As the days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder in the Northern Hemisphere, those of us who enjoy family camping are shifting mental gears from the joys of summer to the different joys of cooler-weather camping. I LOVE autumn and winter camping trips, but they definitely require a different mindset and different preparation. Some campgrounds close for the winter, others close off many of their bathrooms, and for those where hot water can be iffy at best, you definitely need a backup plan for those showers.
This is especially true if part of your cold-weather camping comfort plan includes family camping in an RV. A comfortable shower can make a long RV trip feel much easier. After hours on the road, a day outdoors, or a night at a remote campsite, hot water is a welcome part of the experience. But getting a reliable supply depends on the heating system installed in your vehicle.
An RV gas water heater provides a practical way to heat water while traveling. It uses propane to support your everyday hot-water activities, from showering to dishes, without depending entirely on campground electricity. In this post, I’ll go over the available options, so you can find a system that matches both your travel habits and your family’s RV showering needs.
This is a collaboration post. However, please know I stand behind everything written here, and only include links to products/services/resources I’m willing to recommend personally.
But First: What Is An RV Gas Water Heater?
The most popular version of the RV gas water heater is the RV equivalent of the “tankless” water heating systems you may have heard about if your home’s water heater has needed replacing recently. Traditional water heating systems involve storing heated water in a large tank until there’s a need for it (i.e., until you turn on the hot water somewhere, whether at the kitchen sink, in your shower, or via starting a load of laundry). There are some RV gas water heaters that work this way – heating water via propane and storing it in a water tank. But b ecause your tank needs to keep that hot water always at the ready, several things can happen:
- In a large house, it can take awhile for that hot water to travel all the way from the basement hot water tank to the last shower in the line on the second floor (i.e., my childhood shower growing up).
- While your water heater is waiting for someone to use the hot water, it has to consume an awful lot of energy just to keep that at-the-ready water hot. Which means, unless you have solar panels, you’re running up your electric bill the whole while. And finally,
- When you’ve got guests visiting or another sudden need for a whole lotta showers, the last person in line for a shower (generally me, as the mama) can sometimes end up with a cold shower because the tank has run out of hot water and needs time to warm more up.
Unlike traditional systems, a tankless water heating system heats water instantly on demand. Because there’s no tank, a tankless water heater uses a lot less energy, since it’s not trying to keep all that water hot 24/7. And since it heats the water on demand, in theory (provided you choose a tankless water heater that matches your needs), you’ll never run out of hot water. An RV tankless water heater – also known as an RV instant water heater or RV on demand water heater – works the same way.
How a Gas Water Heater Supports Life on the Road
As noted above, gas-powered RV water heaters use propane to generate heat for your RV’s plumbing system. While some RV gas water heaters still have a tank, others are tankless or instant water heaters. An RV gas water heater may either store heated water in a tank or warm water as it passes through a heat exchanger, depending on the design. Both types can supply showers, kitchen faucets, and bathroom sinks.
Because it relies on propane to generate its hot water, RV gas water heaters can be especially useful when electrical hookups aren’t available. Many systems also use a small amount of 12V power to operate electronic controls and ignition components. This combination makes gas heating a practical option for different camping arrangements.
What Makes an Instant Water Heater Different?
An RV instant water heater heats water as it flows through the appliance. Instead of storing a fixed supply, the system activates when it detects sufficient water flow. A burner then heats the water before it travels to the selected fixture.
This design can reduce the waiting time associated with reheating an empty storage tank. It also avoids keeping a large volume of water hot between uses. However, the system still needs adequate propane pressure, electrical power for its controls, and enough water flow to operate correctly.
As you think about what system will work best for you and what capacity you need, keep this in mind: An instant system doesn’t provide unlimited water at every temperature or flow rate. Rather, how well it works depends on the heater’s capacity and the temperature of the incoming water. Understanding these limits helps set realistic expectations before upgrading.
Features Worth Checking Before Buying
Choosing a the right gas water heater for your family’s needs involves more than comparing product descriptions. Above all, the specs should match your RV’s plumbing, available installation space, and daily water consumption. A few important details can help narrow down your options.
- BTU output: This rating describes the heat the burner can produce. Higher output can support greater heating demands, depending on operating conditions.
- Flow rate: Check how much water the unit can heat per minute at different temperature rises.
- Temperature controls: Adjustable settings make it easier to find a comfortable shower temperature.
- Ignition system: Electronic ignition can simplify operation by removing the need for manual lighting.
- Safety functions: Look for flame failure protection, temperature safeguards, and other features listed by the manufacturer.
- Power requirements: Confirm whether the system needs 12V electricity and how much power its controls consume.
And remember that these specifications work together, in conjunction with each other. A high BTU rating alone doesn’t guarantee a comfortable shower if the water flow exceeds the heater’s capacity.
Find the Right Heating Capacity for Your Shower Routine
When choosing the right RV gas water heater for your needs, your family’s usual water consumption habits are at the heart of finding the right system for your needs. A couple who take short showers may have different requirements than a family who uses hot water throughout the day. Consider how many people share the RV, and whether showers often happen back-to-back.
