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How to Choose the Best Tankless Water Heater for Your RV or Tiny Home
Introduction: Big Comfort in Small Spaces
Downsizing has become a lifestyle choice for many in 2025. Whether it's full-time RV living, building a custom van, or embracing tiny home culture, the shift toward minimalism continues to grow. But even as people scale back on square footage, there's one thing they don’t want to compromise on: hot water.
Enter the tankless water heater — a space-saving solution ideal for compact living. Choosing the right one for your RV, camper van, or tiny home requires more than just selecting a compact model. You need a solution that’s energy-efficient, reliable, and capable of keeping up with your lifestyle.
Let’s explore what to look for and highlight top choices from Eccotemp, one of the most trusted names in water heating for off-grid living and sleek tankless water heater designs.
Why Tankless Water Heating Is Perfect for RVs and Tiny Homes
Tiny homes and RVs have unique challenges when it comes to heating water. Limited space, fluctuating water pressure, off-grid scenarios, and variable climates all factor into performance. That’s why tankless technology is a favorite among the small-space living crowd.
Instead of storing hot water, a portable tankless system heats water on demand, helping you maximize both energy efficiency and available space. With the right configuration, you can enjoy a warm shower, wash dishes, or clean up after an adventure—without delay or worry about running out.
Key Considerations Before Buying
Before choosing a model, it’s important to think about how and where you’ll be using it. One of the first factors to consider is the flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM). This tells you how much hot water can be delivered at one time. For solo van lifers or weekend RVers, a flow rate of 1.5 to 2.0 GPM is often sufficient. For full-time tiny home living with multiple water outlets, a higher GPM in the range of 2.5 to 3.0 is typically ideal.
You should also determine your preferred power source. For mobile setups, propane is a popular option, especially in off-grid environments where electrical power may be limited or unavailable. In contrast, electric models work well when you have access to consistent shore power or solar setups.
Portability is another key factor. Some water heaters are lightweight and easy to move, which is especially helpful for seasonal RVers or campers who need hot water occasionally but not constantly. The installation type is equally important. Wall-mounted options are popular in tiny homes where vertical space is available, while floor or compartment installations are often preferred in RVs.
Top Eccotemp Tankless Water Heaters for RVs and Tiny Homes
Eccotemp offers a wide selection of water heaters designed specifically for compact living. Below are some of the top-performing models well-suited for RVs, camper vans, and tiny homes.
Eccotemp L5 Portable Tankless Water Heater
The Eccotemp L5 is a popular choice among adventurers and off-grid enthusiasts. This lightweight and compact water heater is designed for temporary outdoor installation, making it perfect for mobile van lifers, weekend campers, or those setting up outdoor showers. It activates automatically when water starts to flow and shuts off when the water stops, offering an energy-efficient experience with minimal hassle.
The L5 delivers up to 1.5 gallons per minute and runs on propane, requiring only two D-cell batteries for ignition. When paired with a 12V water pump, it performs consistently even in remote environments. Many users appreciate how easy it is to carry, install, and use on the go.
Eccotemp L10 Portable Tankless Water Heater
For those needing a higher flow rate, the Eccotemp L10 is a strong choice. With a capacity of up to 3.0 gallons per minute, it provides enough hot water for a shower and a small sink to run simultaneously. This makes it an ideal option for small families or couples living in a converted bus or tiny home.
The L10 is propane-powered and features battery ignition for easy operation. It is designed for outdoor use, often mounted to the side of an RV or on the exterior wall of a tiny home. With clear temperature controls, safety shut-off features for overheating and flame failure, and a compact design, the L10 offers a dependable and efficient water heating solution for compact lifestyles.
Eccotemp Luxe Portable Outdoor Models
Eccotemp’s Elite Luxe series features two powerful outdoor models: the EL5, EL7 and the EL10. These portable tankless water heaters are designed with improved performance and durability in mind, offering enhanced safety features and reliable hot water delivery on the road.
The EL5 delivers up to 1.5 gallons per minute and is great for travelers who need quick, on-the-go hot water. The middle sized Luxe EL7 offers in between around 1.85 GPM, offering balance lightweight and higher capacity. The EL10, with a flow rate of up to 3.0 gallons per minute, is ideal for those who have greater water demands or multiple fixtures in use.
These models run on propane and feature battery ignition, making them suitable for off-grid use. Its compact designs include upgraded safety shut-offs, user-friendly inset knobs, and a modern weather proof paint finish that blends well with contemporary outdoor setups. With high-altitude capability and rugged construction, the EL series is well-suited for serious travelers, remote cabins, and full-time RVers alike.
Eccotemp Electric Mini Tank Water Heaters
Eccotemp’s Electric Mini Tank Water Heaters provide an ideal solution for those who need hot water instantly at a specific location—such as a kitchen sink or bathroom vanity—without waiting for the water to travel from a central source. These electric-powered water heaters are available in multiple capacities, including 2.5, 4.0, and 7.0 gallons, and they run on standard 110/120V power.
These mini tanks are designed for point-of-use installations and can be mounted on a wall or placed on the floor, usually beneath a sink. They are especially useful in RVs, van conversions, and tiny homes where plumbing lines are short and space is extremely limited. With their compact design and fast recovery times, they help reduce water waste and provide reliable hot water for hand washing, or cleaning.
Many tiny homeowners and RVers install these electric mini tanks as supplemental hot water sources or use them as standalone solutions for low-demand fixtures. They are simple to install, low-maintenance, and extremely efficient for their size, making them a smart addition to any small living space.
Installation Tips for RVs and Tiny Homes
Proper installation is crucial to ensure your water heater functions safely and efficiently. If your setup involves propane lines or electrical wiring, it’s best to hire a certified installer to avoid safety risks. For models installed indoors, make sure there is adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. In colder climates, always protect your heater and water lines from freezing.
If your water system relies on gravity-fed tanks or low-pressure sources, consider adding a pressure-regulating pump like the eccoflo 12V Pump to maintain consistent flow. And before purchasing, double-check that the heater is compatible with your plumbing configuration, available space, and intended water usage.
Eco-Friendly Living Starts with Smarter Water Heating
In 2025, more people are prioritizing sustainability and efficiency in every aspect of their lives—including how they heat water. Tankless water heaters help reduce energy usage and minimize water waste, making them a smart choice for environmentally conscious RVers and tiny home dwellers. Whether you're living off the grid, traveling full time, or building your dream minimalist space, choosing the right water heater is essential to comfort and convenience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best tankless water heater for your RV or tiny home means matching your water usage, power availability, and space limitations with the right solution. Consider how often you’ll need hot water, the number of taps or showers you’ll be running, and whether you want a permanent installation or something more portable.
From the adventure-ready L5 to the high-flow EL10, and from compact electric mini tanks to versatile propane-powered options, Eccotemp offers a range of reliable water heaters designed for life on the move. With the right model in place, you can enjoy the benefits of hot water wherever the road—or your foundation—takes you.
