How To Install A Tankless Water Heater In An Rv

How to Install a Tankless Water Heater in Your RV

It is possible that having a tankless water heater in your RV will prove to be an extremely efficient and well-used addition to your mobile home. In other words, as long as you have access to a water source, you will never run out of hot water. Your hot water supply will not be affected by taking hour-long showers, using the dishwasher or flushing the toilets. It also takes up less space in your RV and saves you money over the traditional tank-based version. Because it is not always operating to maintain the temperature of your water, as is the case with a storage-tank water heater, it only consumes fuel while it is in use.

But first, continue reading to find out more about how to install one in your camper or RV.

How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?

There are electric hot water tanks available that feature a heating element, which you may be familiar with. A major function of the element is to continuously reheat unused hot water stored in the tank. When you’ve used up all of your tank storage, it will take some time for it to be replenished. Although they are not prohibitively expensive to build, standard electric hot water tanks are wasteful since they keep the water hot regardless of whether or not you use hot water. A tankless water heater is a type of water heater that is extremely efficient at heating water.

Consequently, whether you turn on the hot water faucet or turn on an equipment that requires hot water, the tankless water heater instantly begins the heating process.

A tankless water heater, as the name implies, does not rely on a storage tank to store water.

Depending on whether you have an electric or gas water heater, the gas burner or electric element rapidly warms the water and sends it to your faucet.

How To Convert Your RV Water Heater to Tankless

Electric hot water tanks with a heating element are something you may be familiar with. Each time you utilize hot water from the tank, the element is reheating it for you. The tank storage capacity must be replenished when it has been depleted. Even while they are not prohibitively expensive to build, standard electric hot water tanks are wasteful since they keep the water hot regardless of whether or not you use hot water at any one time. Heat water more efficiently with a tankless water heater than with a traditional tank water heater.

The tankless water heater begins heating instantly when you turn on a hot water faucet or turn on an equipment that requires hot water to function.

A tankless water heater, as the name implies, does not rely on a storage tank to store water during usage.

It is instead necessary to switch on the hot water tap so that cold water may flow via a pipe and into the unit. This is the point at which, depending on whether you have an electric or gas water heater, the gas burner or electric element warms the water immediately and sends it to your faucet.

Enjoy Your Constant Warm Water!

Although the cost of installing a tankless water heater might be more expensive initially than the cost of installing a tank storage water heater, the majority of RVers do not regret their choice to make the conversion. It is an excellent addition to any RV because of its great efficiency, cost savings, space savings, and—most importantly—constantly warmwater.

How to Convert an RV Water Heater to Tankless? – TinyHouseDesign

An RV is equipped with everything you would need in a typical house setting, including a kitchen, mattress, food storage, and, most significantly, running water. Rvweb.net is the source of this information. Water is essential for all activities, including bathing, cooking, cleaning, and other household chores. Because water heaters are standard in all residences, they are also required in recreational vehicles. A tankless water heater, like a tank water heater, heats water by utilizing electricity or gas, just like a tank water heater.

• The elements heat the cold water as it flows through the system, and the flow valve only activates the heater when a hot water outlet is opened by the cold water flow valve.
• The fact that tankless water heaters are on-demand equipment means that they only heat water when you need it from the hot water supply.
• Instead, the water heater adjusts the temperature of the water according to how much you require.
• This article will walk you through the process of upgrading your RV’s water heater to a tankless model.

What are the Advantages of Having a Tankless Water Heater?

There are several advantages to switching from a tank-style water heater to a tankless water heater that you should examine before making the decision.

Convenience

When traveling with a family, a standard RV tank water heater can only store up to ten gallons of water, which isn’t much of a difference. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, provide an infinite supply of hot water anytime you want it. Simply ensure that you have access to an electric or propane power source, as well as a safe source of cold water. When compared to tank-style water heaters, tankless water heaters are also more energy-efficient in comparison. Because they are not required to maintain the temperature of the tank water on a continuous basis, they often consume less power or propane.

Saving on Floor Space When traveling in an RV, making sure you have enough space is critical to your pleasure of the journey.

Tankless water heaters are also noted for having a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters. While a high-quality tank water heater can last for roughly a decade, a tankless water heater can last up to twice that time.

Steps to Convert Your Water Heater to a Tankless Water Heater

Following our briefing on the advantages of a tankless water heater, we’ll walk you through the simple, straightforward process of converting your existing water heater to a tankless heater.

1) Draining the Tank and Disconnecting Supply Lines

First and foremost, make certain that the water connection and propane are turned off – this will assure safety. After that, you’ll want to empty the tank. Remove the old heater from all of the service supply lines once you’ve completed this task. In order to avoid creating even more of a mess while making these substantial adjustments, you may also want to make sure that all electrical outlets are turned off before proceeding.

