Keeping an RV warm and comfortable requires the right electric heating setup for both living space and hot water needs. Below is a concise comparison of five selected RV electric heater solutions covering wall-mounted space heaters, tank and tankless water heaters, and hybrid conversion kits. Each product review links directly to the Amazon listing and cites the manufacturer features to help you match capabilities to your rig and lifestyle.
| Product | Type | Power / Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suburban Wall Mount RV Heater | Space Heater | Variable settings, single-speed fan | Compact interior heating |
| Dreo Smart Wall Heater | Smart Space Heater | 1500W, 120° oscillation | Even distribution, app/voice control |
| Fogatti InstaShower 7 | Tankless Water Heater | 2.5 GPM, 48,000 BTU | High-demand hot water for families |
| Feelrogast 8 Gallon Mini Tank | Electric Tank Water Heater | 8 Gallon, 1500W | Point-of-use hot water, short waits |
| Briidea RV Electric Hybrid Kit | Hybrid Electric Conversion | 120V electric heating element | Convert LP tank to electric backup |
Suburban Wall Mount RV Heater
This compact, wall-mounted heater is designed to deliver warm, localized air for RV cabins and small spaces. The manufacturer highlights a slim profile of less than 5 inches thick, intended to minimize intrusion into interior living areas.
- Design: Slim, wall-mounted form factor aimed at discrete placement.
- Controls: Adjustable thermostat and variable heat settings for tailored comfort.
- Air Distribution: Single-speed internal fan for gentle airflow, suitable for small to medium compartments.
- Use Case: Interior heating where space is limited and a low-profile unit is preferred.
Information provided focuses on ergonomic installation and adjustable comfort settings. Verify voltage/power compatibility and mounting clearances in your RV prior to purchase.
Dreo Smart Wall Heater
The Dreo Smart Wall Heater is positioned as a connected, oscillating wall-mounted heater with features intended for even distribution and remote control. Manufacturer specifications emphasize a 120° vertical oscillation and a PTC ceramic heating element.
- Widespread Warmth: 120° oscillation for top-to-bottom distribution to reduce cold spots.
- Smart Control: App scheduling, remote control, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Home.
- Temperature Accuracy: Adjustable 41–95°F range with claimed 1°F precision, useful for maintaining setpoints.
- Power: Rated at 1500W, typical for high-efficiency space heaters in constrained electrical environments.
These features make the unit relevant for owners who want programmable schedules and voice controls. Confirm RV electrical limitations and circuit capacity when evaluating a 1500W wall heater.
Fogatti InstaShower 7 Tankless
The Fogatti InstaShower 7 is a high-output tankless water heater promoted for RV refitment with multiple door sizes for installation flexibility. It lists a 48,000 BTU output and up to 2.5 gallons per minute hot water delivery.
- Installation Options: Three door sizes (15″x15″, 15″x18″, 18″x18″) to facilitate refits; door sold separately.
- Performance: 2.5 GPM and 48,000 BTU, aimed at busy families or simultaneous hot water demands.
- Altitude Mode: High-altitude suitability mode up to 9,800 feet and staged combustion to reduce cold spots.
- Energy Use: Tankless operation engages burners only when hot water is demanded, reducing standby energy compared with tanks.
As a gas-fired tankless option with RV-specific features, evaluate ventilation, fuel supply, and clearances required for safe installation. The product description stresses continuous hot water and anti-scald protections.
Feelrogast 8 Gallon Mini Tank
The Feelrogast model is an 8-gallon electric mini tank water heater billed for under-sink or near-point-of-use installation in RVs, campers, food trucks, and similar applications. It emphasizes rapid reheat and stainless steel construction.
- Instant Hot Water: Rapid reheat with a stainless steel heating element for high thermal efficiency.
- Build Quality: 316 stainless steel tank with enamel layers and pressure-resistant construction.
- Safety: Multiple protections including electrical insulation, leakage protection plug, and auto temperature control.
- Mounting: Can be installed wall- or floor-mounted depending on space and plumbing layout.
This product targets point-of-use needs where a small reservoir can reduce cold-water wait times without the complexity of tankless power or fuel requirements. Check amperage and circuit protection requirements before installation.
Briidea RV Electric Hybrid Kit
The Briidea kit is designed to convert existing LP-powered RV water heaters to permit 120V electric heating as a secondary or backup option. It is intended as an add-on to Atwood and Suburban tanks using brass bushing adapters.
