Heaters can make your RV feel like home, yet a regular one can be bulky for your RV water system. Hence, to resolve this issue, you can turn to electric tankless heaters that are characterized by compact size, power efficiency, and endless hot water supply. These are the perfect solution to accommodate your water needs while you are on the go.
Similarly, these alternatives are designed to save space, save power, and provide you with a consistent supply of hot water. So, you can ideally use these for showering, washing, and other necessary tasks. If you are looking for one, here is a comprehensive review and buying guide of the best electric tankless water heaters for RV. Thus, choose the one that suits you well.
At a Glance:
5. Chronomite SR-20L/120 Instant Low Flow Tankless Water Heater
- Offers great recovery
- Efficient temperature range
- Easy to assemble
- Built-in safety function
1. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
- Offers great versatility
- High heating capacity
- Offers efficient flow rate
- Lightweight and durable
6. Thermoflow 12KW Tankless Water Heater Electric
- Offers great versatility
- Sturdy and durable
- It works in all weathers
- Efficient heating capacity
6 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters for RV
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1. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater
Staff PickTo start with, if you are in need of portability and versatility, this one from EcoSmart is an impressive deal to invest in. This one comes with a unique and sleek design that integrates manual temperature controls and battery ignition that provides you with proper functionality and convenience. Coupled with this, the efficient temperature range and quick delivery rate make it stand among others.
Likewise, the first thing you will notice about this model is its self-modulating technology that only operates when you need it whenever you give commands. So, you don’t have to worry about additional costs. The design, despite being durable, comes with a small size that saves space and provides you with ease of installation. All in all, it is relatively much smaller than traditional RV heaters.
Lastly, when it comes to performance, it can support at most 3.1 gallons, making it ideal for a sink and shower. It also comes with digital display control on the front panel, from which you can easily adjust the temperature and monitor the overall usage. Here, you will be facilitated with a temperature range between 80 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. All in all, it is lightweight and can be assembled without much issue.
Pros
- Offers great versatility
- High heating capacity
- Offers efficient flow rate
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- It can be a bit expensive
In conclusion, this EcoSmart is one of the best electric tankless water heaters for an RV with a unique and functional design. It integrates an efficient temperature range and a digital display that provides you with convenience and functionality. Similarly, the high heating capacity and quick delivery rate, not to mention the durable construction, give it an edge over others.
2. Stiebel Eltron 220816 Mini 3 Tankless Water Heater
Second, on my list of the best electric tankless water heaters for RV is this compact and durable Stiebel 220816. This model from Stielbel is best known for its modern, compact, and functional white design that provides you with an unlimited supply of hot water. All in all, it has the ability to facilitate a shower and faucet that are primary concerns for an RV user. Also, the fact that it is easy to install makes it of great value.
Likewise, when it comes to design, it is made up of sturdy steel and is mounted that making it easy to assemble. Hence, you can place it wherever you want to be based on the organization of your RV. In addition; the design integrates a pre-hardware pigtail that allows electric connection, so you can use the hot water easily and quickly. It is also worth mentioning that you can mitigate any chances of electric overload with a built-in manual reset.
Last but not least, this one has a 110V battery that consumes less than usual power and makes it energy-efficiency, so you don’t have to worry about the excessive cost value. For performance, it can get up to 116 degrees Fahrenheit and can accommodate 1.5 GPM. However, to operate this one, you will need a dedicated 30 amp circuit breaker. All in all, it is a great value for money.
Pros
- Easy to install/use
- Small and sturdy
- Offers electrical connection
- Sleek and modern design
Cons
- No temperature control feature
In the end, this one from Stiebel Eltron is an impressive deal at a medium price range with absolute functionality and a sleek design. It comes with a built-in mounting feature that makes it easy to install and offers you the freedom to place it wherever you want. Similarly, the heater covers a long warranty of leaks and physical damage, not to mention has the ability to accommodate fast water flow for your RV.
3. RINKMO Electric Tankless Water Heater
Here comes another quality tankless heater for your RV for its durable and unique design. The highlight of this model is its reliable temperature range and quick water heating technology that provides you with efficiency and ease throughout. In addition, it is designed with an efficient exhausting system that keeps the heater going and prevents dirt and debris from getting in.
Likewise, this one comes with a small size that can easily accommodate a shower and faucet, having a low consumption 120V operation. So, you don’t have to worry about the excessive energy it takes to operate a heater. Another feature that makes it perfect for your RV is the function that starts the water to flow only when you need it to. So, not only does it keep the cost low, but it helps you in extending your battery’s life.
