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Buying guide · 10 min read · Updated October 2, 2026

2 Best Tankless Replacement For 6 Gallon RV Water Heater in 2026: A Practical RV Guide

Two 6 gallon propane and electric tank heaters compared as drop-in replacements for an RV water heater, with interior panel or remote control.

Bowen HigginsBy Bowen HigginsRV Editor at RV Gear Lab2 products comparedSpec-sheet researched

At a glance

Our top picks

At a glance · 2 picks

  1. CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater
    Best OverallCAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater↓ See why we picked it
    Check price
  2. KINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater
    Best with RemoteKINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater↓ See why we picked it
    Check price

Owners who search for a tankless replacement for a 6 gallon RV water heater usually want the same thing: hot water that does not run out halfway through a shower. A 6 gallon tank holds a limited reserve, and once it is spent you wait for it to reheat. Tankless heaters promise endless hot water, which sounds like a fix, though they come with their own demands on gas flow, venting and cutout size.

The two products available for this search are 6 gallon tank heaters, not tankless units, so the real comparison here is tank versus tank. Both are propane and electric hybrids that fit most 4 to 6 gallon cutouts, which makes them true drop-in replacements for a worn-out Suburban, Atwood or Dometic. That is often the most practical path, because a tankless conversion can mean a different cutout, door and gas or electrical supply.

We compared the CAMPLUX and the KINGRVER on control method, ignition, tank construction, fit and the extras that come with each. Both cost $399.99, so price does not separate them. If you want a true tankless heater, the tankless guides on this site cover those, along with what to check on your cutout, door size and 12 volt supply before you commit.

RV Gear Lab field notes

The Rig Fit Check

Start with the job
CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater leads this shortlist for Owners wanting a drop-in heater with interior controls. Use that fit as a reference point, then compare the alternatives against your own space and workload.
Specs that separate the picks
The first details to compare are 6 gallon propane and electric, 6 gallon hybrid. Confirm the exact model and included components before ordering.
Trade-off to plan for
Not a tankless heater

Before you buy

What Matters Before You Choose a Tankless Replacement For 6 Gallon RV Water Heater

Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.

  1. 01

    Tank versus tankless design

    A tank heater stores hot water, and a tankless heater makes it on demand. A 6 gallon tank runs out after a few minutes of heavy use, then needs time to recover. Check the product title for the word tankless, and remember that both models here are tank heaters that fit the same opening as a standard replacement, so no wall or cabinet changes are needed.

  2. 02

    Cutout and clearance fit

    A replacement heater must fit the existing cutout and leave room for venting. Both models fit most 4 to 6 gallon openings, and the KINGRVER needs about 3 inches of added clearance. Measure your cutout, door and surrounding cabinet space, and compare those numbers with the product dimensions before you order, and leave extra room for the vent and a service hand.

  3. 03

    Fuel and hybrid modes

    A hybrid heater can burn propane, use electric heat or combine them. Propane suits dry camping, and electric saves propane at campgrounds with hookups. Look for the available modes in the description, and check whether the heater has three modes or a selector, since flexibility lets you choose the cheapest or fastest option on any given trip, from a sunny hookup to a cold boondock.

  4. 04

    Control panel or remote

    An interior panel is fixed and always available, while a remote lets you adjust from anywhere. The CAMPLUX uses an interior panel and the KINGRVER uses a remote covering 104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Decide which you prefer, and check whether the remote needs batteries and where the panel mounts, since a dead remote battery should never leave you without hot water.

  5. 05

    Tank lining and anode rod

    A porcelain-lined tank with an anode rod resists corrosion, which extends the life of the heater. The anode rod is a sacrificial part that corrodes in place of the tank, and it needs checking and replacing over time. Look for the lining and anode details, and plan to inspect the rod yearly, because a spent rod leaves the tank steel exposed to corrosion.

  6. 06

    Ignition and 12 volt supply

    Gas mode on many hybrid heaters needs 12 volt DC power for ignition. The KINGRVER uses 12 volt DC gas ignition, so a weak battery can stop it from lighting. Check the ignition type and your battery health, and make sure the 12 volt supply to the heater is fused and reliable, since low voltage is a common reason a gas heater refuses to light.

Our standards

Why You Can Trust RV Gear Lab

At RV Gear Lab, we compare products based on rig fit and power or hookup compatibility, verified specifications, usability, setup requirements, weight, durability, and real-world trade-offs. We do not rank products purely on marketing claims or commission rates.

We have not personally tested every product listed. Where hands-on testing is not available, recommendations are based on verified manufacturer specifications, product documentation, use-case fit, and comparative research.

How we review RV gear →

Detailed reviews

The 2 best tankless replacement for 6 gallon rv water heater, explained

01

Best Overall · 1 of 2

CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater

CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater
  • 6 gallon propane and electric
  • Interior control panel
  • Three modes
Check price on Amazon for CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater (opens in a new tab)
Best for: Owners wanting a drop-in heater with interior controls

Our take

This is the best match for owners who want a drop-in 6 gallon hybrid with a clear, fixed control panel inside the coach.

