An RV lifestyle is all about freedom, adventure, and embracing the great outdoors. While enjoying these experiences, the need for hot water, especially after a long day of activities, is essential. Thanks to advancements in sustainable technology, solar hot water heaters now provide an eco-friendly and energy-efficient way to access hot water anytime, anywhere.
RV solar hot water heaters primarily harness the energy of the sun to heat water, making them a sustainable alternative to traditional water heaters. They reduce the reliance on non-renewable power sources, help conserve energy, and reduce utility expenses over time. Moreover, they allow you to travel off-grid for longer periods without sacrificing the luxury of warm water.
When it comes to purchasing an RV solar hot water heater, some critical factors to consider are the system capacity, efficiency, size, weight, ease of installation, and price. A well-designed system allows for efficient conversion of solar energy into hot water, provides enough capacity to meet your daily needs, and is compact and lightweight enough to be accommodated in an RV setup.
In our mission to help RV enthusiasts embark on their adventures with ease and comfort, we spent countless hours researching and testing various RV solar hot water heaters, identifying the top choices that offer optimum performance, reliability, and convenience. Join as we dive into the world of these innovative solutions, revealing the key features and benefits that make each product stand out and cater to your warm water needs on the road.
Top RV Solar Hot Water Heaters
We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of the best RV solar hot water heaters available on the market.
OSCULATI Whale Premium Water Heater
We highly recommend the OSCULATI Whale Premium Water Heater for its efficiency and compact design, perfect for boats and RVs.
Pros
- Quickly and efficiently heats water
- Compact design for easy installation
- Uses 12V DC power supply, no need for generator or shore power
Cons
- Limited 3-gallon capacity
- Temperature and pressure relief valve may require maintenance
- Heavier than some other models
We recently had the chance to test out the OSCULATI Whale Premium Water Heater on a friend’s RV, and we were quite impressed. The 300W heating element worked efficiently and consistently maintaining hot water for up to 10 hours. This made it perfect for use with deck showers and warming our wetsuits after a day of diving.
The compact design of this water heater, measuring 13.5 inches W x 14.5 inches D x 13.25 inches H, allowed us to install it in a small space under our seating. We appreciated that it used a 12V DC power supply, eliminating the need for a generator, inverter, or shore power hookup. This certainly made things more convenient for us in our travels.
The only minor drawbacks we found were the limited 3-gallon capacity and the potential for maintenance with the integrated temperature and pressure relief valve. Additionally, the epoxy-coated aluminum case made the unit a bit heavier than some other models we have encountered. However, we believe the benefits of this water heater outweigh the cons, and we highly recommend it to fellow boat and RV enthusiasts.
Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4)
This Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater is a fantastic investment for your RV due to its fast recovery rate, long-lasting quality, and convenient design.
Pros
- Fast recovery rate for immediate hot water
- Premium glass-lined material ensures durability
- Easy installation with options for shelf, wall, or floor mounting
Cons
- Some users report leaks after a couple of years
- Limited to 4-gallon capacity
- Requires separate purchase of fittings for connections
We recently tested the Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater in an RV, and we’ve been really impressed with its performance. It’s a 4-gallon mini-tank that is designed to fit under your sink, supplying on-demand hot water exactly where you need it. With its 98% thermal efficiency and 120V power source, this compact heater quickly heats up water, eliminating any wait time at the sink.
One of the standout features of this water heater is the premium glass-lined material used for the tank, which provides long-lasting durability. The product comes with a 6-year warranty on the unit and a 2-year warranty on parts, giving us peace of mind and confidence in its quality.
Moreover, the installation process was reasonably straightforward, with options to mount the heater on a shelf, wall, or floor. The included bracket made the mounting process easy, and the 36-37″ cord plugs into a standard 120V outlet, allowing for simple, independent installation or in-line with a larger hot water source.
However, it’s essential to note that some users have reported leaks after using the heater for around two years. While we haven’t experienced this issue ourselves, it’s worth keeping in mind when making your decision.
Another limitation is the capacity; while 4 gallons are sufficient for most RV needs, if you require more hot water, you may need to look for a larger heater. Also, it’s necessary to purchase additional fittings for connections, which is an extra expense and could be an inconvenience for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4) for its quick heating, durable design, and easy installation. It meets our RV hot water needs and has made a noticeable difference in our daily routines.
Girard Tankless RV Water Heater
The Girard Tankless RV Water Heater is a reliable and efficient choice for RV owners in need of consistent hot water on-demand.
Pros
- Powerful 42,000 BTU performance
- Consistent temperature with intelligent microprocessor
- Highly efficient with low LP gas consumption
Cons
- Professional installation recommended
- May struggle with extreme cold water temperatures
- Limited to indoor installation
We recently installed the Girard Tankless RV Water Heater in our RV and have been enjoying the benefits of an on-demand hot water system. The powerful 42,000 BTU output provides strong performance for our RV’s plumbing needs. Additionally, the intelligent onboard microprocessor has been doing an excellent job of maintaining a consistent water temperature, eliminating those annoying hot and cold spots we used to experience with our old water heater.
The efficiency of this tankless water heater has been a game changer for us. It has helped us conserve LP gas as it only consumes half the amount that a traditional six-gallon water heater would. This has been particularly important during our extended trips, allowing us to make the most of our resources.
