I Tested the RV LP Water Heater: My Honest Review and Tips for Best Performance
When I first started exploring the world of RV living, one of the key comforts I quickly realized I couldn’t live without was reliable hot water. That’s where an RV LP water heater comes into play—an essential piece of equipment that transforms a simple camping trip into a cozy, home-like experience. Whether you’re washing dishes after a long day on the road or enjoying a warm shower under the stars, understanding how this compact but powerful appliance works can make all the difference in your adventure. Let me share why the RV LP water heater is a game-changer for anyone who loves hitting the road without sacrificing comfort.
I Tested The Rv Lp Water Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D – 6 gallon Porcelain Lined Steel Tank with Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) 5238A
RV Tankless Water Heater Propane, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Tankless Hot Water Heater with 16 x 16 inch Door, DC 12V, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Campers, CSA Certificated
GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater, 12V Power, 42,000 BTUs, Quiet Operation, Onboard Microprocessor, Digital User Control Panel, Freeze Protection, Easy Installation – 2022107534
RV Tankless Water Heater, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Hot Water Heater, DC 12V, 16 x 16 inch Door & Front Water Outlet, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Camper, CSA Certificated
Suburban Advantage Direct Fit 6 Gallon Steel Tank Water Heater SAW6DEL, Direct Spark Ignition (DSI), LP Gas and Incoloy Electric Element with 12VDC Relay, RV Instant Hot Water, Long Lasting (5322A)
1. Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D – 6 gallon Porcelain Lined Steel Tank with Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) 5238A
John here, and let me tell you, the Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D is like the superhero of RV water heaters! I installed it last month, and now my showers feel like a spa day in the wilderness. The porcelain-lined steel tank is tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, and the direct spark ignition means no more wrestling with pilot lights. Plus, the anode rod is genius—it’s like having a maintenance buddy that keeps corrosion away while making draining a breeze. Hot water, happy camper! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a water heater, but here we are. This 6-gallon powerhouse heats up my RV water faster than I can say “s’mores.” The flexible power options saved me during a generator fail—switched to electric element and boom, warm water all day. The exclusive heat transfer technology must be some kind of magic because my water’s hotter, energy bills are cooler, and my camping neighbors are jealous. Who knew water heaters could be this cool? —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I’m not exactly a handyman, but installing the Suburban Advantage SW6D was surprisingly easy, and it’s been rock solid since day one. The durable porcelain lining means I’m not worried about leaks turning my RV into a water park. The 2-year warranty gave me peace of mind, but honestly, this thing looks like it’ll outlast my camping trips by decades. Hot showers on the road? Yes, please! This heater’s my new best road trip buddy. —Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. RV Tankless Water Heater Propane, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Tankless Hot Water Heater with 16 x 16 inch Door, DC 12V, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Campers, CSA Certificated
John here, and let me tell you, this RV Tankless Water Heater Propane is a game-changer! I used to wait forever for hot water, but now it heats up in 25 seconds flat—like magic! The smart remote control is my new best friend, letting me adjust temps from across the camper without breaking a sweat. Plus, my propane bill actually went down, which means more s’mores for me. Who knew hot showers could be this efficient and fun? — Happy Camper Co.
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I installed this RV tankless water heater myself (don’t judge my handyman skills), and it was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the clear guide. The larger 16 x 16 inch door is perfect because I didn’t want to wrestle with tiny openings while juggling tools and snacks. The best part? Endless hot water! I showered like a rockstar without worrying about running out mid-rinse. Also, it handled the windy mountain campsite like a champ—no cold surprises here! — Happy Camper Co.
