GIRARD Products 2GWH-8 Control Board Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You might be searching for girard products 2gwh 8 control board alternatives if your original unit has failed. The Girard 2GWH-8 Control Board is a precise OEM replacement measuring 9 x 5.75 x 0.38 inches. It restores function to your existing RV water heater without requiring a full system swap. This specific micro-processor is designed for compatibility with Girard’s innovative tankless designs.
However, you may want a different spec or brand for various reasons. Perhaps your heater needs a different voltage, or you require a larger tank capacity. Some users prefer propane over electric, or they need a portable solution for camping. The 6 alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original in key areas like fuel type, size, or intended use. This list covers options ranging from compact under-sink tanks to high-output propane heaters. Each pick offers a distinct advantage depending on your specific RV setup or hot water needs.
Comparing Alternative Options
Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Under-Sink Mini Tank
The Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Mini Tank offers a different approach to small-space heating. It measures 13 x 13 x 16.5 inches and weighs 15.4 pounds, making it significantly larger than the slim Girard control board. This unit uses 120V power and stores hot water for point-of-use applications. You gain consistent temperature from a reservoir rather than on-demand heating. It fits well under sinks where space allows. However, it lacks the instant heat delivery of a tankless system. If you need a simple, certified 120V heater for a single sink, this storage model provides reliable performance without complex installation.
Rheem 6.5 kW Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater
The Rheem RTEX-06T is a compact electric tankless heater designed for 240V circuits. It measures just 6 x 6 x 3 inches and weighs 4 pounds, offering a small footprint for precise heating. Unlike the Girard control board, which is a replacement part, this is a complete unit delivering steady hot water for a single sink. It requires a dedicated 240V electrical connection, which may not be available in all RVs. You get instant hot water without a storage tank. This option suits buyers who have the electrical infrastructure and need a small, efficient heater for specific point-of-use tasks.
VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane RV Tankless Water Heater
The VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane Heater provides high heating power for RV use. It measures 15 x 15 x 15 inches and weighs 26.9 pounds, making it a substantial unit compared to the tiny Girard board. It runs on propane and includes remote control convenience and seasonal combustion adjustments. You gain significant BTU output for faster heating, ideal for RV owners needing high performance. However, it requires propane fuel and outdoor venting. This choice fits those who prioritize heating power and remote operation over the compact, electric nature of the original Girard replacement part.
Camplux BW158B Portable Propane Heater
The Camplux BW158B is a portable propane heater built for camping and off-grid use. It measures 5.1 x 11.8 x 17.3 inches and weighs 13 pounds. It delivers 1.58 GPM of hot water using propane fuel. Unlike the fixed Girard control board, this unit is designed for portability and outdoor installation. It works well with low water pressure, making it suitable for camping scenarios. You sacrifice permanent installation for flexibility. This option is best for users who need instant hot water while traveling or camping and prioritize lightweight, portable equipment over a fixed RV appliance.
VEVOR 12-Gallon 120V Electric Storage Water Heater
The VEVOR 12-Gallon Electric Water Heater provides storage capacity for small households. It measures 16.1 x 16.1 x 23.6 inches and weighs 40.1 pounds, requiring more space than the Girard board. It uses 120V power and 1600W heating elements to maintain a steady supply of hot water. You gain a larger reservoir for multiple uses, which tankless units cannot match. However, it takes up significant space and requires standard 120V outlets. This choice fits buyers in small apartments or RVs where tankless options are too complex or large, offering simple, reliable hot water storage.
HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater
The HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane Heater is designed for high-flow RV showers in cold climates. It measures 16 x 16 x 17 inches and delivers substantial heating power. It replaces standard tank heaters but requires propane fuel and 12V power for operation. Unlike the electric Girard control board, this unit uses gas for faster heating recovery. You gain high-volume hot water suitable for cold conditions. However, it requires propane refills and proper ventilation. This option suits RVers who need reliable, high-performance heating in challenging environments and are willing to manage gas consumption for superior output.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Girard 2GWH-8 Control Board
Best for: OEM replacement for broken Girard heaters
- Dimensions
- 9 x 5.75 x 0.38 inches
View on Amazon: Girard 2GWH-8 Control Board Affiliate link
This is a replacement micro-processor control board for Girard tankless water heaters. It measures 9 x 5.75 x 0.38 inches and is black. You need this part if your RV water heater control fails. It restores function to Girard systems. It does not heat water itself. It is a direct replacement component for existing units.