2) Removing the Old Unit

After that, gently clean the outer flange of any weatherproof sealant that may have been applied. After that, remove all of the mounting fasteners, ideally with the help of a cordless power drill. After you have removed all of the bolts from the RV, you may carefully peel the mounting flange away from the side of the vehicle using a hammer and chisel. This procedure may require some devotion, so be sure to take your time and avoid damaging the RV’s flange or side while performing it. Following the removal of the old heater from its recess, you may clean the area before sliding the new heater into position and reconnecting the service lines to the unit.

3) Installing the New Tankless Water Heater

The installation of the new tankless water heater may begin immediately after you have assembled all of the essential tools. Remember that this is a really delicate procedure, and that you should not speed through it. The most important thing to remember is to take your time and install the heater in a cautious and deliberate way. Make sure the new heating unit does not snag or catch on anything when it is being slid into the recess in order to install it properly. Completely seat the device and ensure that it is sitting level before moving on to the next step Once you’ve verified that everything is in working order, you can proceed by gently drawing the unit out; this will assist to ensure that it is properly balanced while also allowing enough area to seal the flange.

Take the time to double-check that the mounting holes on the new tankless unit correspond to the holes on the old tankless unit; if required, you may drill additional holes.

You’re now ready to complete the internal connections and connect the new heater to the service lines that were previously installed.

4) Reconnecting to Service Lines

If you’ve done everything right up to this point with your new tankless water heater, connecting it should be a piece of cake. First and foremost, make certain that the relevant water lines are connected to the appropriate locations on the heater. Keep an eye out for any of the fittings that could be cross-threaded afterwards. Last but not least, avoid over-torquing any of the fittings – you don’t want to accidently break the fittings off the heater when tinkering with them. As an alternative, you may use a second wrench to keep the tank fitting in place while you tighten the hose fitting.

On the outer flange, you may now tighten and secure all of the screws in place using a screwdriver.

Install any necessary vent fittings and close the heater’s door after the unit has been properly assembled and secured.

It is now possible to connect the hot and cold water connections to the unit. You’re all set now! To finish, just turn on the hot water, check the flow of water, and adjust the temperature to your preference. Wikiocean.org is the source of this information.

RV Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Tips

Assuming you’ve completed the conversion of your RV water heater to a tankless type, you may want to consider some preventative maintenance procedures. Fortunately, your tankless water heater system doesn’t require a lot of maintenance to function properly. It is nevertheless recommended that you engage a professional to maintain your unit on a regular basis and to examine the electric or gas elements.

Bottom Line – Do you need a plumber for this?

While converting your RV water heater to a tankless unit may appear to be a difficult task, we hope that our explanation and step-by-step guide on how to install a tankless unit has made the process more manageable and straightforward. Despite the fact that the DIY installation process is pretty straightforward, it never hurts to seek for assistance. For any remaining queries or worries about how to install your tankless unit, do not hesitate to contact a plumber for an examination and assistance from a trained and experienced specialist.

How to Convert RV Water Heater to Tankless? (Updated February 2022)

TanklessWaterHeaterExpress is sponsored entirely by its readers. Because I am an Amazon Associate, I receive money when people make eligible purchases. If you enjoy RVing, you should consider purchasing a tankless water heater for the sake of convenience and comfort. It warms the water quickly by utilizing a heat exchanger, however it does not have a storage tank. It allows you to have hot water on demand without having to wait large periods of time. It takes only a few minutes for this gadget to heat up between two and five litres of water.

You might be interested in: RV water pipe that has been heated

How to Convert RV Water Heater to Tankless?

Prior to enjoying the benefits of an RV tankless water heater, let’s go through a step-by-step tutorial on how to convert your existing RV water heater to a tankless one. 1. Turn off your propane tank, as well as your electrical and water supplies. Make sure to complete it before moving on to the next stage to avoid any complications. 2. Before installing the tankless water heater, turn off the power, gas, and water to the building. Continue to the location where the heater will be installed.

1. 3.
2. 4.
3. Scrape off the caulking surrounding the heater, as well as the caulking around the sides and corners.
4. You just must follow a methodical approach to guarantee that the heater can be removed from the location where it has been put.
5. You might also be interested in: RV Electric Tankless Water Heater 5.
6. 6.
7. 7.

7.

8.

However, to replace the old heater, just purchase a tankless heater that has the same dimensions as the previous heater.

Insert the RV tankless water heater into its mounting bracket.

11.

Make certain that everything is in good alignment.

Apply caulk around the outside of the gap to seal it.

