When it comes to life on the road, having a reliable caravan hot water system can make all the difference in comfort and convenience. Whether you're touring the Australian outback or setting up camp by the coast, having instant access to hot water enhances your experience. This Caravan Hot Water Systems Buyers Guide will help you choose the best option for your setup.
Types of Caravan Hot Water Systems
Caravan hot water systems come in various types, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Below, we break down the most common types to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Gas Caravan Hot Water Systems
Gas-powered systems are a popular choice for those who prefer off-grid camping. Gas is ideal if you don’t always have electricity readily available. Instant, gas-only hot water systems are very popular and easy to use, keeping in mind they do require a 12V connection to ignite the burner.
Pros:
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Ideal for off-grid use
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Energy-efficient when running on LPG
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Works well in remote locations
Cons:
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Requires proper ventilation
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Need to carry LPG refills
Electric Caravan Hot Water Systems
If you have plenty of power available then an electric system is a great option, especially for those who primarily stay in caravan parks with access to mains power. Keep in mind, electric heaters are not instantaneous so if you don't have it powered up constantly it can take up to 45 minutes to heat your water.
Pros:
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Easy to install and use
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No need to carry gas bottles
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Consistent heating performance
Cons:
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Requires mains power
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Not ideal for off-grid travel
Gas vs Electric Caravan Hot Water Systems
If you're torn between gas vs electric caravan hot water, consider your travel habits. If you camp off-grid frequently, a gas system is the best option. However, if you prefer powered sites, an electric system could be more convenient. For ultimate flexibility, consider a combined gas-electric model. A hybrid system like the Truma UltraRapid offers immense flexibility and energy redundancy. The system requires 12V to ignite, then operates on gas or 240V when available.
How About A Diesel Hot Water System?
If you’re running on diesel, good news! There are diesel hot water systems that tick all the boxes. The Truma Combi D6 is a powerful diesel heater for larger motorhomes AND it can also be used to heat water. This heater has the added bonus of being extremely compact and lightweight.
Another option is a standalone diesel hot water system from Diesel Heat. We have four models available, three with an Eberspacher Furnace and one entry level with a Belief Furnace.
Portable Hot Water Systems
For those travellers who do not have the room for an onboard plumbed in hot water system, a portable hot shower is an affordable luxury when camping through the colder months.
Our best seller is the Gasmate Water-Tech 5 Litre Water Heater with Pump & Shower Attachments with most customers choosing to opt for the Gasmate Water-Tech Shower Stand as an accessory.
Another hardcore off-grid brand is Bushranger. They offer a portable hot water shower kit for under $300: Bushranger Portable Gas Hot Water Shower Kit.
Both these portable hot water shower kits include hoses, fittings and pumps. All you need is a Gas Bottle, 12V source and a water supply. You can even pump creek water to a bucket via a filter.
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Key Buying Considerations
Power Sources
Choosing the right power source depends on your travel style:
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Free Camping: Gas or diesel systems provide flexibility and independence from mains power.
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Caravan Parks: Electric or hybrid systems are ideal when consistent power is available.
Capacity
Selecting the right tank size and heating speed is essential:
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Capacity: A 15–30L tank is sufficient for small families.
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Recovery Rate: Expect a heating time of 20–30 minutes for a 28L system.
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Instantaneous systems: Provide on-demand hot water, while storage systems require time to heat up.
Installation Requirements
Proper installation is crucial for efficiency and safety. Please note that all gas and diesel systems must be installed by a licensed gas fitter. This not only makes the process safer but helps with warranty claims if something goes wrong. If installing any piping, ensure pressure tests are done to prevent leaks and there are very minimal bends to optimise water flow.
Budget
Whatever you can spend, opt for a reputable brand, like Truma or Suburban. That way you know you’re getting a reliable system with a warranty. Truma & Camec offer a 2 year warranty on their hot water systems.
If the budget is tight, don’t compromise on quality – simply choose a model with fewer features, like the Truma UltraRapid.
Top Brands Compared
Like any caravan appliance, you should always choose a trusted brand for peace of mind on the road. For caravan hot water systems, that means Truma and Camec. Don’t be tempted by the cheaper models – they simply won’t be as reliable.
Truma is highly regarded for its premium-quality hot water systems, such as the Truma AquaGo and Truma UltraRapid, which offer rapid heating, high energy efficiency, and compact designs suitable for modern caravans. These systems are particularly popular among users who prioritize reliability and performance in both off-grid and powered setups. Camec, on the other hand, provides instantaneous solutions like the Camec Digital Instant Hot Water System, which features digital temperature control and an efficient design. While not as feature-rich as Truma models, Camec systems are an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers looking for a straightforward and dependable hot water solution.
