Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE or Thermomate? Tankless Water Heaters Compared in 2026
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The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE vs thermomate tankless water heater comparison highlights two very different heating solutions. Both units deliver hot water efficiently, but they serve distinct environments. The Camplux is a portable propane heater designed for outdoor use, while the Thermomate is an electric mini-tank built for indoor under-sink installation. You need to choose based on your power source and location.
Key differences
| Aspect | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | Under Sink |
| Capacity | 1.32 GPM flow rate | 6.5 Gallons |
| Voltage | No electricity needed | 120 V |
| Certification | CSA | UL Listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater if
- You need hot water for camping or RV trips without access to grid power.
- You want a lightweight unit that weighs only 10 pounds for easy portability.
Choose Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank if
- You require a steady supply of hot water for a kitchen or bathroom sink.
- You have a standard 120V electrical outlet available for permanent installation.
Verdict: The Camplux is the clear choice for off-grid camping and portable outdoor showers. The Thermomate is better suited for home installations where you need consistent hot water for sinks. Your decision depends entirely on whether you are traveling or staying in one place.
Camplux vs Thermomate Comparison
Fuel Type
The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE uses propane as its fuel source. This makes it ideal for off-grid camping or RV trips where electrical hookups are unavailable. You can use it with a standard propane tank and a 12V water pump. The Thermomate relies on 120-volt electricity. It requires a standard household outlet to operate. This limits its use to indoor locations with permanent power access. If you need hot water in remote areas, propane is the only option here. For fixed indoor installations, electric power is standard and convenient. Your choice depends on whether you have access to gas or electricity.
Installation Location
Location flexibility is a major differentiator between these two units. The Camplux is explicitly designed for outdoor use. Its compact size and lightweight build allow you to carry it anywhere, from campsites to fishing spots. It handles outdoor elements well. The Thermomate is built for indoor point-of-use installation. It is designed to mount under a sink or counter in a kitchen or bathroom. You must install it in a protected environment away from rain and direct weather exposure. If you need hot water outdoors, the Camplux is the clear choice. For indoor bathroom or kitchen sinks, the Thermomate fits the intended space.
Capacity
These units store and deliver water differently. The Camplux is a tankless model with a flow rate of 1.32 gallons per minute. It heats water instantly as it flows through, meaning you get a continuous supply as long as you have fuel and water pressure. There is no storage tank to refill. The Thermomate is a mini-tank heater with a 6.5-gallon capacity. It stores hot water in an insulated glass-lined tank. This allows you to draw multiple uses without waiting for heating, but the tank will eventually run out. If you need a steady stream for a shower, the Camplux flow rate is key. If you need stored hot water for hand washing, the Thermomate capacity helps.
Voltage
Power requirements differ significantly between the two heaters. The Camplux operates on low pressure and does not need electricity for heating. It uses two D-size batteries only to power the ignition system. This allows it to work with gravity-fed water bags or small 12V pumps. The Thermomate requires a dedicated 120-volt electrical outlet. It draws 1.44 kW of power and has a nominal current of 12 amps. You must plug it into a standard wall socket. You cannot use the Thermomate in locations without electrical infrastructure. The Camplux offers greater independence from the electrical grid, making it suitable for deep woods camping.
Weight
Portability is determined by the weight of each unit. The Camplux weighs just 10 pounds. It includes a folding handle, making it easy to carry in a car or backpack. This light weight supports its role as a portable outdoor companion. The Thermomate weighs 26.5 pounds. While not extremely heavy, it is more than double the weight of the Camplux. It is designed to be mounted under a sink or placed on a floor, not carried around. If you plan to move your water heater frequently, the Camplux is much easier to handle. For a fixed installation, the extra weight of the Thermomate does not matter.
Which tankless water heater suits you
Campers needing off-grid portable hot water
The Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE weighs just 10 lbs and runs on propane, making it ideal for camping or RV trips without electrical hookups. It requires only 3.0 PSI to start, allowing use with gravity bags or small pumps. Its CSA certification ensures safe operation outdoors, providing instant hot water for showers or dishwashing in remote locations.
Homeowners wanting under-sink instant hot water
The Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Mini Tank connects to a standard 120V outlet and fits under sinks for point-of-use heating. It delivers 99% thermal efficiency with a 1.44 kW heating element. The adjustable thermostat ranges from 50°F to 149°F, and the glass-lined tank prevents freezing. This electric unit is designed for indoor installation, offering consistent hot water for daily kitchen or bathroom use.
Users prioritizing lightweight portability for travel
With dimensions of 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches and a weight of 10 pounds, the Camplux is highly portable. It includes a folding handle and fits easily in cars or RVs. The unit operates without electricity, using only two D-size batteries for ignition. This makes it a practical choice for travelers who need reliable, instant hot water anywhere, from fishing trips to off-grid cabins.
Buyers needing high-capacity indoor storage
The Thermomate provides 6.5 gallons of stored hot water, ensuring a steady supply for multiple uses. Its 17.7 x 17.7 x 14.6 inch design allows wall or floor mounting under counters. The unit includes a temperature and pressure relief valve for safety. With a 3-year limited warranty on the tank, it offers durable performance for households requiring consistent, high-volume hot water access.