In the end, when it comes to performance, this one has the ability to go up to a maximum temperature of 124 degrees Fahrenheit. My favorite here is the built-in control feature that allows you to regulate the appropriate temperature and usage as per your preference. All in all, keep in mind that when it is freezing cold outside, the device will consume less than usual power to prevent the body from frosting.
Pros
- Sturdy and portable
- Offers energy efficiency
- Includes frost protection feature
- Control function included
Cons
- It can be a bit expensive
Wrapping up, this Rinkmo electric tankless water heater is a great alternative for your RV, considering the durability, functionality, and ease it offers. It is equipped with adjustable temperature and an energy-efficient operation that serves you well. Likewise, if you are going to use your RV in extreme conditions, you are also facilitated with a frost protection system and easy installation.
4. Camplux Tankless Water Heater Electric
First of all, this Camplux electric tankless heater is a great choice for anyone in search of a versatile and functional design. It comes with a unique design that allows you to mount this from any position, making it easy to install and use, specifically for an RV. Furthermore, the heater comes with a large LED display option and temperature adjustments that provide you with absolute ease and customization, so you can monitor the cost and usage.
Secondly, this one is made up of stainless and durable steel that provides you with durability and removes any chances of leakage. Another remarkable attribute that makes it ideal for RV users is its built-in touch control function with which you can control the temperature settings ideally. Likewise, it is important to note that this one has the ability to accommodate a number of faucets; however, it cannot be used for a shower.
Finally, when it comes to performance, this one operates on 120V that is reliable, and not only produces safe energy but helps you in managing the overall cost. For activation, this one just needs a 0.4GPM value. It also operates with an 85-131 degrees Fahrenheit temperature range that makes it ideal for day-to-day usage. The only thing to keep in mind is that it only starts with a 10 circuit wire.
Pros
- Offers great durability
- Efficient temperature range
- Easy to install
- Versatile and functional
Cons
- It can be a bit expensive
In the end, this Camplux electric tankless heater is a great alternative for your RV, considering the ease and functionality it offers. It comes with an efficient temperature range and stainless steel construction that helps you throughout. Moreover, the safe electricity production and digital display control make it stand among others.
5. Chronomite SR-20L/120 Instant Low Flow Tankless Water Heater
Best PickTo begin with, if you are looking for something that doesn’t take much space and provides you with functionality, this tankless heater from Chronomite is the one to go for. This one comes with an under-sink installation that makes it even more convenient. I absolutely loved this one for its ability to adjust temperature and convenient assembly process, not to mention the sturdy and durable construction.
When it comes to the design, it comes with a sleek white design that is mounted, so you can easily place it under the sink without any expertise. Furthermore, it also incorporates microprocessor technology that allows you to adjust the temperature as per your needs and motor range. I also would suggest this for anyone who frequently takes family and friends on trips on RV, all thanks to its built-in safety function.
In the end, you cannot find one better than this for RVs when it comes to performance. This one has the ability to facilitate you with 0.5 gallons and two chrome compression fittings that accommodate two sinks and a faucet easily. All in all, the temperature range lies between 90 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit with a recovery rate of two seconds, so you can enjoy hot water without waiting.
Pros
- Offers great recovery
- Efficient temperature range
- Easy to assemble
- Built-in safety function
Cons
- It can be a bit expensive
- Less than usual warranty
In conclusion, if you are looking for something functional and convenient, this Chronomite SR-20L is one of the best electric tankless water heaters for RVs. It comes with a built-in safety function and mounted design that provides you with easy assembly and controlled usage. Likewise, the efficient temperature range and two chrome compression fittings in the package make it of great value.
6. Thermoflow 12KW Tankless Water Heater Electric
Budget PickFirst of all, this one from Thermoflow is a great way to facilitate your tiny apartments and RVs, all thanks to its functional and versatile design. This tankless heater operates on electricity and is CSA certified, making it of great value. In addition, my absolute favorite in this model is its freezing protection function and a built-in safety feature, making it a reliable and safe alternative to go for.
Secondly, the first thing you will notice about this model is its endless setting options that help you in using this heater for a number of places. It operates on a regular voltage that is quite efficient and consumes less than usual power. Also, the fact that it comes with an anti-freeze function makes it of great value. Here, the self-modulating technology enables it to operate when you need it and saves cost to a great extent.
In the end, from the performance point, it offers a temperature range between 10-140 degrees Fahrenheit that provides you with an endless hot water supply for your RV, so you can enjoy as much as you want. All in all, I didn’t experience any issues while assembling this unit. It also has a sturdy steel construction that provides you with ease and convenience and operates in all weather conditions.
