Choosing Between Electric vs. Gas RV Water Heaters for Your Rig

When you're living life on the road, comfort and convenience matter, and few things are more essential than hot water. Whether you're washing dishes, taking a shower, or prepping for a chilly morning, your RV water heater plays a vital role. But when it comes to choosing between electric vs. gas RV water heaters, which option is right for you?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each type, explore the advantages of each option, and help you find the best fit for your RV lifestyle.

How RV Water Heaters Work Generally

At the heart of every RV water heater is a simple process: cold water enters the system and is heated using a fuel source — either electricity or propane gas — before being delivered to your faucet or shower.

Here’s how the heating process works:

• Electric RV water heaters use a heating element powered by shore power or a generator. When activated, the element heats the water inside the unit until it reaches the desired temperature. These systems are quiet and efficient, but they rely on access to electricity.
• Gas RV water heaters use propane to fuel a burner. When the system is turned on, the burner ignites and heats the water. This method is fast and effective, especially in off-grid scenarios where electricity may not be available.

Some RV water heaters offer dual-fuel capability, allowing users to switch between electric and gas modes depending on their location and power availability. This flexibility is especially useful for RVers who alternate between campgrounds with hookups and remote boondocking sites.

Regardless of the fuel source, RV water heaters typically include a thermostat to regulate temperature and safety features like pressure relief valves and ignition controls to ensure safe operation.

More about How Electric RV Water Heaters Work

Electric RV water heaters operate using a heating element powered by electricity, typically from shore power, a generator, or in some cases, solar energy. When the system is turned on, the heating element begins warming the water inside the unit. A thermostat monitors the temperature and cycles the element on and off to maintain consistent heat.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Cold water enters the heater through the inlet pipe.
2. An electric heating element, similar to what you'd find in a residential water heater, begins to warm the water.
3. A thermostat regulates the temperature, ensuring the water doesn’t overheat.
4. Hot water exits through the outlet pipe and flows to your faucet or shower.

Electric water heaters are known for their quiet operation and low maintenance, since they don’t rely on combustion or moving parts like burners or pilot lights. They’re especially convenient for RVers who stay at campgrounds with reliable electrical hookups, allowing them to conserve propane for cooking or heating.

However, there are a few considerations:

• Heating speed can be slower than gas models, especially in colder climates or with larger water volumes.
• Power availability is crucial. If you're off-grid without a generator or solar setup, an electric-only heater may not be practical.
• Energy draw can be significant, so it’s important to ensure your RV’s electrical system can support the load, especially if other appliances are running simultaneously.

Some electric RV water heaters also include energy-saving modes or digital controls, allowing users to fine-tune temperature settings and reduce power consumption. Furrion’s advanced models offer smart features that integrate seamlessly with modern RV electrical systems, making them a reliable choice for tech-savvy travelers.

Distinctives of How Gas RV Water Heaters Work

Gas RV water heaters operate using propane as their primary fuel source, making them a popular choice for RVers who spend time off-grid or in areas without reliable electrical hookups.

The heating process is straightforward but highly effective.The process starts when you turn the unit on, activating the 12-volt ignition system to create a spark. The spark ignites the propane gas, and a control system keeps the gas valve open to heat the water until the desired temperature is reached. Then the system shuts off the burner. A safety mechanism, known as an emergency cutoff (ECO), shuts down the system if ignition fails or the water gets too hot.

Key components of a gas RV water heater include:

• Propane burner – Provides the heat source
• Ignition system – Can be manual (pilot light) or automatic (electronic)
• Thermostat – Regulates water temperature
• Pressure relief valve – Prevents over-pressurization
• Exhaust vent – Safely releases combustion gases

Gas water heaters are known for their fast recovery times, meaning they can reheat water quickly after use. This makes them ideal for families or travelers who need multiple showers or frequent hot water access.

Because they rely on propane, gas RV water heaters are independent of electrical power, offering flexibility for boondocking and remote camping. However, they do require regular propane refills and occasional maintenance, such as cleaning the burner and checking for carbon buildup.

Pros & Cons of Electric RV Water Heaters

Pros

• Quiet operation – Electric models run virtually silently, making them ideal for early mornings or late nights when noise matters.
• No propane required – Simplifies fuel logistics and eliminates the need to monitor propane levels.
• Low maintenance – Fewer components mean less upkeep over time, with no burner or pilot light to clean.
• Safe and clean – No combustion gases or open flames, which can be a plus for safety-conscious RVers.

Cons

• Power dependent – Requires access to shore power or a generator, limiting use in off-grid scenarios.
• Slower heating – May take longer to reach optimal temperature compared to gas models, especially in colder conditions.
• Higher energy draw – Can strain your RV’s electrical system if not properly managed, especially when running other appliances.
• Limited flexibility – Not ideal for boondocking or remote camping unless paired with a robust solar setup or hybrid system.

Pros & Cons of Gas RV Water Heaters

Pros

• Fast heating performance – Gas burners heat water quickly, making them ideal for multiple showers or high-demand situations.
• Off-grid capability – Operates independently of electrical hookups, perfect for boondocking and remote camping.
• Reliable in cold weather – Propane systems tend to perform better in colder climates where electric heating may struggle.
• Fuel flexibility – Propane is widely available and easy to store, giving RVers more freedom in route planning.
• Lower electrical load – Doesn’t draw power from your RV’s electrical system, freeing up capacity for other appliances.

Cons

• Requires propane refills – You’ll need to monitor fuel levels and refill tanks regularly, which can be inconvenient on long trips.
• More maintenance – Burners and ignition systems may require periodic cleaning and inspection to maintain performance.
• Noisier operation – Burner ignition and combustion can produce noticeable sound, which may be disruptive in quiet settings.
• Combustion byproducts – Requires proper ventilation to safely exhaust gases, adding complexity to installation and safety checks.

Electric vs. Gas RV Water Heaters: Side-by-Side Comparison

Choosing the Right RV Water Heater

When deciding between electric vs. gas RV water heaters, the best choice ultimately depends on your travel style, energy preferences, and camping habits.

If you primarily stay at campgrounds with reliable electrical hookups, an electric RV water heater offers quiet operation, low maintenance, and a cleaner energy profile. It’s a great fit for full-time RVers or those who value simplicity and sustainability.

On the other hand, if you frequently venture off-grid or enjoy boondocking in remote areas, a gas RV water heater provides the flexibility and fast heating performance you need, without relying on external power sources. It’s ideal for adventurers who prioritize independence and rugged reliability.

No matter your setup, choosing the right water heater can elevate your RV experience. Explore Furrion’s full lineup of innovative RV water heaters to find the perfect match for your journey.