU / Flow | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| KINGRVER 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater | 65,000 BTU / Up To ~3.9 GPM | Low-pressure activation (0.5 GPM) & high-altitude operation |
| countrymod 65,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater | 65,000 BTU / Instant On | Dual internal/external outlets and safety timer |
| CAMPLUX 5L Portable Propane Tankless Heater | ~1.32 GPM / Portable pump included | Lowest pressure start (~3.0 PSI) and 12V pump pack |
| LiberLive 55,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater | 55,000 BTU / 3.9 GPM | Smart remote control & staged combustion for efficiency |
| GIRARD 42,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater | 42,000 BTU / Continuous flow | Proven 12V design, onboard microprocessor, quiet operation |
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KINGRVER 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater
The KINGRVER unit is a 65,000 BTU propane tankless heater that runs on DC 12V power and targets RV retrofit applications. It features a very low activation flow requirement (0.5 GPM), making it suitable for systems with limited inlet pressure or low-flow fixtures.
- Low-Pressure Activation: Starts at 0.5 GPM, useful for weak municipal or pump-fed supplies.
- Door Sizes: Designed to fit a 12.7″ x 12.7″ cutout; optional door kits (15×15, 15×18, 18×18) available for replacements.
- Altitude & Freeze Protection: Engineered for high-altitude use and includes automatic freeze protection below 42.8°F.
- 12V Compatibility: Designed for RV electrical systems, reducing dependence on shore power.
Installation considerations include matching the cutout size or purchasing the correct door kit, ensuring proper venting and propane supply, and wiring to a stable 12V source with adequate amperage for ignition and controls.
countrymod 65,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater
Countrymod’s tankless heater delivers instant heating with 65,000 BTU output and 12V operation tailored for RV use. It emphasizes practical features for outdoor living and safety-focused controls.
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- Dual Water Outlets: Front and rear outlets for indoor showers and external rinsing, handy for pets and outdoor gear.
- Safety Timer: A 40-minute automatic shutoff to limit long unattended operation.
- Staged Combustion: Flame control helps manage temperature extremes in high ambient conditions.
- Instant On: No tank warm-up delay typical of storage heaters.
Key setup notes: confirm water line routing for the external outlet, verify the propane regulator and supply meet BTU demand, and plan for electrical connection to the 12V system for ignition and controls.
CAMPLUX 5L Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
CAMPLUX provides a compact, portable propane tankless heater that includes a 12V pump pack and is intended for camping, tailgating, or small RVs. It’s a different form factor compared with built-in RV heaters and focuses on portability and simple hookups.
- Portable Pump Included: Onboard water pump supports on-demand operation without existing pressurized supply.
- Low Start Pressure: Can start at ~3.0 PSI, helpful for minimal-supply scenarios.
- Flow & Temp: Around 1.32 GPM with temperature range suitable for sinks and quick rinses.
- Power Options: Pump can run from a cigarette lighter cable or alligator clips to a battery.
Use cases include temporary outdoor showers, wash stations, or backup hot water. Confirm propane connector compatibility and observe recommended clearances for combustion when used near structures.
LiberLive 55,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater
LiberLive’s tankless model offers 55,000 BTU output with claims of up to 3.9 GPM flow and a smart remote control for convenience. It’s built to replace common RV heater openings and emphasizes temperature consistency and efficiency.
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- Replacement Friendly: Fits a 13″ x 13″ opening with a wider 15″ x 15″ door included for retrofit projects.
- Smart Remote: Remote operation up to ~6.6 feet for temperature and mode control.
- Staged Combustion & Efficiency: Designed to maintain steady temperatures and reduce propane consumption.
- Quick Warm-Up: Reports rapid temperature rise for quick shower readiness.
Important considerations: check compatibility with your RV’s cutout and plumbing layout, and ensure the electrical connection provides stable 12V power for the control board and ignition systems.
GIRARD 42,000 BTU Tankless RV Water Heater
Girard’s model is a long-standing industry option featuring 42,000 BTU output with a focus on quiet, efficient operation on 12V power. Known for integrated microprocessor controls, this unit emphasizes steady temperature and low electrical draw.
- Onboard Microprocessor: Monitors incoming/outgoing temps and flow to maintain setpoint and reduce cold spots.
- Quiet Brushless Motor: Designed for low-noise operation and low amp draw from the 12V system.