Once it is completed, connect the wiring by connecting the black wire to the ground and the red wire to the park.

15.

For instructions on how to accomplish this, consult the user handbook.

Following installation, check to confirm that the control panel is functioning properly.

17.

18. Double-check that the temperature is adjusted to a lower setting. In this instance, you will not need to add as much cold water to your system as you would otherwise. Set the temperature to a level that is closer to the one at which you are operating rather than raising it too high.

RV Tankless Water Heater Maintenance Tips

A tankless water heater is capable of producing hot water on demand and does not have a high likelihood of leaking water. It is safe to use and has a longer lifespan than a traditional water heating system. You must, however, get familiar with the proper care and maintenance of your tankless water heater. It is for this reason that you must be aware of how to gain access to it in order to execute maintenance tasks. Never meddle with it without first disabling all power sources on the machine.

Wrapping Up

The installation of the RV tankless heater is straightforward. It will not take long, but it is critical that they are turned off in order to avoid any problems while installing the new tankless heater system. For example, if you want to put it on the outside of your recreational vehicle, you may remove the old unit and measure the hole to ensure that the new heater will fit inside.

• As you insert the water heater unit into the hole, make sure that the holes in your door are aligned with the holes in the water heater unit. Screw the unit into place to keep it from moving around in your trailer. Then you may use caulk or a silicone bead to seal the area to keep out any moisture or water that may have gotten in from the outside. Ensure that the electrical connection is made, or that the LP line is connected to your tankless heater if you wish to run it on propane. Connect the tankless heater’s cold and hot water connections to the faucets. You may now proceed to install the control panel in its proper location. If you want to be able to switch it on or off or change the temperature setting quickly, make sure it is easily accessible and visible. You’re finished once you’ve tested the system

The tankless water heater operates in the same way as a traditional household water heater, in that it warms the water to the required temperature by passing it through a heat exchanger as it passes through it. Such a gadget operates on electricity and gas. It is all up to you. Many RV owners, on the other hand, choose to utilize a gas-powered heater, either propane or natural gas. I hope you gained some useful information from our tutorial on “How to Convert an RV Water Heater to a Tankless Water Heater?” Install the water heater in your RV vehicle now by following the instructions in this step-by-step tutorial.

RV Tankless Hot Water Heaters – 7 Things You Need To Know

RVers who travel frequently and participate in hobbies such as hiking and bicycling appreciate the opportunity to shower after a long day spent outdoors. The use of a typical hot water heater can seriously interfere with the enjoyment of a shower. With a 6 gallon tank, a tank of hot water can be depleted in a short period of time. What is the answer to this problem? Going without a tank. If you install a tankless RV hot water heater, you can be assured that you and your guests will have enough of hot water.

Tankless Water Heater For RV’s

Here are seven things you should know about tankless hot water heaters for recreational vehicles. 1.

Cost comparison to a standard.

Hot water heaters with a standard capacity of 6 gallons or 10 gallons are available. The 6-gallon capacity is standard in most RVs. The 10-gallon tank is not included because it is often considered an upgrade. A family of four showering will quickly deplete a 6-gallon water tank. It takes around one hour for the water in a conventional 10 gallon hot water heater tank to reach the desired temperature. There is never a shortage of hot water with a tankless hot water heater. PrecisionTemp provided the image.

The RV 500 Tankless Hot Water Heater can provide you with more water than you could ever use.

It only works when there is hot water running through it.

The RV 500 is about one-third the weight of conventional hot water heaters. Overall, it’s a smart investment if you want to conserve water and reduce your propane consumption. 2

You don’t run outof propane as quickly.

Tankless hot water heaters will consume less gas in the long run since they do not have to maintain a constant temperature in the water. 3.

A constant flowof hot water.

It makes no difference whether you choose a permanent or a portable tankless hot water heater; you’ll get hot water on demand as soon as you turn on a faucet. As soon as the water starts to flow, the sensor signals the burner to start producing hot water. 4.

No Storage tank.

Because there is no requirement for water to be “held,” there is no need for a storage tank. It is available on demand, and there is a limitless supply available at your fingertips. There is no storage tank to winterize in this situation. 5.

Propane vs. Electric.

Tankless hot water heaters are offered in two different configurations: electric and propane. It is essentially up to the consumer to determine which type is the most appropriate for their needs. Tankless RV hot water heaters operate at a lower decibel level than propane RV hot water heaters. Girard Systems provided the image. AGirard tankless RV hot water heater is a tankless RV hot water heater that is powered by electricity. It features easily adjustable controls and is small in size. There is no need for recovery time for hot water, and the system consumes 60 percent less propane.

6.

Systems are not all same size.

