The best hot water heater for a travel trailer depends on whether you want continuous on-demand water or a traditional storage tank. The APUS is best for replacing many existing RV tank heaters with a tankless model, while the Somokg and Xenjum emphasize on-demand output and remote controls. CAMPLUX is a portable outdoor option, and Suburban suits buyers who prefer a six-gallon tank with direct spark ignition.
| Product | Best For | Type |
|---|---|---|
| APUS 68,000 BTU | Tankless replacement | Propane, on-demand |
| Somokg 65,000 BTU | Continuous hot water | Propane, on-demand |
| Xenjum 65,000 BTU | Interior and exterior outlets | Propane, on-demand |
| CAMPLUX BW264 | Portable outdoor use | Propane, on-demand |
| Suburban SW6D | Traditional tank setup | Six-gallon storage tank |
APUS 68,000 BTU RV Tankless Heater
Best for: Travel-trailer owners replacing a tank heater with a compact, on-demand unit. The APUS provides up to 3.9 gallons per minute (GPM) from a 68,000 BTU propane burner and is described as fitting many standard RV openings. Its listed cutout is 12.6 by 12.6 inches, and the product states compatibility with many 6-, 10-, and 12-gallon Suburban, Atwood, and similar tank heaters.
It uses 12-volt DC power, includes a remote control, and is designed for operation at elevations up to 9,800 feet. The stated freeze-protection feature activates at 35.6°F when properly powered. This combination makes it a useful choice for frequent travel and longer hot-water use.
Consideration: Measure the existing opening and confirm connections before choosing it; “fits most” does not guarantee a match. Freeze protection depends on power being available.
Somokg 65,000 BTU Tankless Heater
Best for: Buyers prioritizing continuous hot water and temperature control. This 12-volt propane unit is rated for up to 3.9 GPM and lists a 15-by-15-inch door. The product describes temperature control within ±1°F and automatic ignition when a faucet opens, which can suit showers and routine sink use without storing heated water in a tank.
Other listed features include a copper heat exchanger, anti-freeze design, and operation at altitudes up to 9,840 feet. It also describes seasonal flame adjustment, intended to adapt output for different conditions.
Consideration: Confirm the door and compartment dimensions against your trailer before purchase. The listed flow rate is a maximum; actual hot-water delivery can depend on operating conditions.
Xenjum Dual-Outlet Tankless Heater
Best for: Trailer owners who want hot-water outlets inside and outside the RV. The Xenjum is rated at 65,000 BTU and up to 3.9 GPM. Its dual-outlet design is intended to serve indoor fixtures as well as outdoor activities such as pet washing.
The remote controller adjusts the stated temperature range from 95°F to 123°F. The product also describes a built-in thermostat, on-demand ignition, and automatic seasonal flame adjustment. Choose this model if the second outlet is a priority and the trailer’s plumbing layout can accommodate it.
Consideration: Verify that the dual-outlet arrangement suits your plumbing and intended use. The listed temperature range does not establish the flow or temperature available at every fixture simultaneously.
CAMPLUX BW264 Portable Water Heater
Best for: Campers seeking a portable outdoor water-heating option rather than a built-in travel-trailer replacement. The CAMPLUX provides up to 2.64 GPM and is listed at 68,000 BTU. Its 23-pound body, mounting bracket, and compact design support carrying and temporary outdoor use.
Listed safety features include flame-failure protection, overheat protection, and an anti-freezing drain plug for discharging residual water. The product states that it shuts off when water temperature exceeds 176°F and supports water pressure from 3.6 to 110 PSI.
Consideration: This is described as an outdoor portable heater, so do not assume it fits or connects as a built-in appliance. Follow the product’s setup and use instructions.
Suburban SW6D Six-Gallon Water Heater
Best for: Travel-trailer owners who prefer a conventional storage-tank system with direct spark ignition. The SW6D holds six gallons and has a porcelain-lined steel tank. A replaceable anode rod helps protect against corrosion and also serves as a drain, according to the product details.
An optional electric element provides another heating option when campsite or generator power is available. Compared with a tankless model, this choice keeps a set quantity of water in a tank rather than heating water on demand.
Consideration: Its six-gallon capacity is smaller than larger tank models, so buyers should compare storage capacity with household demand. Confirm the existing installation requirements before replacing an appliance.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Travel-Trailer Water Heater
Should you choose tankless or a storage tank?
A tankless heater warms water as it flows and avoids waiting for a tank to recover after use. It can suit longer or repeated showers, but you should compare its flow rating, power needs, and installation dimensions with your trailer. A storage-tank model holds a fixed quantity of heated water and may be preferable when you want a traditional system or are replacing a compatible tank unit.
What measurements and connections should you check?
Measure the exterior door, cutout, compartment depth, and available clearance. Then compare the appliance’s stated dimensions and confirm propane, 12-volt, water-line, and venting requirements using the manufacturer’s installation information. Similar-looking RV heaters may not share the same openings or connections.
How much hot water do you need?
Compare the listed GPM with how the trailer will be used. One person taking a shower has different demand from multiple people using a shower and sink close together. Maximum flow figures do not guarantee the same output under every water-temperature, pressure, or elevation condition.
Will you camp in cold weather or at high altitude?
Review the model’s altitude and freeze-protection details if those conditions are part of your travel plans. A freeze-protection feature may require electrical power, while a drain plug can help remove residual water. Follow the product instructions for winterizing rather than relying on a feature alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tankless heater provide continuous hot water?
It heats water on demand, so it does not run out of a stored tank supply. Its actual flow and temperature depend on operating conditions and the heater’s capacity.
Is a portable camping heater the same as a built-in RV heater?
No. The CAMPLUX model is described as a portable outdoor heater. Check installation and use instructions before considering it for any fixed RV application.
What does GPM mean on an RV water heater?
GPM means gallons per minute, a measure of water flow. A higher listed maximum does not by itself guarantee a particular shower temperature or simultaneous-fixture performance.
Do RV water heaters need 12-volt power?
Some models, including the listed tankless options, specify 12-volt DC power. Check the selected model’s requirements and your trailer’s available electrical supply.