Portable Propane Hot Water Heater for Camping [Top 8 In 2022 Reviewed]
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Portable Propane Hot Water Heater for Camping [Top 8 In 2022 Reviewed]
If you are a camping enthusiast, you know how vital hot water can be. If you don’t have the extra budget for it, you can go camping without it, but having one makes your experience much better. Getting a portable propane hot water heater for camping can make this possible. With this heater, you are assured that you and the people with you will have access to hot water.
Buying this type of water heater is not that simple. There are things you need to consider before buying. These heaters are compact, portable and small. Just like any water heaters some of them have tanks, and some don’t have. To help you decide, we have reviewed 8 of the top models on the market. Here is a quick recap on what we think are the best.
The Eccotemp L10 outdoor heater has a stainless steel rain cap, regulator and hose. It has an automatic shut off system with a timer for 20 minutes which makes this heater safe. You can have a hot shower while camping. You can also wash your car, pets and other items.
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It uses a 2D battery and a liquid propane tank as a power source. It provides hot water at a rate of 2.6 gallons/min. The tank should be one-inch away from flammable items. Thus, it is recommended for outdoor use only.
This model operates with a water pressure of around 25 to 80 PSI. The two knobs are used to control both the water temperature and pressure.
Key Specifications
Dimensions: 15 x 6.5 x 35 inches
Flow Rate: 2.6 GPM
Power Source: Propane Gas-Powered
Weight: 27 pounds
Made In: USA
Warranty: 1 Year Warranty Heater
PROS
Easy to use and set up
Automatic 20-minute safety shut-off timer
High pressure water
Can be used till 5,500 ft. of elevation
Includes a wall mount that is easy to hang
Water flows up to 2.6 gallons/minute
A well-designed, sturdy outdoor unit that can be used as a semi-permanent solution for longer trips
The system lets you use the two water exit points simultaneously
It includes everything you need in setting up, like accessories and fittings
CONS
Showerhead and hose are not included in the package. You need to buy them separately
This portable camping water heater can stand on its own, or you can use the brackets that are included in the package used in hanging up. This shower head has four different settings: shower, jet, off and mist. It also consists of an 8-foot water hose.
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The Camp Chef Triton can heat up easily. Users love the way it heats up automatically when the water is turned on. The body construction is made of high-quality material, and you will enjoy its portability. You can fold it down easily after using and can bring anywhere just like a briefcase.
As compared to the older version, this heater is more powerful, but it is a bit bigger which can be inconvenient for some people. It can manage a higher volume of warm water and some tasks at a time.
Key Specifications
Dimension: 16” x 31” x 9.25” inches
Flow Rate: 2.6 GPM
Maximum Water Flow: 10L per minute (2.6 gallons)
Minimum Water Flow: 4L per minute (1.1 gallons)
One standard LP tank is good for approx. 6 hrs. of continuous use
Requires at least 25 PSI water pressure
Total Output: 68,000 BTU/hr
Warranty: One Year
Weight: 25 lbs
PROS
It is very compact and portable to take it anywhere
You can choose from four different settings
Can stand alone or you can hang up using the brackets
Included in the package is an 8-foot hose
Uses batteries to power it up no need for electricity
The good thing about the Camplux 10L aside from the fact that it is a powerful water heater, it is also without a tank. This camping water heater is more powerful, more reliable and more portable. The water heater tank needs some constant maintenance and cleaning to make sure it will work properly longer.
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The Camplux 10L has several features which makes it one of the best choices. It has 20 minutes automatic safety device. For those who are living in cold areas, it is protected against freezing.
This model shower features energy saving technology. In spite of being compact, it is very powerful and can deliver up to 2.6 gallons per minute of hot water.
Key Specifications
Applicable water pressure: from 3.6～110.0 PSI
Dimensions: 8.3 x 12.91 x 21.65 inches
Flow Rate: 2.64 GPM
Maximum power output: 68,000 BTU/hour
Power Source: LPG PROPANE
Weight: 18.1 pounds
PROS
You will have an instant flow of hot water within seconds
Temperature is displayed in front
User-friendly settings and control panel for fast and easy use by maximizing or minimizing the heat and temperature
Very portable, which makes it easier to transport
Certified by CSA
CONS
Connecting to the regulator requires a careful setting of gasket before you turn on the gas
EZ 202 is the upgraded model of EZ 101. It can provide up to 3.2 GPM of hot water. This water heater is designed for outdoor use only since it requires the air surrounding it for proper combustion.
The EZ 202 model would be a good choice for camping or hunting trips. Because of its portability, you can easily carry it even in remote areas.
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The unit is battery operated, so you do not have to worry about electricity, or in case there is a power outage. Do not forget to install water filters on the water lines before using it, to make sure the interior parts are protected from deposits or mineral scale.
