Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE or APUS? Tankless Water Heaters Compared in 2026
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This Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE vs APUS tankless water heater comparison helps you choose between two propane models. Both units are CSA certified and use propane fuel. The main difference is their design purpose. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE is a lightweight, portable unit for camping and off-grid use. The APUS is a higher-capacity unit built for permanent RV installation. You will see how flow rate and installation needs differ between these two options.
Key differences
| Aspect | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 1.32 GPM | 3.9 GPM |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 24 pounds |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | RV Interior |
| Voltage | 2 D-size batteries | 12V DC |
| Dimensions | 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater if
- You need a lightweight unit for backpacking or camping trips
- You want to use the heater with a gravity water bag or low-pressure pump
- You prefer a battery-operated system for off-grid locations
Choose APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater if
- You are replacing a standard tank in your RV
- You need a higher flow rate for longer showers or dishwashing
- You want remote temperature control and freeze protection
Verdict: The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE is the better choice for campers who prioritize portability and low-power operation. The APUS is the right fit for RV owners who need higher capacity and permanent installation features. Your decision depends on whether you are traveling light or living in your vehicle.
Portable Camplux vs RV APUS
Flow rate
The APUS delivers a significantly higher flow rate of 3.9 GPM compared to the Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE’s 1.32 GPM. This difference matters when you need to fill a large RV tank or run multiple fixtures simultaneously. The Camplux unit is designed for quick, low-volume tasks like washing hands or rinsing off sand. Its lower flow ensures stable heating with minimal propane consumption. The APUS burner provides enough power to maintain hot water even at higher volumes. If you plan long showers or need to fill a bathtub, the APUS capacity is superior. For solo camping trips where water conservation is key, the Camplux rate is sufficient.
Weight and portability
The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE weighs only 10 pounds, making it highly portable for hiking, fishing, or tailgating. It features a folding handle and compact dimensions of 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches. You can easily carry it in a backpack or store it in a small car trunk. In contrast, the APUS unit weighs 24 pounds and measures 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches. Its larger size and heavier build are intended for permanent or semi-permanent installation in RV compartments. The APUS is not designed for frequent transport. If you move your water heater location often, the Camplux is the practical choice. For fixed installations, the APUS weight is less of a concern.
Power requirements
The two units use different power sources for ignition and control. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE requires two D-size batteries to operate. This allows it to function completely off-grid without any external electricity. You can use it with gravity-fed water bags or small 12V pumps that do not need continuous high current. The APUS RV model requires 12V DC power for its intelligent controls, freeze protection, and remote interface. While it runs on propane for heat, it needs a connected electrical source to function. If you are in a remote area without battery access or an RV electrical system, the Camplux offers more independence. The APUS is better suited for vehicles with stable 12V power.
Start-up pressure
Water pressure requirements differ between these two models. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE starts with as little as 3.0 PSI of water pressure. This low threshold allows it to work with gravity-fed systems, small water bladders, or low-output pumps common in off-grid camping. The APUS unit requires a minimum flow of 0.55 GPM to ignite. While this is a flow metric rather than PSI, it generally implies a need for more consistent water pressure than the Camplux. The APUS is designed for standard RV plumbing systems that maintain steady pressure. If you rely on simple gravity setups or low-pressure sources, the Camplux is more compatible. The APUS works best with pressurized systems.
Heating power
The APUS features a 68,000 BTU burner, which provides substantial heating capacity for continuous hot water in an RV setting. This power level supports its higher 3.9 GPM flow rate and helps maintain temperature stability during long uses. The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE does not list a specific BTU rating in the provided data. Its lower flow rate of 1.32 GPM suggests a lower thermal output designed for efficiency rather than volume. The APUS intelligent staged combustion adjusts heating based on incoming water temperature, optimizing propane use. For high-demand situations like filling large tanks or multiple showers, the APUS heating power is superior. The Camplux is adequate for basic personal hygiene needs.
Which tankless water heater fits you
Backpackers needing light gear
You need a unit under 10 lbs for hiking. This Camplux model weighs just 10 pounds with a folding handle. It fits in your car or RV easily. The 1.32 GPM flow rate handles basic washing needs. It starts with only 3.0 PSI water pressure. This allows use with small 12V pumps or gravity bags. You get safe, instant hot water without heavy equipment.
RV owners wanting full showers
You require high flow for comfortable RV showers. This APUS unit delivers 3.9 GPM of hot water. Its 68,000 BTU burner ensures consistent heating even at high elevations up to 9,800 feet. The intelligent combustion system adjusts to incoming water temperature. It includes a remote control for easy adjustment inside your vehicle. This model replaces standard tank heaters in most RV compartments.
Off-grid campers in cold weather
You need reliable performance in freezing conditions. This APUS heater features intelligent freeze protection that activates at 35.6°F. It prevents damage when properly powered. The unit maintains stable hot water from mountain roads to cold camps. It works with 12V DC power and propane. The CSA certification ensures safety with flame failure and gas leak protection. You get dependable heat when temperatures drop.
Users wanting simple setup
You prefer quick installation without complex wiring. This Camplux heater requires no electricity for ignition. It uses two D-size batteries for operation. The package includes a shower head, gas regulator, and hoses. You can hang it up and connect water and gas in minutes. It fits perfectly for rural cabins or remote cabins. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry anywhere for camping trips.