Pros
- Offers great versatility
- Sturdy and durable
- It works in all weathers
- Efficient heating capacity
Cons
- Expensive than usual
- The anti-freeze function demands power
Wrapping up, the Thermoflow water heater is a great choice for anyone looking for versatility and functionality. It comes with a sleek design that integrates an anti-freeze function and a variety of settings that help you all along. Additionally, the design integrates an efficient temperature range that provides you with an endless hot water supply. Finally, it is easy to control and can be installed anywhere with convenience.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV: Everything You Need to Know
A quality heater for an RV is one that has proper functionality and provides you with smooth delivery, having temperature adjustments, and energy efficiency. Hence, it is ideal that you know the basics of these noteworthy heaters. Here are some things you should always look into while buying the best electric tankless water heaters for RV;
What is an Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV?
An electric tankless heater for Rv is a regular heater powered by electricity and comes in a small size that can facilitate either the sinks and shower of your small RV. Additionally, being small, they are usually eco-friendly and cost-effective. Most people are looking for these heaters for RV because of their easy-to-install design and power efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
While buying the RV electric tankless heaters, the first thing you should make sure of is that they are energy-efficient. For an electric tankless heater, I would suggest you look for the one that operates on safe and regular voltage, so you don’t have to worry about the cost factor. Likewise, it makes sure that you don’t have to worry about overheating as the regular 120V electricity provides you with safe energy.
Flow Rate and Heating Capacity
Another attribute that makes the best electric tankless water heater is the heating capacity and flow rate. In simple words, the flow rate is the amount of water a certain has the ability to heat up in a minute. It is measured in GPM, and the better the GPM, the more efficient your heater is. For an RV, going for something between 1 and 3 is more than enough.
Similarly, the heating capacity is largely dependent on the material of your heating element. Hence, it varies from model to model. Most commonly, you will find these made up of copper or stainless steel, both of which are highly durable and perfect for keeping the temperature high. Another expensive material you can find in the market is infrared technology that doesn’t corrode and lasts long. However, I would suggest you not pay that much for an RV heater.
Safety and Anti-Freezing Technology
Another thing you should consider while buying a heater for RV is the safety feature, as it can help you prevent overheating and leakage. There are a number of functions, including thermal and pressure relief, you can go for. Similarly, anti-freezing technology can save your device from frosting up the heating element while you are below even 40 degrees.
Installation
Likewise, if you are lazy and don’t want to invest your struggle in setting the heater, it is recommended that you go for the one that is easy and convenient to install. Having an RV can also limit your space for assembling and positioning this unit. For this purpose, it is ideal that you go for the one that has a mounted design, so you have the freedom to place it anywhere you want. Many contemporary models come with multi-angled mounting; hence you are provided with the flexibility to place your water heater with absolute ease.
Temperature Adjustments
If your whole family uses the RV, it is ideal that you go for temperature adjustability as it can help you in accommodating diverse preferences. Likewise, most of the electric tankless heaters designed for RV come in temperature settings and digital displays to help you with convenience and functionality. Most commonly, you will find temperature ranges between 84 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, based on this value, you can choose the one that suits your budget preferences.
In the end, based on these essential features and your individual requirements, you can choose the best electric tankless water heaters for RVs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if only lukewarm water is coming out of the shower or faucet?
For this, first of all, check that the cold and hot faucets to the outside shower in your RV. Then, make sure that all the water lines are turned off. If somehow water lines are mixed, it can lead to the hot and cold water mixed together and can result in lukewarm water.
Is it hard to convert a traditional RV heater into a tankless one?
If it is extremely essential to convert a traditional heater into a tankless one, you can do it. For this, you will have to choose the correct size and the power source that can make the conversion compatible. Then, mount the unit and connect the water and electricity lines and proceed to install the flue vent. However, I would still recommend you consult a professional or expert to get the job done.
Do I need to clean a tankless water heater?
Yes, you will absolutely have to clean the tankless water heater. Hence, for this purpose, it is ideal that you clean it after some time as recommended by the manufacturer as it can help you in preventing the bacteria. It is further recommended that you follow the instruction manual as per your model’s requirements.
Conclusion
In the end, these small tankless heaters are great support for RV’s as they can help you feel at home while you are on the go. These are designed to save space, help you with a consistent hot water supply and energy efficiency. Hence, if you are someone who uses these RVs and wants something that can help you with a smooth flow rate and efficient heating capacity. If you are looking for one, here are some of my favorites;
- Thermoflow 12KW Tankless Water Heater Electric is best known for its durable heating element, lightweight construction, and energy efficiency.
- EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater is one of the best for its versatility, efficient flow rate, and built-in safety function.
- Chronomite SR-20L/120 Instant Low Flow Tankless Water Heater is known for its lightweight design, efficient heating capacity, and temperature adjustments.
Wrapping up, based on these reviews and buying instructions, you can choose the one that serves you well.
