10 Best Rv Hot Water Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Fogatti InstaShower 7 is a tankless water heater designed specifically for RVs, offering a practical upgrade for families on the road. It provides instant hot water at a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute with a powerful 48,000 BTU output, making it well suited for showers, dishwashing, and other daily needs without the wait time of traditional tank heaters. Since it’s tankless, it only uses fuel when hot water is needed, helping to save energy.

This model runs on 12V DC power and features an easy-to-use remote controller for setting temperatures between 95°F and 123°F. It also includes important safety features like stable combustion, automatic gas shut-off, and antifreeze protection for colder climates. Installation is flexible with three optional door sizes (sold separately) to fit different RV setups, though this means extra parts need to be purchased. The unit is compact with a 12.7” square size, suitable for wall mounting.

It has an efficiency rating of 84%, which is decent but not the highest available. The heater also performs reliably at high altitudes up to 9,800 feet, a plus for mountain travel. The Fogatti InstaShower 7 is a solid choice for RVers wanting continuous hot water with energy savings and safety in mind, especially for family use. Just be aware of the additional cost for doors and the need for some installation effort.

The Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D is a solid choice for RV owners looking for a reliable hot water solution. With a capacity of 6 gallons, it caters well to smaller RVs or camper setups, providing enough hot water for basic needs such as showers and dishwashing. The direct spark ignition (DSI) system is user-friendly, allowing you to control the heater from a remote switch, making startup convenient, especially during cold mornings.

One of its notable strengths is its recovery rate of 10.2 gallons per hour, which means that hot water is replenished quickly after use, ensuring that you’re not left without hot water during peak times. The compact size (12.75” x 12.75”) makes it relatively easy to install in tight spaces, a common challenge in RV setups.

The maximum flow rate of 0.17 gallons per minute might be limiting for larger families or those who require multiple hot water outlets to work simultaneously. Additionally, while 12,000 BTU input is decent, some users may prefer higher output for quicker heating in larger setups or colder climates. The weight of the unit, 33.3 lbs empty and 81.9 lbs full, is manageable but could be a concern for those looking to minimize overall weight in their RV. It lacks an indicator light, which could lead to uncertainty about the operational status of the unit. The Suburban SW6D is well-suited for those with smaller RVs looking for efficient, easy-to-use hot water heating, balancing good recovery rates with a compact design, though larger hot water demands might find its flow rate a bit lacking.

The GIRARD Tankless RV Water Heater is designed specifically for RV owners seeking a reliable and efficient hot water solution on the road. With a powerful output of 42,000 BTUs, it delivers a continuous supply of hot water, making it ideal for those who enjoy long trips and want to avoid the hassle of running out of hot water during showers or washing dishes. Its quiet operation, thanks to the brushless motor, is a significant plus for those who value a peaceful environment in their RV.

One of the standout features is its onboard microprocessor, which helps maintain a consistent water temperature by monitoring incoming and outgoing water flow. This technology effectively prevents cold spots and reduces the risk of scalding, ensuring that users enjoy a safe and comfortable experience. Additionally, the digital user control panel is user-friendly, allowing you to easily adjust the temperature and monitor performance, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy.

On the energy efficiency front, the GIRARD model is commendable, consuming about half the LP gas of a traditional six-gallon tank heater for the same amount of hot water. This efficiency can lead to significant savings on fuel during extended trips. There are a few drawbacks to consider. The need for professional installation may deter some users, especially those looking for a straightforward DIY project. Although designed to be lightweight, its dimensions should be carefully considered to ensure it fits well in your RV's plumbing system. Moreover, since it operates on 12V power, users will need to ensure that their RV's electrical system can support this requirement, particularly for sustained use.