Why it made the shortlist

The CAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black is a propane and electric hybrid water heater that works as a direct replacement for most Suburban and Dometic 4 to 6 gallon models. It offers three heating modes and one-click temperature adjustment from an interior control panel. The tank is porcelain-lined and uses an anode rod to fight corrosion, and propane operation means hot water is available when you are dry camping. It costs $399.99.

Against a true tankless heater, it stores a reserve of hot water, which keeps installation simple because it fits the same opening as the heater it replaces. The three modes let you choose propane, electric or both depending on what you have available.

It suits travel trailer and motorhome owners swapping a failed heater who value simple installation and dry-camping capability.

What works

  • Interior panel sets modes and temperature
  • Porcelain-lined tank with anode rod
  • Drop-in fit for 4 to 6 gallon units
  • Propane operation for dry camping

Watch out for

  • Not a tankless heater
  • Venting and cutout fit need checking
Check price on Amazon for CAMPLUX 6 Gallon RV Water Heater (opens in a new tab)
02

Best with Remote · 2 of 2

KINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater

KINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater
  • 6 gallon hybrid
  • Remote 104 to 140°F
  • 12V DC gas ignition
Check price on Amazon for KINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater (opens in a new tab)
Best for: Owners wanting remote temperature control

Our take

This pick suits owners who like the convenience of remote control, such as those who want to preheat water before they reach the sink or who keep the heater cabinet in an awkward spot.

Why it made the shortlist

The KINGRVER 6 Gallon is a gas, electric or hybrid heater with a remote controller that sets water temperature between 104 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. In gas mode the burner uses 12 volt DC ignition, and the unit fits common Suburban, Atwood and Dometic setups. It costs $399.99, the same as the CAMPLUX.

Against the CAMPLUX Black, which uses an interior panel, the KINGRVER hands you a remote, so you can adjust the temperature from anywhere in the coach, including the shower or the couch. Against a true tankless heater, it stores a reserve of hot water, which keeps the installation familiar and the cutout unchanged. The remote also lets you pick gas, electric or hybrid mode without reaching for a wall panel.

It is a natural fit for owners replacing a heater in a trailer where reaching the interior panel is inconvenient.

What works

  • Remote controller included
  • Gas, electric or hybrid mode
  • Fits common 4 to 6 gallon setups
  • Remote sets 104 to 140 degrees

Watch out for

  • Not a tankless heater
  • Needs 3 inches of added clearance
Check price on Amazon for KINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water Heater (opens in a new tab)

Methodology

How We Built This Shortlist

Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.

01

Fit as a drop-in replacement

A replacement heater must fit the existing opening. We compared the stated fit for 4 to 6 gallon cutouts and for Suburban, Atwood and Dometic models, and we noted the extra clearance one of the heaters requires around the unit.

02

Control method

The way you set the temperature affects daily use. We compared the interior control panel on the CAMPLUX with the remote controller on the KINGRVER, including the remote's 104 to 140 degree range and how each handles mode selection.

03

Fuel and mode flexibility

Hybrid heaters run on propane, electricity or both. We compared the three heating modes and the 12 volt DC gas ignition, since fuel flexibility decides whether you get hot water when dry camping or when plugged into shore power.

04

Tank construction and corrosion care

Tank life depends on lining and corrosion protection. We looked at the porcelain-lined tank and anode rod on the CAMPLUX, and we noted how each maker describes its tank so owners can plan for long-term maintenance.

05

Value and tank versus tankless honesty

Both heaters cost $399.99, so value depends on features and fit. We were clear that these are tank heaters, not tankless, and we compared what each offers against what a buyer expecting endless hot water might need.

Decision guide

Match a Tankless Replacement For 6 Gallon RV Water Heater to Your RV

By Control Preference

How you want to control the water temperature is the main thing separating these two heaters. Think about whether you prefer a fixed panel or a handheld remote.

Your preferenceRecommended pickWhy
A fixed interior panel with nothing to loseCAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black RV Water HeaterMode and temperature are set from an interior control panel with no remote to misplace.
A remote from anywhere in the coachKINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water HeaterThe remote sets 104 to 140 degrees F without reaching a wall panel.
Simple on, off and temperature onlyCAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black RV Water HeaterOne-click temperature and three clear modes keep operation simple for guests.
Adjusting heat before reaching the sinkKINGRVER 6 Gallon RV Tank Water HeaterRemote control lets you start or adjust heating ahead of time.

By Budget

Both heaters share the same $399.99 price, so budget is less of a factor than usual. Here is how to think about the cost and the extras around it.

BudgetRecommended pick
Under $400 total with installationEither heater at $399.99 is the full cost, plus any supplies for the swap.
Around $400 with the simplest controlsCAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black at $399.99 uses a built-in interior panel.
Around $400 with remote convenienceKINGRVER 6 Gallon at $399.99 includes a remote controller in the box.