Before purchasing a new RV hot water heater, be sure the opening you have is the right size. Double-check all of your dimensions. As a result, it is possible that an adjustment or two may need to be made to the aperture in the sidewall. 7.

Savings.

Not only is the tankless hot water heater energy efficient, but it also consumes less fuel than traditional water heaters. It is ecologically friendly, which appeals to individuals who enjoy being GREEN. Standard water heaters are continually retaining hot water, using energy and losing you money in the process. Tankless hot water heaters eliminate the need to heat the whole tank, allowing you to save money on your energy bills. With this information, you should be able to comprehend some of the fundamentals of a tankless hot water heater and determine whether or not it is something you want to include in your RV trips in the future.

Look no further.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Can You Put a Tankless Water Heater in an RV?

It is well-known that installing a tankless water heater in your home has several advantages, but what about putting one in your recreational vehicle? Could these energy-efficient heating appliances provide the same benefits to your recreational vehicle? Many modern recreational vehicles (RVs) are already equipped with a tankless water heater or are capable of being retrofitted with a tankless water heater.

Even older versions may be converted to use these appliances in place of a typical tank heater with a little modification. However, there are a few factors you should keep in mind while deciding on the finest RV tankless water heater for your requirements.

Tankless Water Heater Benefits

The benefits of tankless water heaters are well-known; these appliances are often significantly more energy-efficient than traditional tank-style water heaters, they are better for the environment, and they are typically quieter than their tank-style counterparts. However, by far and away, the most significant advantage is their capacity to deliver an unending supply of hot water. This is especially beneficial when you consider that the majority of recreational vehicles have modest water heater tanks with a capacity of about 6 to 10 gallons.

• Once the tank is fully refilled, the water must be boiled before being stored in a warm location until you want hot water again.
• Tankless water heaters operate in a completely different way.
• Using this method, you may switch on your faucet or shower and enjoy hot water exactly as you would at home without having to worry about running out of hot water.
• Because of this, you will conserve energy and lower your fuel and power expenditures.
• No one wants to switch on their RV shower only to be forced to endure an ice-cold rain in order to be clean again.

Selecting a Tankless Water Heater for Your RV

You should think about the most popular types of RV tankless water heaters available and which ones will work best for your vehicle as you begin your search for a tankless water heater for your RV. Aside from being ecologically friendly, electric tankless water heaters are also cost-effective. The heater may be powered directly from the sun if your RV is already equipped with solar panels, which makes them an especially good choice in this situation. Gas-powered water heaters are typically fuelled by either propane or kerosene, depending on the model.

RV-550 Precision Temperature Measurement The Precision Temp RV-550 Tankless Water Heater is one of the top tankless water heaters available on the market today.

Installation Location

You’ll need to gather some information before you begin searching for a tankless water heater for your recreational vehicle. It is necessary to understand that not all water heater systems are the same size, so you must choose which system would work best for your particular vehicle. Take out your tape measure and make a list of all the measures you need to take.

Measure the size of the aperture on the outside of your RV, to be more specific. If the tankless you’ve been eyeing is too large to fit through your sidewall, it’s normally easy to widen the aperture, but you may want to hire an expert to handle the job.

Should You Hire a Specialist?

Whether you want to install the tankless water heater yourself or hire a professional to do it for you is largely dependent on your level of experience with tankless water heaters and recreational vehicle maintenance. For the most part, some types are rather simple to install, and you can generally just connect the water heater to the electrical and water lines without too much difficulty. Others, such as those that operate on gas, will need that they be linked to gas lines and that their vents be fitted appropriately.

Installing things correctly the first time is preferable to installing them incorrectly and having to deal with adverse effects while on your camping vacation.

How To Convert RV Water Heater To Tankless

It truly depends on your level of experience with tankless water heaters and RV maintenance whether you opt to perform the installation yourself or pay a professional to do it for you. A few types are rather straightforward, and you can, for the most part, just connect the water heater to the electrical and water lines without too much difficulty. Others, such as those that operate on gas, will need that they be linked to gas lines and that their vents be placed correctly. In a nutshell, if you aren’t confident in your ability to complete the task, engage a professional or qualified installation specialist.

It Gives You Clean Hot Water

When you have a tankless water system, one of the most major benefits is that you may enjoy clean, hot water all of the time. It is feasible to have clean hot water since you do not need to keep water in your tanks, which can get contaminated if left for an extended period of time. And, of course, it would be really important for anyone of us, especially considering the fact that you may need to utilize it for drinking reasons or to prepare meals at some point.

Energy Efficient

Another significant advantage of using a tankless water heater is that you may save a significant amount of energy as a result of doing so. Tankless water heaters are well-known for using the least amount of gas possible. And it is for this reason that you might ensure that you spend less money on your petrol. Gas may be quite costly at times, which is why investing in a tankless water heater might be a wise decision.

