Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters for Your Camper

By Brian on October 23, 2024

Camper tankless water heater options offer travelers the convenience of efficient and endless hot water on the go. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your trips:

  • Energy Efficiency: Saves energy by heating water only when needed.
  • Space-Saving Design: Compact units fit easily into tight spaces.
  • Continuous Hot Water: No more waiting for a tank to refill.
  • Initial Cost: Higher upfront expense compared to traditional heaters.
  • Installation: May require professional setup for optimal performance.

Tankless water heaters for campers are an appealing solution due to their energy efficiency and ability to provide a continuous supply of hot water without the bulk of traditional systems. These compact devices are perfect for travelers who need to make the most of limited space. However, weigh the initial costs and installation requirements before making a purchase. Overall, these heaters can transform your camping experience by ensuring you always have hot water at your fingertips, all while conserving energy and space.

diagram showing energy efficiency, space-saving design, and continuous hot water benefits of camper tankless water heaters - camper tankless water heater infographic infographic-line-3-steps-colors

Camper tankless water heater definitions:
– 10 gallon tankless water heater
– 80 gallon tankless water heater
– tankless water heaters

Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters for Campers

Energy Efficiency

A camper tankless water heater is a smart choice for energy-conscious travelers. Unlike traditional water heaters that maintain a reservoir of hot water, tankless models heat water on demand. This means they only use energy when you actually need hot water, reducing overall energy waste.

On-demand heating translates to significant energy savings, especially for campers who are often off-grid or rely on limited resources. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests that tankless water heaters can be 8% to 34% more efficient than their tank-based counterparts. This efficiency not only helps the environment but also cuts down on propane or electricity costs during your trips.

Space-Saving Design

Space is a premium in any camper, and the compact size of tankless water heaters makes them an ideal choice. Traditional water heaters with large tanks can take up a lot of room, but tankless units are much smaller and can be installed in various locations, like closets or under sinks.

Their installation flexibility means you can place them almost anywhere in your camper, freeing up valuable space for other necessities. This is particularly beneficial for those with smaller RVs or campers where every inch counts.

Continuous Hot Water Supply

One of the most appreciated benefits of a camper tankless water heater is the continuous supply of hot water. Forget waiting for a tank to refill and reheat; with tankless models, you get a steady stream of hot water whenever you need it.

This feature is ideal for campers with multiple users. Whether it’s back-to-back showers or washing dishes, everyone gets hot water without the dreaded cold surprise. This continuous supply ensures that you can enjoy the comforts of home even when you’re miles away from civilization.

Continuous hot water supply ensures comfort for all users - camper tankless water heater infographic 3_facts_emoji_nature

In summary, tankless water heaters offer campers energy efficiency, space-saving benefits, and a continuous hot water supply. These advantages make them a compelling choice for those seeking to improve their camping experience while minimizing energy use and maximizing space.

Disadvantages of Tankless Water Heaters for Campers

Initial Cost and Installation Complexity

Investing in a camper tankless water heater can be a significant upfront expense. Tankless models generally have a higher initial cost compared to traditional tank-based water heaters. This includes not only the price of the unit but also potentially steep installation costs. Retrofitting a tankless system into a camper that previously housed a tank-style heater can be challenging. It may require modifications to the plumbing or electrical systems, adding to the complexity and cost of the installation process.

Water Flow Rate and Temperature Fluctuations

Tankless water heaters have specific flow rate requirements to function optimally. If the flow rate is too low, the heater might not activate, leading to temperature fluctuations. This can be particularly problematic in a camper setting where water usage might be inconsistent. According to valhalla360, smaller tankless units often struggle to maintain consistent temperatures, especially in colder conditions where the water needs to be heated significantly more.

Propane Dependency and Climate Concerns

Many camper tankless water heaters rely on propane, which can be a double-edged sword. While propane is an efficient fuel source, it also means that campers need to ensure they have a sufficient supply, especially when traveling to remote locations. Additionally, in colder climates, these heaters may struggle to raise water to the desired temperature quickly. wanderingaimlessly notes that in colder ambient temperatures, the water flow must be reduced to achieve the necessary heat increase, which can result in lukewarm water if not managed carefully.

In summary, while tankless water heaters offer several advantages, their initial cost, installation complexity, and dependency on propane can pose challenges for campers. Additionally, managing water flow rates and ensuring performance in varying climates require careful consideration.

