APUS RV Tankless Water Heater or APUS 18kW Tankless Water Heater? Which APUS Model to Buy
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When comparing the apus RV tankless water heater vs 18kw tankless water heater, you are looking at two distinct heating solutions. Both units provide on-demand hot water without a storage tank. The main difference lies in their power source and intended application. One model runs on propane for mobile RV use, while the other uses electric power for stationary home installation. Understanding these specifications helps you select the right unit for your specific needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | APUS 18kW 4.4 GPM Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 240V |
| Wattage | 68,000 BTU | 18kW |
| Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | 4.4 GPM |
| Dimensions | 14.96 × 14.96 × 14.18 in | 13.7 × 11.42 × 3.54 in |
| Use | RV | Whole-house or point-of-use |
Which one should you choose?
Choose APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater if
- You need a heater for an RV or camper that connects to a propane system.
- You require a unit that fits standard RV water heater compartments.
- You need 12V DC power compatibility for mobile living.
Choose APUS 18kW 4.4 GPM Tankless Water Heater if
- You are installing a stationary unit in a home or building.
- You have a 240V electrical circuit available for installation.
- You want a slim design that saves space on a wall.
Verdict: Choose the propane model if you are equipping a recreational vehicle with standard RV hookups. Select the electric model for a permanent home installation where you can access 240V power. Each unit is optimized for its specific environment and power source.
APUS RV vs 18kW Comparison
Fuel source
Product A runs on propane, making it suitable for off-grid RV travel where electrical hookups are unavailable. It requires a 12V DC power supply for ignition and controls. Product B uses 240V electricity, requiring a dedicated 240V circuit with 2 x 40A breakers and 8 AWG wire. This electric model is best for permanent home installations with reliable grid power. You must choose based on your power availability. Propane offers mobility, while electricity provides consistent power for stationary use without needing fuel tank management.
Flow rate
Product A delivers up to 3.9 GPM of hot water. This capacity supports standard RV showers and sinks. Product B offers a higher maximum flow of 4.4 GPM. This increased volume allows for two to three simultaneous uses, such as a shower and a sink running together. If you need higher flow for larger households or multiple fixtures, Product B has the advantage. However, Product A’s 3.9 GPM is sufficient for most single-user RV scenarios. Check your local water pressure, as flow rates depend on incoming pressure conditions.
Installation space
Product A measures 14.96 × 14.96 × 14.18 inches and weighs 24 pounds. It is designed to fit standard RV water heater compartments with a 12.6 × 12.6 inch cutout. It replaces older 6, 10, or 12-gallon tank heaters. Product B is ultra-slim at 13.7 × 11.42 × 3.54 inches and weighs only 15.2 pounds. Its compact depth allows wall mounting in tight spaces, saving floor space. Product B is better for space-constrained homes, while Product A fits specific RV openings. Measure your available space carefully before deciding.
Temperature control
Product A features intelligent staged combustion that adjusts heating based on incoming water temperature. It maintains an outlet temperature between 95–124°F. You use a remote control for adjustments. Product B offers precise digital control with an LED display. You can set temperatures from 86°F to 131°F in 1°F increments. It also includes built-in memory to restore settings after power outages. Product B provides finer control and digital feedback, which is helpful for precise comfort settings. Product A relies on a remote and automatic adjustments.
Safety features
Product A is CSA certified and includes flame failure protection, gas leak protection, dry-burn protection, and over-temperature protection. It also has a 203 PSI pressure relief valve. It is designed for safe RV use with intelligent freeze protection at 35.6°F. Product B features 6-layer safety protection, including anti-leakage, overheat, and surge safeguards. It uses separated water-electricity construction for electrical safety. Both units prioritize safety, but their protections differ based on fuel type. Propane requires gas leak detection, while electricity needs surge and leakage protection.
Efficiency
Product B highlights 99.8% thermal efficiency due to self-modulating technology. It adjusts power to actual flow rate, reducing standby heat loss. This is typical for electric tankless heaters. Product A does not list a specific thermal efficiency percentage. It uses intelligent combustion to reduce propane consumption by adjusting heating based on flow. Both units provide on-demand hot water, eliminating tank standby losses. Product B’s high efficiency rating is a clear advantage for electric users. Product A’s efficiency depends on combustion quality and propane usage.
Which APUS model fits your needs
RV owners needing propane independence
You need reliable hot water while camping off-grid. This propane unit delivers 68,000 BTU with a 3.9 GPM flow rate. It operates on 12V DC power and includes a remote control. The compact design fits standard RV openings, and it provides stable performance at elevations up to 9,800 feet for safe, continuous heating.
Homeowners seeking space-saving electric heat
You want a wall-mounted unit for whole-house use. This 18kW electric heater offers up to 4.4 GPM with 99.8% thermal efficiency. It features precise digital control in 1°F increments and a slim 3.54-inch depth. The built-in memory restores settings after outages, making it ideal for permanent residential installation where 240V power is available.
Users prioritizing high flow and speed
You require the highest flow rate for multiple simultaneous uses. This electric model provides up to 4.4 GPM, exceeding the propane unit's 3.9 GPM capacity. Its 18kW wattage ensures instant heating with zero standby loss. The self-modulating technology adjusts power to flow rate, ensuring efficient operation for showers, sinks, or laundry without preheating delays.
