Best RV Tankless Water Heaters: Propane, Electric and Portable Options
Quick answer: The best RV tankless water heater depends on your fuel supply, available space, water pressure, climate and how you tour. Most RVs, campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes use propane tankless units for built-in replacement installs, while portable propane heaters suit outdoor camping setups. Electric tankless heaters can work in some situations, but they need enough shore power, wiring capacity and professional installation where required.
RV tankless water heaters heat water on demand instead of storing a tank of hot water. That can mean longer showers, less standby energy loss and a more compact setup, but only if the unit matches your RV plumbing, propane or electrical supply, ventilation needs and expected water flow.
This guide compares practical options for RVs, campers, travel trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes. It covers propane vs electric, portable vs built-in models, replacement installs, winter use, safety checks and what to look for before buying.
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RV Tankless Water Heater Comparison Table
| Product / type | Fuel type | Flow rate / output | Best for | Installation difficulty | Winter suitability | Pros | Cons | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Girard GSWH-2 built-in RV tankless water heater | Propane | Approx. 2.2 GPM | Overall RV replacement choice | Medium to high | Check model freeze-protection details before buying | Known RV-focused option, compact, good for many replacement installs | Compatibility and installation requirements must be checked carefully | View Girard GSWH-2 on Amazon |
| Furrion FWH09A-1-A built-in RV water heater | Propane | Approx. 2.4 GPM | Premium built-in RV use | High | Check freeze protection and winterising instructions | Strong output, RV-focused design, useful display features | Usually more expensive and may need professional fitting | View Furrion FWH09A-1-A on Amazon |
| Camplux Pro portable camping water heater | Propane | Approx. 1.58 GPM | Budget portable camping use | Low to medium for outdoor use | Not ideal for freezing conditions unless stored and drained correctly | Portable, affordable, useful outside an RV or camper | Not a direct built-in replacement for every RV water heater | View Camplux portable heater on Amazon |
| Eccotemp i12-LP propane tankless water heater | Propane | Approx. 3.0 GPM | Higher-flow propane setups where compatible | High | Check manufacturer winter and ventilation guidance | Good output, digital controls, suitable for some larger setups | Compatibility with RV installations must be confirmed first | View Eccotemp i12-LP on Amazon |
| Suburban 5099A water heater | Propane / electric depending on model | Tank-style alternative, not always tankless | Replacement comparison for existing RV water heaters | Medium to high | Winterise according to manufacturer instructions | Useful comparison option for people replacing an older RV heater | Check carefully because not every Suburban model is tankless | View Suburban water heater on Amazon |
Best Overall RV Tankless Water Heater
For many RV owners replacing an older built-in heater, the Girard GSWH-2 on Amazon is a sensible starting point because it is designed for RV use and has enough output for normal touring showers and washing. Before buying, check the cutout size, fuel connection, water pressure range, venting requirements and whether your RV, camper, fifth wheel or travel trailer has the right setup.
Best Budget Option
A portable propane water heater such as the Camplux portable heater on Amazon can be a lower-cost option for outdoor camping, rinsing gear or simple off-grid setups. It is not automatically a direct replacement for a built-in RV water heater, so use it only as intended by the manufacturer.
Best Premium Option
The Furrion FWH09A-1-A on Amazon is worth comparing if you want a more premium RV-focused unit with strong output and modern controls. It may be a better fit for regular touring and higher-use RVs, but installation requirements matter more than the feature list.
Best for Full-Time RV Use
Full-time RV living places more demand on a water heater than occasional weekend camping. Prioritise reliable output, serviceability, freeze protection guidance, warranty support, stable water temperature and a unit that can be fitted correctly in your RV. A qualified professional should handle gas or electrical installation where required.
Best Portable Camping Water Heater
Portable propane water heaters are useful for campsites, outdoor showers and basic touring setups, especially when a built-in RV heater is not needed. They must be used in well-ventilated outdoor areas according to the manufacturer instructions. Do not use portable propane heaters inside an enclosed RV, campervan or tent unless the product is specifically designed and approved for that use.