The products compared
Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater
Best for: lightweight off-grid camping showers
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 1.32 GPM
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Certification
- CSA
- Dimensions
- 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches
- Use
- Camping, RV
View on Amazon: Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater Affiliate link
The Camplux 5L is a 10-pound propane water heater designed for off-grid camping and RV use. It delivers 1.32 GPM of instant hot water with no electricity required. The unit starts at just 3.0 PSI, allowing use with small pumps or gravity bags. CSA certified with six safety protections, it fits in compact spaces. This model suits travelers needing lightweight, reliable hot water without grid power.
Pros
- 1.32 GPM flow rate for instant hot water
- Weighs only 10 pounds with a folding handle
- Starts at 3.0 PSI for low-pressure compatibility
- CSA certified with six safety protections
Cons
- Lower flow rate than the 68,000 BTU APUS model
- Requires two D-size batteries for ignition
- Outdoor installation only
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight heater for car or RV storage
- You camp off-grid with low water pressure
- You want CSA safety certification for family use
Skip if
- You require indoor installation options
- You need higher flow rates for multiple fixtures
- You prefer electric ignition over battery power
Verdict: Camplux 5L Propane Outdoor Heater is a compact, battery-powered solution for campers who prioritize portability and low-pressure compatibility. It fits buyers who travel light and need reliable hot water in remote locations without grid access.
APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater
Best for: RV owners replacing standard tank heaters
- 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
The APUS 68,000 BTU propane tankless water heater delivers 3.9 GPM of continuous hot water. It fits standard RV compartments with a 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18-inch footprint. This unit operates on 12V DC power and includes a remote control for temperature adjustments. It is designed for RVs and campers, offering stable performance at elevations up to 9,800 feet. CSA certification ensures safety during use.
Pros
- High 68,000 BTU output for reliable hot water
- Generous 3.9 GPM flow rate for showers
- Includes remote control for indoor temperature adjustment
- Fits most standard RV water heater openings
- CSA certified with multiple safety protections
Cons
- Heavier at 24 pounds compared to portable units
- Requires 12V DC power source for operation
- No mention of Bluetooth or smart app connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a direct replacement for a standard RV water heater
- You want high flow rate for long showers
- You prefer remote temperature control inside the RV
Skip if
- You need a portable unit for camping without RV hookups
- You require Bluetooth or app-based control
- You have limited space under 14.96 inches square
Verdict: APUS 68K BTU RV Tankless Water Heater fits RV owners needing high flow and standard replacement dimensions. It suits those who value remote control and safety certifications over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | APUS 68,000 BTU RV Propane Water Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Propane |
| Flow Rate | 1.32 GPM | 3.9 GPM |
| BTU | not stated | 68,000 BTU |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | 12V DC |
| Certification | CSA | CSA |
| Dimensions | 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches | 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inches |
| Use | Camping, RV | RV |
| Features | Overheat Protection | not stated |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 24 pounds |
| Size | Classic | not stated |
| Color | White | White |
| Model | AY132 | AP-AWH-RV10W-NEW |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Camplux 5L work with low water pressure?
Yes, this unit is designed for low-pressure compatibility. It uses a battery-powered system to ignite and pump water. This makes it suitable for remote camping sites where standard water pressure is unavailable. You do not need a grid connection for it to function.
Does the APUS heater include a remote control?
Yes, the APUS model features remote control capability. This allows you to adjust settings from a distance. It is particularly useful for RV owners who need to manage the heater without accessing the unit directly. The design prioritizes convenience and safety for stationary use.
How heavy is the portable Camplux unit?
The Camplux 5L weighs exactly 10 pounds. This lightweight design supports backpackers and off-grid campers who prioritize portability. The compact dimensions allow it to fit easily into vehicles. It is a practical choice for travelers who need reliable hot water without carrying heavy equipment.
Is the APUS heater suitable for replacing a standard tank?
Yes, the APUS unit fits buyers needing standard replacement dimensions. It is designed for RV owners replacing existing tank heaters. The 68,000 BTU output provides high flow rates. This makes it a direct upgrade for those seeking more water volume in their recreational vehicles.
What safety features does the Camplux model have?
The Camplux 5L includes overheat protection. This feature prevents the unit from reaching dangerous temperatures during operation. It adds a layer of safety for outdoor use. You can rely on this mechanism to protect both the device and your camping setup from thermal issues.
Does the APUS unit require outdoor installation only?
The APUS heater is primarily designed for RV use. While specific installation locations are not detailed, it fits standard RV dimensions. It is built for indoor or enclosed RV spaces rather than exposed outdoor environments. Check your RV specifications to ensure proper fit and ventilation.
What fuel type do both heaters use?
Both the Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE and the APUS models use propane fuel. This common fuel source allows for flexibility in where you use them. Propane is widely available for camping and RV travel. You can use standard propane tanks to power either unit effectively.
Which heater is better for filling large RV tanks?
The APUS heater is better for filling large RV tanks. It delivers a flow rate of 3.9 GPM, which is significantly higher than the Camplux. This high output allows for faster filling and better performance in RV settings. The Camplux is limited to 1.32 GPM.