Choosing the Right Tankless Water Heater for Your Camper

Size and GPM Requirements

When selecting a camper tankless water heater, size and GPM (gallons per minute) are crucial factors. The size of your camper and the number of occupants will influence your hot water needs. A small camper with one or two occupants may suffice with a lower GPM model, while larger families or groups will need a unit capable of delivering a higher flow rate.

GPM Recommendations:

  • Small Campers (1-2 occupants): A unit with a 2.4 GPM rating, like the Furrion Vortex Technology, can be sufficient for basic needs.
  • Medium to Large Campers (3+ occupants): Consider models offering 3.0 GPM or higher to ensure a steady supply of hot water.

Propane vs. Electric Models

Choosing between propane and electric models depends on your camping style and availability of resources.

Propane Models:

  • Pros: Efficient and effective in delivering hot water quickly. Ideal for off-grid camping where electricity may not be readily available.
  • Cons: Requires regular propane supply and can be less efficient in extremely cold climates.

Electric Models:

  • Pros: Great for campgrounds with electrical hookups. No need to worry about propane supply.
  • Cons: Limited by electrical availability. May not be as powerful as propane models in heating water quickly.

Recommended Models

Here are some top models to consider for your camper:

  • Girard GSWH-2: Known for its energy efficiency and user-friendly control panel, this model is a favorite among campers. It provides a reliable flow with minimal temperature fluctuations.

  • Fogatti InstaShower: Offers a high GPM rate suitable for larger families. It combines propane efficiency with advanced features to ensure consistent hot water supply.

  • Furrion Vortex Technology: This model excels in mixing hot and cold water to eliminate temperature fluctuations. It is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, making it a durable choice for frequent campers.

Choosing the right camper tankless water heater involves balancing size, GPM needs, and fuel type to suit your camping lifestyle. With these considerations in mind, you can ensure a comfortable and efficient hot water experience on your trips.

Frequently Asked Questions about Camper Tankless Water Heaters

Are RV tankless water heaters worth it?

Absolutely! Camper tankless water heaters offer several advantages that make them a worthy investment. They are highly energy-efficient because they heat water on demand, reducing energy waste compared to traditional tank heaters. This means you only use energy when you need hot water, which can lead to cost savings over time.

Additionally, their space-saving design is ideal for campers where space is limited. Traditional water heaters with large tanks take up significant room, whereas tankless models are compact and can be installed in various locations without taking up much space.

Finally, the ability to provide continuous hot water is a game-changer, especially for larger families or groups. With a tankless water heater, you won’t have to worry about running out of hot water during showers or dishwashing.

Can you put a tankless water heater in a camper?

Yes, you can install a tankless water heater in a camper, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. Installation can be more complex than for traditional water heaters due to the need for proper venting and gas line adjustments. However, many tankless models are designed to be retrofittable, making them suitable for replacing older units in campers.

When installing, consider the space available in your camper. Tankless units are compact, but you’ll still need to ensure there’s enough room for proper installation and ventilation. Also, check if your camper’s existing infrastructure can support the water heater’s requirements, such as gas or electric connections.

What size tankless water heater do I need for an RV?

The size of the camper tankless water heater you’ll need depends on your camper’s size and the number of occupants. The key metric to consider is the GPM (gallons per minute) rating, which indicates the water heater’s flow rate.

GPM Recommendations:

  • Small Campers (1-2 occupants): A model with a 2.4 GPM rating should suffice for basic needs, like the Furrion Vortex Technology.
  • Medium to Large Campers (3+ occupants): Opt for a unit with a 3.0 GPM or higher to ensure a steady supply of hot water for everyone.

Choosing the right size ensures that you have enough hot water without overburdening your camper’s resources. Always assess your specific needs and usage patterns before making a decision.

Conclusion

In summary, camper tankless water heaters offer a blend of benefits and challenges. On the plus side, they provide energy efficiency, save space, and deliver continuous hot water. These features make them a smart choice for those living the camper life, where every inch of space and every watt of energy counts. However, they do come with some drawbacks, such as higher initial costs and installation complexities. There’s also the need to consider propane dependency and performance in colder climates.

At Go Pro Plumbing, we understand the unique needs of camper owners. Our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service, ensuring that your tankless water heater installation and maintenance are hassle-free. Whether you’re looking to install a new system or retrofit an existing one, our tankless water heater services are designed to meet your specific requirements.

In conclusion, while the upfront investment in a camper tankless water heater might be higher, the long-term benefits of energy savings, convenience, and space efficiency make it a worthwhile consideration for any camper owner. Trust Go Pro Plumbing to guide you through choosing and installing the right system for your needs, ensuring you enjoy the comforts of hot water wherever your trips take you.

Category: Home Maintenance