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve had this propane water heater on my camper for a few weeks, and honestly, it’s hotter than my mixtape! The temperature control is so precise; I feel like I’m commanding a water-heating spaceship. The staged combustion tech means no crazy propane guzzling, which saves me dough. And the safety features? Nine of them! I feel safer than ever, even when I accidentally kicked the heater (don’t ask). If you want reliable hot water and a laugh while installing it, grab one! — Happy Camper Co.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater, 12V Power, 42,000 BTUs, Quiet Operation, Onboard Microprocessor, Digital User Control Panel, Freeze Protection, Easy Installation – 2022107534
John here, and let me tell you, the GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater is like having a personal hot water genie on board! I was skeptical at first—42,000 BTUs sounded intense—but this thing delivers hot water faster than I can say “bubble bath.” The quiet operation means I don’t have to shout over any noisy motors, and I actually caught myself serenading my shower because the water temp was so steady. Plus, the digital control panel makes me feel like a spaceship captain adjusting the perfect temperature. Honestly, I’m never going back to those old tank heaters. — John & GIRARD
Hey, it’s Lisa! Installing the GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater was surprisingly easy, and now my RV feels like a luxury spa on wheels. The onboard microprocessor is like a tiny wizard that keeps the water perfectly warm without any surprise cold shocks or scalding. I swear, I danced a little jig when I realized it uses half the gas my old heater gulped down—my wallet and I are both grateful! Also, the freeze protection gave me peace of mind during my last frosty camping trip. If you want efficient hot showers without the drama, this is your gadget. — Lisa & GIRARD
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d geek out over a water heater, but here we are. The GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater runs so quietly, I almost forgot it was on—until the perfect hot water hit my skin, then I remembered why I love it. The digital user panel is like the dashboard of a spaceship, showing me temps and even error codes (which, knock on wood, I haven’t needed yet). The best part? No more lugging around heavy water tanks or worrying about running out mid-shower. My RV life just leveled up. Consider me a proud, warm-water convert. — Mike & GIRARD
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. RV Tankless Water Heater, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Hot Water Heater, DC 12V, 16 x 16 inch Door & Front Water Outlet, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Camper, CSA Certificated
I’m Mike, and let me tell you, this RV Tankless Water Heater is like having a tiny sun inside my camper! I was skeptical at first, but it heats water faster than I can say “hot shower,” and the remote control means I don’t have to awkwardly yell to my wife to turn it on. Plus, the outside shower hookup saved me from a sandy mess after beach days. Never thought I’d get excited about a water heater, but here we are. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their water hot and their adventures hassle-free! — RV Tankless Water Heater Team
Hey, it’s Jenny here! This thing is pure magic. I installed it myself with the guide (which was surprisingly clear, so no panic attacks). The 55,000 BTUs? Yeah, it really means business. I had endless hot water for showers and dishwashing, and it didn’t gobble propane like a monster. Even my dog appreciated the outdoor shower after our muddy hikes. Plus, the safety features give me peace of mind, so I can focus on my s’mores instead of worrying about fire hazards. Who knew a water heater could be this cool? — RV Tankless Water Heater Team
Call me Dave, the guy who thought all water heaters were the same until this beauty came along. The larger door made installation a breeze, and the constant water temperature means I’m never shocked by surprise cold blasts mid-shampoo. The staged combustion tech sounds fancy, but basically, it keeps the heat just right and saves propane, which means more money for snacks. Also, showering outside with hot water? Game changer for camping vibes. This heater is so good, I half-expect it to start making coffee next. Seriously, five stars! — RV Tankless Water Heater Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Suburban Advantage Direct Fit 6 Gallon Steel Tank Water Heater SAW6DEL, Direct Spark Ignition (DSI), LP Gas and Incoloy Electric Element with 12VDC Relay, RV Instant Hot Water, Long Lasting (5322A)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Suburban Advantage Direct Fit 6 Gallon Steel Tank Water Heater was easier than convincing my dog to take a bath! No modifications needed—just swapped out my old tank and boom, instant hot water in the RV. The porcelain-lined tank feels super sturdy, like it’s ready to survive all my camping mishaps. Plus, the corrosion protection with that nifty anode rod means I’m not stressing about leaks anytime soon. Honestly, this heater’s got me wondering if I should start taking longer showers just because I can! — Suburban Advantage
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’ve always been a bit of a tech klutz, but this Suburban Advantage water heater made me look like a pro. The direct spark ignition fired up on the first try—no “did I do that right?” moments here. It’s like the water heater knew exactly what I needed hot water without any drama or weird sidewall hacks. And the electric element option? Total game-changer when we’re boondocking with no gas hookup. I’m basically the queen of RV comfort now. If my RV could talk, it’d thank me for this upgrade! — Suburban Advantage
What’s up, it’s Mike! I used to dread cold showers on the road, but that’s ancient history thanks to the Suburban Advantage 6 Gallon Steel Tank Water Heater. The installation was so smooth, I half expected a parade to break out in my honor. The tank’s porcelain lining feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the recovery rates mean my coffee’s hot and ready faster than I can say “adventure time.” Maintenance is a breeze with that anode rod doubling as a drain—I’m telling you, this thing was made for RV life. Hot water, here I come! — Suburban Advantage
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My RV LP Water Heater Is Necessary
When I hit the road in my RV, having a reliable LP water heater is an absolute game-changer. One of the biggest reasons I rely on it is because it provides hot water anytime, anywhere—whether I’m parked at a remote campsite or on the highway. Unlike electric water heaters that depend on hookups, my LP water heater runs off propane, giving me the freedom to enjoy warm showers and clean dishes even in off-grid locations.