Best Replacement for an Old RV Water Heater
If you are replacing an old RV water heater, do not choose only by brand or price. Measure the existing opening, check the fuel type, confirm the vent position, review plumbing access and compare the manufacturer installation manual before ordering. Some “RV water heater” listings are tank-style rather than tankless, so check the product details carefully.
Propane vs Electric RV Tankless Water Heaters
Propane RV tankless water heaters are common because they work away from shore power and can provide strong hot-water output. They require safe gas connections, correct ventilation and careful installation.
Electric tankless water heaters may sound convenient, but they can need high electrical capacity. Many RVs, campers and travel trailers do not have enough spare power for a powerful electric tankless unit, especially when running air conditioning, induction cooking or battery charging at the same time.
For more on electrical loads and touring power, see our caravan, motorhome and RV solar power guide.
What Size RV Tankless Water Heater Do You Need?
Flow rate is usually measured in gallons per minute, or GPM. A small camper or travel trailer may manage with a lower-output unit, while a larger motorhome or fifth wheel with regular shower use may need more flow. Think about how many fixtures you expect to use at once, your incoming water temperature and whether you mostly use campsites, hookups or off-grid water supplies.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Some RV owners can handle simple plumbing work, but gas and electrical work can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Use a qualified professional for propane or electrical installation where required. Always follow the manufacturer instructions, local rules and your vehicle handbook.
Winter Use and Freeze Protection
Winter touring changes the buying decision. Check whether the unit has freeze-protection features, what power or fuel is needed for that protection, and how the system should be drained or winterised. Freeze protection does not remove the need to winterise the water system properly in freezing conditions.
For broader water-system maintenance, see our caravan, motorhome and RV water systems guide.
Safety Notes Before Buying
- Use a qualified professional for gas or electrical installation where required.
- Check ventilation and flue requirements before buying.
- Confirm water pressure requirements and use a regulator if needed.
- Check propane, electric and plumbing compatibility with your RV.
- Follow the manufacturer instructions and your vehicle handbook.
- Winterise the system properly in freezing conditions.
- Do not use portable propane heaters in enclosed spaces unless the product is specifically designed and approved for that use.
Common Mistakes When Buying an RV Tankless Water Heater
- Buying by flow rate alone without checking fitment.
- Assuming every water heater listing is tankless.
- Ignoring propane, electrical or ventilation requirements.
- Choosing an electric model without checking available shore power.
- Forgetting winter use, draining and freeze protection.
- Not checking whether professional installation is required.
Helpful Related Guides
- Caravan, Motorhome & RV Water Systems Guide
- Caravan, Motorhome and RV Accessories Guide
- Caravan, Motorhome and RV Solar Power Guide
- RV Buying Checklist for USA and Canada
FAQ
What is the best tankless water heater for an RV?
The best choice depends on your RV, fuel supply, installation space and touring style. Built-in propane RV tankless water heaters are usually the strongest starting point for replacement installs, while portable propane heaters are better for simple outdoor camping use.
Can I install an RV tankless water heater myself?
Some owners can handle basic plumbing preparation, but gas and electrical installation should be done by a qualified professional where required. Always follow the manufacturer instructions and local rules.
Is propane or electric better for an RV tankless water heater?
Propane is often more practical for RVs because it works away from shore power and can provide strong heat output. Electric tankless heaters can work only where the RV electrical system and campsite supply can safely support the load.
What flow rate do I need for an RV shower?
Many RV users look around the 2 to 3 GPM range for regular shower use, but incoming water temperature and water pressure affect real-world performance. Check the product specifications against your RV setup.
Do RV tankless water heaters work in winter?
Some models include freeze-protection features, but you still need to drain and winterise the system according to the manufacturer instructions in freezing conditions.
Can I use a portable camping water heater inside an RV?
Do not use a portable propane heater inside an enclosed RV, camper, tent or motorhome unless the manufacturer specifically says it is designed and approved for that use. Ventilation and carbon monoxide safety are critical.
Ready to compare options? View RV tankless water heaters on Amazon.