Top-Rated Solar Water Heaters for RVs & Campers: An Actionable Guide

For those who enjoy the freedom and adventure of RV and camper living, having access to hot water is a luxury that can transform your experience. Whether you're camping in the wild, parking in a remote area, or simply living the RV life full-time, having a reliable and eco-friendly way to heat water can significantly improve comfort while reducing your reliance on traditional energy sources. Solar water heaters for RVs and campers provide an excellent solution for on-the-go hot water needs, offering both sustainability and convenience.

In this guide, we'll delve into why solar water heaters are perfect for RVs and campers, the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a system, and provide a list of the top-rated solar water heaters tailored for mobile living.

Why Choose a Solar Water Heater for RVs & Campers?

Solar water heaters are ideal for those who want to embrace a sustainable, off-grid lifestyle while ensuring they have access to hot water for daily activities. Here's why solar water heaters should be at the top of your list:

1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Solar water heaters operate on renewable energy --- the sun --- which means they don't emit carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. If you're living in an RV or camper, this is an ideal way to reduce your environmental footprint while still enjoying modern comforts like hot showers, cooking, and cleaning.

• Zero electricity consumption : Solar water heaters don't require grid power, which is perfect for off-grid living and camping.
• Sustainable travel: By using solar energy, you contribute to the preservation of the environment, aligning with the eco-conscious traveler ethos.

2. Cost Savings

Though the upfront cost of installing a solar water heater can be significant, it pays for itself over time by eliminating the need for fuel or electricity to heat water. Given that RV and camper owners often rely on propane or electrical hookups for water heating, switching to solar can cut down on these recurring expenses.

• No need for propane : Solar heaters replace the need for propane-powered water heaters, saving you money on fuel.
• Lower energy bills: With solar power, your RV's or camper's energy consumption can be reduced significantly.

3. Independence from Hookups

Whether you're dry camping in the wilderness or traveling across remote areas, relying on solar water heating gives you more freedom. You won't need to find electrical hookups or search for propane refills to ensure you have hot water.

• Off-grid living : Solar water heaters work in remote locations, making them perfect for boondocking, camping, or exploring nature without the need for external power sources.
• Long-lasting reliability : With proper maintenance, a solar water heater can last for decades, making it a long-term solution for your water heating needs.

4. Compact and Versatile

Solar water heaters designed for RVs and campers are compact and easy to install. They're designed to fit within the limited space available in RVs while still providing enough hot water for daily needs like showers and dishwashing.

• Space-efficient designs: These systems are made to be compact and modular, fitting into the tight space of an RV or camper.
• Low maintenance : Once installed, solar water heaters require minimal maintenance, making them hassle-free for travelers.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Solar Water Heater for Your RV or Camper

Before you invest in a solar water heater for your RV or camper, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you select the best system for your needs. Here are the most important aspects to take into account:

1. Water Heating Capacity

The amount of hot water you require depends on how many people are using the RV and the activities you'll be performing. A single person on a solo camping trip will have different needs than a family of four on a road trip.

• How many users: The more people in your RV, the larger the system you'll need. Consider a system that can provide enough hot water for showers, dishwashing, and other daily activities.
• Flow rate: The flow rate indicates how much hot water the system can deliver in a given period (usually measured in gallons per minute). Look for systems that can provide at least 1-2 gallons per minute to ensure comfortable hot water delivery.

Actionable Tip: Estimate your daily hot water usage based on your activities (showers, cooking, etc.) and the number of people, and choose a system with a sufficient flow rate.

2. System Type: Thermosyphon vs. Pumped Systems

There are two main types of solar water heaters to consider for your RV or camper: thermosyphon and pumped systems. Both types have their advantages, depending on your needs.

• Thermosyphon system: This is a passive system where hot water rises naturally through the system due to convection, without the need for a pump. It's typically more affordable and simpler, with fewer components that could fail.
• Pumped system: This active system uses a pump to circulate water between the collector and the tank. It's usually more efficient, especially in cooler climates or for larger systems, but it requires more complex installation and maintenance.

Actionable Tip : If you're looking for a simpler, low-maintenance system and have a small RV, a thermosyphon system may be the best choice. However, for larger RVs or colder climates, a pumped system may offer greater performance.

3. Solar Collector Type

Solar collectors are the component of the system that absorbs sunlight and heats the water. There are several types of solar collectors, but the two most common for RVs and campers are flat-plate collectors and evacuated tube collectors.

• Flat-plate collectors : These are typically cheaper and work well in areas with consistent sunlight. They are more commonly used in RV and camper solar water heaters.
• Evacuated tube collectors: These are more efficient in colder climates and areas with less sunlight, as they capture heat more effectively.

Actionable Tip : If you're mainly traveling in sunny, warm regions, flat-plate collectors will work perfectly. If you plan to travel to colder climates, consider evacuated tube collectors for better performance.

4. Size and Weight

When selecting a solar water heater for your RV or camper, it's essential to consider both the size of the system and the weight. Your vehicle's roof or available installation space will determine how large a system you can install.

• Space limitations: RVs have limited space for installation, so you'll need a compact system that doesn't take up too much room.
• Weight considerations: The system's weight can affect your RV's handling and fuel efficiency. Be sure to choose a system that won't overload your vehicle's roof or add too much weight.

Actionable Tip: Look for systems designed specifically for RVs and campers, as they are made to balance space efficiency with performance.

Top-Rated Solar Water Heaters for RVs & Campers

Now that you understand the essential factors, here are some of the top-rated solar water heaters available for RVs and campers:

1. RVs and Campers: Sun-Mar Solar Water Heater

Sun-Mar is known for its reliable and compact solar water heating solutions. The Sun-Mar system is a thermosyphon design that works well in sunny environments, making it perfect for those who spend most of their time in warm climates.

• Capacity: Suitable for 2-3 people.
• Type: Thermosyphon system (passive).
• Design: Compact and lightweight, ideal for smaller RVs.

Actionable Tip : If you are looking for a simple and affordable solution with minimal maintenance, the Sun-Mar Solar Water Heater is a solid choice.

2. Hottap Portable Solar Water Heater

The Hottap system is specifically designed for campers and RVers who need a portable and easy-to-install solution. It uses flat-plate collectors to heat water quickly and efficiently.

• Capacity: 2-4 gallons of water per day.
• Type: Pumped system (active).
• Design: Portable and compact, designed for easy installation on RVs and campers.

Actionable Tip : For travelers who prioritize portability and flexibility, Hottap offers a versatile solution that can be easily transported from one site to another.

3. Suntastic Solar Water Heater

Suntastic offers a larger, more robust solar water heating system suitable for larger RVs and full-time RV living. With evacuated tube collectors, it provides efficient hot water heating even in cooler climates.

• Capacity: Up to 10 gallons per day.
• Type: Pumped system (active).
• Design: Suitable for larger vehicles with more space for installation.

Actionable Tip : If you're looking for a high-performance system that can handle a larger water demand, Suntastic Solar Water Heater is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

Choosing the right solar water heater for your RV or camper is an important decision that can enhance your experience on the road while providing sustainable, cost-effective hot water. By considering factors like capacity, system type, and climate conditions, you can select a system that meets your needs and budget.

Actionable Tip: Start by assessing your water heating needs, the size of your RV, and the climate conditions in the areas you plan to travel. From there, select a system that best suits your lifestyle and off-grid living goals.