Choosing the right RV hot water heater affects comfort, energy use, and installation complexity. This guide compares five top options — electric mini tanks and propane tankless units — and summarizes their core specs to help American RV owners make informed choices.
| Product | Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Feelrogast Electric Tank Water Heater | Electric Mini-Tank | Instant hot water, 8 gallon, adjustable temp |
| Countrymod RV 65,000 BTU Tankless | Propane Tankless | Dual outlets, instant heating, 65,000 BTU |
| Ranein 65,000 BTU Tankless | Propane Tankless | Multi-function controller, high-altitude ready |
| Poukaran 65,000 BTU Tankless | Propane Tankless | Brushless DC fan, segmented combustion, freeze protection |
| VEVOR 42,000 BTU Tankless | Propane Tankless | LED touch control, segmented combustion, 42,000 BTU |
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Feelrogast Electric Tank Water Heater – 8 Gallon
The Feelrogast Electric Tank Water Heater is an 8-gallon electric mini tank designed for under-sink or compact RV installations. It uses a 316 stainless steel heating element and claims up to 99% heat utilization, with adjustable temperature from 86–167°F. Safety features include electrical insulation on inlet/outlet, a leakage protection plug, high-temp limiting device, and auto temperature control.
Construction highlights include a 1.88mm thick stainless steel tank with a heavy enameled layer designed to resist cracking and corrosion. Certification notes list CE, ROHS, and FCC compliance. Best suited for users needing a compact, electrically powered hot water source where propane is not preferred or available.
Countrymod 65,000 BTU Tankless Propane Heater
The Countrymod 65,000 BTU propane tankless unit offers instant heating with no storage tank. It features dual water outlets for internal and external use, allowing outdoor rinsing or pet washing without modifying plumbing. The high heat output supports continuous hot water so long as gas and water supply are adequate.
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Safety features include a 40-minute timer protection to prevent prolonged unattended operation and staged combustion to help control excessive temperatures in hot conditions. The design caters to RVers who prioritize on-demand hot water and outdoor convenience.
Ranein 65,000 BTU Tankless Water Heater
The Ranein 65,000 BTU model replaces many Suburban & Atwood tank models and is aimed at straightforward retrofits. It offers a multi-function remote controller that displays gas usage, voltage, GPM, and altitude status up to 9,800 ft. The unit claims up to 3.9 GPM output for extended showers.
Key design points include a deep fire row for efficient heat transfer and compatibility with various door kits (sold separately). The product is marketed with high-altitude capability and monitoring features that can assist in diagnosing performance or fuel usage trends.
Poukaran 65,000 BTU Tankless Water Heater
The Poukaran 65,000 BTU tankless heater focuses on performance and reliability. It features an oxygen-free copper heat exchanger, a brushless DC fan, and segmented combustion to manage temperature across seasons. Freeze protection is included to help prevent winter damage.
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The unit is compatible with common RV openings and offers multiple door sizes. Its design aims to maintain consistent flow and temperature even at lower water pressures, making it suitable for varied campsite conditions and high-altitude travel.
VEVOR 42,000 BTU Tankless Water Heater
The VEVOR 42,000 BTU tankless heater provides a mid-range BTU output intended for smaller RVs or power-conscious setups. It features segmented combustion for seasonal adjustments and an LED smart display with touch controls for easy operation and monitoring.
This model targets owners who prefer simpler controls and lower BTU ratings but still want on-demand hot water for showers and dishwashing. The unit includes multiple protection features and CSA certification notes for safety compliance.
Buying Guide
This buying guide covers the main factors to weigh when selecting an RV hot water heater. Considerations are grouped for installation, operation, and long-term ownership.
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.
Types And Fuel Source
- Propane Tankless: Offers continuous hot water and is common in RVs. Requires propane supply and proper venting.
- Electric Mini-Tank: Good for low-complexity installs and where shore power is available. Limited capacity but simpler plumbing.
- Tank Storage: Not covered in detail here, but storage tanks hold a fixed volume and may be simpler to maintain for some setups.
Performance Metrics
- BTU Rating: Higher BTU generally enables higher flow rates and multiple simultaneous uses. Choose based on RV size and expected simultaneous demand.
- GPM (Gallons Per Minute): Key for shower comfort. Tankless models commonly range from ~2.5 to 3.9 GPM in this selection.
- Response Time: Tankless units provide on-demand heat; mini tanks reduce wait time but can deplete limited capacity.
Installation And Compatibility
- Opening Size & Door Kit: Many tankless replacements require matching door sizes; check dimensions and door kit availability.
- Electrical Requirements: Tankless propane models often need 12V for controls and fans; electric tanks require 120V circuits.
- Venting and Clearances: Propane units require proper venting and clearances; consult your RV manual or a certified technician.
Durability And Maintenance
- Material And Heat Exchanger: Oxygen-free copper or stainless components resist corrosion; steel tanks need sacrificial anode rods to prevent rust.
- Anode Rods: Replaceable anode rods extend tank life. Match thread size and length to your model if applicable.
- Freeze Protection: Crucial for winter camping; look for built-in anti-freeze features or ensure winterization procedures.
Safety And Certifications
- Certifications: CSA, CE, or other regional certifications indicate compliance with safety standards.
- Built-In Protections: Look for timers, over-temperature cutoffs, and leak protection for added safety.
Altitude And Environmental Considerations
- High-Altitude Performance: Combustion efficiency changes at elevation. Choose models that specify high-altitude capability if you travel to mountains.
- Seasonal Combustion Management: Segmented or staged combustion helps maintain stable temperatures and avoid overheating during summer.
Control And Monitoring
- Remote Or Wired Controllers: Remote displays can show gas usage, GPM, and diagnostics which help manage fuel economy and troubleshooting.
- User Interface: Touch displays and LED readouts simplify temperature setting versus basic rotary controls.
Comparison Perspectives
- Best For Compact Electric Use: Electric mini-tanks are best where shore power is common and installation space is limited.
- Best For Continuous Showers: High-BTU tankless units deliver sustained hot water for multiple users or back-to-back showers.
- Best For Cold Weather/Altitude: Units with freeze protection, staged combustion, and high-altitude specs mitigate operational issues in extreme conditions.
- Maintenance Trade-offs: Tankless units reduce corrosion concerns but still need periodic servicing; storage tanks need anode rod replacement and flushing.