If you love traveling in your RV, you know that comfort is just as important as adventure. And when it comes to comfort, few things matter more than having a reliable supply of hot water. Whether it’s for showers after a long hike or washing dishes at a campsite, a gas tankless water heater can make RV life feel a lot more like home.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best gas tankless water heaters for RVs in 2025, what features to look for, and how to choose the right model for your needs. Plus, we’ll talk about a crucial but often-overlooked part of your RV’s plumbing system that can save you from costly headaches down the road.
Why Choose Gas for an RV Tankless Water Heater?
While there are electric RV tankless heaters, many travelers prefer gas-powered models because:
- Better performance off-grid: Gas heaters can run without relying heavily on the RV’s electrical system.
- Faster heating: Gas can heat water more quickly, even in cold weather.
- Lower energy draw: Preserves your battery and generator for other uses.
- Higher flow rates: Handles more than one water outlet at a time.
In short, gas tankless water heaters offer dependable hot water in all sorts of travel conditions.
Best Overall Gas Tankless Water Heater for RVs: Girard 2GWHAM
The Girard 2GWHAM is a popular choice for RVers because it’s designed specifically for mobile use. It’s compact, efficient, and delivers hot water quickly.
- 12V powered ignition with gas heating for fast response.
- Delivers up to 42,000 BTUs for consistent heating.
- Digital temperature control for precision.
- Easy installation in place of older RV water heater models.
Its durability and user-friendly controls make it ideal for both new RV owners and seasoned travelers.
Other Top Gas Tankless Water Heaters for RVs
Suburban IW60 On-Demand Water Heater
This model offers high heating capacity with 60,000 BTUs, making it one of the most powerful RV tankless heaters available. It’s perfect for larger RVs with multiple water outlets.
Furrion 2.4GPM Tankless RV Water Heater
Furrion’s unit is built with vibration resistance, ideal for bumpy road travel. The 2.4 GPM flow rate is suitable for small to mid-size RVs.
Excel Vent-Free Gas Tankless Water Heater
Compact and lightweight, the Excel is a good choice for smaller RVs or camper vans. It doesn’t require a vent, making installation easier in tight spaces.
Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Propane Water Heater
While technically portable, the Camplux 5L can be mounted in RVs for light-duty use. It’s budget-friendly and excellent for seasonal campers.
Key Features to Consider for RV Use
RV living comes with unique demands, so your tankless heater needs to handle:
- Size and weight: Space in RVs is limited, so compact and lightweight designs are best.
- Vibration resistance: Road travel can be tough on equipment, so durability matters.
- BTU rating: Higher BTUs mean faster heating and better cold-weather performance.
- Ease of installation: Units that fit in the space of an old RV water heater make upgrades easier.
- Flow rate: For most RVs, 1.5–3 GPM is sufficient; larger rigs may need more.
Pro Tip: Always measure your available installation space before buying. Some models require more clearance for venting or gas connections.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing a gas tankless heater in an RV should be done by a qualified technician to ensure safety and proper operation. Consider:
- Securing the unit against vibration during travel.
- Ensuring proper gas line connections and leak testing.
- Providing adequate ventilation if required.
Maintenance is straightforward: flush the system annually to remove scale buildup and inspect fittings for leaks or wear.
The Overlooked Side of RV Plumbing
Hot water is only half the battle—what happens after it goes down the drain matters too. Many RVs use holding tanks or connect to septic systems at campsites. Without proper care, waste buildup can cause bad smells, slow drains, and costly repairs.
Unfortunately, many RV owners don’t think about this until there’s a problem. By then, it’s often too late to avoid expensive fixes.
SEPTIFIX – Easy Septic and Holding Tank Care
SEPTIFIX is the #1 septic tank treatment in the US, and it’s perfect for RVers who want to keep their holding tanks odor-free and functioning properly. These tablets dissolve in water, releasing oxygen and beneficial bacteria that break down waste and neutralize odors.
Benefits include:
- Eliminates odors within days.
- Prevents buildup and clogs.
- Safe for RV plumbing and campground septic systems.
- Simple to use—just drop in and flush.
Whether you travel full-time or just seasonally, SEPTIFIX helps keep your RV plumbing system fresh and worry-free.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the Girard 2GWHAM stands out as the best gas tankless water heater for RVs thanks to its compact design, efficiency, and reliability. The Suburban IW60, Furrion 2.4GPM, Excel Vent-Free, and Camplux 5L also offer great performance depending on your RV size, climate, and budget.
And remember—keeping your hot water system running is only part of the equation. Maintaining your waste system with SEPTIFIX ensures your RV adventures stay comfortable and odor-free.
Order SEPTIFIX Today – Keep Your RV Plumbing Fresh and Problem-Free
Endless hot water and a clean, odor-free RV? That’s the perfect recipe for happy travels.