APUS vs MIZUDO Tankless Water Heaters: Which Brand Fits You?
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The APUS vs MIZUDO tankless water heater comparison highlights two distinct approaches to on-demand hot water. Both units carry CSA certification for safety and use gas as their primary fuel source. The main difference lies in their intended application and power output. APUS targets recreational vehicles with propane, while MIZUDO serves whole-house needs using natural gas. You must choose based on your specific water demand and available fuel supply.
Key differences
| Aspect | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | MIZUDO 8.1 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | 8.1 GPM |
| BTU Rating | 68,000 BTU | 180,000 BTU |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 120V |
| Installation Location | RV Compartment | Outdoor |
Which one should you choose?
Choose APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater if
- You need hot water for an RV or camper using propane.
- You require a compact unit that fits standard RV water heater openings.
- You operate in high elevations up to 9,800 feet.
Choose MIZUDO 8.1 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater if
- You need simultaneous hot water for 2–3 bathrooms.
- You have a natural gas line available for outdoor installation.
- You want precise temperature control with an LED display.
Verdict: APUS is the practical choice for RV owners who need reliable, propane-powered hot water in a compact, 12V DC unit. MIZUDO suits homeowners seeking high-volume, whole-house hot water via natural gas. Your decision depends entirely on whether you are powering a vehicle or a residence.
APUS vs MIZUDO Key Differences
Fuel Type
Fuel choice defines where you can install each unit. APUS uses propane, making it ideal for RVs, campers, and off-grid locations without natural gas lines. You need a standard propane tank to run it. MIZUDO uses natural gas, which requires a connection to your home’s gas supply. This makes MIZUDO better for permanent outdoor installations at a house. You cannot swap fuels between these specific models. If you travel in an RV, APUS is the only option. If you want a fixed outdoor heater for a home, MIZUDO is the correct choice.
Flow Rate
Flow rate determines how many fixtures you can run at once. APUS delivers 3.9 gallons per minute. This is sufficient for one shower and a small sink, but it may struggle if you try to use multiple outlets simultaneously in an RV. MIZUDO provides 8.1 gallons per minute. This higher output supports simultaneous use in two to three bathrooms, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. You get significantly more hot water volume with MIZUDO. If you need whole-house capacity or high-demand usage, MIZUDO has a clear advantage in output volume.
Voltage
Power requirements differ significantly between these units. APUS operates on 12V DC power. This allows it to run directly from an RV’s battery system or standard 12V electrical setup. You do not need an inverter or AC outlet to start it. MIZUDO requires a standard 120V power supply. You must have a dedicated AC electrical outlet nearby for installation. This limits MIZUDO to locations with standard household electricity. If you are in an RV or off-grid cabin without AC power, APUS is the only viable option.
Installation Location
Placement options vary based on design and certification. APUS is designed for indoor RV compartments. It fits standard water heater openings and replaces older tank units inside your vehicle. It includes intelligent freeze protection for cold weather operation. MIZUDO is designed for outdoor installation. It keeps indoor space uncluttered but requires an exterior wall. It is not recommended for elevations above 2,000 feet. APUS handles high altitudes up to 9,800 feet. Choose APUS for indoor RV use or high altitude. Choose MIZUDO for permanent outdoor home use.
Temperature Control
Precision and range differ in temperature management. APUS uses intelligent staged combustion to maintain outlet temperatures between 95°F and 124°F. It adjusts heating based on incoming water flow. This range is comfortable for standard RV showers and dishwashing. MIZUDO offers more precise control with a ±1°F accuracy. It features a large LED display and remote panel for easy adjustments. The adjustable range goes up to 167°F, supporting deep soaking tubs. MIZUDO provides finer tuning and higher maximum temperatures for specific household needs.
Choose the right heater for your setup
RV owners needing compact propane power
The APUS unit fits standard RV openings with a 14.96-inch square footprint. It runs on propane with 68,000 BTU and 3.9 GPM flow. Its 12V DC power draws from your vehicle battery. It includes a remote control for easy temperature adjustment. The compact design replaces traditional tank heaters in tight compartments.
Homeowners wanting whole-house natural gas flow
MIZUDO delivers 180,000 BTU and 8.1 GPM for multiple bathrooms. It uses natural gas for consistent supply to sinks and showers. The unit features precise ±1°F temperature control up to 167°F. It activates at low flow rates for efficiency. The outdoor design keeps indoor space clear while providing high capacity.
Users prioritizing precise digital temperature control
The MIZUDO heater offers an LED display and touch controls for exact settings. It maintains water temperature within ±1°F to prevent fluctuations. The adjustable range goes up to 167°F for deep soaking tubs. This precision helps reduce sudden hot-and-cold changes during use. The large display makes adjustments simple and intuitive.
The products compared
APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater
Best for: RV tank replacement and compact travel
- 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 unit delivers 68,000 BTU of propane heating for RV use. It provides up to 3.9 GPM of continuous hot water. The compact 14.96-inch square design fits standard RV compartments. It operates on 12V DC power and includes a remote control. The system works at elevations up to 9,800 feet. It is built for reliable performance in travel trailers and motorhomes.
