Gas vs Electric RV Water Heater: Which is Better for Your Needs
RV water heaters provide the hot water needed for showering, washing dishes, and other essentials while camping. The two main options for powering an RV water heater are gas and electricity. Gas models burn propane or liquid petroleum (LP) gas to heat water, while electric heaters use shore power or a generator to run heating elements that warm the water. Both offer unique benefits depending on your priorities and camping style.
Gas RV water heaters ignite a propane burner whenever hot water is needed. The resulting flame heats a tank of water very rapidly. This provides an endless on-demand supply of hot water for activities like showering. Electric models pass current through resistors that warm the water over time. Electric heaters depend on shore power hookups and take longer to reheat water but use less fuel over the long run.
Deciding between gas and electric largely depends on your needs for water volume, heating speed, energy efficiency, and off-grid capability. Carefully weighing these factors will lead you to the RV water heating solution that best fits your camping lifestyle. Read on to explore the pros and cons of each system in greater detail.
How RV Water Heaters Work
RV water heaters differ significantly from home heaters in size, typically ranging from six to 10 gallons, while home heaters are larger at 40 to 50 gallons. Despite the size discrepancy, the fundamental principle of water heating remains consistent with home appliances. There are two primary methods for heating water in RVs:
Gas: Gas RV water heaters necessitate manual ignition of the pilot light, either with a long match or a striker. Some models offer automatic ignition, allowing activation with a simple switch touch from inside the RV.
Electric: Electric water heaters in RVs operate when a 120-volt power source (shore power or a generator) is available. An electric thermostat regulates power supply to the heating element, determining when to initiate the heating process.
Certain generators offer dual modes—electric and gas—which can be employed independently or simultaneously to expedite water heating. Understanding these methods ensures efficient utilization based on your RV’s power sources and heating preferences.
Gas vs. Electric RV Water Heater: Differences
Here is the discuss the key aspects mentioned in the table for Gas and Electric RV Water Heaters:
| Aspect | Gas RV Water Heater | Electric Rv Water Heater |
| Heat Source | Utilizes a flame for heating, typically generated by burning propane. | Operates with a resistive heating element that heats up when connected to a power source. |
| Power Supply | Requires a propane tank as its primary fuel source. | Relies on RV house batteries or an external power source (shore power or a generator). |
| Ignition Types | Ignition can be manual, requiring a pilot light to be lit using a match or striker, or automatic with a switch inside the RV. | Ignition is electronic, activated with the flip of a switch. |
| Safety Features | Typically equipped with a thermocouple for flame monitoring and overheat protection mechanisms. | Includes safety features such as a temperature and pressure relief valve to prevent overheating. |
These distinctions can guide your choice based on preferences, RV setup, and the availability of power sources during your travels.
Description of the key aspects comparing gas and electric RV water heaters
The main difference between gas and electric RV water heaters comes down to the heat source and power supply. Gas models utilize a burner that ignites propane to produce a flame for heating water. This allows rapid, on-demand hot water but requires carrying propane fuel. Electric heaters use heating elements powered by electricity to gradually warm the water over time. This provides an endless supply of hot water when connected to shore power or a generator.
Gas water heaters either feature a manual ignition requiring a pilot light, or an automatic ignition switched on inside the RV. Electric models have simple electronic ignition controlled by a basic on/off switch.
Both propane and electric units contain safety mechanisms to prevent overheating and other hazards. Gas heaters use thermocouples to monitor the burner flame, shutting off gas flow if it goes out. They also have overheat protection to cut off the flame if temperatures rise excessively. Electric heaters rely on pressure and temperature relief valves that open to dispel excess heat buildup.
Gas water heaters offer rapid heating times fueled by propane tanks, while electric heaters provide slower but more efficient heating using electricity from external hookups. Understanding these key differences allows RV owners to select the best system to meet their hot water needs and usage scenarios.
Gas vs Electric RV Water Heater: Pros and Cons
When selecting a water heater for an RV, two main options exist – gas or electric. Both have unique advantages and drawbacks to consider before deciding which is better for your needs. Here are some pros and cons given below.
Gas RV Water Heaters
Pros:
Fast Heating: Gas water heaters provide rapid heating, delivering hot water on demand. This quick turnaround is especially beneficial for activities like dishwashing or showering in a timely manner.
Efficient Operation: Gas heaters are generally more energy-efficient, converting a higher percentage of the fuel into heat. This efficiency contributes to effective heating, making them suitable for those who prioritize quick and resourceful water heating.
Ideal for Off-Grid Camping: Gas water heaters are well-suited for boondocking and off-grid camping since they don’t rely on external power sources. This independence is valuable in remote locations where electrical hookups may be scarce.