- Conversion Concept: Adds electric heating capability so the tank is not wholly dependent on propane.
- Compatibility: Brass bushings available in 1/2″ and 3/4″ sizes to fit common tanks; connects where the anode rod/drain plug is located.
- Controls: Independent switch and adjustable thermostat for user control of electric heating.
- Use Case: Useful for shore power use, reducing propane reliance and providing freeze protection when plugged in.
The kit targets owners who want redundancy or the option to use campsite power. Installation requires mechanical fit with the tank’s anode/drain location and basic electrical wiring following safety codes.
Buying Guide
This buying guide highlights the key considerations when selecting an RV electric heater or electric hot water solution. It covers system types, electrical requirements, installation factors, safety, energy use, and matching product capabilities to real-world RV scenarios.
Heat Type And Intended Use
Clarify whether you need a space heater for living-area warmth or an electric water heater for washing and showers. Space heaters (wall-mounted or portable) focus on ambient air warming and typically require less plumbing. Water heaters fall into two broad categories: mini tank (limited gallons stored, quicker recovery) and tankless (on-demand, continuous flow).
Power Source And Electrical Capacity
RV electrical systems vary: 12V, 120V shore power, and generator output are common. Space heaters at 1500W and electric water heater elements require dedicated circuits and sufficient amperage. Check your RV’s converter/inverter capacity, shore power rating, and circuit breaker sizes before purchase.
Installation And Mounting
Wall-mounted space heaters need clearances and secure mounting surfaces. Mini tanks require plumbing drains or pressure relief provisions. Hybrid kits and tankless units often need panel cutouts and proper venting. Confirm required door sizes, clearances, and whether professional installation is recommended for gas or hybrid conversions.
Heating Output And Capacity
Compare space heater wattage and oscillation features for distribution versus localized warmth. For water heaters, consider GPM (gallons per minute) for tankless units and tank capacity for stored systems. Higher GPM or larger tanks better support showers and multiple simultaneous uses.
Controls, Scheduling, And Smart Features
Smart features like app control, scheduling, and voice commands provide convenience and allow pre-heating on shore power. For water systems, adjustable thermostats and anti-scald protection are important. Evaluate whether remote access and precise temperature control are priorities for your setup.
Safety Features And Certifications
Key safety elements include thermal cutoffs, anti-scald protection, leakage detection, and IP ratings for electrical devices. Look for products with recognized certifications and clear manufacturer guidance on safe operation in mobile environments.
Tank Vs Tankless: Comparison Perspective
Tank systems provide immediate stored hot water and simpler electrical requirements for small tanks, but they have standby losses and limited capacity. Tankless systems offer continuous hot water and reduced standby energy but demand higher instantaneous power or fuel and may require larger venting and installation complexity. Match performance needs to available power and space.
Energy Efficiency And Operating Costs
Electric solutions are generally efficient at point-of-use, especially mini tanks and tankless units that eliminate long plumbing runs. Tankless systems save standby energy but may require more energy during peak demand. For space heating, ceramic PTC elements and variable thermostats can improve comfort per watt.
Compatibility And Retrofit Considerations
Retrofitting an existing RV may require custom door sizes, mounting brackets, or adapter bushings. The availability of multiple door sizes or brass bushings, as noted in some product specs, eases refitment. Measure existing cutouts and confirm part compatibility before ordering.
Maintenance And Longevity
Regular maintenance includes checking anode rods (for tanks), flushing to reduce mineral buildup, and verifying venting and seals for gas components. Tankless systems have water quality sensitivity—hard water may require filters or more frequent maintenance. Assess replacement part availability for long-term serviceability.
Multi-Perspective Comparison Checklist
- Space Needs: Choose a low-profile wall heater for tight cabins or oscillating units for even distribution.
- Power Limits: Match heater wattage to available shore power or generator capacity; avoid overloading circuits.
- Hot Water Demand: Estimate shower and sink usage to choose between mini tank capacity and tankless GPM.
- Installation Complexity: Determine whether you’ll handle DIY or require professional installation for fuel or venting work.
- Backup and Redundancy: Consider hybrid kits to add electric backup to propane systems for flexibility and freeze protection.
Final Fit Checklist Before Purchase
- Measure available mounting space and door/cutout dimensions.
- Verify electrical service (voltage, breaker size, and shore power limits).
- Confirm fuel or venting requirements for gas or hybrid units.
- Assess noise and airflow in the intended cabin location.
- Compare warranty, parts availability, and installation documentation.