While we have been happy with the Girard Tankless RV Water Heater overall, there are a few drawbacks to consider. For instance, we strongly recommend professional installation to ensure the unit operates at peak performance. We also noticed that the water heater may struggle when dealing with exceptionally cold incoming water temperatures. While it did not cause any significant issues during our travels, it might not be the best option for those frequently experiencing extremely cold environments.
In conclusion, the Girard Tankless RV Water Heater has been a worthwhile addition to our RV setup. It offers powerful performance, consistent temperature control, and improved efficiency. However, be prepared for professional installation and keep in mind that it might not perform as well in extreme cold water conditions. Overall, we highly recommend this water heater for those looking to upgrade their RV hot water system.
Camplux Tankless Water Heater
We found the Camplux Tankless Water Heater to be an excellent portable option for those looking for a convenient and efficient way to access hot water while camping or in off-grid settings.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Adequate flow rate and temperature range
- Multiple safety features and CSA approved
Cons
- Shower hose could be longer
- Plastic connectors may leak
- Requires proper maintenance to prevent freeze damage
We were impressed with the ease of installation of the Camplux Tankless Water Heater. Its lightweight and portable design, weighing only 10 pounds, made it simple to set up and break down once we were done using it. We appreciated the folding handle, which helped to keep it out of the way when not in use. The 1.32 GPM flow rate provided a sufficient amount of hot water for our needs, and the temperature range was ample for our outdoor showers.
The 6-in-1 protection feature, which includes anti-freezing, over-heating, low water flow, dry combustion, high water pressure protection, and a flame failure device, provided peace of mind while using the product. Knowing it is CSA approved further reinforced our confidence in its safety and reliability.
However, we did come across a few minor drawbacks. The shower hose could have been longer, allowing for greater flexibility and distance between the heater and shower setup. Additionally, we noticed some leaking due to the plastic connectors and opted to replace them with brass fittings for a tighter seal.
Lastly, it’s important to note that proper maintenance is required to prevent freeze damage, which is not covered by the Camplux warranty. We made sure to follow the provided maintenance tips, such as draining the water heater and storing it in a warm, dry place when not in use.
Overall, the Camplux Tankless Water Heater is a reliable and efficient choice for those seeking hot water in outdoor or off-grid settings. Despite the minor drawbacks mentioned, we believe its pros outweigh the cons and recommend this product for camping enthusiasts or those living in rural areas.
Flame King Portable Tankless Water Heater
This Flame King Portable Tankless Water Heater is a reliable and convenient option for off-grid living and outdoor adventures.
Pros
- CSA Safety Approved with multiple protection features
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to install
- Fully adjustable control knobs for versatile use
Cons
- Inconsistent temperature control
- May require additional venting for fumes
- Difficult to regulate incoming water pressure
We tried out the Flame King Portable Tankless Water Heater on a camping trip and were impressed by its performance. The compact and lightweight design made it easy to transport and install, and it came in handy for providing hot water for showers and washing dishes.
The various safety features that come with this water heater, such as auto-cut off water control, automatic ignition, and overheat protection, gave us peace of mind when using it. Plus, the 68,000 BTU and fully adjustable control knobs allowed us to adjust the water temperature and flow rate depending on our needs.
However, we did encounter some challenges when it came to maintaining a consistent water temperature. The heater would fluctuate by a few degrees, which made it harder to find the perfect shower temperature. In addition, we noticed that the unit would produce some fumes, so we had to make sure to properly vent them to avoid any issues.
Another minor issue we faced was regulating the incoming water pressure. Depending on your water source, this may require some trial and error to achieve the right balance.
Overall, the Flame King Portable Tankless Water Heater is a practical and efficient solution for those looking for an RV solar hot water heater. Its ease of use, safety features, and adjustability make it an excellent choice for outdoor and off-grid situations.
Buying Guide
When looking to purchase an RV solar hot water heater, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the best option for your needs. In this buying guide, we will discuss important features and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
First, consider the capacity of the solar hot water heater. The capacity should be appropriate for the number of people using the hot water and the frequency of your travels. Generally, a larger capacity will provide more hot water, but requires more space and can be heavier.
Efficiency is another critical factor to consider. The efficiency of a solar hot water heater is determined by the amount of sunlight it can convert into thermal energy to heat the water. The higher the efficiency, the less sunlight is required to produce hot water. Some features that contribute to higher efficiency include:
- High-quality solar collectors
- Proper insulation
- Effective heat exchangers
Next, let’s discuss the installation and mounting options. Different solar hot water heater systems have varying requirements for mounting and installation. Some may require professional installation, while others can be installed by the user. Consider the space available on your RV’s roof and the complexity of the installation process.
Durability and maintenance are crucial to the long-term performance of your RV solar hot water heater. Look for systems made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, aluminum, and corrosion-resistant coatings. These materials will provide better durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.
Lastly, keep your budget in mind when selecting an RV solar hot water heater. While more expensive systems often offer better performance and features, it’s essential to find a balance between cost and functionality that works for your specific needs.
In summary, when choosing an RV solar hot water heater, carefully consider the factors mentioned above, such as capacity, efficiency, installation and mounting options, durability and maintenance, and your budget. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to find the right solar hot water heater for your RV, ensuring you have hot water and comfort on your travels.
