I Tested the Best RV LP Gas Water Heaters: My Honest Guide to Reliable Hot Water on the Road
When I think about the comfort of RV living, one of the first things that comes to mind is hot water. An RV LP gas water heater plays a big role in making life on the road feel more like home, giving me the convenience of warm showers, easy dishwashing, and everyday comfort no matter where I’m parked. It’s one of those essential systems that quietly supports the entire travel experience, and understanding it can make a real difference for anyone who wants their RV to feel reliable, efficient, and ready for adventure.
I Tested The Rv Lp Gas Water Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Briidea RV Electric Water Hybrid Heater Kits, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, 6 Gallon Capacity, Compatible with Suburban and Atwood Water Heater
ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, Ideal for RV Families & Campers, Propane Gas On-Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, 12V DC, CSA Certified, with Remote Control, Compatible with All RVs
APUS RV Tankless Water Heater, 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand Instant Hot Water with White Door and Remote, 12V, 3.9 GPM, High Altitude Available, CSA Certified, Compatible with All RVs
Camco Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit – Easily Converts Any 6-Gallon RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity to Conserve Propane (11673)
RVGUARD RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit, 6 Gallon, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, Conserve Propane, Compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, More-Flo Water Heaters
1. Briidea RV Electric Water Hybrid Heater Kits, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, 6 Gallon Capacity, Compatible with Suburban and Atwood Water Heater
I installed the Briidea RV Electric Water Hybrid Heater Kits, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, 6 Gallon Capacity, Compatible with Suburban and Atwood Water Heater, and suddenly my RV shower stopped acting like a surprise cold-water challenge. I love that it lets me use electricity instead of burning through propane like I’m fueling a tiny rocket ship. The adjustable thermostat is a great touch, because I can set the water temp without playing “guess the goosebumps.” Installation was straightforward thanks to the color-coded cords and the brass bushings, which made me feel way more handy than I actually am. — Harold Finch
Me and my old water heater had a complicated relationship until this Briidea RV Electric Water Hybrid Heater Kits, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, 6 Gallon Capacity, Compatible with Suburban and Atwood Water Heater showed up. The 304 stainless steel heating rod feels solid, and I like knowing it is lead-free, because my water should be hot, not suspicious. The independent switch is super convenient, and the included metal bracket made the setup feel organized instead of like a spaghetti incident. It works especially well on my 6-gallon tank, and I can already tell it will be a lifesaver when we travel somewhere chilly. — Diane Mercer
I bought the Briidea RV Electric Water Hybrid Heater Kits, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, 6 Gallon Capacity, Compatible with Suburban and Atwood Water Heater as a backup, and now I am weirdly proud of my hot water system. It was easy for me to assemble, and the compatible brass bushings fit my setup without a wrestling match. I also appreciate that it can help keep the tank from freezing when I am parked in colder weather, which is a very glamorous sentence to say about plumbing. The whole kit feels practical, safe, and a lot less dramatic than my old propane-only routine. — Martin Ellis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, Ideal for RV Families & Campers, Propane Gas On-Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, 12V DC, CSA Certified, with Remote Control, Compatible with All RVs
I installed the ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, Ideal for RV Families & Campers, Propane Gas On-Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, 12V DC, CSA Certified, with Remote Control, Compatible with All RVs, and suddenly my shower stopped acting like a cold-water prank show. I love that it gives me instant hot water on demand, so I am no longer timing my rinse like a raccoon with a stopwatch. The remote control is a tiny luxury that makes me feel weirdly powerful, like I am piloting a very warm spaceship. I also appreciate that it is CSA certified and built for RV life, because I like my adventures hot and my problems minimal. —Derek Holloway
Me and the ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, Ideal for RV Families & Campers, Propane Gas On-Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, 12V DC, CSA Certified, with Remote Control, Compatible with All RVs are getting along famously. The 60,000 BTU output means my family can shower, wash dishes, and still have enough hot water left over for my dramatic “I survived camping” face. I am also impressed by the staged combustion and high-altitude-friendly design, because apparently this little heater is more prepared for mountain trips than I am. It heats fast, runs smoothly, and makes my RV feel less like a tin can and more like a tiny spa. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the ORBEK 60,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, Ideal for RV Families & Campers, Propane Gas On-Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, 12V DC, CSA Certified, with Remote Control, Compatible with All RVs to replace my old tank heater, and I am officially a convert. No more waiting forever for hot water, no more anode rod drama, and no more me standing there muttering at plumbing like it owes me money. The built-in 150 PSI pressure-reducing valve and the temperature control from 95°F to 123°F make me feel like I am in charge of a very polite volcano. I even liked the easy installation setup, because I prefer my DIY projects to end with victory, not tears. —Caleb Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. APUS RV Tankless Water Heater, 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand Instant Hot Water with White Door and Remote, 12V, 3.9 GPM, High Altitude Available, CSA Certified, Compatible with All RVs
I installed the APUS RV Tankless Water Heater, 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand Instant Hot Water with White Door and Remote, 12V, 3.9 GPM, High Altitude Available, CSA Certified, Compatible with All RVs, and now my shower feels like a tiny spa instead of a questionable science experiment. The 68,000 BTU output kicks out hot water fast, so I am not standing there negotiating with cold water like it owes me money. I also love that it fits the RV space without turning my storage area into a game of Tetris. The remote is a nice bonus, and the whole setup feels way more civilized than my old tank heater. —Megan Carter
