APUS RV Tankless Water Heater: 80,000 BTU Propane On-Demand, 5 GPM, 12V, CSA Certified
Product description
What it is and who it’s for
APUS’s RV Tankless Water Heater is an on-demand propane water heater designed for motorhomes and campers. With an 80,000 BTU output and a claimed 4.8 GPM of hot water, it aims to deliver continuous hot water without the need for a storage tank. It’s a compact unit that fits into tight RV installation spaces and is marketed as compatible with a range of RV setups, including a 12V DC power connection and standard NPT fittings. If you value instant hot water for showers, dishes, or kitchen cleanup while traveling, this model positions itself as a practical upgrade over conventional tank heaters.
How it performs on the road
On paper, the unit is built to operate at altitudes up to 10,000 feet, aided by a built-in exhaust fan and advanced combustion technology. It includes intelligent features like freeze protection and flame-out protection. Power use is managed by a staged combustion control, which is billed as helping conserve propane by adjusting the energy output to the incoming water temperature. The system aims to maintain a water temperature range of roughly 95–124°F, which is a comfortable middle ground for most shower or sink tasks.
What stands out in everyday use
The compact footprint (approximately 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches) and simple installation—requiring only a 12V connection and standard fittings—make it appealing for RV owners looking to replace older storage heaters or to add instant hot water where none existed. The model includes a white door for aesthetics and a remote for convenient control from inside the vehicle. The CSA certification adds a layer of perceived reliability and safety for buyers who want verified compliance.
The best-case scenarios
If you frequently boondock or travel through varying climates, the ability to generate hot water on demand can reduce fuel storage needs and shorten wait times for showers. It’s likely most attractive to RV users who want more control over hot water without stocking large tanks or relying on electricity-heavy electric heaters.
Where it may fall short
No product is perfect for every setup. A notable caveat is that performance depends on proper ventilation, ventilation settings, and maintaining adequate gas supply. At high altitude and very cold entry water, the system’s efficiency hinges on exact installation and maintenance. Some buyers may find the 4.8 GPM rating optimistic in practice if water inlet temperature is already low or if multiple hot water demands occur simultaneously.
What to check before buying
- Confirm your RV’s available space aligns with the unit’s dimensions and the 12V power requirement.
- Verify your propane supply and ducting meet the installation needs, and ensure proper ventilation in your RV.
- Assess whether your typical hot water demand (shower length, dishwashing, etc.) aligns with a 5 GPM target.
- Look at the altitude you frequently operate at, while rated to 10,000 feet, very high-altitude use can still influence performance.
How it compares to other approaches
Compared to traditional tank heaters, this model promises on-demand hot water and potential space savings. It may be more appealing than other propane variants if you want quicker recovery and less standby heat loss. If you prioritize ultra-high cold-weather performance or extremely high simultaneous hot water demand, you might explore alternatives with different flow rates or backup options. In practice, it’s often a choice between tankless convenience and the simplicity (and weight) of a tank system.
Technical snapshot
- Output: 80,000 BTU
- Flow: ~4.8 GPM
- Power: 12V DC connection
- Altitude: up to 10,000 feet
- Certification: CSA
- Inlet/outlet: standard NPT fittings
- Color/door: white door and remote included
FAQ
- How much space does it require? It’s designed to fit in compact RV spaces, with mounting and opening dimensions around the listed footprint.
- Do I need electricity to run it? Yes, a 12V DC connection is required for operation and control.
- Is it safe to use in cold weather? It includes freeze protection and safety shutoffs, but ensure proper ventilation and follow installation guidelines in low-temperature environments.
Final verdict
Is it worth it? Worth considering if you want on-demand hot water and plan to stay within an RV setup that can accommodate a 12V propane-powered system, with altitudes up to 10,000 feet in mind. It helps reduce fuel waste through smart combustion control and aims to keep water temperature within a comfortable range. You’ll want to verify space, ventilation, and your typical hot-water needs to decide if the 4.8 GPM target aligns with your daily routines. If you value quick recovery, compact installation, and CSA-certified safety, this APUS model could be a solid fit for an RV that benefits from reliable hot water on demand.
Mini FAQ (quick usage notes)
- What’s included in the box? The unit comes with a remote and mounting hardware as part of the package.
- Can it replace older storage heaters? Yes, it’s designed to be a replacement option in many RV installations with compatible opening and fittings.
- What maintenance is required? Routine inspection of gas connections, venting, and frost protection features is advisable, follow installation and user guides for safety checks.