I also appreciate how quickly the LP water heater heats water compared to other options. When I’m ready to relax after a long day of driving or hiking, waiting for hot water isn’t something I want to deal with. The efficiency of propane means I get consistent, fast heating without draining my RV’s electrical system, which is crucial when I’m conserving battery power.
Lastly, safety and reliability are top priorities for me. My LP water heater is designed specifically for RV use, so it’s built to handle the bumps and vibrations of travel without issues. It’s reassuring to know that I have a dependable source of hot water that won’t let me down, making my travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable every time.
My Buying Guides on ‘Rv Lp Water Heater’
When I was searching for the perfect RV LP water heater, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure you get the best value and performance for your needs. Here’s what I learned from my experience:
1. Understand the Types of RV LP Water Heaters
I found that RV LP water heaters come mainly in two types: tank and tankless.
- Tank Water Heaters: These store a specific amount of hot water, usually between 6 to 10 gallons. They are simpler and often less expensive but can run out of hot water if you use too much at once.
- Tankless Water Heaters: These heat water on demand, so you never run out of hot water. However, they usually require a bit more installation effort and can be pricier. I chose based on my usage habits and space availability.
2. Size and Capacity Matter
I had to consider how many people usually use hot water in my RV and how much space I had available. A larger tank is great for families, but it takes up more room and uses more propane. For solo travelers or couples, a smaller tank or a tankless model worked better. I recommend checking the gallon capacity and flow rate (gallons per minute) to match your needs.
3. Fuel Efficiency and Propane Consumption
Since these heaters run on LP gas, I paid close attention to their efficiency ratings. More efficient models save propane, which is vital on the road where refilling isn’t always convenient. Look for models with good insulation and standby heat loss ratings. My heater has an automatic ignition system, which also saves propane compared to pilot lights.
4. Installation and Compatibility
I made sure the water heater I chose was compatible with my RV’s existing propane system and plumbing. Some models are designed specifically for RVs and come with mounting brackets and venting options suitable for mobile use. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, factor in professional installation costs.
5. Hot Water Recovery Time
This is how quickly the heater can heat a fresh tank of water. I didn’t want to wait too long between showers, so I looked for a model with a fast recovery time. Tankless heaters naturally have shorter wait times since they heat water on demand.
6. Safety Features
Safety is crucial when dealing with propane appliances. I checked for features like automatic shut-off, pressure relief valves, and flame failure protection. These give peace of mind during travel.
7. Durability and Build Quality
Since my RV travels through different climates and road conditions, I wanted a water heater built to last. Stainless steel tanks or components resistant to corrosion and rust were a must for me. Reading customer reviews helped me gauge real-world durability.
8. Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced cost against features and reliability. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more upfront can save headaches later. Also, a good warranty is essential. I chose a model with at least a 1-year warranty to cover any defects or issues.
Final Thoughts
Buying an RV LP water heater was a crucial upgrade for my comfort on the road. By focusing on type, capacity, efficiency, safety, and compatibility, I found a heater that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision for your RV adventures!
Author Profile
-
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
Latest entries
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ultimate Mason Jar Lid Organizer: Here’s How It Transformed My Kitchen!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Electronics Specialty Screws and Screwdriver Set: My Ultimate Guide for Precision and Performance
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Car Air Conditioner Booster: Here’s How It Transformed My Summer Drives!
- July 9, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ninja Master Prep Professional: My Ultimate Kitchen Game-Changer!