APUS RV Tankless Water Heater vs APUS 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater: Spec Comparison
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This apus RV tankless water heater vs 27kw electric tankless water heater comparison helps you pick the right unit for your water heating needs. Both models provide endless hot water without a storage tank, eliminating recovery wait times. The main difference lies in their power source and intended application. One uses propane for mobile RV setups, while the other relies on 240V electricity for permanent home installations. Your choice depends on whether you need portable efficiency or high-flow residential capacity.
Key differences
| Aspect | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 240V |
| Max Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | 6.5 GPM |
| Intended Use | RV | Whole Home |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches | 17.7 x 11.4 x 3.5 inches |
| Temperature Control | 95–124°F outlet range | 86°F–140°F in 1°F increments |
Which one should you choose?
Choose APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater if
- You need hot water for an RV or camper with standard propane and 12V DC power.
- You require a unit that fits into standard RV water heater compartments.
- You prioritize freeze protection and high-altitude performance for outdoor travel.
Choose APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater if
- You want to supply hot water to multiple fixtures in a permanent residence.
- You have access to a 240V electrical circuit with appropriate breakers.
- You need precise temperature adjustments in 1°F increments for comfort.
Verdict: Choose the propane model if you are outfitting an RV or traveling off-grid, as it is designed for mobile use and standard RV compartments. Select the 27kW electric model for a permanent home installation where you need higher flow rates and precise digital temperature control. Each unit is optimized for its specific power source and environment.
RV Propane vs Home Electric Unit
Fuel Type and Power Source
The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater runs on propane gas, making it ideal for off-grid camping or RVs without reliable electrical hookups. It requires 12V DC power for its ignition and controls. In contrast, the APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater uses electricity, requiring a dedicated 240V circuit with 3x40 A breakers and 6x8 AWG cable. This makes the electric unit suitable for permanent residential installations where high-amperage wiring is available. You must choose based on your available energy source. Propane offers mobility, while electric provides consistent power for fixed homes.
Flow Rate Capacity
Water flow rate determines how many fixtures you can use simultaneously. The APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater delivers up to 6.5 GPM, supporting three to four simultaneous uses like showers, sinks, and laundry. This higher capacity suits larger households. The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater provides up to 3.9 GPM, which is sufficient for typical RV showers and sinks but may struggle if multiple outlets run at once. The electric model offers nearly double the flow potential, making it better for whole-home coverage, while the propane unit is optimized for smaller RV bathrooms.
Temperature Control Precision
Temperature adjustment differs significantly between the two units. The APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater features an LED digital display allowing 1°F increments from 86°F to 140°F. It includes a memory function to recall your last setting and self-modulating technology to maintain stability. The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater maintains a comfortable 95–124°F outlet range using intelligent staged combustion but lacks the fine-tuned digital control of the electric model. If you prefer precise, customizable temperature settings with digital feedback, the electric unit is superior. The propane unit offers reliable, automatic adjustment suitable for general use.
Installation Location and Size
Physical dimensions and installation requirements vary. The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater measures 14.96 × 14.96 × 14.18 inches and fits standard RV water heater compartments, replacing 6–12 gallon tanks. It is designed for mobile or outdoor RV use. The APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater is 17.7 × 11.4 × 3.5 inches, a thin wall-mounted design for indoor utility rooms or basements. The propane unit is built for RV compatibility, while the electric unit is built for permanent home plumbing with standard 3/4-inch NPT connections. Choose the propane model for RVs and the electric model for fixed indoor spaces.
Safety and Certifications
Both units include multiple safety features but target different environments. The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater is CSA certified and includes flame failure, gas leak, dry-burn, and over-temperature protection, plus a 203 PSI pressure relief valve. It also offers intelligent freeze protection at 35.6°F. The APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater monitors operating temperature, water flow, and electrical conditions, displaying fault information when issues arise. The propane unit has specific gas-related safety certifications, while the electric unit focuses on electrical and thermal monitoring. Each is safe for its intended application.
Which APUS tankless heater fits you
RV owners needing propane and remote control
This propane unit delivers 3.9 GPM at 68,000 BTU, fitting standard 14.96-inch RV openings. It includes a remote for temperature control and handles elevations up to 9,800 ft. The 12V DC power and CSA safety features make it ideal for mobile living and off-grid camping scenarios.
Homeowners wanting high flow for multiple uses
This electric heater provides up to 6.5 GPM, supporting three to four simultaneous uses. Its 27kW output and 240V connection suit permanent residential installations. The self-modulating technology adjusts power based on flow, ensuring stable temperatures for showers, sinks, and laundry in larger households.
Users preferring precise digital temperature adjustments
The LED display allows 1°F increments from 86°F to 140°F, with a memory function for your preferred setting. This precision suits those who want exact control over water heat. The compact wall-mounted design saves space while providing reliable hot water for everyday residential tasks.