Saves Space in Your RVs

Space is at a premium in your recreational vehicles, which is why having a tankless water heater would be a fantastic addition to your setup. Getting a tankless water heater may often save you a lot of room because these models are not as large as those that have storage tanks in them. And, of course, having a tankless water heater would allow you to free up some of the space that was previously reserved for the tank of your water heater. One of the primary worries for those who have water heaters in their recreational vehicles is the possibility of having to go tankless.

1. So, here are some of the procedures that will guide you through the process of converting your RV water heater to a tankless one.
2. It is possible that you will need to unplug the electrical system as well so that you do not wind up creating even more mess while making these important alterations.
3. Place the unit in the hole with care, and then place the door and close it up tight.
4. After that, you may proceed to screw them into their respective positions.
5. After that, wrap a bead of silicone around it to ensure that it is protected from moisture from the outside.

Alternatively, if you wish to use it with gas, you may connect the device to the gas line. After that, connect the hot and cold water lines to the unit—Mount the control panel to a convenient location at the base of the unit where you can easily adjust the temperature.

Converting Your RV Water Heater to Tankless

This model is equipped with special vent-free technology, which eliminates the need for expensive gasoline. Because it is constructed with a pure copper heat exchanger, it is more robust and useful than other water heaters. Because it is backed by a lifetime warranty, you can put this water heater to work for you in any situation. It comes with an LPG flare brass adaptor for the gas regulator, which makes for a superb regulating system overall. The result is a very durable gas water heater with a highly effective control system.

As a result, it does not require significant water pressure to operate; in fact, 2-psi is sufficient for starting it.

Eccotemp L10 2.6 GPM Portable Tankless Water Heater

If you are looking for the greatest portable water heater, you should consider this. Simple to operate and control, this model is a good choice for beginners. An certified gas regulator with a 9-inch diameter is included for a safe and secure regulating system. A hose is included for use with any standard 20-pound grill-style tank. It is an automated gas water heater, and you have the ability to reset it when the water stops and when it begins to flow once more. Default settings include a 20-minute automatic safety shutdown timer, which eliminates the need to manually turn off the water heater.

Besides that, you may create creative uses of it, such as bathing pets and horses, among other things.

Conclusion

Understanding the process of how to convert an RV water heater to a tankless system is a sensible step since it allows you to save money while also making your RV more energy efficient. It is important to remember, however, that a tankless water heater may have certain problems as well as advantages. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option and make sure it meets the needs of your RV lifestyle. Learn more about RV water heaters by reading this article.

What to Look For In a Tankless Water Heater

If you’re thinking about upgrading to a tankless water heater or buying one for your RV, you’re probably already aware of the various advantages that tankless water heaters have over the standard storage-tank kind. The fact that there is no heat loss from standing water makes tankless water heaters, also known as demand-type water heaters, more energy efficient than traditional water heaters. Therefore, because there is no need for a large, heavy water tank, tankless water heaters are significantly smaller and pose less risk of leakage, possibly saving thousands of dollars in property damage.

On a chilly morning, there’s nothing more frustrating than wanting a good hot shower only to discover that your water is barely tepid and becoming colder.

Nonetheless, before rushing out to get your own ticket to water heating in the twenty-first century, there are some factors that must be considered before bringing your own tankless water heater home and what criteria should be used when picking the proper model:

Water Usage

Before you begin looking for a tankless water heater, you should have a rough idea of how much water you use on a daily basis. Listed below is a short reference for the most common water-consumption appliances:

• Twelve-gallons-per-minute toilet
• Two- to-four-gallon-per-minute bathtub
• And one-and-a-half- to three-gallon-per-minute shower 1 – 12 gallons per minute in the kitchen sink
• 1 – 3 gallons per minute for the dishwashing machine

When selecting a traditional water heater, you may need to consider how frequently you expect to use these items in a given day; however, when selecting a tankless water heater, the more significant question is how frequently you expect to use numerous appliances at the same time. Tankless water heaters are capable of heating water on demand at rates ranging from two gallons per minute to an amazing six gallons per minute, depending on the particular type.

Location

While one of the advantages of a tankless water heater is that it requires less storage space, you should still make sure that the location you choose is one that can be readily linked to the rest of the house. You have the option of mounting your tankless water heater on the outside of your home or RV. Whatever your situation, whether you live in a region where temperatures routinely fall below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, or whether you are attaching your tankless water heater to a recreational vehicle that is occasionally parked in freezing temperatures, all you need is an anti-freeze kit that you can attach to your unit.