A heater’s flow rating needs to be considered alongside the temperature rise. For example, cold groundwater requires more energy to reach a comfortable shower temperature. As the required temperature rise increases, the available hot water flow may decrease.
If you regularly shower while someone washes dishes, look for a model that can handle your expected combined demand. Also consider the water pump’s output and the flow ratings of your showerhead and faucets. These details can help you avoid buying a heater that doesn’t suit your plumbing setup.
Compare Storage Tanks With On-Demand Heating
Traditional storage heaters warm water inside an insulated tank. The heated supply remains available until people use it or the stored water loses heat. Once the supply runs low, the system needs time to heat another batch.
An on-demand model takes a different approach. It heats water during use instead of maintaining a reservoir. This can be convenient for travelers who prefer longer showers or frequently use hot water for cleaning.
However, tankless water heaters aren’t automatically the right choice for every RV. They may require changes to existing connections, control systems, or exterior openings. A traditional tank can remain a sensible option when it already provides enough hot water for your routine.
Check the Installation Space Before Making a Change
RV gas water heaters come in different shapes and sizes. Even models with similar heating capacities may have different mounting requirements. Measuring the existing compartment helps you avoid purchasing equipment that won’t fit.
Start by checking the exterior opening, available depth, and location of the existing connections. Review the required propane supply, electrical wiring, and exhaust arrangement. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions for clearances and ventilation.
Replacing a tank model with an instant system may involve more than removing the old appliance. Some installations require new fittings, different wiring, or adjustments to the exterior access panel. A qualified RV technician can assess the work and confirm that the installation meets applicable safety requirements.
Keep Shower Temperatures Comfortable in Changing Weather
The temperature of the incoming water can change significantly between destinations. Water drawn from a warm supply may need less heating than water coming from a cold mountain campsite. This difference affects how much hot water a system can deliver at a comfortable temperature.
During colder weather, you may need to reduce the shower flow to maintain the desired temperature. Some heaters automatically adjust burner output, while others offer manual controls. Check the operating instructions to understand how your particular system responds to changing conditions.
Temperature fluctuations can also occur when water demand changes suddenly. For example, opening a kitchen faucet during a shower may affect the flow available to both fixtures. Knowing your system’s limits can help you plan water use more comfortably.
Protect the Heater During Cold-Weather Travel
For any families that love winter camping as much as I do, it’s also worth remembering that freezing conditions can damage water heaters and connected plumbing. Water expands as it freezes, which can place pressure on internal components and pipes. Even a brief period of extreme cold can create problems if the system isn’t protected.
Some instant water heaters include built-in freeze protection. These features may use electricity to help prevent internal components from freezing under specified conditions. Their effectiveness depends on the model, available power, and surrounding temperature.
Always follow the manufacturer’s winterization instructions when storing your RV or traveling through freezing areas. Drain the system when required, protect exposed plumbing, and check whether additional precautions are necessary. Never assume that a freeze protection feature makes winter preparation unnecessary.
Avoid Common Problems With Regular Maintenance
A few simple checks can help keep your water heating system in good condition. Inspect accessible connections for moisture and look for visible signs of corrosion or damage. If the heater produces unusual noises or inconsistent temperatures, investigate the issue before your next trip.
Keep the exhaust outlet clear of leaves, dirt, and other obstructions. Proper ventilation is essential for safe propane combustion. Avoid covering vents or making changes to the exhaust system without professional guidance.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and cleaning instructions. If the unit repeatedly fails to ignite, produces unusual odors, or shows signs of a gas leak, stop using it and seek qualified assistance. Propane equipment requires careful handling and should never be repaired casually.
Match Your Water Heating System to Your Travel Plans
Different camping styles create different hot water requirements. Weekend travelers may prioritize a straightforward replacement that works with their existing plumbing. Full-time RV owners may place greater importance on temperature adjustment, repeated showers, and regular daily use.
If you frequently travel without electrical hookups, consider how the heater uses propane and battery power. Check its ignition requirements and confirm that your battery system can support its controls. Also consider the availability of propane refills along your usual routes.
An RV gas water heater chosen with your family’s needs and your RV’s capabilities in mind can make daily routines more convenient without adding unnecessary complexity. Compare the available designs, review the technical specifications, and consider the installation work before deciding. These steps can help you choose a heating system that supports comfortable showers throughout your travels.
FAQs
Can an RV gas water heater provide hot water for long showers?
Yes. A tankless model can continue heating water while it operates within its rated capacity and has sufficient propane and water flow.
Does an RV instant water heater need electricity?
Many propane models need 12V electricity for electronic ignition, controls, or fans. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for exact power requirements.
Why does my RV shower water turn cold during use?
Possible causes include excessive water flow, insufficient heating capacity, low propane pressure, or a problem with the heater’s controls. This is why it’s so important to do your research before buying, and consider your family’s needs carefully.
Can I replace a traditional RV water heater with an instant model?
Yes, in many RVs, but compatibility depends on compartment dimensions, plumbing, gas connections, electrical requirements, and ventilation. Again, do your homework ahead of time and you should be fine.
How can I maintain a propane water heater in my RV?
Inspect accessible connections, keep ventilation openings clear, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning schedule, and arrange professional servicing when necessary.
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