Choosing between an electric and propane RV water heater comes down to how and where you camp. Electric models are convenient when hookups are available, while propane systems are better suited for boondocking and remote travel.
The right choice depends on your power setup, camping habits, and how much hot water your crew uses. Here is what you need to know before choosing.
What Is an Electric RV Water Heater?
An electric RV water heater uses a heating element to warm the water. It typically runs on 120 volt power from a campground hookup, generator, or properly equipped inverter system.
Electric water heaters are quiet, easy to operate, and allow you to save propane for cooking, heating, and other appliances.
Pros of an Electric RV Water Heater
Electric models are nearly silent and do not use your onboard propane supply. They are especially convenient at full hookup campgrounds where electricity is already included with the site.
Cons of an Electric RV Water Heater
Electric water heaters rely on a steady power source, making them less practical for remote camping. They can also place a heavy demand on your RV’s electrical system when running alongside an air conditioner, microwave, or other high draw appliances.
Best For:
Electric RV water heaters are best for travelers who regularly stay at developed campgrounds with shore power.
What Is a Propane RV Water Heater?
A propane RV water heater uses a gas burner to heat the water. Most modern models still need a small amount of 12 volt power for ignition and controls, but they do not require a 120 volt hookup.
Propane systems are popular with off grid campers because they provide hot water without placing a major load on the electrical system.
Pros of a Propane RV Water Heater
Propane water heaters generally heat water faster than electric only models. They also work well while boondocking, allowing you to save generator and battery power for other equipment.
Cons of a Propane RV Water Heater
Propane is a limited onboard resource that may also power your furnace, cooktop, refrigerator, or outdoor appliances. The burner and exterior vent also require regular inspection and maintenance.
Best For:
Propane RV water heaters are ideal for boondockers, riders, hunters, and travelers who regularly camp away from electrical hookups.
What About Gas and Electric Water Heaters?
A gas and electric RV water heater can operate using propane, electricity, or both, depending on the model.
You can use electricity while connected to shore power, switch to propane off grid, and sometimes run both for faster recovery. For travelers who move between campgrounds and remote destinations, a dual fuel system often provides the most flexibility.
Key Differences at a Glance
Power Source
Electric water heaters rely on shore power, a generator, or a capable inverter system. Propane models use onboard fuel and a small amount of 12 volt power.
Off Grid Use
Propane is usually the stronger option for off grid camping. Electric models make more sense when reliable power is available.
Heating Speed
Propane water heaters typically heat water faster than electric only systems.
Energy Use
Electric models conserve propane but increase electrical demand. Propane models preserve battery and generator capacity but use fuel that must be monitored and refilled.
Noise
Electric water heaters are nearly silent. Propane systems may make some noise when the burner ignites and runs.
Can You Run an Electric RV Water Heater on Solar?
It is possible, but the RV’s electrical system must be built to handle the demand.
Heating water uses a significant amount of energy. A small solar panel and basic battery setup will usually not be enough. You may need a larger solar array, lithium battery bank, inverter, and properly sized wiring.
For many off grid campers, using propane for hot water makes more sense and leaves battery power available for lights, refrigeration, electronics, and other essential systems.
Build Around the Way You Camp
Your water heater should work with the rest of your RV. Fresh water capacity, propane storage, solar power, generator size, and electrical service all affect which setup makes the most sense.
Dune Sport builds custom toy haulers around how their owners actually travel. Whether you stay at full hookup campgrounds or head deep into the backcountry, your RV should be equipped for the adventure ahead.
Use the Dune Sport Custom Build Tool to explore trailer sizes, floor plans, power options, and available features. Then work with the Dune Sport team to create a toy hauler that fits the way you camp.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose electric if most of your trips include campground hookups and you want to conserve propane.
Choose propane if you spend more time boondocking, camping in remote areas, or traveling without dependable electrical power.
Choose a gas and electric system if you want the freedom to adapt from one trip to the next.
You should also consider how many people travel with you, how often you shower, your fresh water capacity, and the size of your RV’s electrical and propane systems.
Final Thoughts
Electric water heaters are quiet and convenient when shore power is available. Propane water heaters provide faster heating and stronger off grid performance. Dual fuel systems offer the flexibility to handle both.
Neither option is best for everyone. The right choice is the one that keeps the hot water flowing wherever the trail takes you.
CUSTOM BUILD YOUR TOY HAULER TODAY
