One of the most fundamental “home comforts” a water heater can bring to an RV is hot water. Hot water for showers and the kitchen sink are essential features for every RV owner. The Best electric tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water to your RV without occupying much space.
However, a standard or a conventional water heater tank heats water in a single large tank before use or reheated multiple times. The water in the tank may run out before you’ve had a chance to take a full shower, depending on how much water you use. You won’t have to worry about these drawbacks if you have a tankless water heater.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Features to Consider When Finding The Best Electric Tankless Water
- 2 5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV
- 3 Best Overall Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV
- 4 Best 110-Volt Tankless Water Heater for RV
- 5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters for an RV Under $250
- 6 Best Easy-to-Install Electric Tankless Water Heaters for an RV
- 7 Most Energy Efficient Tankless Water Heater:
- 8 Do They Make Electric Water Heaters for RVs?
- 9 What Are the Different Types of Tankless RV Water Heaters?
- 10 Can I Put an Electric Tankless Water Heater in the RV?
- 11 RV Tankless Water Heater Pros and Cons
- 12 Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth It in an RV?
- 13 Can I Replace My RV Water Heater With a Tankless One?
- 14 What Size Tankless Water Heater Is Needed for an RV?
- 15 Final Thoughts
Features to Consider When Finding The Best Electric Tankless Water
Here are some of the specifications to look for while you go shopping:
Safety Features
Water heaters can be prone to danger. So, select heaters built with strong materials for the safety of the users.
Heating Capacity/ Voltage
Water heating capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU). The higher the BTUs, the higher the heating capacity. You’ll get more heat from water heaters with higher BTU ratings.
Efficiency
As much as electric tankless water heaters save much energy, consider heaters certified and tested for energy efficiency.
Temperature Adjustability
Electric water heaters may integrate both adjustable and fixed temperature controls. Select a heater that suits your temperature options.
Size
Before shopping for a tankless water heater for RV, it’s imperative to calculate the amount of water consumption. You will need 2 to 4.5 gallons per minute for toilets and bathtubs, whereas you’ll need 1.5 to 3 gallons per minute for showers.
The size of the water heater is also crucial when it comes to installation. Check the heater’s dimensions and compare them with the dimensions of your space.
Water Flow Rate
The water flow rate tells you the heater’s capacity in gallons. It is crucial to select according to your needs. Electric heaters with a minimum flow rate of 2 GPM are ideal for showering, whereas sinks require heaters with a minimum of 1 GPM flow rate.
5 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV
Best Overall: Ecosmart POU 3.5
Best 110-volt: Krisy Mini
Best under $250: Thermoflow
Best easy-to-install: Marey ECO150
Most Energy-efficient: ECOTOUCH
Let’s dive in!
Best Overall Electric Tankless Water Heater for RV
Ecosmart POU 3.5 Electric Tankless Water Heater
The Ecosmart POU 3.5 Electric Tankless Water Heater is well-suited for use in small places like RVs, micro-apartments, bars, washrooms, tiny houses, and cottages. It’s reliable because it provides instant hot water (20 amperage).
The heater runs on a 3.5 KW with a 120 voltage; hence you can enjoy unlimited hot water anytime. It integrates advanced technology to heat water using the right amount of energy; hence making it cost-effective. You can save up to 60% of your heating costs.
The tankless water heater is small-sized and comes with flexible temperature control. You can adjust the temperature range between 80 – 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Features
- Heating capacity/ Voltage: 120 V
- Temperature Adjustability: 80 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
- Size/ Dimension: 5-gallons/ 6 x 11 x 3 inch
- Water flow rate: 0.5 to 1.5 GPM
Pros
- Saves on space
- Easy to use and set up
- Highly versatile
- Reduces water and energy waste
- Cost-effective
Cons
- It may not work for multiple hot water applications
Check the Ecosmart POU 3.5 ‘s latest prices on Amazon
Best 110-Volt Tankless Water Heater for RV
Krisy Mini Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater
The Krisy Mini Electric Tankless Hot Water Heater operates on 110 volts. It is ideal for the water system in bathrooms, restrooms, and kitchens. The heater incorporates stainless steel, plastic, and copper materials that prevent water pipes from rusting.