Pros
- 68,000 BTU propane burner for on-demand hot water
- High flow rate of 3.9 GPM
- Compact 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inch dimensions
- Includes remote control for indoor temperature adjustment
- CSA certified with multiple safety protections
Cons
- Lower 68,000 BTU output compared to 180,000 BTU alternatives
- Propane fuel requires gas tank refills
- Limited to 12V DC electrical system
Good fit if
- You need a direct replacement for a 6, 10, or 12-gallon tank in an RV
- You require hot water at high elevations up to 9,800 feet
- You want to control the temperature from inside the vehicle
Skip if
- You need high-flow capacity for multiple simultaneous showers
- You prefer natural gas over propane for fuel
- You require an outdoor-rated unit for permanent installation
Verdict: APUS Propane RV Tankless Water Heater is a compact, RV-specific heater with moderate output. It suits travelers who need a tank replacement and indoor remote control. It is not ideal for high-demand households or permanent outdoor setups.
MIZUDO 8.1 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater
Best for: Outdoor whole-house hot water supply
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas
- Flow Rate
- Up to 8.1 GPM
- BTU
- 180,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Voltage
- 120V
- Temperature Control
- 95–167°F, ±1°F
View on Amazon: MIZUDO 8.1 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater Affiliate link
This MIZUDO unit delivers 8.1 GPM of hot water using 180,000 BTU of natural gas power. It supports simultaneous use in 2–3 bathrooms. The system maintains temperature within ±1°F and heats water in 13 seconds. Its compact outdoor design measures 26.2 by 17.1 by 7.1 inches. You get precise control via a touch panel and LED display. It is built for busy households needing high flow rates.
Pros
- 8.1 GPM flow rate for whole-house demand
- 180,000 BTU heating input
- ±1°F precise temperature control
- 0.53 GPM low-flow activation
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- Not recommended above 2,000 feet elevation
- 2-year full unit warranty
Good fit if
- You need high flow for multiple bathrooms
- You have an outdoor installation space
- You want precise temperature stability
Skip if
- You require indoor installation
- You live above 2,000 feet elevation
- You need a longer warranty period
Verdict: MIZUDO 180,000 BTU Natural Gas Outdoor Heater provides robust whole-house capacity for busy homes. It fits outdoor setups where high flow and precise heat are priorities.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater | MIZUDO 8.1 GPM Outdoor Natural Gas Tankless Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Natural Gas |
| Flow Rate | 3.9 GPM | Up to 8.1 GPM |
| BTU | 68,000 BTU | 180,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | not stated | Outdoor |
| Voltage | 12V DC | 120V |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 95–167°F, ±1°F |
| Certification | CSA | CSA |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches | 26.2 x 17.1 x 7.1 inches |
| Use | RV | Whole House |
| Weight | 24 pounds | not stated |
| Color | White | White 8.1NG |
| Model | AP-AWH-RV10W-NEW | HS180A0W-NG |
| Size | not stated | Natural Gas, 8.1 GPM, 180,000 BTU, Indoor |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the MIZUDO heater indoors?
No, the MIZUDO unit is designed for outdoor installation. Although its specification sheet lists 'Indoor' in the size description, the attributes explicitly state 'Outdoor' as the installation location. This unit delivers 180,000 BTU and 8.1 GPM, making it suitable for whole-house outdoor supply. You should not place it inside your home due to safety and ventilation requirements for natural gas combustion.
Does the APUS heater require a remote control?
No, a remote control is not required to operate the APUS unit. However, the product data notes that it supports indoor remote control functionality. This feature allows you to manage the heater from inside your RV or camper. The unit itself is compact, measuring 14.2 inches in width and length, with a height of 15 inches, fitting standard RV spaces.
Which brand is better for high-demand households?
The MIZUDO brand is better for high-demand households. Its 180,000 BTU output and 8.1 GPM flow rate provide robust capacity for busy homes. In contrast, the APUS unit is rated at 68,000 BTU and is not ideal for high-demand scenarios. The APUS is specifically designed for RV tank replacement and compact travel, where lower water usage is typical.
What is the weight difference between the two heaters?
The APUS heater weighs 24 pounds, while the MIZUDO unit does not have a listed weight in the provided data. The APUS is lighter due to its smaller size and RV-specific design. Its compact dimensions are 14.2 inches by 14.2 inches by 15 inches. The MIZUDO is larger, measuring 17.1 inches by 17.1 inches by 26.2 inches, suggesting it is heavier.
Can I run the APUS heater on natural gas?
No, the APUS heater runs exclusively on propane. Its attributes clearly list 'Propane' as the fuel type. You need a standard propane tank to operate it. The MIZUDO unit, however, uses natural gas. This distinction means you must choose based on your available fuel source, as the two brands use different gas types for their respective models.
Is the MIZUDO heater suitable for RV use?
The MIZUDO heater is not suitable for typical RV use. It is designed for outdoor whole-house hot water supply with high flow rates. The APUS unit is the appropriate choice for RVs, as it is compact and built for travel. The APUS fits standard RV openings and uses propane, which is common in recreational vehicles. The MIZUDO is too large and powerful for most RV setups.
What colors are available for these tankless heaters?
Both the APUS and MIZUDO heaters are available in white. The APUS model is listed as 'White' in its specs. The MIZUDO unit is described as 'White 8.1NG' in its size specification. This color choice helps the units blend with various exterior or interior backgrounds. The APUS has a compact white casing, while the MIZUDO features a larger white housing for its outdoor installation.