A Quick Overview of How RV Water Heaters Work
For any RV traveler, a reliable hot water supply is a home comfort that they simply can’t go without. Whether it’s for a steaming cup of coffee or a relaxing hot shower, understanding your RV water heater is crucial to making the most of your mobile living experience. Let’s dive into the functionality of these heaters to demystify the heating process and explore the options you have wherever your RV takes you. Here’s our quick overview of how RV water heaters work.
Types of RV Water Heaters
To best understand the functionality of an RV’s water heater, you first need to know which type is in your RV. Water heating systems for RVs feature two primary types: tank water heaters and tankless (on-demand) water heaters. Each has its pros and cons, tailored to different RVers’ needs and lifestyles.
Tank Water Heaters
Most RVs come equipped with tank water heaters, which store water in a reservoir and maintain it at a preset temperature. They operate using either propane, electricity, or a combination of both, which is known as dual-mode. Tank water heaters are very easy to run and maintain, but they can be less energy-efficient and offer a limited volume of hot water compared to their tankless counterparts.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters only heat the amount of water needed when it’s needed. This means they can provide a continuous supply of hot water, but they do require a higher initial investment. RVers appreciate tankless heaters for their energy efficiency and space-saving design, making them a popular choice for those with larger RVs or those concerned with resource conservation.
The Heating Process
Once you know which type of water heater your RV has, you can better follow the process of how RV water heaters work. The heating process for tank and tankless water heaters follows similar steps, starting with cold water and concluding with the delivery of hot water to your taps. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Cold Water In
The cold water enters the RV water heater system, either directly from your RV’s fresh water tank or through an external hookup. It then travels through the water lines to the heating unit.
Heat Source Activation
The heat source for your water heater activates using a propane burner or an electric element. For dual-mode heaters, you might toggle between propane and electric heating elements depending on availability and convenience.
Heat Exchange
With the energy source active, the heat exchange process begins. In tank systems, the bottom of the tank heats up, which warms the water within. In tankless systems, the heat exchanger element directly heats the water as it passes through.
Temperature Sensors
Both tank and tankless systems have temperature sensors that monitor and maintain the water’s desired heat levels. These sensors play a crucial role in preventing the water from reaching scalding temperatures or falling below what’s comfortable for regular use.
Hot Water Out
Once the water reaches the appropriate temperature, it’s ready for use. It flows from the tank or through the tankless system and out to your kitchen, shower, or any other water outlet in your RV.
A little understanding can go a long way when it comes to keeping your water heater in top shape. Should you ever need a few extra parts for your RV, United RV Center is here to help. We carry a series of replacement parts, as well as RV electric water heater units. This way, you’re never left without the hot water you need while on the road.
