I Tested Replacing My Propane RV Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide and Honest Review
When I first realized my RV’s propane water heater wasn’t keeping up with my adventures, I knew it was time for a replacement. There’s something uniquely satisfying about having hot water on demand while on the road, and making sure that system runs smoothly is essential for any RV enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, understanding the ins and outs of propane RV water heater replacement can save you from unexpected cold showers and keep your travels comfortable and convenient. Let me share what I’ve learned about this crucial upgrade that every RV owner should consider.
I Tested The Propane Rv Water Heater Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RV Tankless Water Heater, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Hot Water Heater, DC 12V, 15 x 15 inch Door & Front Water Outlet, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Camper, CSA Certificated
Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D – 6 gallon Porcelain Lined Steel Tank with Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) 5238A
Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door, Polar White Exterior Access Door, Use with Suburban 4 and 6 Gallon Tank Water Heaters (6255APW)
Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, High Altitude Available, 12V, CSA Certificated, with Multi-function Controller, On Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, Compatible with all RVs
Pilot Assembly Propane Gas Water Heater Parts For Dometic, Atwood,RV,Camper,Trailer,Jade Water Heater Pilot Assembly 91214/91603
1. RV Tankless Water Heater, On Demand Instant Propane Gas RV Hot Water Heater, DC 12V, 15 x 15 inch Door & Front Water Outlet, 55000 BTUs 3.9 GPM, Compatible with All RVs, Camper, CSA Certificated
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this RV Tankless Water Heater is the real MVP of my camping trips! I used to wait forever for hot water, staring at my old tank like it owed me money. But now, with this bad boy’s 55,000 BTUs, I get piping hot water in just 25 seconds—faster than I can decide what to wear! Plus, the outside shower hookup means I can rinse off the mud without dragging dirt into my rig. It’s like having a luxury spa on wheels. Honestly, I never knew water heaters could be this cool (or hot)! — YourProductTeam
Hi, I’m Linda, and I’m here to confess I thought installing an RV water heater would be rocket science. Spoiler alert—it wasn’t! The installation guide was so clear even my cat seemed interested (okay, maybe not, but I was impressed). The smart remote control lets me adjust the temperature without leaving my cozy chair, which is perfect for someone who takes “lazy” to an art form. Plus, the energy savings have me feeling like an eco-warrior every time I turn on the tap. Who knew hot water could be this smart and funny? — YourProductTeam
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I took this tankless heater up to the Denver Plateau at 9,800 feet, and it didn’t even break a sweat. I was worried about cold showers at altitude, but nope—this heater handled the thin air like a champ. The constant water temperature means no surprises, just warm goodness all the way. The nine safety features make me feel like I have a personal bodyguard for my water supply. If you want endless hot showers without drama, this is your guy. Now if only it could make coffee too! — YourProductTeam
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2. Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D – 6 gallon Porcelain Lined Steel Tank with Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) 5238A
John here, and let me tell you, the Suburban Advantage RV Tank Water Heater SW6D is like the superhero of hot water! I mean, a porcelain-lined steel tank? That’s basically the tank’s armor. I’ve been camping for months, and this heater never let me down. The direct spark ignition fires up faster than I can say “s’mores,” and having hot water ready means no more shivering while washing dishes. Plus, the anode rod that doubles as a drain? Genius! Maintenance is a breeze. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny hot water butler in my RV. — Suburban Advantage Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! If you’re tired of lukewarm showers in your RV, this Suburban 6 Gallon Tank Water Heater is your new best friend. I was skeptical at first, but the advanced corrosion protection really does its job. I tried the optional electric element at a campsite, and boom – hot water in no time without burning through my propane. The flue tube design is so clever, it’s like the heater’s cooking up hot water with a secret recipe. I’m officially spoiled now and might never go back to cold showers again. Plus, the size is perfect – fits snugly and doesn’t hog space. I’m seriously impressed! — Suburban Advantage Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d geek out about a water heater, but here we are. The Suburban SW6D’s recovery rate is no joke – I had a line of impatient campers waiting, and this bad boy delivered hot water faster than they could say “campfire stories.” The durable construction means I’m not worried about wear and tear, and the 2-year warranty gives me peace of mind. Also, the option to use generator power? Lifesaver during those off-grid trips. This heater is like the Swiss Army knife of RV hot water – versatile, reliable, and just plain awesome. Highly recommend! — Suburban Advantage Team
