10/21/2026
What's the difference between tankless and tanked water heaters?
Water heater with a tank:
1. Have a set amount of hot water you can use, before you have to wait 10 mins for the water to heat back up again.
2. Can run off propane or electric (don't have to have both)
3. Sometimes better for longer rigs, if the water tank is placed in the back. (To get hot water everywhere in the RV).
4. Can adjust the temperature at the faucet, using both cold and hot water mixed. Can get a range of temperatures.
5. Better in high altitude or places with low water pressure.
6. More care needed in the winter, so water tank doesn't freeze.
Tankless water heater:
1. Instant, unlimited hot water!
2. Need propane and 12 volt to run.
3. Best if water heater is placed in the middle of the rig, to allow hot water to reach shower and faucets. (If it's placed at the back of a 40' RV, your shower might be a good temperature but not your kitchen faucet).
4. Can't mix hot and cold water, so you have only 2 temperatures at the faucet. You adjust the temperature of the hot water at a control board. (Which may or may not be close to your shower or sinks).
5. Can perform not as well in altitude or low water pressure.
So what's best for you depends on the water heater placement in your RV and your preferences.