Several other brands stand out for their quality and reliability. We have highlighted some of the top-rated caravan hot water system brands in Australia below:
|
Brand |
Type |
Price Range |
Key Models |
|
Gas, Gas/Electric |
$800 - $3,000 |
AquaGo + Combi D6 |
|
|
Gas Instantaneous |
$500 - $1,000 |
ST60A | |
|
Gas Instantaneous |
$1,000 - $1,300 |
13KW Digital Instant |
Maintenance and Safety
Annual Servicing
For Gas and Diesel Systems it’s recommended to have these systems serviced annually by a licensed professional to check for gas leaks, burner efficiency, and overall system safety.
Safety Features
Pressure Relief Valves: Prevents excessive pressure buildup, reducing the risk of damage or explosion.
Anti-Scald Technology: Many modern systems include temperature controls to prevent dangerously hot water from reaching taps and showers.
Gas Safety Checks: Regularly inspect gas connections and ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
Sustainability and Evolving Technology
As sustainability becomes a growing priority for travellers, caravan hot water systems are evolving to be more eco-friendly. Many manufacturers are developing energy-efficient models that reduce gas and electricity consumption, helping to minimise carbon footprints. Hybrid systems that combine gas and electric power allow for optimal energy use, while solar-compatible systems are gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative. These innovations are making it easier for caravan owners to enjoy hot water while reducing their environmental impact.
Caravan Hot Water System FAQs:
How long does it take for a caravan hot water system to heat up?
Recovery time varies by system. Instantaneous systems provide hot water on demand, while storage systems typically take 20–30 minutes to heat a full tank.
Can I install a caravan hot water system myself?
Electric systems can often be installed by the owner, but gas and diesel systems must be installed by a licensed professional to meet safety regulations.
How do I maintain my caravan hot water system?
Annual servicing is recommended for gas and diesel systems. Regularly check for leaks, clean filters, and ensure pressure relief valves are functioning.
What should I do if my caravan hot water system stops working?
Check the power source, gas supply, and fuses. If the issue persists, consult the user manual or contact a professional for servicing.
How Long Does a Caravan Hot Water System Take to Heat?
It depends on the system. Instant gas hot water systems, like the Truma AquaGo, heat water in seconds—providing hot water in just six seconds!
Traditional systems take longer. For example, the Truma UltraRapid heats 14L of water in:
- 45 minutes on gas
- 40 minutes on electric
- 28 minutes using both
These systems reheat continuously while in use, so the next person can still enjoy hot water.
How Long Will the Gas Last?
Instant gas hot water systems, like the Truma AquaGo, use more gas but only heat water when needed, making their overall consumption similar to tank models.
The Camec 13kW Digital Instantaneous Gas Water Heater is more efficient, using 60% less gas than regular tank models.
How Many People Will Be Using It?
If you love long showers, you may need a larger storage capacity. Also, consider the system’s recovery rate—how quickly it reheats water. A faster recovery rate means more efficiency.
For families or frequent use, an instant hot water system is ideal since it provides continuous hot water without waiting.
Expert Tips And Tricks
If you only take away one tip, let it be this: All caravan gas hot water systems need to be installed and serviced by a licensed gas plumber.
The thing about gas in a caravan is that it is dangerous if not installed and ventilated properly. Make sure you bring in a licensed gas fitter and vent the gas hot water system properly.
Having problems with your hot water system? Before you throw it out and buy a new one, check out our troubleshooting tips. Check out our complete range of caravan hot water systems online today! Still have questions? Give our product experts a call on 1800 787 278.
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
Comments (3)
Turning hot water system off at night
Ii s it worth turning the hot water system off at night to save money?By: Joe Riverstone on 06 May 2024
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Joe, it depends on what type of hot water system you have. If you are off grid and only have a 240v tank style, then yes it is best to turn it off and only use it when you need it to save your battery and inverter use. If it is Gas and instant then it shouldn't be problem at all
Solar hot water
Is there a solar hot water system available for caravans? ThanksBy: Jennifer on 06 September 2023
www.caravanrvcamping.com.au Response
Hi Jennifer, the only solution we have for solar hot water is still through your existing battery and solar system and powering your 240v hot water system through an inverter. There isn't anything dedicated to just solar hot water. Jump on our LIVE Chat at www.caravanrvcamping.com.au or give us a call on 1800 787 278 and we can talk you through some options.