CostRebates

As with any purchase or upgrade decision, it’s critical to examine your individual requirements as well as your current financial condition before making a final decision. A tankless water heater may be slightly more expensive than fixing your present water heater; nevertheless, you must consider the long-term savings in energy expenditures when comparing the two options. Keep in mind that when you are ready to make a purchase, you should double-check to see if there are any tax credits or rebates available in your state.

Electric or Gas

According on your location and the electric grid you are connected to, a gas or electric hookup may be less expensive or more expensive depending on your needs. Tankless water heaters fueled by natural gas are on average less costly per unit than electric tankless water heaters and have somewhat greater flow rates. The fact that some tankless water heaters come with electric connections does not deter many people from choosing propane-powered models since they are easier to install and because needing to refill the propane on a regular basis is well worth the enhanced flow rate offered by gas units.

Design

While we all wish we were a little bit more handy, for those who are not technically inclined, a tankless water heater is a much simpler device to operate than a large tank of water with a pilot light in the tank. When shopping for a tankless water heater, be sure to get one with a display that you are certain you will be able to operate properly.

If you require hot water for a shower in your RV, you may be able to avoid purchasing a whole home system if you use a portable water heater. It has been proven by several studies that a simple portable tankless water heatercan make all the difference at a fraction of the cost

Your Peace of Mind

While we all wish we were a little bit more handy, for those who are not mechanically inclined, a tankless water heater is a far easier equipment to maintain than a large tank of water with a pilot light. When shopping for a tankless water heater, be sure to get one with a display that you are confident you will be able to use. In the event that you want hot water for a shower in your RV, you may be able to save the expense of acquiring a whole home system. Several homeowners have discovered that a simple portable tankless water heatercan make all the difference at a fraction of the expense.

Do Tankless RV Water Heaters Provide Endless Hot Water?

Is it true that tankless RV water heaters deliver virtually limitless hot water? The small print, exclusions, and nuances of a $500-$1,000 purchase like a tankless RV water heater will always be important to the sensible seasoned RVer when considering such an investment. Research is required when it comes to a critical component such as an RV water heater in order to locate the best match. However, while RV tankless water heaters are a significant improvement over traditional tank models, they are not suitable for every camping style.

Do Tankless Water Heaters Always Have Hot Water?

Tankless water heaters provide constant access to hot water and live up to their reputations in the process. They function by directing incoming cold water through a lengthy conduit with several bends to the desired location. As the water travels through the line, the heat source in the component heats the tube, boosting the temperature of the water in the process. When the water enters the sink, shower, or washing machine, it is at the appropriate temperature for the task at hand. Tankless water heaters, like RV tank water heaters, must be programmed to a precise temperature before use.

When the RV tankless water heater is in operation, you will not be able to adjust the temperature of the unit.

Recreational vehicle owners, particularly boondockers, like the convenience of having fast hot water and enjoying a long, soothing shower.

People, on the other hand, frequently overlook the storage capacity of their grey water tank.

Three Reasons a Tankless Water Heater is Worth It in an RV

When it comes to hot water, tankless water heaters deliver on their promises every time. They function by directing incoming cold water along a lengthy conduit with several bends to the desired destination. As the water travels through the line, the heat source in the component heats the tube, elevating the temperature of the water in the system. If you run water through a sink, shower, or washing machine, it will be at the perfect temperature. It is necessary to program tankless water heaters to a specified temperature, just as RV tank water heaters.

In order to prevent the temperature of the RV tankless water heater from fluctuating while it is in operation, it must be turned off.

Recreational vehicle owners, particularly boondockers, enjoy the concept of having fast hot water and enjoying a long, leisurely shower when on the road.

Most individuals, however, are unaware of the storage capacity of their grey tank. Consequently, as the water starts to back up, that 30-minute shower may come to an abrupt halt.

1. Tankless Water Heaters Provide the Best Return on Investment

Seasonal and full-time positions are available. When it comes to RV water heaters, tankless water heaters provide the highest return on investment. As a result, you will save a large amount of money on your power bill because the majority of month-to-month camping sites have metered electricity. Tanked water heaters consistently maintain the temperature of the water, ensuring that it is ready for use anytime it is needed. When the hot water faucet is turned on, an electric intermittent ignition device (IID) heats the water line, eliminating the need for a traditional tank.

2.Tankless RV Water Heaters Can Reduce Weight in Your RV

Tankless water heaters assist you in reducing the amount of weight carried by your RV. Some publications teach you how to lose a few pounds here and there in order to lose a large quantity of weight over a long period of time. A tankless water heater can help you lower the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of your RV by 50-83 pounds by replacing your existing tank. Eight and a half gallons of water weigh 8.34 pounds each. As a result, a six-gallon RV water heater tank can contain 50.04 pounds of water, whereas a ten-gallon tank can hold 83.4 pounds.

