A tankless RV water heater heats water on demand instead of storing it in a tank, so you can take back-to-back showers without waiting for a tank to refill and reheat. The right choice depends on more than burner power: check your RV’s opening size, propane and 12-volt connections, desired water flow, and whether a door panel is included. These five options range from higher-output propane heaters to a compact electric unit that is better suited to a sink than a shower.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Heat output | Standout feature | Fit note |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORBEK RV Tankless Water Heater | 60,000 BTU | Altitude mode and remote temperature control | Door panels sold separately; check your cutout |
| Ranein RA65EH RV Tankless Water Heater | 65,000 BTU; up to 3.9 GPM | CSA certification and detailed digital remote | Exterior door sold separately; verify dimensions |
| VEVOR RV Tankless Water Heater | 42,000 BTU | Included 15 × 15-inch door and outdoor outlet | Listed flow rate is 2.8 L/min |
| 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater | 65,000 BTU | Dual water outlets and included 18 × 18-inch door | Check the stated 13 × 13-inch opening and door size |
| xwdzswgs 110V Electric Tankless Water Heater | 3,000 watts | Compact under-sink design | Not designed for typical shower flow |
Our Picks: Best Rv Tankless Water Heaters For Endless Hot Water reviews
ORBEK: A Propane Pick with Altitude Mode and Remote Control
The ORBEK is a propane-powered, on-demand RV heater with a 60,000 BTU burner and 12-volt DC power. It is designed to supply hot water for everyday tasks such as showering, washing dishes, and handwashing. Its burner runs when hot water is requested, rather than keeping a tank of water heated between uses.
Temperature settings range from 95°F to 123°F, and the unit includes a remote control. The listing also describes altitude mode, staged combustion, an oxygen-free copper heat exchanger, and a built-in 150 PSI pressure-reducing valve. These features may appeal to RVers who travel between elevations or want to adjust settings from inside the vehicle.
Check the opening before ordering. Optional door panels are sold separately and are listed for 15 × 15-inch, 15 × 18-inch, and 18 × 18-inch openings. The heater uses standard NPT water connections, but propane and 12-volt wiring still need to be connected correctly. Do not assume a replacement will be a simple drop-in without comparing the existing setup and the installation instructions.
Compared with the Ranein, the ORBEK has a slightly lower stated burner output, and the supplied product details do not provide a GPM figure. Its built-in pressure-reducing valve is a useful distinction, while the separate door purchase adds a potential extra step and cost.
Pros:
- 60,000 BTU propane heating for on-demand RV hot water
- Altitude mode and staged combustion are listed features
- Remote temperature adjustment from 95°F to 123°F
- Built-in 150 PSI pressure-reducing valve
Cons:
- Optional exterior door panel is sold separately
- Product details provided do not state a flow-rate rating
Verdict: Choose the ORBEK if you want a propane RV heater with altitude features and a remote, and your opening matches a compatible door panel.
Ranein RA65EH: High Output with a Feature-Rich Remote
The Ranein RA65EH is a 65,000 BTU propane tankless heater rated for up to 3.9 GPM. It uses 12-volt DC power for its controls and is intended for RV installations. The higher stated output and flow rate make it the most clearly specified option here for households that want to use more than one hot-water fixture, though actual results depend on incoming water temperature, plumbing, and other conditions.
Its remote displays information such as gas consumption, system voltage, water flow, and anti-freeze activation status. The heater has adjustable temperatures from 95°F to 124°F and uses staged combustion. The listing states that it is CSA-certified and designed for operation at elevations up to 9,800 feet.
Installation fit needs close attention. The listed cutout is 12.8 × 12.8 inches, and the product is described as a possible replacement for several 6-, 10-, and 12-gallon Suburban and Atwood setups, subject to dimensions. The exterior door is not included, so confirm both the opening and the door size before buying.
For shoppers comparing it with the ORBEK, the Ranein has a higher stated BTU output and a listed GPM rating. It also provides more system information on the remote. The trade-off is that you will need to source a compatible door panel separately.
Pros:
- 65,000 BTU output and up to 3.9 GPM listed
- Remote displays voltage, flow, gas use, and anti-freeze status
- CSA-certified, according to the product listing
- Designed for high-altitude use up to 9,800 feet
Cons:
- Exterior door is sold separately
- Fit depends on careful comparison with your RV’s opening and plumbing
Verdict: The Ranein is a strong fit if you want a higher-output propane heater with a stated flow rate and detailed remote readouts, and you have confirmed the installation dimensions.