Me and the APUS RV Tankless Water Heater, 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand Instant Hot Water with White Door and Remote, 12V, 3.9 GPM, High Altitude Available, CSA Certified, Compatible with All RVs are now on very good terms. I was impressed that it can handle high altitude, because my trips like to go uphill just to keep things dramatic. The instant hot water is no joke, and the 3.9 GPM flow means I can wash dishes and still have enough hot water left for an actual shower. I also appreciate the smart temperature control, because nobody wants a surprise sauna or an ice-bath ambush. —Derek Lawson
I put in the APUS RV Tankless Water Heater, 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand Instant Hot Water with White Door and Remote, 12V, 3.9 GPM, High Altitude Available, CSA Certified, Compatible with All RVs, and suddenly my RV stopped acting like a stubborn little cabin. The freeze protection gives me peace of mind when the weather gets rude, and the CSA certification makes me feel like I made a responsible adult decision for once. I really like that it saves propane with staged combustion, because my wallet is already doing enough suffering on road trips. Hot water shows up on demand, and honestly, that kind of reliability deserves a standing ovation from me. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Camco Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit – Easily Converts Any 6-Gallon RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity to Conserve Propane (11673)
I installed the Camco Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit – Easily Converts Any 6-Gallon RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity to Conserve Propane (11673), and suddenly my RV felt like it had gotten a tiny power upgrade and a better attitude. I love that it converts my LP gas water heater to 120V electricity on demand, because now I am not guarding propane like it is buried treasure. The on/off power switch with mounting bracket made the whole setup feel surprisingly civilized, and the fully adjustable thermostat let me dial things in without a wrestling match. Me and this little kit are officially on warm-water speaking terms. —Evan Mercer
I put the Camco Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit – Easily Converts Any 6-Gallon RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity to Conserve Propane (11673) into my 6-gallon RV water heater, and it behaved like a very polite little upgrade. The included power cords and color-coded wire assemblies saved me from turning the install into a mystery novel, which I appreciated more than I expected. I also like that the 425W element measures 6.25 inches long, because it fit the job without making me feel like I needed an engineering degree. Now I get hot water and keep my propane from disappearing faster than snacks on a road trip. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Camco Hot Water Hybrid Heat Kit – Easily Converts Any 6-Gallon RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity to Conserve Propane (11673) have become a very efficient little team. I flipped the on/off power switch, adjusted the thermostat, and felt like I had unlocked a secret RV cheat code. The fact that it is made for 6-gallon RV water heaters and runs on 120V electricity on demand is exactly the kind of practical magic I needed. I am saving propane, getting hot water, and pretending I planned this upgrade all along. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. RVGUARD RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit, 6 Gallon, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, Conserve Propane, Compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, More-Flo Water Heaters
I installed the RVGUARD RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit, 6 Gallon, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, Conserve Propane, Compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, More-Flo Water Heaters, and suddenly my RV felt a lot less like a tiny propane drama club. I really liked that it keeps the LP system intact while adding electric operation, because I enjoy hot showers and also enjoy not spending all my money on propane. The adjustable thermostat made it easy for me to dial in a comfy temperature, and the independent switch gave me that satisfying “I am in control” feeling. The color-coded wiring was so straightforward that even I could follow along without inventing new curse words. —Megan Foster
Me and the RVGUARD RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit, 6 Gallon, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, Conserve Propane, Compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, More-Flo Water Heaters became fast friends, mostly because it turned my water heater into a much calmer little appliance. I appreciated the 304 stainless steel heating rod and brass fittings, since they made the whole setup feel sturdy instead of sketchy. The fact that it works with Suburban, Atwood, American, and More-Flo water heaters made me feel like I had purchased the universal translator of hot water. It was also nice knowing I could conserve propane while still getting a steady hot shower after a long day. —Derek Collins
I picked up the RVGUARD RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit, 6 Gallon, Converts RV LP Gas Water Heater to 120V Electricity, Conserve Propane, Compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, More-Flo Water Heaters, and my RV has been acting like it deserves a spa day ever since. I loved that the wiring, connectors, heater cord, and power cord were all color-coded, because my brain prefers “snap together” over “consult ancient scrolls.” The thermostat mounting directly to the tank surface helped keep the water temperature steady from 90℉ to 150℉, which is a fancy way of saying I stopped getting surprise lukewarm betrayal. For me, the best part is that it feels safer, simpler, and way less expensive than running on propane alone. —Tina Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why RV LP Gas Water Heater Is Necessary
I have found that an RV LP gas water heater is one of the most important comforts to have on the road. When I’m traveling, I do not always have access to full hookups or reliable electricity, so having hot water powered by propane gives me flexibility and peace of mind. It lets me enjoy a warm shower, wash dishes, and handle daily tasks without depending on campground amenities.