The EZ 202 Water Heater is made of high-quality material. The slots and knobs are attached firmly for a long-lasting water heater. Connecting the hose, gas inlet, water inlet and outlet is easy since each hole has a label. Setting it up is also very easy and provides hot water by just turning the knob.
Key Specifications
Capacity (BTU): 84000
Efficiency: 84%
Fuel Type: Natural Gas
Flow Range (GPM): 3.2
Gas Connection: 1/2"
Water Connection: 1/2"
Max Temp (F): 175°F
Min Temp (F): 85°F
Installation Type: Indoor/Outdoor
Dimensions: 27.5” x 14.5” x 5.5” inches
PROS
It provides 3.2 gallons of hot water
Even with just a garden hose, it can operate efficiently
Costway Propane portable gas water heater is ideal for any camping trip. You can accomplish many tasks using hot water, like dishwashing, showers and even cooking.
The overall dimensions of this propane camp shower is 13 x 10 x 11.5 inches, and it weighs around 17 lbs. Also if it weighs less, it still provides 18,000 BTU. It has an attractive minimalist design of the unit.
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The shower head extension of this portable water heater will let you pump out 0.8 gallons of hot water per minute. Also, the quick connect system enables you to set up everything easily.
Costway has several safety features. One it is protected against overheat which will shut the heater automatically once the temperature goes beyond 167 degrees. This water heater has anti-dry combustion safety installed, and wind protection as well as the off-balance switch. These features are perfect to ensure that your trip is safe.
So, if you want a safer water heater with impressive features, this could be the one for you.
Key Specifications
Dimensions: 13 x 10 x 11.5 inches
Length of water pipe: 63.8 inches
Shower waterpipe: 107.5 inches
Gas type: Propane
WC Gas pressure: 11 inches
Power Source: Two 1.5V DC batteries
Heat Input: 18,000 BTU
Weight: 17.3 lbs
PROS
Very convenient to bring anywhere you need to have hot water
It comes with a long-length shower pipe for ease of use
It provides the right amount of hot water throughout the day
The product is lightweight and compact to store it with ease
Can be installed in various locations and is perfect for any type of outdoor activities
CONS
The hose snap on the fittings will not function unless you run hot water on it
This is also a small tankless water heater with great features. The Camp Chef HWD5 Triton is one of the best choices as it is packed with great power in such a small size. This type of water heater can fit just about anywhere you need to, and it is very reliable.
One thing that we like most about this water heater is the ease of setting it up. Unlike other water heaters that require expertise to set up, this one will only take you less than a minute to complete the assembly. You don’t need a wall to mount it. It has a handy stand and brackets that you can use to hang it.
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Everything is included in the package that you need to set it up. It comes with a hose connector that is made out of brass and a hose that is 8-foot longer. The heater is light at 15 pounds with stand. It can provide you with 1.5 gallons of hot water. The heat and water flow is easy to control, and you can enjoy 34,000 BTU/hour.
The HWD5 Triton has automatic ignition that turns off when the water reaches the needed pressure. Its minimum water flow is 0.5 gallons and can heat water up to 102 degrees. This heater can function for up to 11 hours.
Key Specifications
Dimensions: 12″ x 15″ x 4″ inches
Weight: 15 lbs.
Power Source: LPG PROPANE
Maximum power output: 34,000 BTU
Flow Rate: 1.5 GPM
Maximum flow: 1.5 gallons/min
Minimum flow: 0.5 gallons/min
Min Required Pressure: 25-30 PSI from the input hose
Max Pressure: 80 PSI
PROS
Included in the package is a stand which makes it easier to setup
Multiple shower head settings
The heater is priced reasonably that will surely fit your budget
We have reviewed the L10 model earlier, and we think it is also worth it to include the L5 model in the list. It is known that Eccotemp is one of the biggest names when it comes to water heater and there are lots of reasons why. Aside from being a reliable tankless water heater, it has lots of remarkable features that campers will surely love.
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This camping water heater has a compact size which makes it easy to carry and very portable. You can have hot water anywhere you go, making it perfect for small household use and camping.
Eccotemp L5 is battery ignited, which means it does not need electricity to function. It is powered using liquid propane which makes it more powerful as compared to other electric water heaters of the same size.
Aside from the minimal features, the Eccotemp L5 is packed with real power under the steel cover. It can provide you 2.9 gallons per minute of hot water. This tiny water heater can provide a continuous flow of hot water even when occupied by two separate tasks.