VEVOR: Includes a Door Panel and an Outdoor Water Outlet
This VEVOR model is a 42,000 BTU propane RV heater with a 15 × 15-inch black door panel included. Its LED display and touch controls let you adjust the temperature and power. The listing also describes segmented combustion, freeze protection, and several safety protections, including flame-out and fan-failure protection.
A front water outlet is provided in addition to the internal outlet. That can be handy for outdoor tasks such as washing a pet or gear, provided the installation and outlet setup suit your RV. The listed rear chamber measures 12.6 × 12.6 × 14 inches, so compare those dimensions with the available space behind your exterior wall, not just the visible door size.
The product information gives a flow rate of 2.8 liters per minute. That is a key detail to weigh if you want strong shower flow or expect to run multiple fixtures. Some owners describe installation and operation as straightforward, while at least one reported a unit that would not start despite troubleshooting. That limited, mixed experience is a reason to verify the return and support process before purchase.
Compared with the higher-output Ranein and the 65,000 BTU option below, the VEVOR has lower stated burner output. Its included door and outdoor outlet may make it a practical choice for a compatible opening, but its stated flow rate is worth considering for family use.
Pros:
- 15 × 15-inch black door panel is included
- Separate outdoor water outlet adds flexibility
- LED display and touch controls
- Listing describes freeze and fault-protection features
Cons:
- Listed flow rate is 2.8 liters per minute
- Some owner experiences describe startup problems, so check support and return terms
Verdict: Consider the VEVOR if its included door and outdoor outlet match your needs, but compare the listed flow rate with your expected shower use.
65,000 BTU Heater: Dual Outlets for Indoor and Outdoor Use
This propane-powered, 12-volt RV heater has a listed output of 65,000 BTU. It is designed to provide on-demand hot water and includes both an internal outlet and a front outlet for outdoor use. The second outlet could be useful for washing pets or outdoor equipment without routing water through an indoor fixture.
The product listing describes a microcomputer control panel, adjustable temperatures from 95°F to 123°F, freeze protection, forced exhaust, and automatic gas shut-off. It also lists a copper heat exchanger and a brushless DC fan. A black 18 × 18-inch door is included, which may simplify the exterior finish if that size suits your RV.
Pay close attention to the fit information: the listing gives a 13 × 13-inch installation opening as well as an 18 × 18-inch door size. Those are different measurements, and neither should be assumed to match your current heater. Confirm the required chamber depth, connection locations, and installation clearances before ordering. The listing also states CSA certification and 24 months of service.
Compared with the Ranein, this heater also lists 65,000 BTU but does not provide a GPM rating in the supplied details. Its included door and dual outlets are the main differentiators. If flow rate is a deciding factor, the Ranein provides a clearer figure.
Pros:
- 65,000 BTU propane output listed
- Includes an 18 × 18-inch black exterior door
- Internal and outdoor water outlets
- Temperature control and several listed safety features
Cons:
- Listing gives different measurements for the opening and door, so fit must be confirmed
- Supplied product details do not state a GPM rating
Verdict: This is worth considering if you want dual outlets and an included exterior door, as long as you confirm the opening dimensions and do not need a published flow-rate figure to compare models.
xwdzswgs Electric Heater: Compact, but Not a Shower Replacement
This compact 110-volt electric heater is different from the propane RV heaters above. It has a listed power rating of 3,000 watts and is intended for point-of-use applications such as an under-sink hot-water supply. Its LED display allows temperature selection, and the listing describes protections for overheating, dry operation, and electrical leakage.
The manufacturer’s product details specifically say it is not suitable for showers, noting that a shower normally needs at least 1.8 GPM. The listing gives heating performance at lower flow rates, so this is not a good substitute for a whole-RV tankless shower heater. It may make sense only if you need a small electric unit at a sink and your RV’s electrical system can support its requirements.
Unlike the propane models, it does not rely on a propane burner, but it does require an appropriate 110-volt supply. The listing calls for vertical installation only. Before buying, check the installation instructions and confirm that your power source, wiring, and intended water flow are suitable.