The tankless water heater is a perfect companion for sinks because it supplies instant, consistent, and endless hot water. You won’t have to worry about waiting for a preheat or terrible temperature.
The Krisy mini water heater is safe to use and can save up to 55% on electric bills. The temperatures are adjusted by a water flow regulating valve or the faucet switch. High water flow leads to low temperature, whereas small water flow means high temperature. Inner water and electricity lines are designed to run separately to deter potential leakage.
Features
- Safety features: Stainless steel materials
- Heating capacity/ Voltage: 110V
- Temperature Adjustability: 57 degrees Celsius maximum
- Size/ Dimension: 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches
- Water flow rate: 0.6
Pros
- It is a high-efficiency water heater
- Its highly versatile
- Highly safe to use
- Easy to set up
Cons
- If the water flow is large, the temperature will be low
Check Krisy Mini‘s latest prices on Amazon
Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters for an RV Under $250
Thermoflow Electric Tankless Water Heater
Thermoflow electric water heater is a lightweight water heater that provides endless hot water within your RV or house. The compact, wall-mounted water heater heats water only when it’s needed. It is designed with stainless steel heating elements and has a heating efficiency of 99%.
The tankless water heater integrates a LCD digital display to allow temperature adjustments ranging between 104 to 167 degrees Fahrenheit. It is CSA certified and comes with IPX24 protection to enhance durability.
Features
- Safety features: Stainless steel materials and IPX24 protection.
- Heating capacity/ Voltage: 240V
- Temperature Adjustability: 104 to 167 degrees Fahrenheit
- Size/ Dimension: 10 x 4.5 x 18.5 inches
- Water flow rate: 4.68 GPM
Pros
- Has 24 months warranty
- Lightweight and small in stature
- High-volume hot water delivery
- Easy to mount on the wall
- Easy temperature control and adjustment
Cons
- It comes without circuit breakers or wiring
Check the Thermoflow‘s latest prices on Amazon
Best Easy-to-Install Electric Tankless Water Heaters for an RV
Marey ECO150 Tankless Water Heater with Smart Technology
The Marey ECO150 Tankless Water heater is ideal for small-size installation. It uses a patented German design with stainless steel water channels that aren’t susceptible to rust. The wall-mounted tankless water heater measures 8.7 x 3.5 x 14.2 and weighs ten pounds.
You can place the heater just about anywhere in your RV and easily control it using the water droplet LED display. It comes with a simple switch and arrows to help adjust temperatures. The heater is powerful as it provides 3 GPM, plus it’s designed to work even in cold weather.
Features
- Safety features: Stainless steel water channels
- Heating capacity/ Voltage: 220V
- Temperature Adjustability: Yes
- Size/ Dimension: 8.7 x 3.5 x 14.2 inches
- Water flow rate: 3 GPM
Pros
- Easy to set up and install
- Easy to adjust temperatures
- Budget-friendly
- Low power consumption
- EnergyStar-approved
Cons
- It may require high amperage, which isn’t ideal for the average RV
Check the Marey ECO150‘s latest prices on Amazon
Most Energy Efficient Tankless Water Heater:
ECOTOUCH Electric Tankless Water Heater
The ECOTOUCH electric tankless water heater is a 9KW electric water heater that works best on a 240V power supply and requires a 40 amp breaker. The heater comes compact to ease mounting in an RV. It supplies instant and endless hot water of 116 degrees Fahrenheit.
ECOTOUCH tankless water heater performs well in RVs as it offers a modest 1.5 GPM water flow. It has a thermal efficiency of 99.8%, and you can manually adjust the temperature range from 86 to 131 degrees, as portrayed on a digital LCD. The unit separates the water and electricity sources to minimize potential corrosion within the unit.