The products compared
APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater
Best for: RV camping at high elevations
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 3.9 GPM
- BTU
- 68,000 BTU
- Voltage
- 12V DC
- Certification
- CSA
- Dimensions
- 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches
View on Amazon: APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater Affiliate link
This APUS propane unit delivers on-demand hot water with a 68,000 BTU burner. It provides up to 3.9 GPM and requires only 0.55 GPM to ignite. The compact 14.96-inch square design fits standard RV openings. It runs on 12V DC power and includes a remote control. This heater suits RV travelers needing reliable hot water at elevations up to 9,800 feet.
Pros
- 68,000 BTU propane burner for continuous hot water
- Includes remote control for indoor temperature adjustment
- Operates at elevations up to 9,800 feet
- Fits standard 12.6 x 12.6 inch RV cutouts
- Starts with low water flow of 0.55 GPM
Cons
- Lower flow rate of 3.9 GPM compared to 4.4 GPM electric models
- Heavier at 24 pounds than typical electric units
- Requires propane fuel and 12V DC power
Good fit if
- You need hot water in an RV without tank recovery time
- You camp at high elevations up to 9,800 feet
- You want to adjust temperature from inside the vehicle
Skip if
- You prefer electric power over propane
- You need a flow rate higher than 3.9 GPM
- You want a unit lighter than 24 pounds
Verdict: APUS RV Propane Tankless Water Heater fits RV travelers who need reliable hot water at high elevations. It offers a convenient remote and standard fit, though its 3.9 GPM flow is lower than electric alternatives.
APUS 18kW 4.4 GPM Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Whole-house electric hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Flow Rate
- Up to 4.4 GPM
- Wattage
- 18 kW
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Voltage
- 240V
- Temperature Control
- 86°F–131°F, 1°F increments
View on Amazon: APUS 18kW 4.4 GPM Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The APUS 18kW electric tankless water heater delivers up to 4.4 GPM at 240V. Its ultra-slim 13.7 × 11.42 × 3.54-inch design saves space. You get precise digital control from 86°F to 131°F. This unit suits whole-house or point-of-use needs. It offers 99.8% thermal efficiency. Professional installation is required due to electrical demands.
Pros
- High flow rate of 4.4 GPM for simultaneous use
- Ultra-slim dimensions save valuable wall space
- Precise temperature control in 1°F increments
- 99.8% thermal efficiency reduces standby loss
Cons
- Requires 240V power and two 40A breakers
- Heavier build at 15.2 pounds
- Professional installation is recommended
Good fit if
- You need a high-flow electric unit for whole-house use
- You have limited wall space for installation
- You want precise digital temperature adjustments
Skip if
- You only have 120V electrical outlets available
- You cannot install dual 40A circuit breakers
- You prefer a propane-powered system
Verdict: APUS 18kW Electric Tankless Heater fits homes with adequate 240V electrical capacity. It provides strong flow rates for multiple simultaneous uses. This model suits users prioritizing space savings and precise temperature control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | APUS 18kW 4.4 GPM Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | Up to 4.4 GPM |
| BTU | 68,000 BTU | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 18 kW |
| Installation Location | not stated | Indoor |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 240V |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 86°F–131°F, 1°F increments |
| Certification | CSA | not stated |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches | 13.7 × 11.42 × 3.54 in |
| Use | RV | not stated |
| Weight | 24 pounds | 15.2 pounds |
| Color | White | Gray |
| Model | AP-AWH-RV10W-NEW | AP-ADSK180-H18 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the APUS 18kW heater replace my RV water heater?
No. The 18kW model requires a 240V electrical circuit. RVs typically lack the necessary amperage for whole-house electric heating. The propane unit is designed for mobile use. It runs on 12V DC power. This makes it compatible with standard RV electrical systems. The electric model is built for stationary home installations.
Which unit is better for high-altitude camping?
The APUS RV Propane model is better. It is specifically noted for reliable performance at high elevations. The 68,000 BTU output ensures consistent heating. The electric 18kW unit does not have this specific altitude rating. Propane combustion is less affected by thin air than electric resistance heating in this context.
How much space does each unit take up?
The electric 18kW unit is slightly more compact. It measures 11.4 by 13.7 inches. The propane RV model is larger at 14.2 by 15 inches. Both are tankless, saving space compared to traditional heaters. The propane unit weighs 24 pounds. The electric model weighs 15.2 pounds, making it lighter for wall mounting.
Do I need a remote for the APUS heater?
The propane RV model includes a remote. This allows you to adjust settings from a distance. The electric 18kW model data does not mention a remote. You may need to access the unit directly for controls. Check your installation spot for accessibility if you choose the electric option.
What is the flow rate difference between them?
The electric 18kW heater provides 4.4 GPM. The propane RV unit provides 3.9 GPM. The electric model offers higher flow for simultaneous uses. This supports multiple showers or sinks in a home. The propane unit’s lower flow is suitable for single-point RV use.
Is the APUS 18kW safe for indoor RV use?
No. The 18kW unit is an electric tankless heater. It is intended for whole-house needs. RVs require propane for off-grid safety and compatibility. The propane model is designed for mobile environments. Using the electric unit in an RV could exceed your vehicle’s electrical capacity.
Can I install the propane heater in my house?
It is not recommended. The propane unit is sized and rated for RV use. It fits standard RV connections. The electric 18kW model is designed for residential 240V circuits. It provides higher capacity for home demands. The propane heater lacks the flow rate needed for whole-house residential service.
Which model is lighter to transport?
The electric 18kW model is lighter. It weighs 15.2 pounds. The propane RV heater weighs 24 pounds. If you move the unit frequently, the electric one is easier to handle. However, the electric unit requires permanent wiring. The propane model is designed for mobile installation in vehicles.