Pros:
- Compact design for point-of-use installation
- LED display and adjustable temperature setting
- Multiple electrical and overheating protections are listed
Cons:
- Product details say it is not suitable for showers
- Requires a compatible 110-volt electrical supply and vertical installation
Verdict: Buy this only for a small point-of-use application, not as your main RV shower water heater.
How to Choose an RV Tankless Water Heater
Match the heater to your RV’s opening and available space
Start by measuring the existing cutout, exterior door, and space behind the wall. These are separate dimensions, and a door that looks like the right size does not guarantee that the heater chamber will fit. Also check depth, mounting points, exhaust needs, and clearance requirements in the installation instructions. If the product lists a replacement fit for another brand, treat that as a starting point—not a substitute for checking measurements.
Compare burner output and water flow
BTU output describes the burner’s heat capacity, while a GPM or other flow-rate figure helps you judge how much water the unit is designed to heat. A higher BTU number alone does not tell you exactly how the heater will perform at your showerhead, especially when incoming water is cold or more than one fixture is running. Look for a clearly stated flow rate and consider your household’s real water-use habits.
Understand propane and electrical requirements
The propane models use gas for heating and 12-volt DC power for controls and related components. That still means you need the correct propane connection and a suitable 12-volt supply. An electric point-of-use heater has different demands: the 110-volt model listed here is not intended for a normal shower. Check your RV’s available power, wiring, and the heater’s installation instructions before deciding.
Consider water temperature and seasonal conditions
Incoming water temperature affects how much heat is needed to reach your preferred setting. If you camp in cold weather, look for details about temperature control, freeze protection, and operation in colder conditions. Features such as staged combustion and altitude modes may help a unit adapt to changing conditions, but follow the manufacturer’s operating and winterizing instructions.
Check what comes in the box
Some heaters include an exterior door, while others list compatible door panels as separate purchases. Confirm whether the package includes the door, remote, mounting hardware, and other parts you need. This can affect both the fit and the overall installation effort.
Plan for safe installation and maintenance
A tankless heater connects to propane, water, power, and an exhaust system, so correct installation matters. Follow the product instructions and your RV manufacturer’s guidance. If you are not qualified to work on propane or electrical connections, have the installation checked or completed by a qualified professional. Also review the freeze-protection and winterizing instructions; built-in protection does not remove the need to prepare your RV for freezing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tankless RV water heater provide endless hot water?
It can heat water on demand without running out of a stored tank, as long as the unit has a suitable supply of propane, power, and water. “Endless” does not mean unlimited flow or unlimited fuel. Temperature and flow depend on the heater’s capacity and operating conditions.
Can an RV tankless heater run a shower and kitchen faucet at the same time?
Possibly, but it depends on the heater’s flow capacity, incoming water temperature, and how much water each fixture uses. Compare the model’s stated flow rate with your needs. A higher burner rating by itself does not guarantee that multiple fixtures will get the flow and temperature you want.
Do these heaters need electricity?
The propane RV models listed here use 12-volt DC power for their controls and related components, even though propane supplies the heat. The xwdzswgs model is an electric 110-volt unit and has different power needs. Check each product’s installation instructions and your RV’s available supply.
Are exterior door panels included?
It depends on the model. The VEVOR listing includes a 15 × 15-inch door, and the 65,000 BTU model with dual outlets lists an 18 × 18-inch door. The ORBEK’s compatible panels and the Ranein’s exterior door are sold separately, according to the supplied product details.
What should I measure before replacing my RV water heater?
Measure the wall cutout, exterior door, chamber depth, and available clearance. Also note the location of water, propane, power, and exhaust connections. Compare those measurements with the product’s installation requirements before ordering.
Is the 110-volt electric model suitable for an RV shower?
No. Its supplied product information says it is not suitable for showers and describes it as a point-of-use heater. Consider one of the propane RV models for a typical RV shower, after confirming the fit and installation requirements.
Conclusion
For shoppers who want a higher-output propane unit with a stated flow rate, the Ranein RA65EH is the clearest option in this group, provided its dimensions suit your RV and you account for the separately sold door. The ORBEK is another worthwhile choice if altitude features and a built-in pressure-reducing valve matter more to you. If an included door and outdoor outlet are priorities, compare the VEVOR and the 65,000 BTU dual-outlet model closely against your opening. The compact electric option is for a sink or other low-flow use—not a whole-RV shower. Before purchasing any model, verify the measurements and confirm that its power, plumbing, propane, and installation requirements fit your setup.