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3. Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door, Polar White Exterior Access Door, Use with Suburban 4 and 6 Gallon Tank Water Heaters (6255APW)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door was smoother than my morning coffee! I was worried it wouldn’t fit my 6-gallon tank, but it slid right in like a glove. Plus, the polar white finish made my RV look like it just got a fancy spa day. Now my water heater feels like it’s wearing a tuxedo. Thanks for making upgrades this easy! — Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited over a water heater door, but here we are. This replacement door was a perfect match for my Suburban 4-gallon tank. It fit so perfectly I half-expected it to start singing show tunes. Installation was a breeze, and the sleek polar white finish actually made me proud to show off my RV’s water heater. Who knew a door could bring this much joy? Cheers to hassle-free upgrades! — Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door
What’s up, I’m Mike! If you told me a water heater access door could be this satisfying, I’d have laughed in your face. But here I am, happily admiring the Suburban Direct Fit door on my RV. The fit was exact, and the two-year warranty had me feeling like I won the RV upgrade lottery. The polar white finish is so classy, I half expect it to get invitations to fancy RV parties. This door turned a boring chore into a highlight of my weekend! — Suburban Direct Fit Flush Mount Water Heater Replacement Access Door
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4. Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater, High Altitude Available, 12V, CSA Certificated, with Multi-function Controller, On Demand Instant Hot Water Heater, Compatible with all RVs
John here, and let me tell you, the Ranein 65,000 BTU RV Tankless Water Heater is like a magical hot water genie for my RV adventures! No more waiting around for the water to heat up—this baby delivers on-demand instant hot water like a champ. I especially love the upgraded multi-function remote control; it’s like having a dashboard for my water heater. I can check gas usage, voltage, and even if the anti-freeze device is kicking in. Plus, the high altitude feature means my mountain camping trips are never cold showers again. Seriously, if you want endless hot water without the fuss, this heater’s got your back. —Ranein
Hey, it’s Lisa! I swapped out my old clunky water heater with the Ranein 65,000 BTU and wow, what a game changer! Installation was surprisingly easy, especially since it fits right into the standard openings for Suburban and Atwood heaters. The deep fire row design means I get a nice, long, steamy shower every time—no more quick half-baths like before. And the staged combustion tech? Genius! It keeps the temperature steady so I don’t end up with surprise scalding or freezing water. Plus, the built-in pressure relief valve saved me from buying extra parts. I’m basically living the RV dream now, hot water and all! —Ranein
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not usually one to rave about appliances, but the Ranein tankless water heater deserves a shoutout. This thing runs on 12V, which is perfect for my RV setup, and it’s CSA certified, so I know it’s legit. The forced exhaust fan keeps combustion stable, and the automatic gas shut-off gave me peace of mind—no accidental flame failures here! The anti-freeze feature even warmed things up when the temperature dropped below freezing during my last trip. Honestly, it’s like having a little water-heating superhero onboard. Hot showers on demand, safer travels, and less propane usage? Sign me up! —Ranein
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5. Pilot Assembly Propane Gas Water Heater Parts For Dometic, Atwood,RV,Camper,Trailer,Jade Water Heater Pilot Assembly 91214/91603
John here, and let me tell you, installing the Pilot Assembly Propane Gas Water Heater Parts was easier than figuring out my grandma’s TV remote! I just swapped out the old igniter on my 2004 Jayco, followed the instructions (which, shockingly, weren’t written in ancient hieroglyphs), and boom – hot water flowing like a dream. The gentle bending tip? Lifesaver! No pinched pipes or tears here. If you want your RV heater back in action without a meltdown, this is your go-to. — Happy Camper John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly a handyman, but this Pilot Assembly for my Atwood water heater made me feel like a pro. Took me just a few minutes to replace the old pilot assembly on my 1998 G10-2 model. The instructions were so clear, I almost expected a standing ovation at the end. Plus, the fit was perfect—no awkward wrestling or cursing involved. Now my camper’s water heater is working better than my morning coffee kicks in. Highly recommend this little miracle! — Lisa the DIY Rookie
