Girard Tankless RV Water Heater (GSWH-2)

The Girard Tankless RV Water Heater is a popular upgrade for RVers wanting on-demand hot water without the weight and standby propane use of a tank system.

4.4

HitchHaven score4.4 out of 5 · our editorial rating

On-demand tankless hot water with no standby heat loss
Compact low-profile unit fits standard RV water heater cutouts
Digital on/off control panel with LED indicator mounted inside RV
Automatic ignition with safety flame sensor and freeze protection
Replaces Suburban/Atwood tank heaters without major modification
Adjustable temperature control for consistent shower comfort

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Overview Specs Pros & cons Full review Related

The verdict

The Girard Tankless RV Water Heater is a popular upgrade for RVers wanting on-demand hot water without the weight and standby propane use of a tank system. Installation is straightforward for those replacing an existing Suburban or Atwood unit, and most owners report reliable performance and genuinely unlimited hot showers. It's not perfectly plug-and-play for every rig, and very cold conditions or low water pressure can cause hiccups, but for the convenience and efficiency gains, it's a solid investment for full-time and frequent RVers.

Spec plate

Fuel Type: Propane (LP Gas)
Flow Rate: Up to 1.6 GPM
Weight: Approx. 15 lbs
BTU Output: Approx. 42,000 BTU/hr
Dimensions: Fits standard 13x13 inch RV water heater cutout

Pros & cons

What we like

Unlimited continuous hot water while propane and water supply last
Significant weight savings compared to traditional tank-style heaters
Faster hot water delivery than tank heaters after startup
Energy efficient, uses propane only when hot water is demanded
Simple retrofit into existing RV water heater bays
Reduced propane consumption over time versus tank models

What to watch

Higher upfront purchase price than standard tank heaters
Requires sufficient water pressure/flow to properly trigger ignition
Can struggle in very cold ambient temperatures without added insulation
Digital control panel wiring can be finicky during installation
Limited hot water output when running multiple fixtures simultaneously

Full review

The Girard Tankless Water Heater is purpose-built for RV owners who want consistent hot water without hauling around a bulky tank or waiting for it to recover between showers. Designed as a direct replacement for traditional RV water heaters like the Suburban or Atwood models, it slips into the same cutout space, making installation straightforward for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers. Instead of storing a fixed volume of hot water, the unit heats water on demand as it flows through the system, meaning campers get an endless supply as long as the propane and water lines keep feeding it. This on-demand approach eliminates the frustration of running out of hot water mid-shower, a common complaint with older tank-style units.

Built with RV life in mind, the Girard Tankless Water Heater features a sleek, low-profile design that doesn't just function well but also looks modern against the exterior of a camper or trailer. It includes a digital control panel, often mounted inside the RV, that allows users to adjust temperature settings precisely, so there's no more fumbling with awkward dials or guessing water temperature before stepping into the shower. The unit is engineered to work efficiently even in cooler weather, with safeguards against freezing when properly winterized, making it a practical choice for four-season camping rather than just fair-weather trips. Its compact size also means it takes up less space and weighs less than a traditional tank system, which can matter for RVers watching their overall payload capacity.

Beyond the comfort factor, the Girard Tankless Water Heater appeals to those who care about efficiency and resource management while on the road. Because it only heats water as needed rather than continuously maintaining a tank of hot water, it can reduce propane consumption over time, which is especially valuable for boondockers or those who camp off-grid for extended periods. The unit is compatible with standard RV plumbing and propane systems, so retrofitting an older rig is generally manageable without extensive modifications. For RV owners upgrading their rigs or builders outfitting a new camper, this tankless system represents a shift toward smarter, more space-conscious, and resource-efficient hot water solutions tailored specifically to the demands of mobile living.

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