Best Small RV Heater Options for Space and Water Heating

The right heater for an RV depends on whether you need space heating or on-demand hot water. Below is a compact summary of five selected products from the list that serve small RV heating needs, including a portable electric space heater, multiple tankless water heaters, and a heated water hose for freeze protection.

Product	Type	Key Feature
Caframo True North Heater	Electric Space Heater	Low profile, adjustable thermostat, anti-freeze mode
FOGATTI InstaShower 7	Tankless Water Heater	2.5 GPM, 48,000 BTU, high-altitude mode
GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater	Tankless Water Heater	42,000 BTU, 12V operation, onboard microprocessor
Ranein 65,000 BTU Tankless	Tankless Water Heater	High flow up to 3.9 GPM, multi-function controller
Ficstar Heated Water Hose	Heated Hose / Freeze Protection	Self-regulating, antifreeze to -45°F, thermostatic controller

Caframo True North Heater. Low Profile, Quiet, Powerful Heater for Work and Home. Black, 11.25″ x 8″ x 5″ (9206CABBX)

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The Caframo True North is a compact electric heater designed for small spaces where low profile and quiet operation matter. It includes a built-in adjustable thermostat and multiple fan/heat settings to tailor output for an RV living area or enclosed slide-out.

• Settings: Three heat and two fan settings, including steady heat and high output for improved circulation.
• Anti-Freeze Mode: Automatically activates when ambient temperature drops near 38°F to prevent freezing in unoccupied or stored RVs.
• Construction: Solid steel housing and compact dimensions for easy storage and mounting options in tight areas.

As an electric space heater, this unit is suited to shore power or inverter-capable RVs. It provides supplemental heat rather than replacing an RV furnace system. The anti-freeze feature is specifically useful for winter storage or maintaining minimum temperatures in compartments.

FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater, InstaShower 7, 3 Optional Door Sizes

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The FOGATTI InstaShower 7 is a tankless water heater built for RV refits, offering instant hot water and multiple door size options for compatibility. It is designed to replace existing RV water heaters using standard openings.

• Flow & Output: Delivers about 2.5 gallons per minute and 48,000 BTU heat output for continuous hot water needs.
• Installation Flexibility: Three door sizing options (15″x15″, 15″x18″, 18″x18″) and two colors to match refit openings.
• Altitude & Combustion: Includes high-altitude suitability mode and staged combustion to manage temperature consistency and reduce scald risk.

This unit is intended for RV families needing ongoing hot water for multiple simultaneous uses. Tankless operation conserves energy by firing only when water flows, eliminating the standby losses of tank heaters. Confirm door compatibility and venting requirements before purchase.

GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater, 12V Power, 42,000 BTUs

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The GIRARD tankless heater emphasizes efficiency and electronic control for steady temperature delivery. With a 12V power draw and brushless fan, it is tailored to RV electrical systems and quiet operation.

• BTU & Efficiency: Rated at 42,000 BTUs and claims reduced LP consumption compared to a 6-gallon tank heater.
• Control System: Onboard microprocessor monitors incoming water temperature and flow to regulate burner output and maintain consistent hot water.
• Noise & Power: Brushless motor runs under three amps at 12V, designed for quieter operation than traditional vented burners.

As a continuous hot water solution, this model suits RV owners who prefer efficient LP use and consistent outlet temperatures. Installation requires proper venting and a compatible access door; professional installation can ensure safe combustion air and exhaust routing.

Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, High Altitude Available

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The Ranein tankless heater is positioned as a high-capacity solution for RVs that need strong flow rates and advanced monitoring. It includes a multifunction remote that reports key system metrics.

• High Output: Up to 65,000 BTU with reported flow up to 3.9 GPM under adequate gas and water supply.
• Remote Monitoring: Multi-function controller displays gas usage, voltage, GPM, and anti-freeze activation status.
• Compatibility: Designed to replace many Suburban and Atwood tank water heaters with an appropriate door kit.

This model is aimed at RVs where high hot water demand is frequent. The remote controller and diagnostics support easier troubleshooting and performance monitoring. Proper venting, LP sizing, and water pressure are important to achieve advertised flows.

