Choosing the best electric tankless water heater for a camper requires selecting a unit that is compact, efficient, and powerful enough to meet the hot water demands of a small space. Whether you’re washing dishes, taking a shower, or cleaning up after a day of camping, a tankless water heater can provide on-demand hot water without taking up much space or energy.
Here are the top electric tankless water heaters designed specifically for campers, RVs, or tiny homes:
1. EcoSmart ECO 11 – Best Overall Electric Tankless Water Heater for Campers
The EcoSmart ECO 11 is one of the most popular options for RVs and campers. It delivers 1.3 to 3.1 GPM, which is enough to power a low-flow shower and a sink simultaneously in moderate climates. Its self-modulating technology adjusts energy usage based on the hot water demand, making it one of the most energy-efficient and reliable choices for campers.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 1.3 to 3.1 GPM (depending on inlet water temperature)
- Power: 13 kW at 240V (30 amps)
- Best For: Low-flow showers, sinks in campers or RVs
- Efficiency: 99.8% energy efficiency
- Compact Design: Easy to install in tight spaces
- Temperature Range: Adjustable from 80°F to 140°F
Pros:
- Compact size, perfect for tight RV spaces
- Energy-efficient with self-modulating technology
- Handles low-flow showers and sinks simultaneously
- Affordable and easy to install
- Lifetime warranty for residential use
Cons:
- Reduced flow rate in colder climates with lower inlet water temperatures
- Not ideal for powering multiple high-demand fixtures at once
2. Camplux TE11 – Best for Quick Heating
The Camplux TE11 is designed with campers and RVs in mind, offering a compact and lightweight design that fits perfectly in tight spaces. It has a flow rate of 1.32 GPM, which is ideal for single-point applications like showers or sinks. The unit is easy to install and can heat water quickly, making it an excellent choice for those who need hot water on demand while on the road.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 1.32 GPM
- Power: 11 kW at 240V (30 amps)
- Best For: RV sinks, small showers, point-of-use applications
- Compact Design: Space-saving, fits easily in RVs and campers
- Temperature Range: 90°F to 130°F
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for RVs and campers
- Heats water quickly for single fixtures
- Energy-efficient and easy to install
- Affordable and great for budget-conscious buyers
Cons:
- Limited to single fixture use (sink or shower, not both at once)
- Lower flow rate, not suitable for larger applications or colder climates
3. Girard RV On-Demand Tankless Water Heater – Best for RV-Specific Use
The Girard RV On-Demand Tankless Water Heater is designed specifically for RVs and campers, offering instant hot water with easy installation in existing water heater spaces. It operates on 12V power with propane or electric heating, which makes it versatile for camping scenarios where you’re not always connected to a reliable electric grid. It has a 1.0 GPM flow rate, which is ideal for low-flow fixtures like RV showers and sinks.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: 1.0 GPM
- Power: 42,000 BTU propane (compatible with electric systems)
- Best For: RV showers, small sinks, and compact spaces
- Efficiency: Highly efficient, designed for off-grid use
- Built for RVs: Simple installation, fits standard RV water heater openings
Pros:
- Designed specifically for RVs, making installation simple
- Provides instant hot water, perfect for small spaces
- Can run on propane, making it great for off-grid camping
- Durable, built to withstand road vibrations
Cons:
- Lower flow rate limits it to single fixture use
- Requires propane for heating, so it’s not fully electric
- More expensive than basic electric tankless models
4. Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 – Best Compact Design for Campers
The Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 is a highly compact tankless water heater that works great for point-of-use applications like a kitchen sink or small shower in a camper. With a flow rate of 1.8 GPM, it provides instant hot water for light use and is energy-efficient for RV setups. It’s a plug-and-play solution that fits easily in tight spaces, making it ideal for small areas like a camper or RV.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: Up to 1.8 GPM
- Power: 12 kW at 240V (50 amps)
- Best For: Kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, small showers in campers
- Efficiency: High energy efficiency
- Compact Design: Ideal for under-sink installations in RVs and campers
Pros:
- Compact and fits easily under sinks or in small spaces
- Easy to install and maintain
- Heats water quickly for small applications
- Ideal for point-of-use setups in campers
Cons:
- Not suitable for running multiple fixtures simultaneously
- Lower flow rate than larger units, making it limited to single use
5. Eccotemp i12 Electric Tankless Water Heater – Best for Stylish and Modern Design
The Eccotemp i12 is a stylish and compact electric tankless water heater designed for RV or camper use. It has a sleek, modern appearance with a touch-screen display and temperature control settings. It delivers up to 3 GPM, which is ideal for a low-flow shower and a sink running at the same time, depending on the incoming water temperature. The i12 is efficient, reliable, and built for small homes, RVs, or campers.