Tank Heater vs True Tankless

The search phrase suggests a tankless heater, though these two are tank models. Understanding the difference helps you decide if a tank is truly what you need.

Tank heater

The CAMPLUX and KINGRVER store 6 gallons of hot water and fit the same opening as the unit they replace. Installation is straightforward, and propane or electric operation works for dry camping, though the supply runs out after a long shower.

Tankless

A true tankless heater produces hot water on demand, which means it does not run out. It usually needs more gas flow, specific venting and sometimes a different cutout or door, so it is a bigger project than a drop-in swap.

Most owners replacing a failed heater should pick a drop-in tank model, and look at the tankless guides only if endless hot water is a priority.

By Existing Heater Brand

Fitting the existing opening is half the job, so your current heater brand helps narrow the choice. Both models fit common brands, and one needs extra clearance.

Your current heaterRecommended pick
Suburban or Dometic 4 to 6 gallonCAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black is a direct replacement for most of those models.
Atwood, Suburban or DometicKINGRVER 6 Gallon fits common Suburban, Atwood and Dometic setups.
Tight cabinet with little clearanceCAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black, since the KINGRVER needs about 3 inches of added clearance.

For Dry Camping and Off-Grid Use Specifically

Hot water without shore power depends on propane, and ignition type matters too. Here is what to look for when you boondock for days without any hookups.

Look for

Propane or hybrid operation, an ignition system that works from the coach battery, a reliable tank and clear controls. Check that your 12 volt supply is healthy, since gas ignition on a hybrid heater draws a little battery power.

In this comparison

The KINGRVER uses 12 volt DC gas ignition with gas, electric or hybrid mode, and the CAMPLUX runs on propane for dry camping with a porcelain-lined tank and anode, so both work off grid.

When to Spend More

Both heaters cost $399.99, so the real question is whether to spend more on a tankless system instead. Here is how to decide where the extra money goes.

Spend more if

Spend more on a true tankless system if long showers and endless hot water matter more than an easy swap. Expect higher cost, venting and a different cutout, which makes the project larger than a drop-in replacement.

Save if

Save with the CAMPLUX or KINGRVER at $399.99 if you want a simple, reliable swap for a worn-out 6 gallon heater. You keep the same opening, a hybrid fuel system and no major modifications.

FAQ

Before You Bring One Home

Are these tankless water heaters?

No, both the CAMPLUX and the KINGRVER are 6 gallon tank heaters that store hot water. They are propane and electric hybrids that fit most 4 to 6 gallon cutouts. If you want true on-demand hot water, look at the tankless guides on this site and check the extra requirements.

Will either heater fit my existing cutout?

Both are designed for most 4 to 6 gallon openings, and the CAMPLUX is a direct replacement for most Suburban and Dometic models, while the KINGRVER fits common Suburban, Atwood and Dometic setups. Measure the cutout, door and clearances first, since the KINGRVER needs about 3 inches of added clearance.

Which is better, the CAMPLUX or the KINGRVER?

They cost the same at $399.99, so it comes down to control and clearance. The CAMPLUX has an interior panel and needs less room, while the KINGRVER offers a remote controller and gas, electric or hybrid modes. Choose the control style that suits your daily habits.

How do I install a replacement heater?

Turn off propane and power, drain the tank, disconnect the gas, water and electrical lines, and remove the old unit. Fit the new heater into the cutout, reconnect everything, check gas connections for leaks and flush the system before use. A professional can handle the gas work if you prefer.

Does the heater work without shore power?

Yes, in propane mode both heaters heat water without shore power, though gas ignition needs 12 volt power from your battery. The CAMPLUX and KINGRVER both offer propane or hybrid operation, which is useful for dry camping. Keep your coach battery healthy so the ignition works reliably.

How do I maintain the tank?

Drain and flush the tank a couple of times a year, inspect the anode rod and replace it when it is mostly consumed, and winterize the heater before freezing weather. A porcelain-lined tank with an anode rod lasts longer when the rod is kept fresh and the tank is flushed regularly.

Bottom line

The short version

For most owners replacing a worn-out 6 gallon heater, the CAMPLUX 6 Gallon Black is the best match here, with an interior control panel, three modes, a porcelain-lined tank with an anode rod and a drop-in fit. At $399.99 it is a simple, reliable swap.

The KINGRVER 6 Gallon costs the same and adds a remote controller with a 104 to 140 degree range, though it needs about 3 inches of extra clearance. Neither is a tankless heater, so look at the tankless guides if endless hot water is the goal.

Browse more tankless replacement for 6 gallon rv water heater on Amazon →
Bowen Higgins, RV Editor at RV Gear Lab

About the author

Bowen Higgins

RV Editor at RV Gear Lab

Bowen covers RV power, water systems, towing and leveling, upkeep and interior comfort, with a focus on matching gear to the rig, the hookups and the way you actually travel.

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