Ficstar 15FT Heated Water Hose for RV, Heated Drinking Water Hose Antifreeze to -45°F

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The Ficstar Heated Water Hose is a freeze-protection accessory for seasonal camping and winter storage. It supplies potable water and maintains flow in cold conditions by self-regulating heat along the hose length.

• Freeze Protection: Rated effective to -45°F with thermostatic controller and self-regulating heating element to prevent freezing.
• Material Safety: Food-grade hose construction, lead and BPA free, designed to avoid off-odors.
• Installation: Includes 3/4″ GHT adapter and leak-proof washers; heated copper wire is placed inside the hose for safety and durability.

Heated hoses are useful for maintaining water access in cold climates without modifying onboard plumbing. They require 120V power at the campsite or an inverter-capable power source. Assess length and connection compatibility with your RV fill points.

Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Small RV Heater

Selecting the appropriate heater for an RV involves matching heating type, installation constraints, power source, and usage scenarios. Below are the primary considerations with multiple comparison perspectives.

1. Purpose: Space Heat Versus Hot Water

Decide whether you need space heating (to warm living areas, bunks, or storage compartments) or hot water (showers, sinks). Space heaters like the Caframo provide supplemental warmth, while tankless units provide continuous domestic hot water.

2. Power Source And Consumption

Electric space heaters require shore power or an inverter capable of handling their wattage. Tankless water heaters often use LP gas for the burner with 12V components for controls and fans. Check your RV’s battery, inverter, and propane capacity relative to the heater’s requirements.

3. Size, Weight, And Mounting Constraints

Measure the available space and door opening before selecting a replacement tankless heater. Low-profile electric heaters are useful for narrow cabinets or under-counter mounting. For tankless replacements, confirm the door measurements and venting clearance for compatibility.

4. Heating Capacity And Flow Rates

For water heaters, evaluate BTU rating and Gallons Per Minute (GPM). Higher BTU and GPM support concurrent uses (shower + sink). For space heaters, look for adjustable settings and fan-assisted circulation to improve warmth distribution.

5. Energy Efficiency And Operating Cost

Tankless heaters typically reduce standby losses because they fire only on demand. Compare LP consumption claims and control sophistication (microprocessors and staged combustion) for efficient operation. Electric heaters convert all electrical energy to heat but can draw significant current.

6. Altitude And Environmental Conditions

If you camp at elevation, choose a model with high-altitude capability or adjustable combustion settings. Cold-weather features like anti-freeze modes, heated hoses, and thermostatic controls protect plumbing and maintain usability in freezing conditions.

7. Noise, Controls, And Diagnostics

Consider models with brushless fans, electronic controls, and remote monitoring for quieter and more reliable operation. Diagnostic displays that report gas usage, voltage, and flow help troubleshoot field issues without professional tools.

8. Installation Complexity And Venting

Tankless units require proper combustion air intake and exhaust venting. Confirm clearances, vent paths, and door compatibility. Electric space heaters may need secure mounting and adequate clearance from combustibles. When in doubt, consult an RV technician for safe installation.

9. Freeze Protection And Winter Use

Look for built-in anti-freeze modes, thermostatic controllers, or heated hoses to prevent frozen lines. Heated hoses maintain potable water flow off-vehicle, while anti-freeze settings on heaters maintain compartment temperatures during storage.

10. Maintenance And Replacement Parts

Check availability of replacement parts such as anode rods, filters, or door kits. Anode rods and tank maintenance extend tank lifespan for tank heaters, while tankless units may require periodic descaling depending on water hardness. Consider products with accessible support and documented parts availability.

11. Safety Features

Ensure the chosen heater includes safety features relevant to its type: overheat protection, flame sensors, anti-scald controls, and proper certification for RV use. For electric devices, confirm grounded cords and listed approvals for outdoor or RV use if applicable.

12. Matching Heater To Use Case Examples

• If you need short-term supplemental heat for a slide-out or small bunk area, a compact electric space heater with adjustable thermostat is appropriate.
• If you want continuous hot water for family showers and dishes, choose a higher BTU tankless with suitable GPM.
• If you camp in freezing temperatures, pair a heater with heated hoses and anti-freeze modes to protect systems off-grid.

Comparing across these perspectives will help identify the best small RV heater solution for your RV layout, power profile, and typical camping environment.