Key Features:
- Flow Rate: Up to 3.0 GPM
- Power: 18 kW at 240V (75 amps)
- Best For: Small homes, RVs, and campers
- Efficiency: Energy-efficient with modern design
- Touchscreen Display: Simple temperature control and sleek design
Pros:
- Stylish, modern design with touch-screen display
- Powerful enough for multiple fixtures in small setups
- Compact and fits well in small spaces like RVs
- Energy-efficient and easy to install
Cons:
- Higher amperage requirements, making it harder to install in some RVs
- Limited flow rate in colder climates
Comparison Table: Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters for Campers
| Model | Best For | Flow Rate (GPM) | Power (kW) | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoSmart ECO 11 | Overall performance, small spaces | 1.3-3.1 GPM | 13 kW | Self-modulating, compact, energy-efficient | $$ |
| Camplux TE11 | Quick heating, single fixtures | 1.32 GPM | 11 kW | Compact and lightweight, ideal for RVs and small sinks | $ |
| Girard RV On-Demand | RV-specific, off-grid use | 1.0 GPM | 42,000 BTU (propane) | Built specifically for RVs, compatible with propane | $$$ |
| Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 | Compact, under-sink installations | 1.8 GPM | 12 kW | Compact design, energy-efficient, ideal for sinks | $$ |
| Eccotemp i12 | Stylish, modern design | 3.0 GPM | 18 kW | Touchscreen display, stylish, compact, easy installation | $$$ |
What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Tankless Water Heater for a Camper
- Flow Rate (GPM):
- The flow rate determines how much hot water can be delivered at once. For campers, look for 1.0 to 3.0 GPM, which is sufficient for a low-flow shower or sink. Models like the EcoSmart ECO 11 and Eccotemp i12 can support multiple low-flow fixtures depending on the inlet temperature.
- Power (kW):
- Most electric tankless water heaters for campers range from 10 to 18 kW. Keep in mind the amperage and whether your camper or RV electrical system can handle the power requirements. Units like the Camplux TE11 and EcoSmart ECO 11 are designed to work within standard RV electrical limits.
- Compact Size:
- Space is often limited in campers, so choosing a compact and lightweight model is important. Models like the Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 and Camplux TE11 are designed specifically for tight spaces.
- Energy Efficiency:
- Look for models with self-modulating technology like the EcoSmart ECO 11 and Eemax units, which adjust energy usage based on the flow rate, ensuring you’re only using the power you need.
- Installation Requirements:
- Make sure the unit is easy to install in an RV or camper. Some models like the Girard RV On-Demand are designed specifically for RVs and are compatible with propane or electric power, making them versatile for off-grid or remote camping.
Final Recommendations
- For overall performance and energy efficiency, the EcoSmart ECO 11 is the best choice, providing reliable hot water for showers and sinks in small spaces.
- If you want a quick and affordable option for single fixture use, the Camplux TE11 is an excellent choice for point-of-use installations like small sinks or showers.
- For RV-specific applications, the Girard RV On-Demand offers both propane and electric compatibility, making it ideal for off-grid use.
- For a compact design that fits easily in small spaces, the Bosch Tronic 3000 US12 is perfect for under-sink installations.
- If you’re looking for a stylish and modern design, the Eccotemp i12 provides an efficient, sleek solution that works well in small campers or RVs.
Choosing the right electric tankless water heater for your camper will ensure you have instant hot water for your needs while saving space and energy.