Features
- Safety features: Over-voltage and over-temperature protection
- Heating capacity/ Voltage: 240V
- Temperature Adjustability: 86- 131 degrees Fahrenheit
- Size/ Dimension: 15.74 x 10.24 x 2.05 inches
- Water flow rate: 1.5 GPM
Pros
- Affordable price for excellent technology and safety
- Easy to mount anywhere
- Allows smart temperature monitoring and control
- Highly efficient
- High-tech, sleek design to enhance interior decor
Cons
- It may require too many amps than your RV allows
Check the ECOTOUCH‘s latest prices on Amazon
Do They Make Electric Water Heaters for RVs?
Electricity powers Some water heaters in recreational vehicles (RVs). Some use natural gas, while others use propane which is rarely present in campgrounds and nonexistent while living off the grid.
What Are the Different Types of Tankless RV Water Heaters?
Tankless RV Water Heaters are the latest development in RV water heaters. They eliminate the need for a hot water tank by heating water as it flows through a set of coils. There are different types of tankless water heaters in the market, and thus it is essential to choose the one that fits your RV needs. Let’s dive in!
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Electric-Powered Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient since they heat water on demand instead of relying on a storage tank. Hot water is produced by passing cold water via a heat exchanger in the unit, where it is heated by an electric element when the hot water faucet is activated.
Therefore, tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water. You don’t have to wait for a tank to be filled with hot water as the water heats up as you use it. Also, the output of a tankless water heater restricts the volume of water that can be dispensed at once. The typical flow rate for hot water from an electric tankless water heater is between 2 and 5 gallons (7.6 and 15.2 liters) per minute.
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Gas-Powered Tankless Water Heaters
The flow rates of gas-powered tankless water heaters are greater than those of electric models. However, there are instances when not even the largest gas-fired model can keep up with the demand for hot water in a busy household. You can install two or more tankless water heaters to deter overworking a tankless water heater.
Can I Put an Electric Tankless Water Heater in the RV?
Yes, If you have a tankless water heater, you won’t need a separate tank to keep water hot until you need it. With the top RV electric tankless water heater, you may take a hot shower anytime you like, so long as you have access to an electrical outlet.
RV Tankless Water Heater Pros and Cons
A tankless heater heats the water as it flows through the system, unlike standard water heaters with storage tanks. You can have hot water whenever you like, for as long as you want.
Tankless water heaters are ideal for RVs with several occupants that use hot water frequently. However, they aren’t cheap, but they’re well worth it.
Pros of a Tankless RV Hot Water Heater
- They can provide a continuous supply of steaming water whenever it’s needed.
- Since there is no downtime between uses, hot water is always available.
- Overheating is less concerned with tankless hot water heaters due to their automatic shutoff between usage.
- They save space and weight because there is no need for a large tank.
- Since tankless systems are cleansed after each use, hard water deposits are never a problem.
Cons of a Tankless RV Hot Water Heater
- They are slower at delivering hot water
- They can’t supply hot water in the event of a power loss
- Has inconsistent water temperature, especially when multiple outlets are on
Is a Tankless Water Heater Worth It in an RV?
Yes, if you plan to live in your RV full-time or if it will see a lot of use, a tankless water heater is a good investment. In a few years, the money saved on electricity costs will have paid for the unit for full-time RVers.
Can I Replace My RV Water Heater With a Tankless One?
Yes, tankless water heaters are meant to replace conventional models. Because of their adaptable retrofit designs, they can be installed in the same space as your current water heater.
What Size Tankless Water Heater Is Needed for an RV?
Most standard water heaters range between 6 gallons and 10 gallons. If you intend to replace it with a tankless one, go for one that will perfectly fit your existing space.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a tankless water heater is a significant investment. Weigh all of your options carefully before making a final decision. Select some of the above-mentioned tankless water heaters based on your specific needs.