- High Efficiency: Lower LP gas consumption compared to equivalent tank heaters.
- Freeze Protection: Includes features to reduce freeze risks during low-temperature use.
Girard units are often selected for long-term reliability and compatibility with standard RV plumbing. Verify amperage requirements for the blower and controls against your RV battery capacity and charging system.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 12V Propane Tankless Water Heater
Choosing the right unit requires balancing BTU output, flow rate, activation pressure, installation fit, and electrical needs. Below are practical decision points and comparison perspectives to guide selection.
Heat Output & Flow Rate
- BTU Rating: Higher BTUs generally support higher flow or greater temperature rise. For full showers and simultaneous use, target 55,000–65,000 BTU for best performance.
- GPM Expectations: Flow depends on inlet temp. A 3.5–3.9 GPM rating is common for stronger shower performance; portable units often deliver ~1–1.5 GPM suitable for rinses or low-flow showers.
Activation Pressure / Low-Flow Start
- Low Activation Needs: Units that start at 0.5 GPM or low psi are better when using low-pressure pumps or for fixtures with weak supply.
- System Matching: If your RV uses a low-flow pump, confirm the heater’s minimum flow/pressure to avoid frequent cold starts.
12V Power Requirements
- Amperage Draw: Check starting and running amps for ignition, blower, and any onboard pump. Ensure your battery bank and charging system support these loads.
- Continuous 12V Supply: Reliable 12V is essential for ignition and control. Consider wiring protection and fusing as manufacturer recommends.
Installation & Fit
- Cutout Size: Confirm the unit matches your existing heater opening or that you can retrofit with a door kit.
- Venting & Clearances: Proper exhaust and intake clearances are critical for combustion appliances—follow venting specs closely.
- Plumbing Connections: Front and rear outlets affect routing; external outlets may be useful for outdoor showers.
Altitude & Temperature Considerations
- High-Altitude Operation: Some units are rated for high-altitude use; combustion tuning or kits may be required above certain elevations.
- Freeze Protection: Automatic freeze prevention or drain-back capability is important for cold climates or winter storage.
Safety & Controls
- Shutoff Safeguards: Look for overrun timers, flame failure detection, and over-temperature protections.
- Remote/Controller Options: Remote controls add convenience, but verify range and mounting access.
Fuel Efficiency & Propane Supply
- Propane Consumption: Staged combustion and efficient burners reduce LP usage. Consider tank capacity and refill logistics for long trips.
- Regulator & Hose Sizing: Ensure your regulator supports the unit’s BTU demand and that line sizing minimizes pressure drop.
Portability vs. Built-In
- Portable Units: CAMPLUX-style units with pumps are ideal for temporary setups and off-grid use but typically provide lower flow.
- Built-In RV Units: Offer higher BTU and integrated plumbing options suitable for full-time RV living and multiple simultaneous uses.
Reliability & Serviceability
- Brand Support: Prefer manufacturers with clear documentation, replacement doors/parts, and accessible customer support.
- Diagnostics: Error codes or simple troubleshooting features help maintain uptime on the road.
Comparison Perspectives
- Performance-Oriented: Choose 55k–65k BTU units with higher GPM if multiple showers or heavy use is expected.
- Low-Pressure Systems: Units with low activation flows (0.5 GPM) or low psi starts are best for small pumps or older plumbing.
- Budget/Temporary Use: Portable 12V pump kits give flexibility and lower initial cost but offer reduced flow.
- Retrofit Ease: Units that match common cutouts or include door options reduce installation complexity.
Final selection should align with your RV’s plumbing and electrical capacity, expected hot water demand, local altitude, and whether you prefer a permanent built-in unit or a portable solution for occasional use.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
- Prioritize Quality Over Cost
The most critical factor in any HVAC project is the quality of the installation. Don’t compromise on contractor expertise just to save money. - Check for Rebates
Always research current rebates and incentives — they can significantly reduce your overall cost. - Compare Multiple Quotes
Request at least three estimates before making your choice. You can click here to get three free quotes from local professionals. These quotes include available rebates and tax credits and automatically exclude unqualified contractors. - Negotiate Smartly
Once you've chosen a contractor, use the proven strategies from our guide — How Homeowners Can Negotiate with HVAC Dealers — to get the best possible final price.