Outdoors

Best Portable Water Heater for Camping and RV: Top Picks for 2023

Camping and RV trips are all about enjoying the great outdoors and getting away from the city’s hustle and bustle. However, roughing it in the wilderness doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all the comforts of home. One of the essential things to have on a camping or RV trip is a hot shower, and that’s where a portable water heater comes in.

Portable water heaters provide hot water on demand, making them perfect for camping and RV trips. They are compact, lightweight, and can be powered by propane or electricity. With a portable water heater, you can enjoy a hot shower anytime, anywhere, without having to worry about finding a campground with shower facilities.

When looking for the best portable water heater for camping and RV, there are several things to consider. The size and weight of the unit are critical factors, as you want something that is easy to transport and store. You also want to consider the fuel source, whether it’s propane or electricity, and how long the unit can run on a single tank or battery charge. Other features to look for include temperature control, safety features, and ease of installation and use.

After researching and testing several portable water heaters, we have identified the top products that offer the best combination of performance, features, and value. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a cross-country RV adventure, our guide will help you find the best portable water heater to meet your needs.

Best Portable Water Heaters for Camping and RV

As camping enthusiasts ourselves, we know how important it is to have access to hot water while on the road. Whether you’re taking a shower, washing dishes, or simply need hot water for your morning coffee, a portable water heater can make your camping experience much more enjoyable. After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best portable water heaters for camping and RV. These products are reliable, efficient, and easy to use, making them the perfect addition to any camping gear.

Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Water Heater

Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Water Heater

If you’re looking for a portable water heater that is perfect for camping and RV trips, the Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Water Heater is an excellent choice. It offers instant hot water and is easy to install, making it a great option for those who love spending time outdoors.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry and install
  • Instant hot water with maximum power output of 28,000btu/hour
  • Equipped with safety features such as flame failure device and anti-freezing protection

Cons

  • Not suitable for use in freezing temperatures
  • Instructions can be unclear and confusing
  • Plastic quick connect fittings are of low quality and may not last long

We recently took the Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Water Heater on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The lightweight and compact design made it easy to carry and install, and we were able to enjoy instant hot water wherever we went. The safety features such as the flame failure device and anti-freezing protection gave us peace of mind knowing that we were using a product that was designed with our safety in mind.

However, we did find that the water heater was not suitable for use in freezing temperatures, which was a bit of a disappointment. Additionally, the instructions provided with the product were not as clear as we would have liked, which made installation a bit more challenging than it needed to be. Finally, the plastic quick connect fittings that came with the product were of low quality and may not last as long as we would like.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Water Heater to anyone who loves camping and spending time outdoors. It’s a great product that offers instant hot water and is easy to install, making it a must-have for any camping or RV trip.

RUINOPAR Portable Water Heater

RUINOPAR Portable Water Heater image

If you’re looking for a portable water heater for your camping or RV trips, we highly recommend the RUINOPAR Portable Water Heater. It’s efficient, safe, and easy to use, making it the perfect addition to your outdoor adventures.

Pros

  • On-demand hot water with fully adjustable heat and water flow
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy portability and installation
  • Energy-saving automatic ignition and flameout modes

Cons

  • May require professional installation for some users
  • Plastic tubing inside the water shower hose may be prone to breaking
  • Some users reported issues with water leakage and frequent shutdowns

The RUINOPAR Portable Water Heater provides instant, on-demand hot water wherever you are, without the need for preheating. It’s also fully adjustable, allowing you to control the heat and water flow to your desired temperature and pressure. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry and install, so you can enjoy a hot shower or wash your pets even when you’re on the go.

With its energy-saving automatic ignition and flameout modes, you can save up to 11.5% energy while ensuring your safety at the same time. It also comes with more than six safety protection measures, including overheating, antifreeze, flame-out, anti-dry, high water pressure, and low water flow protection, to provide you with a comfortable and safe bathing experience.

However, some users may find it challenging to install, and it may require professional installation for some. Additionally, the plastic tubing inside the water shower hose may be prone to breaking, and some users reported issues with water leakage and frequent shutdowns. Overall, the RUINOPAR Portable Water Heater is an excellent investment for anyone who loves camping or spending time in the great outdoors.

GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater

GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater

We highly recommend the GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater for anyone looking for an easy-to-install and portable option for their camping or RV needs.

Pros

  • Produces up to 1.58 gallons of hot water per minute at 41,000BTU/Hr
  • Runs on a standard 20 lb. liquid propane tank and is equipped with an electronic ignition powered by two D-cell batteries
  • Features CSA certification and several safety protections, such as over-heating protection, low water flow protection, dry combustion protection, anti-freezing protection, high water pressure protection, and flame failure device

Cons

  • Designed for portable outdoor use only, and prolonged exposure to rain/water can damage the internal components
  • Requires at least 3.6 PSI of water pressure to start
  • May not be suitable for larger groups or families due to its maximum flow rate of 1.58 gallons per minute

The GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy hot water on demand. We were impressed by how quickly it heated up the water, and the LED temperature readout made it easy to adjust the temperature to our liking. The compact size and lightweight design made it easy to carry and install, and we appreciated the included shower head and mounting hardware. We also felt safe using it thanks to its CSA certification and various safety protections.

However, we do want to note that it is designed for portable outdoor use only and may not be suitable for larger groups or families due to its maximum flow rate of 1.58 gallons per minute. Additionally, while it can handle a little drizzle, prolonged exposure to rain/water can damage the internal components, so it’s important to store it in a dry place.

If you’re looking for a reliable and portable water heater for your camping or RV needs, we highly recommend the GASLAND BE158 Tankless Water Heater.