The products compared
Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater
Best for: camping and off-grid showering
- 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
This Camplux unit delivers 1.32 GPM of instant hot water using propane fuel. It weighs just 10 lbs and measures 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches, making it highly portable for camping or RV trips. The device requires no electricity, starting with only 3.0 PSI water pressure. It is CSA certified for safety, offering a reliable outdoor shower solution for off-grid scenarios.
Pros
- Delivers 1.32 GPM flow rate for instant heating
- Weighs only 10 lbs with a folding handle
- Starts with low 3.0 PSI water pressure
- CSA certified with 6-in-1 safety protections
Cons
- Outdoor installation only
- Requires propane fuel source
- Limited to 5-liter capacity
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight heater for camping trips
- You are in an off-grid location without electricity
- You want a CSA certified unit for safety
Skip if
- You require indoor installation
- You need electricity-free operation with high pressure
- You want a fixed wall-mounted permanent unit
Verdict: Camplux 5L Propane Portable Heater is a compact, lightweight option for campers needing instant hot water without grid power. Its low pressure start and CSA certification make it suitable for remote outdoor use.
Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank
Best for: Single sink point-of-use hot water
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 1.44 kW
- Capacity
- 6.5 Gallons
- Voltage
- 120V
- Temperature Control
- 50°F to 149°F
- Certification
- UL Listed
View on Amazon: Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank Affiliate link
This Thermomate unit is a 6.5-gallon electric water heater designed for under-sink point-of-use installation. It operates on 120V power with a 1.44 kW heating element. The glass-lined tank provides thermal efficiency up to 99%. You get adjustable temperature settings from 50°F to 149°F. It includes freeze protection and a temperature and pressure relief valve. This compact heater fits spaces where a full-size tank cannot.
Pros
- 6.5-gallon capacity for point-of-use hot water
- 120V plug-in installation with 12-amp nominal current
- Adjustable thermostat from 50°F to 149°F
- UL Listed for safety and durability
Cons
- Requires 120V electrical outlet nearby
- Heavier than portable tankless models
- Limited to single sink applications
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a kitchen sink
- You have a 120V outlet under the sink
- You want instant recovery without waiting
Skip if
- You need hot water for multiple fixtures
- You only have gas access and no electricity
- You require portable outdoor use
Verdict: Thermomate 6.5 Gallon Electric Mini Tank suits you if you need reliable hot water for a single sink. It delivers fast recovery and safe operation for under-sink use.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Camplux 5L Portable Propane Water Heater | Thermomate 6.5-Gallon Under-Sink Electric Mini-Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane | Electric |
| Flow Rate | 1.32 GPM | not stated |
| Wattage | not stated | 1.44 kW |
| Installation Location | Outdoor | not stated |
| Capacity | not stated | 6.5 Gallons |
| Voltage | not stated | 120V |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 50°F to 149°F |
| Certification | CSA | UL Listed |
| Dimensions | 4.33 x 11.4 x 14.8 inches | 17.7"H x 17.7"W x 14.6"D |
| Use | Camping, RV | Under Sink |
| Features | Overheat Protection | not stated |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 26.5 pounds |
| Size | Classic | 6.5 Gallon |
| Color | White | white,blue |
| Model | AY132 | ES700 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Camplux Enjoy Outdoor LIFE indoors?
No. The Camplux is designed strictly for outdoor installation. Its propane combustion requires proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Using it in enclosed spaces like tents or cabins poses a serious safety risk. Always place the unit outside where fresh air circulates freely around the exhaust.
Does the Thermomate need a special electrical outlet?
It plugs into a standard 120V circuit. This allows you to install it under most kitchen or bathroom sinks without upgrading your home's electrical panel. Ensure the outlet is grounded and dedicated to the unit for safe operation. It does not require high-voltage connections like 240V appliances.
How heavy is the Camplux portable heater?
The Camplux weighs 10 pounds. This lightweight design makes it easy to carry during camping trips or RV travel. You can pack it in your gear without adding significant bulk. The compact dimensions also help it fit into small storage compartments in your vehicle or tent.
What is the water capacity of the Thermomate?
The Thermomate holds 6.5 gallons of water. This tank size is suitable for single-sink point-of-use applications. It provides a steady supply of hot water for handwashing or dish rinsing. The storage tank ensures hot water is available immediately, even if the heating element takes a moment to recover temperature.
Is the Camplux certified for safety?
Yes. It features CSA certification, which indicates it meets specific safety standards for gas appliances. The unit also includes overheat protection to prevent damage during operation. These features make it a reliable choice for remote outdoor use where safety and durability are critical for your camping experience.
Can the Thermomate be used for a shower?
No. The 6.5-gallon tank is designed for point-of-use under-sink installation. It lacks the flow rate and continuous heating capacity needed for showering. Showers require much higher water volume than a single sink. Use this unit for handwashing, dishwashing, or other low-flow tasks near the sink.
What fuel does the Thermomate use?
It uses electricity. This electric mini-tank connects to your home power supply rather than a gas line. You do not need propane tanks or gas connections. This makes it a convenient option for homes or apartments where gas plumbing is not available near the sink location.
Does the Camplux need grid power to operate?
No. It runs on propane and does not require grid electricity. This allows you to use it in remote locations without power hookups. The unit is ideal for off-grid camping or RV trips where you need instant hot water without relying on external electrical sources or generators.