Key Specifications
Dimensions: 16.50” x 11.50” x 5.50” inches
Flow Rate: 1.5 GPM
Applications: cabins, recreational
Installation: outdoor
Power Type: Liquid Propane (LP)
Warranty: One-year warranty
PROS
It is lightweight and perfect for family outings and campings
Easy to set up and operate
Manual Temperature control
Multiple spray setting
20-minutes automatic shut-off when it reaches the needed pressure
CONS
It requires 2-D cell batteries which are not included in the package
The Gasland BE158 water heater is best for hiking, road trip, poolside, RV life, outdoor activity, caravan, stables, lakeshore, camping and a lot more. Setting it up is easy, thanks to its Snap-on hose fittings.
This water heater has lots of safety measures like anti-freezing protection, flame failure device, and overheating protection. These features will ensure your family is safe. Once it reaches the needed pressure, it automatically decreases the pressure. The anti-freezing feature discharges the residual water to prevent freezing in colder areas. During unexpected flameout, the gas supply shuts off automatically.
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For portability, it has a lightweight and compact design. It can provide amazing hot water when you are camping on the beach. Also, if you need hot water for your pets, you can easily get using this tankless water heater. The package includes a mounting bracket to hang the heater. It takes only a few minutes to complete the setup.
Key Specifications
Dimensions: 11.8” x 6.1” x 17.3” inches
Gas connector and water connector: 1/2"
Gloss white panel
Maximum power output: 41,000 BTU
Net Weight: 4.7 kg
Operation via 2 D size batteries
Overheating protection at 77° C (Maximum temp)
Thermal load is 30MJ/h
Suitable water pressure as low as 15kPa
Universal LPG gas, gas pressure: 2800Pa
PROS
Very portable and easy to carry
It includes a gas regulator and a showerhead
Overheating protection via smart thermostat device
Constant water flow up to eight liters per minute
Easy to set up with Snap-on settings
Automatically shuts down when there is no water
CONS
It is not recommended indoor since it may produce carbon monoxide
Buying Guide
If you love the outdoors, having a portable propane water heater is something you do not want to miss. It can help you boil the river water so that it is safe to consume. Other than that, a lot of campers also find it handy for shower, you do not need to shower in cold water anymore!
Propane tankless water heaters are usually preferred over an electric one especially in colder places. Due to the increasing demand for this product on the market today, there are factors you need to consider when choosing the right unit.
There are lots of brands to choose from, and each of them is a bit different from one another. There are some that are eco-friendly while others focus on power and efficiency. Therefore, you need to find the exact brand that matches your need. Here are some of the factors that you need to consider:
1. Temperature
To make sure you will get the right water heater that can heat the water properly, you need to figure out the average temperature of the water in your area. Through this, you will be able to find the water heater for that particular temperature. If in case you will be going to a place where the temperature is very cold, then you will need a stronger propane water heater.
2. Size
Choose the right size of the propane water heater based on your requirements. There are lots of them on the market available in different sizes and has different capacities. And because of this, you need to consider the size before buying any water heater to make sure it meets all the requirements.
3. Going Green
Choose a water heater model that with the best qualities and one that is safe on the environment. If you can afford to buy an eco-friendly water heater, then it’s even better. Some of the best units which offer these products are the Eccotemp and the Eco-smart tankless water heaters.
4. Source
If you are camping in colder areas, you should choose a natural gas or propane model because they are more powerful and efficient. If in case you are living in a place with a warm climate, the electric water heater is recommended. When using a propane water heater, it is essential that you are in an area with proper venting facility.
5. Gallons per Minute
Make sure that you will not surpass the maximum gallons per minute or GPM that the heater can produce. If you need to use a lot of water, you should evaluate the GPM for that particular time of the day. Checking at the water heater’s GPM is very important to avoid any faults while the heater is in use.
6. Other Criteria to Consider
Ease of use - Choose the one that will only take you a few minutes to set up and can provide continuous hot water
Tank capacity - Smaller and a lightweight tank can only hold a limited amount of water. Most of them are around 5-gallons. If you choose a water heater with this capacity make sure, it is enough to complete your bathing regimen
Weight - If you need to carry the heater and walk a long distance, it is best to choose the lightweight unit
Durability – One should choose the heater with a durable tank that you can use longer. Keep in mind that you will need to fill it repetitively. So always ensure that it can take that much work
FINAL VERDICT
We hope this review can help you find the perfect water heater that will meet your requirements. If you ask our opinion, we find Eccotemp L10 as the best among the eight water heaters we reviewed.
This product can perform well even in extreme conditions. Many previous users can attest to this. However, you might need to set a specific budget for it as it is not as cheap as the others. We rate this product 4.6 stars out of possible 5.
Hopefully, our list was able to help you find the best portable propane hot water heater for camping that you can use for your next camping adventure. If you have already tried one of the products from the list above, please share your experience with us in the comments.
I am an adventure fanatic that loves nature and adventure sports like kayaking, camping and water sports. I have been doing this for almost 10 years now and have learned quite a few tricks. With my experience, I hope to provide you with the most reliable and accurate information for your next adventure.