Pros
- Direct replacement for Girard 2GWH-8 systems
- Compact dimensions of 9 x 5.75 x 0.38 inches
- Restores micro-processor functionality to tankless heaters
Cons
- Requires professional installation for electrical safety
- Only replaces the control board, not the heater unit
- Not a standalone water heater for new installations
Good fit if
- You own a Girard tankless water heater with a faulty control board
- You need an exact OEM replacement part for your RV
- You have the technical skills to replace electronic components
Skip if
- You need a complete new water heater unit
- You are looking for a standalone heating appliance
- You do not own a Girard brand RV system
Verdict: Girard 2GWH-8 Control Board is the correct fix for broken Girard tankless water heaters. It fits owners who need a specific OEM part to restore their existing RV water heating system.
Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Under-Sink Mini Tank
Best for: small under-sink hot water needs
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 1.44 kW
- Capacity
- 2.5 Gallons
- Voltage
- 120V
- Temperature Control
- 50°F to 149°F
- Certification
- UL Listed
View on Amazon: Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Under-Sink Mini Tank Affiliate link
This Thermomate unit is a 2.5-gallon electric water heater designed for under-sink installation. It operates on 120V with 1440W of power, delivering water temperatures adjustable from 50°F to 149°F. The tank features a fused porcelain enamel lining and an Incoloy 800 heating element for durability. It measures 12.95 inches wide and weighs 15.4 lbs. This compact heater suits small spaces like RVs, boats, or home kitchens where point-of-use hot water is needed.
Pros
- 1440W heating element provides fast recovery for instant hot water
- Adjustable thermostat range from 50°F to 149°F
- UL Listed with ASME and CSA approved T&P valve
- Incoloy 800 stainless steel element resists corrosion and scale
Cons
- Small 2.5-gallon capacity limits continuous hot water supply
- 1-year warranty for parts is shorter than the 3-year tank warranty
- Fixed 2-foot power cord restricts placement distance from outlet
Good fit if
- You need a compact heater for a small kitchen or bathroom sink
- You require a 120V plug-in unit for easy installation
- You want a UL Listed unit with safety certifications
Skip if
- You need high-volume hot water for multiple fixtures
- You require a unit with a longer parts warranty
- You need a plug-in model with a longer power cord
Verdict: Thermomate 2.5 Gal Electric Mini Tank offers reliable point-of-use heating for small spaces. It fits buyers who need a compact, certified 120V heater for a single sink or small appliance.
Rheem 6.5 kW Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater
Best for: small space point-of-use heating
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 6.5 kW
- Voltage
- 240 V
- Temperature Control
- within 1 degree
- Dimensions
- 6 x 6 x 3 inches
- Weight
- 4 pounds
View on Amazon: Rheem 6.5 kW Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
The Rheem RTEX-06T is a 6.5 kW, 240V electric point-of-use tankless water heater. It measures 6 x 6 x 3 inches and weighs 4 pounds. This compact unit maintains water temperature within 1 degree of your setting. It saves space and energy by heating water only when needed. It suits you if you need a small, precise heater for a specific sink or shower.
Pros
- 6.5 kW electric heating element
- 240V voltage requirement
- Compact 6 x 6 x 3 inch size
- Temperature control within 1 degree
- Weighs only 4 pounds
Cons
- Requires 240V power supply
- Limited to point-of-use applications
- No remote control included
Good fit if
- You need a compact heater for a single sink
- You have 240V electrical access
- You want precise temperature stability
Skip if
- You need whole-home heating
- You only have 120V outlets
- You require propane fuel
Verdict: Rheem RTEX-06T 6.5kW Electric Water Heater fits you if you need a small, precise heater for a single sink. It delivers steady hot water without taking up much space.
VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane RV Tankless Water Heater
Best for: RV owners needing high BTU output and remote control
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- BTU
- 42,000 BTU
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Dimensions
- 15 x 15 inches
- Use
- RV
- Weight
- 26.9 pounds
View on Amazon: VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane RV Tankless Water Heater Affiliate link
This VEVOR unit delivers 42,000 BTU of heat using propane, designed specifically for RV installations. It features a 15x15 inch door size and a 26.9 pound build. The device includes an LED display, touch controls, and a remote controller for easy operation. Segmented combustion technology adjusts output for seasonal changes. It also offers an outdoor water outlet for washing pets or vehicles, making it a versatile option for campers.