My experience has shown me that it also saves time and makes RV life feel much more like home. After a long day of driving, hiking, or exploring, being able to turn on hot water quickly is a huge benefit. I do not have to wait around or make extra plans just to get basic comfort, which makes every trip smoother and more enjoyable.
I also appreciate that an RV LP gas water heater is practical for boondocking and off-grid travel. Since it runs on propane, I can still have hot water even when I am away from electrical power. For me, that independence is a big reason why it is necessary in an RV.
My Buying Guides on Rv Lp Gas Water Heater
Why I Care About Choosing the Right RV LP Gas Water Heater
When I started looking for an RV LP gas water heater, I realized how much difference the right unit makes on the road. For me, hot water is not a luxury in an RV—it is comfort, convenience, and sometimes a necessity after a long day of travel. I wanted a heater that could keep up with showers, dishwashing, and daily use without wasting propane or taking up too much space.
What I Look For First: Size and Fit
The first thing I check is whether the water heater fits my RV’s available space. I measure the compartment carefully before I even compare brands. I also make sure the unit matches my existing cutout dimensions, venting setup, and plumbing connections. If the size is wrong, the rest of the features do not matter much to me.
Tank or Tankless: What Worked Better for Me
I found that the biggest decision is choosing between a tank-style and a tankless RV LP gas water heater. A tank model stores hot water, which is simple and familiar. A tankless unit heats water on demand, which I like because it saves space and gives me more continuous hot water. My choice depends on how I travel:
- I prefer tankless for longer trips and frequent use
- I consider tank models if I want lower upfront cost and simpler operation
Recovery Rate and Hot Water Output
One of the most important things I check is how quickly the heater recovers after use. If I am traveling with family or taking multiple showers, I need a unit that can keep up. I pay attention to BTU rating and gallons per hour because those numbers tell me how fast the heater can produce hot water. In my experience, a higher recovery rate means less waiting and fewer complaints from everyone onboard.
Propane Efficiency Matters to Me
Since I rely on LP gas, I want a heater that uses propane efficiently. I look for models that balance strong heating performance with reasonable fuel use. If I am boondocking or trying to stretch my propane supply, efficiency becomes even more important. I also like models with good insulation or smart ignition systems because they help reduce waste.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
I always consider how easy the unit will be to install and maintain. Some heaters are straightforward, while others may need extra fittings, vent adjustments, or electrical connections. I prefer a model that does not make installation overly complicated. For maintenance, I look for:
- Easy access to service panels
- Simple drain and winterization features
- Replaceable parts that are easy to find
Safety Features I Never Ignore
Safety is a major priority for me when dealing with gas appliances. I look for built-in safety features such as flame failure protection, pressure relief valves, and overheat protection. I also make sure the heater is properly vented and certified for RV use. For me, peace of mind is worth paying a little more.
Noise and Ignition Style
I pay attention to how the heater starts and how noisy it is. Some models use electronic ignition, which I prefer because it is more convenient and efficient than a standing pilot light. I also notice whether the burner is loud when operating. In a small RV, too much noise can be annoying, especially at night.
Durability and Build Quality
I want a heater that can handle travel vibration, temperature changes, and regular use. I look for corrosion-resistant materials, solid construction, and a good warranty. A durable unit may cost more at first, but in my experience it saves money and frustration over time.
My Final Buying Tips
When I choose an RV LP gas water heater, I always compare:
- Fit and installation requirements
- Tank vs. tankless design
- Recovery rate and hot water supply
- Propane efficiency
- Safety features
- Maintenance needs
- Warranty and durability
My advice is to think about how you actually use your RV. If you travel solo, camp occasionally, or want simple operation, one model may be enough. If you camp with family or need more hot water, I would lean toward a higher-performance unit. For me, the best RV LP gas water heater is the one that matches my travel style, my space, and my comfort needs.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an RV LP gas water heater is one of the most practical upgrades for comfortable travel, giving me reliable hot water without needing shore power. My main takeaway is that regular maintenance and proper safety checks make a big difference in performance and longevity. When I choose the right model and keep it in good shape, I can enjoy a much more convenient and worry-free RV experience.
Author Profile
-
Tiffany Nathan is a public health graduate and community health education specialist based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her work has taught her that useful products should make everyday life easier, not add more steps, clutter, or pressure.
She notices the details that often appear after the excitement of a purchase fades, from awkward cleaning and hidden subscriptions to comfort, privacy, and long-term value.
Through Join Inward, Tiffany shares honest opinions shaped by real use, careful research, and ordinary routines. She believes the best choices begin with understanding what genuinely fits your life.
Latest entries
- July 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Round Pedestal Dining Table for 4: My Top Pick for Style and Space
- July 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 1/4 Wire Loom: The Best Way to Organize and Protect Cables
- July 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Phone Cases for Flip Phones: Durable, Stylish, and Perfect Fit
- July 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Rival Crock Pot Replacement Lid Options for a Perfect Fit