What would you do if you had a little additional weight?

Learn how RVers, both new and experienced, deal with the weight issue and other challenges that arise in the RVing world.

3.RV Tankless Water Heater Water Flow

The typical tankless water heater has a flow rate of six GPM, which is considered to be standard. Models range in size from 4 to 10 GPM. If you set the hot water faucet down to a trickle, it is possible that the gadget may not come on. You’ll need to open the faucet just enough to for the water heater to turn on. Each water appliance has a specific average flow rate in gallons per minute.

• Sinks in the bathroom and kitchen: 1-2 GPM
• Dishwasher: 2-4 GPM
• Shower: 1.5-3 GPM
• Washing machine: 3-5 GPM

What if you’re in the shower and someone else accidentally runs the water and turns it into a boiling inferno? This is a scenario that many people have experienced. When you put too much strain on your RV’s tankless water heater, your spa-like shower transforms into an arctic blizzard. When you do a fast study and make a few modifications, such as running the dishwasher at night instead of in the morning, you may significantly reduce your hot water use during peak usage periods. As a result, you can save money by choosing a tankless water heater with a lower flow rate (e.g., 5 GPM) rather than a higher flow rate (10-16 GPM).

If the campsite has low or high pressure, this might interfere with the tankless water heater’s ability to function properly.

Learn more about them in our discussion on the 6 Best RV Water Pressure Regulators, and see which one we use on our Gear page, which you can find here.

Is it Easy to Replace an RV Water Heater With Tankless?

Despite the fact that the device is self-contained, it is not simple to replace an RV water heater with one that has the tankless capability. Every model comes with a detailed instruction booklet that walks you through the process of connecting the electricity and propane lines, but there’s more to it than that. Water heaters for recreational vehicles that do not use tanks are often smaller in size. You’ll need to install wood or aluminum support braces to ensure that they’re properly secured.

One of the most difficult facts of the recreational vehicle industry is that there are no standardized parts.

If you’ve found the perfect external door, you’ll want to make sure it’s the proper color: white, beige, brown, or black, for example.

Typically, a tankless water heater will last up to 20 years, but a tanked water heater would need to be replaced after 15 years.

Do Electric or Propane Tankless Water Heaters Work Better?

It all comes down to whether an electric or propane tankless water heater is more appropriate for your RV lifestyle requirements and desires. Each version offers a number of benefits that make it deserving of being included on your shortlist.

Electric RV Tankless Water Heaters

Electric RV tankless water heaters are ideal for boondockers since they consume as little as four watts and are solar system friendly. A few seconds more (between 3-5 seconds) is required for electric versions to reach temperature, although this is nowhere near the time required for its tanked counterparts. It is less complicated to install a tankless electric type since there is no need to connect a gas connection. Due to the fact that you will be utilizing electricity rather than propane, high altitudes will not be a problem if you are camping in the mountains.

Propane RV Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters fueled by natural gas, on the other hand, heat water more quickly and are available in the highest GPM capacities. Also if they include a condensing component, the exhaust is used as an additional source of heat to warm the water before it is vented back into the atmosphere. RV tankless and tanked water heaters are also equipped with an electric intermittent ignition device (IID) rather than a continuous burning pilot light in order to conserve fuel. Consequently, you will not experience the gradual fuel drain that RVers experienced throughout the Classic Era (1971-1989).

If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, it’s possible that something is wrong with your propane burner and you should investigate more.

If the CO alarm sounds, immediately turn off all propane-burning equipment and contact an RV service facility or mobile repair expert as soon as possible to get it repaired.

Only you can assess the importance of a difference of ten percentage points in the broad scheme of things. Check out the side-by-side table below for a well-organized chart that compares the characteristics of electric and propane RV tankless water heaters in terms of performance.

Portable Tankless Water Heaters – Perfect for Outdoor Showers

Tankless water heaters fueled by natural gas, on the other hand, heat water more quickly and are available in models with the highest flow rates. Also if they include a condensing component, the exhaust is used as an additional source of heat to warm the water before it is vented back into the environment. RV tankless and tanked water heaters are also equipped with an electric intermittent ignition device (IID) rather than a continuous burning pilot light, which helps to save on fuel use. Consequently, you will not experience the sluggish fuel drain that RVers experienced in the Classic Era (1971-1989).

A carbon monoxide alarm signaling that something is wrong with your gas burner might be a sign of a malfunction.

If the CO alarm sounds, immediately turn off all propane-burning equipment and contact an RV service facility or mobile repair professional as soon as possible to get the problem resolved.

