Whether you’re a novice or expert, “Can I put a tankless water heater in my RV?” is always a confusing thought. Although RVs are unique, there are some things you can get puzzled about, such as putting an RV water heater.
An RV tankless water heater is an energy-efficient, central heating equipment that heats water through a gas burner ignited by the unit’s electrical circuit. Whether you’re considering buying a tankless water heater for your RV or replacing your current one, there are some crucial factors to consider when choosing the right one for your camping needs.
This article will discuss the common question: Can I put a tankless water heater in my RV. We will highlight some of the best options for tankless hot water heaters for RVs and explain which one is right for you.
What is a Tankless Water Heater?
A tankless water heater is a type of water heater that does not use tanks. Tankless water heaters use the thermosiphon principle to heat water, which means the hot water circulates around a metal coil inside the unit.
If you are an RV owner and love camping, you will know the necessity of putting a tankless water heater for the camper. Using a tankless water heater in your RV is portable, eliminates the need for frequent refilling of the water tank, and is environmentally friendly.
How Does a Tankless Water Heater Work?
Water heaters that are tankless work differently from those that are traditional. A tankless water heater circulates heated water around a heating element using a small pump instead of a tank. This means you don’t need to fill up your tank every time! Tankless water heaters are great for RVs because they are compact and easy to install.
What should you consider when selecting an RV tankless water heater?
So, can I put a tankless water heater in my RV? Yes, without any doubt. But be careful in selecting a proper RV water heater.
The most common and popular are electric RV water heaters. When choosing an RV tankless water heater, you should consider the size of your vehicle and the amount of water you will be using. You must also decide whether you want a permanent installation or a portable unit.
Types of tankless water heaters
Tankless water heaters are an excellent option for RVs because they are smaller and more efficient than tank water heaters. Water heaters without tanks fall into three categories: gas, electric, and propane.
Natural gas tankless water heaters produce heat by burning gas, while electric tankless water heaters create heat by using electricity. Propane tankless water heaters use propane to generate heat.
Each type of tankless water heater has its advantages and disadvantages. Gas tankless is the most efficient but most expensive form of water heating. A gas or propane tankless water heater will produce more heat than an electric one, but it won’t be as cheap as an electric one.
If you’re looking for a small, efficient hot water heater for your camper that doesn’t require a lot of space, a gas tankless water heater is a good option. An electric tankless water heater is a good option if you’re on a budget. If you want to produce a lot of hot water quickly, a propane tankless water heater is the best option.
The Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters in RVs
Tankless water heaters are an excellent option for RVs because they don’t use gas or oil, so there’s no need to worry about running out. Before purchasing, you should weigh the pros and cons.
Pros
- Takes up little space-Tankless water heaters heat the water directly; they take up less space than storage water heaters.
- Convenient– This is convenient as you can turn on the hot water and have a constant hot water supply.
- Economical– As tankless water heaters are more economical than storage water heaters, this is a positive.
- Environmentally friendly– As tankless water heaters use less energy than storage water heaters, this is environmentally friendly.
- Durable– As tankless water heaters are more durable than storage water heaters, this is a positive.
Cons
- The first disadvantage is that tankless water heaters are typically more expensive than traditional ones.
- First, tankless water heaters tend to be more expensive than traditional water heaters.
- Second, they can be more challenging to install than conventional water heaters.
- Third, they may not be suitable for all RV types.
- Fourth, they may not be as efficient as conventional water heaters.
- Fifth, they may require regular maintenance.
- Sixth, they may not work in cold climates.
Tips to Choose the Best RV Tankless Water Heater for You
If you’re considering a tankless water heater for your RV, here are some tips to help you choose the best option for your needs.
- The first thing to consider is your budget. Tankless water heaters range in price from around $1,000 to $5,000+. So which one is right for you?
- If you’re on a tight budget, consider a tankless water heater that uses electricity instead of fuel. These heaters are typically cheaper than their fuel-based counterparts and require less maintenance.
- If space is not a concern, consider a tankless water heater with more capacity. These heaters can hold more water and heat it faster than smaller models. They’re also more expensive but worth the investment if you use your RV regularly.
- Another factor is how often you’ll use the water heater. A small, budget-friendly model may be suitable if you only use your RV occasionally. But if you plan on using your RV regularly, investing in a larger tankless water heater may be worth it. Finally, think about how often you’ll travel and whether you will need a water heater for your RV or not.
How to Install an RV tankless water heater
If you want to install a tankless water heater in your recreational vehicle, there are a few things to remember. First, make sure that the RV is designed to accommodate one. Second, get a unit with an output rating appropriate for your needs.
Third, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before starting the installation. Fourth, be prepared to spend some time cleaning up after the installation. Finally, monitor the water heater frequently and replace any filters as needed.
Important Safety Tips
When installing a tankless water heater in your RV, there are a few essential safety tips you need to keep in mind. First and foremost, ensure you have the proper permits and insurance before beginning work; thirdly, if your RV can handle a water heater.
Finally, always take caution when working with hot liquids or gases, and never leave a tankless water heater unattended.
FAQs
The following questions will help you understand if you are considering installing a tankless water heater in your RV. Here are some frequently asked questions about tankless water heaters for RVs:
Can I put a tankless water heater in my RV?
Yes, you can install a tankless water heater in your recreational vehicle.
Are RV water heaters large in size?
Yes, the unit will be larger and heavier than a standard water heater, so using an existing electrical outlet may not be feasible sometimes.
Do you need an adapter to mount the water heater unit?
Yes, sometimes, you might need to purchase an adapter or mount the unit outside the RV.
Are RV water heaters expensive?
It depends on which type of water heater you want to install. An electrical water heater is the cheapest option.
Conclusion
RVs are great for traveling the country and enjoying the open road. Still, they can be a bit of a hassle when maintaining utilities like water and electricity.
There are ways to keep your RV comfortable and efficient. Tankless water heaters are easy to install, but if you are confused, which is best for me? Can I put a tankless water heater in my RV? Our article has got you covered.
Before you install a tankless water heater in your RV, consider these factors. Make sure that you have enough space for the unit. Secondly, pay attention to any local restrictions (such as voltage requirements or plumbing restrictions).
If you decide to go ahead, you may need to budget for additional installation costs (such as an electrician).