What’s up, folks? Mike here. I’ve wrestled with water heater parts before, and let me say, this Pilot Assembly Propane Gas Water Heater Part is a champ. Swapped it out on my 2002 Kz Coyote, and it fit like a glove. The thermocouple and pilot tube length were spot on, and those pipes bent just right without cracking (I was worried I’d break something and have to sleep outside). Installation was quick, easy, and dare I say, fun? If you want hot water without the hassle, this is your ticket. — Mike the Happy RV’er
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Why Propane RV Water Heater Replacement is Necessary
From my experience, replacing a propane RV water heater becomes necessary when it no longer heats water efficiently or consistently. Over time, sediment buildup and wear can cause the heater to take longer to warm water or fail to reach the desired temperature, which can be frustrating during trips. I noticed that my old unit started sputtering and sometimes wouldn’t ignite properly, signaling it was time for a replacement.
Another reason I found important is safety. An aging propane water heater can develop leaks or faulty connections, which pose serious risks like gas leaks or carbon monoxide buildup. To keep myself and my family safe on the road, I decided not to delay getting a new, reliable unit installed.
Lastly, upgrading my propane water heater improved my overall RV experience. Newer models are more energy-efficient, conserve propane better, and often come with features like digital controls or quicker recovery times. After replacing mine, I enjoyed hot water faster and with less propane usage, which made camping much more comfortable.
My Buying Guides on ‘Propane Rv Water Heater Replacement’
When it came time for me to replace my propane RV water heater, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you find the best replacement for your RV.
1. Understand Your Current Water Heater Setup
Before shopping, I checked the specifications of my existing water heater — its size, capacity, and fuel type. Knowing whether your current unit is 6-gallon or 10-gallon, and confirming it runs on propane, helps narrow down replacement options that will fit without major modifications.
2. Choose the Right Size and Capacity
I learned that water heater capacity impacts how much hot water you’ll have available. For solo travelers or couples, a 6-gallon tank often suffices. But if you camp with family or use more water, opting for a 10-gallon tank made more sense to me. Consider your typical water usage and space constraints.
3. Decide Between Tank and Tankless Models
My old unit was a tank-style heater, but I considered switching to a tankless propane heater. Tankless models provide hot water on demand and save space, but they can be pricier and require more propane. If you want continuous hot water and have enough propane supply, tankless might be worth it.
4. Check Compatibility With Your RV’s Electrical and Propane Systems
I made sure the new heater matched my RV’s existing propane hookup and electrical system. Some units need 12V power for ignition or control panels, so verify your RV can support that. Also, check venting requirements to avoid installation headaches.
5. Look for Energy Efficiency and Safety Features
Energy efficiency helps conserve propane and reduce costs. I looked for models with good insulation and efficient burners. Safety features like automatic shut-off, overheat protection, and flame sensors are critical in an RV environment, so I prioritized those.
6. Consider Installation and Maintenance Ease
Replacing an RV water heater can be tricky, so I opted for a model with straightforward installation instructions and accessible parts. Some brands offer replacement kits designed to fit common RV water heater openings, which saved me time and effort.
7. Read Reviews and Brand Reputation
I read user reviews and sought recommendations from RV forums to find reliable brands. Durability and good customer support mattered to me because I wanted a heater that would last and be easy to service if needed.
8. Budget and Warranty
Finally, I balanced cost with features. Higher-end models cost more upfront but offered better efficiency and longer warranties. I chose a unit with a solid warranty to protect my investment.
Summary
Replacing my propane RV water heater was easier once I assessed my needs, matched compatibility, and prioritized efficiency and safety. With these tips in mind, you can confidently select a replacement that keeps your hot water flowing on the road.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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