Only you can assess the importance of a difference of ten percentage points in the big picture.

RV Tankless Water Heater Pros and Cons

RV tankless water heaters have both advantages and disadvantages. Based on everything we’ve just discussed, here’s how their advantages and disadvantages stack up against one another:

Pros	Cons
1. Bigger models keep up with multiple faucet usage 2. Instantly produce hot water 3. Last longer 4. Reduces gross weight 5. Smaller than tanked 6. Use less energy	1. Affected by water pressure 2. Complicated installation 3. Exterior doors sold separately 4. Higher purchase price 5. Long showers can overflow grey tanks 6. Not ideal for part-timers or weekenders

Electric Versus Propane

Electric	Propane/Kerosene
1. 93-95% Efficient 2. Altitude neutral 3. Solar system friendly 4. Smaller GPM units 5. Uses up to four watts	1. 85% Efficient 2. Exhaust heats water with condensed feature 3. Instant hot water 4. Intermittent ignition device (IID) 5. Larger GPM units

What are the Best Tankless RV Water Heaters?

It is possible to find advantages and disadvantages of RV tankless water heaters. This is how their advantages and responsibilities compare, based on what we’ve just covered.

1. How many water features require hot water at strategic locations? (sink, shower, and washing machines, for example)

1. Determine which type of RV lifestyle is ideal for you: weekender, part-timer, seasonal, or full-timer.

1. Are your showers leisurely spa sessions or fast bootcamp clean-ups, according to you?

1. If you need to empty your grey water tank, how easily can you go to a disposal station?

Following your completion of these questions, below are the manufacturers of tankless water heaters that are the most often used in the recreational vehicle community.

1.EccoTemp Portable Outdoor Tankless Water Heater

EccoTemp began as a family-owned business in Summerville, South Carolina, in 2004. Portable tankless water heaters, whole-home systems, and electrical goods are now available in the United States, Europe, and Australia from this leading brand. The company’s goal is to develop environmentally friendly items that would improve the lives of their clients. As a result, their products may be found at Home Depot, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Camping World, and more than 2,000 additional shops.

2.FogattiTankless RV Water Heater

The Fogatti Group is a global leader in the development and supply of innovative electrical technologies and related services. Through their support services, they want to be able to continue to assist their clients throughout the lives of their water heater devices. Tankless water heaters from the RecPro and Fogatti RV series are available for purchase through a variety of vendors.

3.FurrionTankless RV Gas Water Heater

Furrion is now a branch of Lippert, ensuring that its outstanding quality gets the financial support it deserves.

The Furrion RV tankless water heater is available in two colors: black and white. It has a flow rate of 2.4 GPM and uses propane as a fuel source for heating. The digital controller is simple to operate and is supplied with an exterior door for convenience.

4. GirardTankless Water Heater

Girard was the business responsible for the invention of the tankless water heater in 2009. The company’s new GSWH-2 tankless water heater is the most environmentally friendly RV tankless water heater they’ve ever produced. Some of the features are the capacity to heat cold water to the necessary degree without the use of a separate LP line or special plumbing, freeze prevention, and a microprocessor that checks the effectiveness of the water heating system’s water temperature.

5.SuburbanGas and Electric water Heater

Suburban was acquired by Airxcel in 1997 and became a branch of the company. Airxcel will become a member of the Thor Industries family in September 2021. This Dayton, Tennessee-based firm has been in business since 1947 and has become a household name in the recreational vehicle industry. Tankless RV water heaters from Suburban are available in 4, 6, 10, 12, and 16 GPM types that may be powered by electricity or gas. When it comes to air and water heating equipment, Suburban is the gold standard in the industry.

Conclusion: Can an RV Have a Tankless Water Heater?

Tankless water heaters are installed directly by the manufacturer in some recreational vehicles. Some motorhomes and travel trailers come with it as an option or as a standard feature, while others do not have it. To find them, you could either search through the websites of the roughly 200 RV manufacturers, or you could subscribe to RV Blogger’s YouTube Channel and let us do the legwork for you. Our YouTube channel has a new video every Sunday in which we go through a collection of RVs based on the most popular features that new and returning RVers are searching for in their next coach.

RVBlogger provides a plethora of resources to assist you in turning your coach into a home-on-wheels.

We showcase the greatest guest authors who demonstrate how they renovate or restore their favorite recreational vehicle.

You may find hundreds of articles on our RV Blogger Website that address many of the questions that members of the RV Community have regarding RV plumbing and other RV-related topics.

You’ll meet RVers from many walks of life who are eager to share their knowledge and experience with you on your journey.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, please remember to leave your campground in a better condition than you found it, and we’ll see you next time!