Having a reliable source of hot water is a game-changer when you’re enjoying the freedom of travel trailer life. A Travel Trailer Water Heater is more than just a luxury; it’s essential for comfortable showers, dishwashing, and general hygiene on the road. But with various types and factors to consider, selecting the perfect water heater for your RV can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and ensure you have hot water whenever you need it during your adventures.
Understanding Your Travel Trailer Water Heater Options
The first step is to understand the different types of travel trailer water heaters available. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your travel style, budget, and hot water needs.
Conventional (Tank) Water Heaters
Traditional RV water heaters utilize a tank to heat and store water. These are the most common type found in travel trailers and come in two main variations: propane and electric, or a combination of both.
Propane Water Heaters
Propane water heaters are a popular choice for RVs because they can operate off-grid, relying on your travel trailer’s propane supply. They heat water relatively quickly and are generally more affordable upfront.
Image alt text: Close-up of a propane travel trailer water heater exterior panel showing burner access, gas valve, and temperature controls.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters, as the name suggests, use electricity to heat water. They are convenient when you have access to shore power at campgrounds, as you don’t need to use propane. However, they require a significant amount of electrical power and are less practical for boondocking or off-grid camping unless you have a robust solar or generator setup.
Image alt text: View of the back of an electric travel trailer water heater showing electrical wiring connections and access panel for heating element maintenance.
Combination Propane and Electric Water Heaters
Many modern travel trailer water heaters offer a combination of both propane and electric operation. This provides flexibility, allowing you to use electric power when available and switch to propane when camping without hookups. This type is often considered the best of both worlds for many RVers.
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters, heat water only when you need it, eliminating the need for a storage tank. They offer continuous hot water and are more energy-efficient in the long run as they don’t constantly reheat water in a tank.
Image alt text: Installation of a compact tankless travel trailer water heater on the exterior wall of an RV, demonstrating space-saving design.
However, tankless water heaters typically require more propane or electricity at the moment of use to heat water on demand, and the initial cost can be higher than tank-type models. Water flow rate and consistent water pressure are also crucial for optimal performance with tankless systems.
Hybrid Water Heaters
Emerging as a newer option, hybrid travel trailer water heaters attempt to combine the benefits of both tank and tankless systems. They might use a small tank combined with on-demand heating to provide quick hot water availability while still offering good energy efficiency. These are less common but represent an evolving area in RV water heater technology.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Water Heater
Selecting the right travel trailer water heater involves evaluating several factors to match your specific needs and travel habits.
Size and Capacity
The size of the water heater tank (for tank-type models) is crucial, especially if you travel with multiple people or require hot water for extended showers. Typical RV water heater tank sizes range from 6 to 10 gallons. Consider your typical water usage and the number of people in your travel party when deciding on capacity. For tankless models, consider the flow rate, which indicates how many gallons of hot water can be delivered per minute.
Power Source: Propane, Electric, or Both
Think about your common camping scenarios. Do you primarily stay at campgrounds with full hookups, or do you prefer boondocking? If you often camp off-grid, propane or combination propane/electric models are more suitable. If you mostly use campgrounds with shore power, an electric or combination model might be sufficient and potentially more convenient.
Efficiency
Consider the energy efficiency of the water heater, especially if you frequently camp off-grid and want to conserve propane or battery power. Tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient in the long run because they only heat water when needed. Look for energy efficiency ratings and reviews to compare different models.
Budget
The initial cost of travel trailer water heaters can vary significantly between types and brands. Tank-type heaters are generally more affordable upfront, while tankless heaters tend to have a higher initial price. Factor in not only the purchase price but also potential installation costs and long-term operating costs (propane vs. electricity).
Installation and Maintenance
Consider the ease of installation and maintenance. Some RVers prefer DIY installation, while others opt for professional installation. Tank-type water heaters generally have simpler maintenance requirements, while tankless models may require more specialized servicing. Regular maintenance, such as draining the tank, checking the anode rod (for tank-type heaters), and winterizing, is crucial for extending the lifespan of any travel trailer water heater.
Maintaining Your Travel Trailer Water Heater for Longevity
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your travel trailer water heater operates efficiently and lasts for years.
Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect your water heater for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Check the burner (for propane models) for proper operation and ensure vents are clear of obstructions.
Draining and Flushing the Tank
Regularly drain and flush your water heater tank (for tank-type models) to remove sediment buildup. This helps improve heating efficiency and prevent corrosion. Refer to your water heater’s manual for specific instructions.
Anode Rod Replacement
For tank-type water heaters, the anode rod is a sacrificial component that protects the tank from corrosion. Inspect and replace the anode rod regularly, typically once a year or as needed, depending on water quality and usage.
Image alt text: Side-by-side comparison of a new, unused RV water heater anode rod and a heavily corroded, used anode rod, illustrating the need for regular replacement.
Winterizing
Proper winterization is essential to prevent freezing damage to your travel trailer water heater during cold weather. This typically involves draining the tank completely and bypassing the water heater with RV antifreeze. Always follow the manufacturer’s winterization instructions for your specific model.
Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Issues
Even with proper maintenance, you might encounter occasional issues with your travel trailer water heater. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:
No Hot Water
- Check propane supply: If using a propane water heater, ensure your propane tanks are not empty and the gas valve is open.
- Electrical issues: For electric water heaters, check the circuit breaker and ensure the water heater is receiving power.
- Pilot light problems: If the pilot light on a propane water heater goes out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Thermostat malfunction: A faulty thermostat can prevent the water heater from heating. This may require professional diagnosis and replacement.
Leaks
- Loose fittings: Check all plumbing connections for leaks and tighten any loose fittings.
- Tank corrosion: Leaks from the tank itself may indicate corrosion and could require tank replacement.
- Pressure relief valve: A leaking pressure relief valve might indicate excessive pressure or a faulty valve.
Slow Heating
- Sediment buildup: Sediment in the tank can reduce heating efficiency. Draining and flushing the tank can help.
- Heating element issues: A failing electric heating element will heat water slowly or not at all. This would require replacement.
- Burner problems (propane): A clogged burner or low gas pressure can result in slow heating.
Conclusion: Hot Water on the Go
Choosing the right travel trailer water heater is a crucial step in ensuring comfortable and enjoyable RV travels. By understanding the different types, considering your needs and travel style, and performing regular maintenance, you can select a reliable water heater that will provide hot water whenever you need it, wherever your adventures take you. Enjoy those hot showers and clean dishes on the road!