Cons:
Propane Dependency: The reliance on propane as a fuel source means regular refills are necessary. This adds a logistical consideration for planning trips and ensuring an adequate propane supply.
Safety Concerns: Gas heaters introduce the potential risk of carbon monoxide emissions. Proper ventilation and monitoring are crucial to mitigate these safety concerns.
Space Limitations: The physical size of gas water heaters may pose challenges in smaller RVs where space is limited. This requires careful consideration of available space in the RV layout.
Electric RV Water Heaters
Pros:
Clean and Quiet Operation: Electric water heaters operate without combustion, producing no emissions or noise. This makes them an environmentally friendly and quiet choice, contributing to a more serene camping experience.
Easy Maintenance: Electric heaters are generally easier to maintain and troubleshoot. Their simplicity can be advantageous for RVers who prefer straightforward maintenance procedures.
Cons:
- Slower Heating: Electric water heaters typically take longer to heat water compared to their gas counterparts. This slower heating time might require some adjustment in daily routines.
- Higher Energy Consumption: The electric heating element consumes more power, impacting the overall energy efficiency of the RV. This consideration is important for those mindful of power consumption, especially in off-grid scenarios.
- Requires Shore Power: Electric heaters rely on a 120-volt power source, which can be limiting in areas without electrical hookups. This dependence on shore power or a generator may impact the flexibility of camping locations.
This detailed exploration aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and drawbacks associated with both gas and electric RV water heaters, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific preferences and camping needs.
How to Choose the right RV Water Heater for You
Selecting the ideal RV water heater involves considering your camping style, RV size, layout, and personal preferences.
Camping Style
Boondockers: Opt for gas water heaters for off-grid capabilities. They provide quick heating without relying on external power sources.
RV Park Campers: Electric water heaters are more convenient and cost-effective, ideal for campers with consistent access to power.
RV Size and Layout
Smaller RVs: Limited space may favor electric water heaters, which are often more compact.
Larger RVs: Accommodate either type of water heater, providing flexibility in your choice.
Personal Preferences
Consider your preferences when it comes to safety and the environment.
Safety Concerns: Electric water heaters may be preferred for those with safety concerns, as they involve fewer combustible elements.
Environmental Considerations: Opting for electric water heaters may align with environmental preferences, as they produce fewer emissions.
Understanding your camping style, RV specifications, and personal priorities will guide you in choosing the right water heater for your RV.
How to Improve the Performance of RV Water Heater?
To maximize the lifespan of your RV water heater, adopting proactive measures beyond routine maintenance can significantly improve its performance.
Regular System Flushing
Scheduled system flushing, ideally every six months is important, especially at the end of the season. The RV’s idle periods can lead to corrosion, particularly if the water source is hard. Lime deposits and minerals tend to accumulate in the tank and lines, potentially causing inconvenient failures.
Ensure a Full Water Tank During Travel
While on the move, ensure the RV’s electric water heater tank stays full. This precaution is essential to avoid issues when connecting to shore power at a campsite. When hooked up to a 30-amp power supply, appliances like the water heater automatically activate. If the tank is empty during this process, the anode—responsible for heating the water—can burn out, leaving you without hot water.
Annual Anode Replacement
Unlike residential water heaters, RV owners should replace water heater anodes annually. While residential anodes can last for years, the corrosive nature of RV environments can lead to anode failure, leaving campers without hot water. Regular replacement, therefore, ensures a consistent and reliable hot water supply when needed.
Your Questions Answered
Q1: Can I switch between gas and electric modes in an RV water heater?
– Yes, many RV water heaters offer dual modes, allowing you to switch between gas and electric based on your power source availability.
Q2: Are electric RV water heaters louder than gas ones?
– No, electric water heaters generally operate more quietly, providing a peaceful camping experience compared to the combustion sounds of gas heaters.
Q3: Can I run an electric RV water heater on a generator?
– Yes, if your generator provides a 120-volt power source, you can run an electric RV water heater on it for hot water in off-grid situations.
Q4: Do electric water heaters take longer to heat than gas ones?
– Yes, electric water heaters tend to have a slower heating time compared to gas counterparts, impacting the speed at which hot water is produced.
Q5: How do I ensure safety with a gas RV water heater?
– Ensure proper ventilation and install a carbon monoxide detector to address safety concerns associated with gas RV water heaters, prioritizing camper well-being.
Summing Up
Choosing between gas and electric RV water heaters depends on your specific needs. Gas heaters offer quick heating, ideal for boondocking, while electric ones are energy-efficient. Based on personal experience, the best choice varies. Consider your camping style and power sources to make an informed decision for a cozy and convenient RV water heating experience.
