How RV Water Heaters Work
How propane and electric RV water heaters operate, including ignition, heating cycles, and recovery times.
RV water heaters are small but efficient, heating 6-10 gallons of water using propane, electricity, or both for on-demand hot showers and dishes.
Gas vs Electric Heating
Most RV water heaters can run on propane (fast recovery, works off-grid) or 120V electric (slower, convenient at campgrounds). DSI (Direct Spark Ignition) models light automatically; older models may have a pilot light.
Tankless On-Demand Systems
Upgraded RVs may have tankless systems (like Truma or Girard) that heat water as it flows through, providing unlimited hot water but requiring significant propane flow and good water pressure.
Recovery Time
A standard 6-gallon tank takes 20-30 minutes to reheat on propane, 45-60 minutes on electric. This means staggering showers in larger families or waiting between uses.
Bypass Valve for Winterization
The water heater bypass valve allows you to drain the tank and bypass it during winterization, saving 6 gallons of antifreeze and preventing damage from freezing.
Important Notes
- •Never run water heater dry—it can damage the heating element
- •Anode rods (in tank models) need replacement every 1-2 years to prevent corrosion
- •Propane mode requires proper venting—never block the exterior vent
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