Sorry, I just saw this thread! Here’s my long-winded take since we upgraded from a 6-gallon tank to a tankless and have used the tankless for over a year now.
Here’s what I’ve learned so far:
Tank Water Heater: The Good and the Bad
Pros:
- Simple and reliable. It’s a “set it and forget it” system that just works, as long as you don’t push it too hard.
- No sudden temperature swings. Once the water’s hot, it stays at a consistent temp (as long as you don’t run out).
- Affordable upfront. Tank models are cheaper to buy and install, which is great if you’re on a budget.
Cons:
- Limited hot water. If you’re a fan of long showers or washing dishes back-to-back, you’ll run out of hot water quickly.
- Heavy and bulky. Tanks take up space and add weight, which isn’t ideal for an RV.
- Reheating takes time. If you run out, you’ve gotta wait for the tank to heat up again—kind of a pain when you’re in a rush.
Tankless Water Heater: What’s It Like?
Pros:
- Endless hot water. This was the biggest game-changer for me. I can take longer showers or do dishes without worrying about running out.
- Compact and lightweight. It takes up way less space than a tank, which is a win for RVers.
- More efficient. It only heats water as you need it, so you’re not wasting propane or electricity keeping a tank warm all day.
Cons:
- Temperature fluctuations. If the water flow changes (like someone turning on a faucet while you’re showering), you might get hit with cold water for a second.
- Higher upfront cost. Both the unit and installation are pricier than a tank water heater.
- Dependent on water pressure. If your RV park has low water pressure, the heater might struggle to perform well.
For me, the switch was worth it. I love the convenience of unlimited hot water, and the space savings are a bonus. That said, I think whether or not it’s right for someone else depends on their needs:
- Go tankless if: You value long showers, frequently dry camp (since they’re more efficient), or want to save space.
- Stick with a tank if: You’re on a tight budget, prefer a simpler system, or don’t mind managing your hot water usage.
If you do decide to go tankless, make sure to get a good model that’s RV-specific, like the Girard or Truma. Installation might take some tweaking if your rig wasn’t set up for it, but once it’s done, it’s a game-changer. Oh, and get a water pressure regulator to help avoid those cold-water surprises.
Hope that helps!