The products compared
APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater
Best for: RVers needing high-altitude propane hot water
- 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 68,000 BTU of continuous hot water at 3.9 GPM. It fits standard RV compartments with a 14.96-inch square footprint. The 12V DC power draw suits mobile setups. It operates at elevations up to 9,800 feet and includes a remote control. This model replaces traditional tank heaters for campers and travel trailers seeking on-demand hot water.
Pros
- 68,000 BTU propane burner provides endless hot water
- 3.9 GPM flow rate supports showers and dishwashing
- 12V DC power compatibility for RV electrical systems
- Operates at elevations up to 9,800 feet
- Includes remote control for temperature adjustment
Cons
- Lower 3.9 GPM flow rate compared to electric models
- Requires propane fuel and gas line connections
- Heavier 24-pound build than some compact units
Good fit if
- You need hot water in an RV or camper
- You want to replace a 6 to 12-gallon tank heater
- You camp at high elevations above 9,800 feet
Skip if
- You prefer electric power sources over propane
- You need a flow rate higher than 3.9 GPM
- You require 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 replaces standard tank heaters with a compact propane design and remote control.
APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater
Best for: Whole-home multi-point hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Flow Rate
- Up to 6.5 GPM
- Wattage
- 27 kW
- Installation Location
- Indoor
- Voltage
- 240V
- Temperature Control
- 86°F–140°F (1°F increments)
View on Amazon: APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This APUS unit delivers up to 6.5 GPM of hot water using 27kW of electric power at 240V. It features a compact wall-mounted design measuring 17.7 by 11.4 inches. The digital display allows 1°F adjustments from 86°F to 140°F. Self-modulating technology adjusts output based on flow. It suits larger households needing multi-point hot water for showers and laundry.
Pros
- 27kW heating element supports up to 6.5 GPM flow
- Digital control with 1°F temperature increments
- Compact 17.7 x 11.4 x 3.5 inch wall mount
- Self-modulating technology maintains stable outlet temperature
Cons
- Requires 3x40A breakers and 6x8 AWG cable
- Fixed 240V residential installation only
- 19-pound weight requires sturdy mounting
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple simultaneous uses
- You have a 240V electrical panel with sufficient capacity
- You want precise digital temperature control
Skip if
- You rely on propane for off-grid power
- Your electrical panel cannot support 120A total load
- You need a portable unit for RV travel
Verdict: APUS 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater fits homes with robust 240V electrical systems that require high flow rates for multiple bathrooms. It is not suitable for RVs or locations without dedicated high-amperage circuits.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | APUS 27kW 240V Tankless Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | Up to 6.5 GPM |
| BTU | 68,000 BTU | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 27 kW |
| Installation Location | not stated | Indoor |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 240V |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 86°F–140°F (1°F increments) |
| Certification | CSA | not stated |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches | 17.7 × 11.4 × 3.5 in |
| Use | RV | Whole House |
| Weight | 24 pounds | 19 pounds |
| Color | White | AP-27kW,Gray |
| Model | AP-AWH-RV10W-NEW | AP- ADSK-270G13 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the 27kW electric unit in my RV?
No. The APUS 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heater is designed for whole-home use with robust 240V electrical systems. It is not suitable for RVs or locations without dedicated high-amperage circuits. Your RV likely lacks the necessary electrical infrastructure for this high-wattage device.
What is the difference in flow rate between these two models?
The 27kW electric model provides a flow rate of 5.0 GPM. The propane RV unit delivers 3.9 GPM. The electric heater offers higher flow for multiple bathrooms, while the propane unit is optimized for the compact needs of RV living.
Which unit is better for high-altitude camping?
The APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater is built for high elevations. It handles altitudes up to 9,800 feet effectively. The electric model does not have this specific altitude rating and is intended for residential use with stable electrical connections.
Do I need a remote control for temperature adjustment?
The propane RV heater includes a remote control for temperature settings. The electric 27kW model does not list a remote in its specifications. You will likely adjust the electric unit directly on its front panel or through its built-in controls.
How much space does each unit take up?
The propane RV unit measures 14.2 inches wide, 15 inches high, and 14.2 inches long. The electric unit is more compact at 11.4 inches wide, 17.7 inches high, and 11.4 inches long. The electric model is also lighter at 19 pounds versus 24 pounds.
What power source does the propane heater use?
The APUS RV Propane Water Heater runs on propane gas for heating. It requires 12V DC power for its ignition and internal controls. This setup allows it to function in RVs where standard household electricity is not available.
Is the 27kW unit suitable for a single shower?
Yes, but it is overkill for a single shower. It is designed for whole-home multi-point hot water needs. It supports high flow rates for multiple bathrooms. A single shower user might find the propane RV unit more appropriately sized for their usage.