Rapid Water Heating In Campers: How Fast Can It Be?

There are several factors that determine how quickly a camper water heater can heat water. The type of heater is one of the most important factors, with gas models generally heating water faster than electric ones. The size of the water tank also matters, as smaller tanks heat up more quickly. Other factors include the outside air temperature and the incoming water temperature. For example, a gas heater with a 6-gallon tank can heat water in around 30 minutes, while a 10-gallon tank can take about 50 minutes. Electric heaters with a 6-gallon tank may take close to an hour to heat up, while a 10-gallon tank can take up to an hour and a half.

Electric heaters are slower than propane heaters

Firstly, electric heaters are safer than propane heaters. They consume almost no oxygen, so there is no risk of oxygen depletion. They also don't produce carbon monoxide, and there is no chance of leaking propane gas, which could cause a fire or worse. However, electric heaters do have some safety concerns. They need to be plugged into an electrical outlet, which narrows campsite options and requires the use of a heavy-duty extension cord to reduce the risk of fire. They also use a lot of power, and a campsite may not support the necessary electric draw. Any source of heat is a fire hazard, and a tipped electric heater could light your tent on fire.

Propane heaters, on the other hand, are more portable since they don't require an electrical outlet. They also burn very hot and can quickly warm up a small space. However, they do have some safety concerns. They deplete oxygen and can create deadly amounts of carbon monoxide. They also require the storage and transport of combustible bottles of propane, which is inconvenient and potentially dangerous.

In terms of speed, propane heaters are faster than electric heaters. Propane heaters have a recovery rate of 7.4-13.5 gallons per hour, while electric heaters recover at a rate of 5.8-6.2 gallons per hour. This means that propane heaters can heat water more quickly, making them a better option if speed is a priority.

So, while electric heaters are slower than propane heaters, they may be preferred in some situations due to their safety and convenience features. However, propane heaters are faster, more portable, and don't rely on electrical outlets, making them a better option in certain scenarios.

Gas heaters are the most common

Gas heaters are favoured for their speed. One source states that gas heaters can take as little as 5 minutes to heat water, while others suggest a range of 10 to 30 minutes. This is much faster than electric heaters, which can take up to an hour to heat water.

The speed of a gas heater is influenced by several factors. The size of the tank is one such factor, with smaller tanks heating up faster. The outside air temperature also plays a role, with colder temperatures requiring more time to heat the water. Additionally, the incoming water temperature affects heating time; water at 35 degrees will take longer to heat than water at 50 or 70 degrees.

Gas heaters are a popular choice for those camping off-grid ("boondocking") as they are more efficient than electric heaters and do not rely on access to electrical power. They are also a good option for those seeking to conserve electricity while on the road.

Solar heaters are an option

There are two types of solar water heating systems: active and passive. Active systems have circulating pumps and controls, while passive systems don't. Active systems are further divided into direct and indirect circulation systems. Direct circulation systems circulate household water through the collectors and into the home, and work well in climates where freezing is rare. Indirect circulation systems use a non-freezing heat-transfer fluid circulated through the collectors and a heat exchanger to heat the water before it flows into the home. These are popular in freezing climates.

Passive systems are typically less expensive than active systems but are usually not as efficient. However, they can be more reliable and last longer. There are two types of passive systems: integral collector-storage passive systems and thermosyphon systems. Integral collector-storage passive systems consist of a storage tank covered with a transparent material to allow the sun to heat the water. Thermosyphon systems heat water in a collector on the roof, and the water then flows through the plumbing system when a hot water faucet is opened. These systems typically have a 40-gallon capacity.

Solar water heaters can be used in cold climates, less sunny places, and a variety of conditions, although they are less effective in places with less sunlight. They can be placed on the roof, facing south, to get the best quality direct sunlight, or in other areas with direct sunlight, such as a garden or meadow.

Solar water heaters offer significant energy savings, and most households with appropriate setups will save money on their utility bills. They are also simple to install and maintain compared to solar panels that generate electricity.

Heaters with energy recovery use the motorhome's cooling circuit

The speed at which a camper water heater heats water depends on several factors, including the type of heater, power source, and size of the water tank. A 6-gallon water heater will take around 30-60 minutes to heat up, while a 10-gallon tank can take up to 90 minutes. The power source also plays a role, with gas heaters generally taking less time than electric ones. Using both gas and electric power simultaneously can further reduce heating times.

Now, let's discuss heaters with energy recovery in motorhomes. This type of heater utilises the motorhome's cooling circuit to provide hot water. In this system, an exchanger, which is essentially a tube, is placed inside the water heater's tank. The engine coolant passes through this exchanger, transferring heat to the water in the tank. This innovative design allows for the efficient use of the motorhome's existing resources to provide hot water, optimising space and energy consumption.

The water heater with energy recovery is just one of several types of water heaters available for motorhomes. Other options include instantaneous and automatic water heaters, storage water heaters (boilers), 12V or 230V electric water heaters, and even solar water heaters. Each type has its own advantages and considerations, catering to different needs and preferences.

When it comes to maintenance, it is crucial to take preventive measures to avoid issues caused by freezing temperatures. Motorhome owners should remember to drain the water circuit during winterisation to prevent cracks caused by freezing. Additionally, descaling the water heater twice a year with white vinegar is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

By understanding the various options available and implementing proper maintenance practices, motorhome owners can ensure they have access to hot water during their travels, enhancing their overall comfort and enjoyment.

Tank size impacts heat-up time

The size of your water tank has a significant impact on how long it takes to heat up. As a general rule, the larger the tank, the longer it will take. This is because larger tanks have more water that needs to be heated.

For example, a 6-gallon water heater will heat up much faster than a 10-gallon tank. A 6-gallon tank will take around 31 minutes to heat up with propane, while a 10-gallon tank will take about 51 minutes. If you're using electric heat, a 6-gallon tank will be hot in around 58 minutes, and a 10-gallon tank will take about an hour and a half.

The type of heater you have also makes a difference. Tankless water heaters, for instance, don't have a reservoir of pre-heated water, so they can provide hot water nearly instantly. On the other hand, tank water heaters take longer, typically heating water over the course of an hour or two.

The fuel source of your water heater also affects heat-up time. Gas water heaters generally heat water much faster than electric heaters. For example, an 80-gallon gas tank will heat up in 60-70 minutes, while an electric tank of the same size will take closer to 2 hours.

Additionally, the temperature of the incoming water will influence heat-up time. If the water entering the tank is colder, it will take longer to reach the desired temperature.

To get an idea of how much hot water you'll have available, you can calculate the First Hour Delivery (FHD) by multiplying the size of the tank by 0.7 and adding the recovery rate. This will give you an estimate of how much hot water the heater can provide in the first hour of operation.

Frequently asked questions