Find the right water heater conversion kit to switch from propane to electric heating, or to enhance efficiency in your RV. This guide highlights five reliable options, detailing who each product is best for, what to expect, and potential limitations. Ideal for RV owners, campers, and travelers seeking propane savings without sacrificing hot water reliability.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Valterra Diamond Group Hott Rod | RVs needing a robust 6-gallon electric element | Adjustable thermostat and stainless steel heating element |
| Camco Hot Water Hybrid Kit | RV owners who want to convert LP to electric quickly | Includes power cords and color-coded wiring |
| RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit (6 Gallon) | Suburban/Atwood tanks requiring simple conversion | Wide compatibility and independent thermostat |
| RVGUARD Electric Conversion Kit 6 Gallon | Safer propane-free heating on many tanks | Independent switch and safe control |
| Briidea RV Electric Kit 6 Gallon | Emergency spare part with easy installation | Brass bushings and universal compatibility |
Valterra Diamond Hott Rod Universal Kit
The Diamond Hott Rod is designed to retrofit onto existing 6-gallon tanks with a high-quality 304 stainless steel heating element. It includes a fully adjustable thermostat that mounts to the tank surface, allowing water temperatures from 110°F to 170°F, factory preset at 140°F. This kit is best for RV owners who want a durable, long-lasting heating solution with precise temperature control. Limitations include the need for a compatible tank surface and proper mounting to ensure accurate thermostat readings.
Camco Hot Water Hybrid Kit
The Camco Hot Water Hybrid Kit converts any 6-gallon RV LP gas water heater to 120V electricity on demand. It includes an on/off power switch with mounting bracket, a fully adjustable thermostat, and all required power cords and color-coded wire assemblies. Best for RV owners seeking propane savings without sacrificing hot water availability, especially when parked with electrical hookups. A potential caveat is the need for a reliable 120V supply and proper wiring for safe operation.
RV Water Heater Electric Conversion Kit (6 Gallon)
This kit offers an enhanced heating system to convert LP gas water heaters to 120V electricity, designed for wide compatibility with Atwood and Suburban tanks. It includes brass bushings and color-coded cords for easier installation, plus an adjustable thermostat and independent switch for precise control. It’s best for travelers seeking a straightforward conversion with clear wiring, though installation may require basic DIY skills to ensure a correct fit and safe operation.
RVGUARD Electric Conversion Kit
The RVGUARD kit converts LP water heaters to 120V operation while keeping the LP system intact, offering safer and lower-cost operation and a stable hot water supply. It’s compatible with Suburban, Atwood, American, and More-Flo tanks, featuring an adjustable thermostat (90–150°F) and an independent switch for safe control. Best for RV owners who want a flexible, propane-conserving option with clear temperature control; avoid if your tank isn’t one of the listed brands unless compatibility is confirmed.
Briidea RV Electric Hybrid Kit
The Briidea hybrid kit adds electric heating alongside propane for 6-gallon RV water heaters, compatible with Suburban and Atwood models. It emphasizes safety and ease of use with brass bushings (1/2″ and 3/4″), color-coded wiring, and an independent switch. Best for RV owners who want a versatile, emergency-ready solution and straightforward installation, though compatibility may require precise tank configuration and proper bushing selection.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a water heater conversion kit?
- Tank compatibility: Confirm your RV’s water heater brand and model (Suburban, Atwood, etc.) and ensure the kit supports those tanks.
- Electrical readiness: Check available 120V supply, circuit capacity, and whether your setup supports continuous electric heating without overloading circuits.
- Thermostat control: Look for adjustable temperature ranges and independent switches for safe, precise control of hot water temperature.
- Installation complexity: Some kits include all cords, brackets, and brass bushings; others may require additional parts or basic DIY skills.
- Safety and materials: Stainless steel heating elements and brass bushings contribute to durability and reliability in mobile environments.
- Propane savings: If propane conservation is a goal, prioritize kits that clearly preserve LP system function while enabling electric heating.
FAQ
- Do these kits require professional installation? Some kits are designed for DIY installation with included components; others may benefit from professional help for safety and proper fitting.
- Will converting to electric heat affect hot water recovery speed? Electric heating offers reliable control and can maintain steady temps, but recovery speed varies by kit and heater design.
- Are all 6-gallon kits compatible with my specific RV model? Most are built for common 6-gallon Suburban or Atwood tanks; verify tank brand and mounting requirements.
- Is propane still needed after installation? Propane use is reduced or eliminated for heating when the system runs on 120V electricity, depending on the kit and heater.
- Do these kits require any special wiring or fusing? Kits typically include color-coded wiring and thermostats; ensure your electrical panel supports the added load and use proper fusing.
- Can I revert to propane heat after installation? Most setups allow return to original LP operations if the LP system remains intact and the kit is removable per instructions.