RV Tankless Water Heater | Great for Life on the Road

Switching your RV’s water heater from a traditional tank model to a tankless system, like the Truma AquaGo, can significantly enhance your on-the-road experience. Tankless water heaters provide an on-demand supply of hot water, which is particularly appealing for RV owners who want to enjoy long, uninterrupted showers or need hot water instantly at multiple points within the RV. Here’s a detailed look at why upgrading to a tankless water heater is a smart move, and why it’s crucial to have this installation done by a certified RV technician.

Advantages of Tankless Water Heaters

1. Endless Hot Water Supply: Unlike traditional tank water heaters, which can run out of hot water after a certain point, tankless systems heat water as it passes through the unit. This means you can enjoy continuous hot water for showers, washing dishes, or any other needs without worrying about running out.
2. Energy Efficiency: Tankless water heaters are generally more energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed, rather than keeping a tank of water constantly hot. The Truma AquaGo, for example, is propane-powered and designed for efficiency, reducing your overall energy consumption.
3. Space-Saving Design: Tankless systems are more compact, freeing up valuable space in your RV. This is especially important in an environment where every inch counts.
4. Reliable Performance in Various Conditions: High-quality tankless water heaters, like the Truma AquaGo, are equipped with features that allow them to operate efficiently even in cold conditions, provided your RV is prepared for winter. This reliability is essential for those who travel in varying climates.

Installation Considerations

Switching from a tank water heater to a tankless system involves more than just swapping units. Here are the key steps and considerations:

1. Modifying the Water and Gas Lines: The installation may require rerouting or modifying your RV’s water and gas lines to accommodate the new system. Tankless units often have different inlet and outlet configurations compared to traditional tank heaters.
2. Electrical Adjustments: Although tankless water heaters like the Truma AquaGo are primarily propane-powered, they still require a 12V electrical connection for their electronics. Ensuring that your RV’s electrical system is compatible and properly connected is crucial.
3. Ventilation Requirements: Tankless water heaters need proper ventilation to safely expel exhaust gases. The installation might require modifications to the RV’s exterior to fit a new vent or adjust existing ones.
4. Fitting the Unit: Tankless systems are designed to fit into the space left by traditional tank heaters, but some adjustments to the compartment size or door may be needed.

Why You Need a Certified RV Technician

Given the complexities involved in the installation process, it’s important to have a certified RV technician perform the work. Here’s why:

1. Expertise in RV Systems: Certified technicians have the specialized knowledge required to handle the intricacies of RV plumbing, electrical systems, and ventilation. This expertise ensures that the installation is done correctly and safely.
2. Warranty Protection: Many manufacturers, including Truma, require that their products be installed by certified professionals to maintain the warranty. An improper installation could void your warranty, leaving you without protection if something goes wrong.
3. Safety: Installing a tankless water heater involves working with gas, electricity, and water—all of which can pose safety risks if not handled correctly. Certified technicians follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents or damage to your RV.
4. Maintenance and Longevity: Proper installation by a certified technician can also impact the long-term performance and maintenance of your water heater. For instance, the Truma AquaGo includes features like an automatic decalcification process, which can be easily maintained with regular servicing by a professional.

Conclusion

Upgrading to a tankless water heater like the Truma AquaGo can vastly improve your RV lifestyle, offering endless hot water, improved energy efficiency, and space-saving benefits. However, due to the complexity of the installation, it’s essential to have this upgrade performed by a certified RV technician. Doing so not only ensures a smooth and safe installation but also protects your investment in the long run.

For more information on RV upgrades and to schedule your tankless water heater installation, contact Certified RV Repair today. Our certified technicians are ready to help you make the most of your RV adventures.