Pros
- 42,000 BTU heating power for rapid hot water
- Includes remote controller and LED smart display
- 15 x 15 inch door fits most RVs
- Outdoor water outlet for external use
- Segmented combustion for seasonal temperature adjustment
Cons
- 26.9 pound weight adds significant bulk
- Propane fuel requires external tank connection
- Limited to 15 x 15 inch door size
Good fit if
- You need high BTU output for RV showers
- You want remote control capability
- You need an outdoor washing outlet
Skip if
- You require electric power only
- You have space smaller than 15 inches
- You prefer a lighter portable unit
Verdict: VEVOR 42000 BTU Propane RV Water Heater suits RV owners who prioritize high heating power and remote convenience. It is a solid choice for those needing an outdoor outlet and seasonal combustion adjustments.
Camplux BW158B Portable Propane Heater
Best for: camping and off-grid outdoor use
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 1.58 GPM
- BTU
- 41,000 BTU/hr
- Installation Location
- Outdoor
- Temperature Control
- ECO & Full knob, LED display
- Dimensions
- 17.3 x 11.8 x 5.1 inches
View on Amazon: Camplux BW158B Portable Propane Heater Affiliate link
This Camplux unit delivers 41,000 BTU/hr of heating power with a flow rate of 1.58 GPM. It runs on propane and is designed for outdoor installation. The device weighs 13 pounds and features a foldable handle for portability. An LED display and ECO/Full knobs allow for simple temperature control. It starts with low water pressure of 3.0 PSI, making it suitable for remote areas.
Pros
- 41,000 BTU/hr output for instant hot water
- Lightweight 13-pound build with a foldable handle
- LED temperature display with ECO and Full knob settings
- Low water pressure start at 3.0 PSI
Cons
- Flow rate of 1.58 GPM is lower than many RV units
- Manual temperature control lacks digital precision
- Propane fuel requires carrying a 20 lb tank
Good fit if
- You need a portable heater for camping or off-grid cabins
- You require a unit that starts with low water pressure
- You want a lightweight device for easy transport
Skip if
- You need a high flow rate for multiple showers
- You prefer electric heating over propane
- You require a built-in water pump
Verdict: Camplux BW158B Portable Propane Heater is a lightweight, portable option for campers who need instant hot water with low water pressure. It fits users who prioritize portability and propane fuel over high flow rates.
VEVOR 12-Gallon 120V Electric Storage Water Heater
Best for: small apartments with 120V outlets
- Fuel Type
- Electric
- Wattage
- 1600 W
- Capacity
- 12 gal
- Voltage
- 120 V
- Dimensions
- 23.6 x 16.1 x 16.1 inches
- Weight
- 40.1 pounds
View on Amazon: VEVOR 12-Gallon 120V Electric Storage Water Heater Affiliate link
This 12-gallon electric tank heater uses 1600 watts at 120 volts to provide hot water for one or two outlets. It features a 20 mm foam insulation layer to reduce heat loss and an enamel interior for corrosion resistance. The unit includes an LED display and a rotary knob for temperature control. It measures 23.6 by 16.1 by 16.1 inches and weighs 40.1 pounds. It suits small apartments or remote water points.
Pros
- 12-gallon capacity supports 1-2 water outlets
- 1600W heating element with 20 mm insulation
- LED display shows heating status
- IPX4 waterproof rating for safety
Cons
- 1600W power is lower than high-output tankless units
- 120V input limits heating speed
- Bulky 23.6-inch height requires dedicated space
Good fit if
- You need hot water for a single sink or shower
- You have a 120V electrical outlet available
- You want a simple rotary control interface
Skip if
- You require instant hot water on demand
- You need to supply multiple simultaneous fixtures
- You have limited vertical installation space
Verdict: VEVOR 12 Gal 1600W Electric Water Heater provides steady hot water for small households using standard 120V power. It fits well in tight spaces where tankless options are too large or complex.
HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater
Best for: High-flow RV showers in cold climates
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Flow Rate
- 3.17 GPM
- BTU
- 42,000 BTU
- Voltage
- 12V DC
- Temperature Control
- 95–124°F
- Certification
- CSA
View on Amazon: HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater Affiliate link
The HUDEX 42,000 BTU unit delivers 3.17 GPM of hot water using propane. It fits standard 15x15-inch RV compartments, replacing many tank-style models. Intelligent staged-combustion maintains outlet temperatures between 95–124°F. It operates reliably at elevations up to 10,827 feet and includes freeze protection that activates at 35.6°F. This model suits RVers needing high-flow, on-demand hot water in varied climates.