Thermomate Portable Water Heater

Thermomate Portable Water Heater

We highly recommend the Thermomate Portable Water Heater for camping and RV trips. It’s easy to install, heats up water quickly, and has a compact design that saves valuable storage space.

Pros

  • Provides instant hot water on demand
  • Compact design that saves storage space
  • Easy to install with manual water temperature controls

Cons

  • Short shower hose
  • May not be suitable for larger groups or families
  • Requires propane gas to operate

The Thermomate Portable Water Heater is perfect for camping, hiking, fishing, beach trips, and road trips. It’s rated at 1.32 GPM and can reach a maximum power output of 34,000 BTU/Hr. The stylish and exquisite design adds a visual view and is an ideal decoration for your outdoor life.

Installation is quick and easy, and the water heater comes with 1/2″ BSP water fittings and manual water temperature controls. The multi safety protection features include anti-freezing apparatus and overheating and flameout protection. The gas supply will shut off automatically under unexpected flameout or high water temperature over 176 °F.

Overall, the Thermomate Portable Water Heater is a great investment for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to heat water on the go. It’s fully equipped and comes with all the necessary accessories for installation. Customer service is also available to handle any questions or issues you may have.

Airthereal Evenfall Series Portable Propane Water Heater

Airthereal Evenfall Series Portable Propane Water Heater Image

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable water heater for your camping or RV trips, the Airthereal Evenfall Series Portable Propane Water Heater is a great choice. With its adjustable heat level and flow rate, you can have an endless supply of hot water wherever you are.

Pros

  • Endless hot water supply with maximum power output of 41,000BTU/hour
  • Portable and lightweight design for easy carrying
  • Easy to install and use in just a few minutes

Cons

  • May not be suitable for large groups or families due to its 6-liter capacity
  • Requires a propane tank for operation
  • May not be suitable for extremely cold weather conditions

We recently used the Airthereal Evenfall Series Portable Propane Water Heater on a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. It provided a steady supply of hot water for our showers and dishwashing needs. The installation process was straightforward and only took a few minutes. The water heater is also very lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.

One thing to keep in mind is that the 6-liter capacity may not be enough for larger groups or families. Additionally, the water heater requires a propane tank for operation, which may not be convenient for some users. Finally, it may not be suitable for extremely cold weather conditions, as it is not designed for use in freezing temperatures.

Overall, we highly recommend the Airthereal Evenfall Series Portable Propane Water Heater for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient water heater for their camping or RV trips. Its portable design and easy installation make it a great choice for outdoor adventures.

Buying Guide

When choosing a portable water heater for camping and RV, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

1. Size and Portability

The size and weight of the water heater is important for portability and ease of use. Look for a lightweight and compact model that is easy to carry and store in your RV or camping gear. Consider the size of your RV or camping vehicle and the amount of storage space you have available.

2. Heating Capacity

The heating capacity of the water heater is important for ensuring that you have enough hot water for your needs. Look for a model with a heating capacity that matches your usage requirements. Consider the number of people in your camping group and the amount of hot water you will need for cooking, cleaning, and showering.

3. Fuel Type

Portable water heaters can run on propane, natural gas, or electricity. Consider the availability of fuel sources in your camping location and choose a model that is compatible with the fuel type you have access to. Propane is a popular fuel choice for camping and RVs because it is readily available and easy to use.

4. Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority when choosing a portable water heater. Look for models with safety features such as automatic shut-off, overheat protection, and flame failure protection. These features will help prevent accidents and ensure that your water heater operates safely.

5. Price

The price of a portable water heater can vary greatly depending on the features and quality of the product. Consider your budget and choose a model that offers the best value for your money. Keep in mind that a higher-priced model may offer better quality and durability.

6. Warranty

Make sure to choose a portable water heater that comes with a warranty. A warranty will protect you in case of any defects or malfunctions in the product. Look for a warranty that covers the parts and labor for a reasonable amount of time.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best portable water heater for your camping and RV needs. Always read reviews and do your research before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting a quality product that meets your needs.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about portable water heaters for camping and RV:

    • Do I need a portable water heater for camping and RV?

We highly recommend it. A portable water heater can make your camping or RV experience more comfortable and convenient, especially if you plan on staying for an extended period of time.

    • What type of portable water heater should I get?

It depends on your needs. If you’re traveling in an RV, a tankless propane water heater may be the most efficient option. If you’re camping, a portable electric water heater may be more convenient if you have access to electricity. Consider the size of your group, the length of your trip, and your budget when selecting a portable water heater.

    • How do I install a portable water heater?

Installation instructions vary depending on the type and model of portable water heater. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details. In general, you will need to connect the water heater to a water source, propane tank, or electrical outlet, depending on the type of water heater. It’s important to follow all safety precautions and regulations when installing a portable water heater.

    • How do I maintain a portable water heater?

Regular maintenance is important to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your portable water heater. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance requirements. In general, you should flush the water heater regularly to remove any sediment or buildup, check for leaks or damage, and replace any worn or damaged parts as needed.

    • Can I use a portable water heater for other purposes?

Yes, portable water heaters can be used for a variety of purposes beyond camping and RVing, such as outdoor showers, washing pets, or even as a backup water heater for your home. However, always make sure the water heater is compatible with the intended use and follow all safety precautions.

 

Hayley Gordon

Hayley Gordon has been a tech and lifestyle blogger since 2007. She resides in San Diego, California with her dog and betta fish. Hayley has a passion for tech and gadgets, especially anything miniature or portable.

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