The Pros & Cons of Tankless RV Water Heaters

If you’ve been researching ways to upgrade your RV’s hot water system, you’ve likely come across the rising popularity of tankless water heaters. These compact, efficient appliances promise unlimited hot water and are quickly becoming the go-to choice for many RVers. But are they the right fit for your rig?

In this article, we’ll walk through the RV tankless water heater pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're upgrading from a traditional unit or outfitting a new rig, understanding the benefits and limitations of a tankless system is key to finding the best solution for your travel needs.

What Is a Tankless RV Water Heater?

A tankless RV water heater is a compact system that heats water on demand using propane or electricity, rather than storing pre-heated water in a tank. When you turn on a hot water tap, the unit activates and begins heating water instantly as it flows through the system. Once the tap is closed, the heater shuts off, using energy only when needed.

This setup is different from traditional RV water heaters, which rely on a fixed-size tank (often 6 or 10 gallons) to store hot water. Once that water runs out, you'll need to wait for the tank to reheat before more is available.

With a tankless model — like the Furrion 2.4GPM Tankless Gas Water Heater — you’re not limited by tank capacity. These systems offer continuous, consistent hot water, which is especially useful for RVers traveling with multiple people or living full-time on the road.

Pros of Tankless RV Water Heaters

Unlimited On-Demand Hot Water

One of the biggest advantages of going tankless is access to a continuous supply of hot water. You no longer need to plan showers around reheating cycles or worry about running out during back-to-back uses. Whether you're washing dishes, taking long showers, or running multiple taps at once, an RV tankless water heater delivers hot water exactly when you need it.

Space-Saving Design

RV space is always at a premium. Tankless systems have a smaller footprint than traditional tank-based models, freeing up valuable storage or mechanical space. Their streamlined design is ideal for modern RV builds and upgrades where efficiency matters.

Energy Efficiency

Because they heat water only as needed, tankless units eliminate standby energy loss — a common drawback of traditional models. This can help reduce propane or electric usage over time, especially for RVers who frequently boondock or travel off-grid.

Modern Features & Control Panels

Today’s tankless water heaters often include high-tech features like digital thermostats, LED displays, and diagnostic tools. Furrion’s models, for example, come with wall-mounted touch-button control panels that allow you to set a precise water temperature and monitor system performance in real time.

Retrofit-Friendly Installation

Upgrading to a tankless water heater doesn’t mean overhauling your RV’s plumbing. Many models, including those from Furrion, are designed to replace popular Suburban or Atwood tank water heaters. With retrofit-compatible door kits in multiple sizes, installation is more straightforward than you might expect.

Cons of Tankless RV Water Heaters

Higher Initial Cost

Tankless RV water heaters generally cost more upfront than their traditional counterparts. Factor in the unit itself, a retrofit door kit, and potential installation costs, and the investment can be significant. However, many RVers find the long-term performance, comfort, and efficiency worth the expense.

Flow Rate Sensitivity

Tankless systems require a minimum water flow rate to activate. If the flow is too low — such as when using a single faucet at low pressure — you might experience lukewarm water or fluctuations in temperature. Proper plumbing and water pressure management are important to ensure optimal performance.

Freeze Risk in Cold Weather

Cold climates pose a challenge for any RV water heater, but tankless systems can be particularly sensitive to freezing. While some models, like Furrion models, include built-in antifreeze protection, extreme temperatures may still require additional precautions such as winterizing the unit or using a heated enclosure.

Installation Complexity

Although many tankless models are retrofit-compatible, installation may still be more complex than a one-to-one tank replacement. Considerations include electrical and propane line routing, ventilation, and plumbing adjustments. If you're not comfortable tackling this on your own, professional installation is recommended.

Tankless vs. Traditional Tank RV Water Heaters

When it comes to RV water heating, traditional tank-based systems have long been the standard. However, here’s how they compare with modern tankless models:

If you need a steady flow of hot water without worrying about capacity, a tankless system is ideal. Traditional tank heaters, while lower in upfront cost, can be limiting for larger groups or high-usage RVers.

How to Decide If a Tankless Water Heater Is Right for Your RV

Before making the switch, think through your specific needs and travel style:

• How many people are using hot water in your RV?
  

• Do you frequently travel in cold-weather climates?
  

• Are you upgrading from a traditional unit or outfitting a new build?
  

• Is water pressure and flow consistent at your destinations?
  

If consistent hot water, energy efficiency, and a compact footprint are priorities, a tankless system can be a great fit. Furrion offers retrofit-compatible tankless water heaters designed specifically for RV use, with optional freeze protection for colder climates.

A Smart Choice for Many RVers

Tankless RV water heaters offer an efficient, modern upgrade over traditional tank-based models. With on-demand hot water, energy savings, and space-conscious designs, they’re a smart choice for many RVers. However, the higher upfront cost and sensitivity to flow and temperature conditions should be weighed carefully.

At Furrion, we design tankless RV water heaters that combine performance, reliability, and ease of use, making them ideal for everything from weekend getaways to full-time RV living.