Pros
- Delivers 3.17 GPM flow rate for quick showering
- Fits standard 15x15-inch RV access doors
- CSA-certified with flame-failure and gas-leak protection
- Operates at elevations up to 10,827 feet
Cons
- Higher BTU output may exceed needs for small RVs
- Requires 12V DC power supply connection
- Manual temperature adjustment without digital display
Good fit if
- You need high-flow hot water for multiple fixtures
- You camp at high elevations above 5,000 feet
- You want to replace a bulky tank-style heater
Skip if
- You require electric-only operation without propane
- You need smart home integration or app control
- You prefer a compact unit under 15 inches wide
Verdict: HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater fits RVers who need reliable, high-volume hot water in cold or high-altitude conditions. It replaces standard tank heaters but requires propane and 12V power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Girard 2GWH-8 Control Board | Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Under-Sink Mini Tank | Rheem 6.5 kW Point-of-Use Tankless Water Heater | VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane RV Tankless Water Heater | Camplux BW158B Portable Propane Heater | VEVOR 12-Gallon 120V Electric Storage Water Heater | HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | not stated | Electric | Electric | Propane | Propane | Electric | Propane |
| Flow Rate | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1.58 GPM | not stated | 3.17 GPM |
| BTU | not stated | not stated | not stated | 42,000 BTU | 41,000 BTU/hr | not stated | 42,000 BTU |
| Wattage | not stated | 1.44 kW | 6.5 kW | not stated | not stated | 1600 W | not stated |
| Installation Location | not stated | not stated | not stated | Outdoor | Outdoor | not stated | not stated |
| Capacity | not stated | 2.5 Gallons | not stated | not stated | not stated | 12 gal | not stated |
| Voltage | not stated | 120V | 240 V | not stated | not stated | 120 V | 12V DC |
| Temperature Control | not stated | 50°F to 149°F | within 1 degree | not stated | ECO & Full knob, LED display | not stated | 95–124°F |
| Certification | not stated | UL Listed | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | CSA |
| Dimensions | 9 x 5.75 x 0.38 inches | 12.95"H x 12.95"W x 11.5"D | 6 x 6 x 3 inches | 15 x 15 inches | 17.3 x 11.8 x 5.1 inches | 23.6 x 16.1 x 16.1 inches | not stated |
| Use | not stated | Under Sink | not stated | RV | Camping | not stated | RV |
| Weight | not stated | 15.4 pounds | 4 pounds | 26.9 pounds | 13 pounds | 40.1 pounds | not stated |
| Color | Black | White | Gray | White | Black | Gray | White(42000BTU) |
| Model | 2GWH-8 | ES250 | RTEX-06T | TMRVQ-05010242 | BW158B | FJI-POR-50S2 | JHRW000001 |
| Size | not stated | 2.5 Gallon | not stated | 42000 BTU | not stated | 12 Gal | 42000BTU |
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use a regular tankless water heater instead of the Girard 2GWH-8 board?
You can replace the control board with a different unit, but it changes your heating system type. The Girard 2GWH-8 is an OEM part for existing RV heaters. Alternatives like the VEVOR 42,000 BTU model offer high output but require propane. The Rheem RTEX-06T provides electric point-of-use heating. Choose based on your fuel source and space needs.
What is the best alternative for small RV showers?
The Camplux BW158B is a strong option for small spaces. It is a portable propane heater designed for camping. It delivers a flow rate of 1.58 GPM. Its compact size of 5.1 x 11.8 x 17.3 inches fits tight areas. It works well with low water pressure, making it suitable for off-grid use or small RV setups.
Does the Thermomate mini tank fit under a sink?
Yes, the Thermomate 2.5-Gallon Mini Tank is designed for under-sink installation. It measures 13 x 13 x 16.5 inches. This white unit weighs 15.4 pounds. It uses 120V power for reliable point-of-use heating. It is ideal for single sinks or small appliances where a tankless unit might be too complex or large.
Which alternative works best in cold climates?
The HUDEX 42,000 BTU Propane RV Heater is built for cold conditions. It provides high-volume hot water for RVers. The unit measures 16 x 16 x 17 inches. It requires propane and 12V power to operate. This setup replaces standard tank heaters and ensures reliable performance in cold or high-altitude environments.
Is there a tankless option that uses 120V power?
The VEVOR 12-Gallon Electric Storage Water Heater uses 120V power. It is not tankless but provides steady hot water for small households. It measures 16.1 x 16.1 x 23.6 inches. This gray unit weighs 40.1 pounds. It fits well in tight spaces where larger tankless options are impractical or too complex to install.
Can I use the VEVOR heater for outdoor camping?
The VEVOR 42,000 BTU Propane RV Water Heater is suitable for outdoor use. It features an outdoor outlet and seasonal combustion adjustments. The white unit measures 15 x 15 x 15 inches and weighs 26.9 pounds. It prioritizes high heating power and remote convenience. It is a solid choice for RV owners needing robust outdoor heating.