Choosing the right water heater for your RV can make your travel life much more comfortable. Hot water on demand means you can enjoy a warm shower after a long hike or quickly wash dishes without waiting for a tank to refill. The Apus RV Tankless Water Heater has become a popular choice in recent years, with users praising its modern design and efficient performance. But is it really worth buying? Let’s break down everything you need to know before investing in this unit.
What Makes The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater Different?
When you compare traditional RV water heaters to the Apus tankless model, several features stand out. Most older RVs use tank-based water heaters, which store and heat a set amount of water. Once you use that hot water, you have to wait for the tank to refill and reheat. The Apus, as a tankless water heater, heats water only when you need it. This is called “on-demand” heating.
The Apus is designed specifically for RVs. It’s built to be compact, energy-efficient, and safe for mobile use. Its digital controls and modern sensors set it apart from older, mechanical-style heaters. Some owners say it feels like a home water heater, not an RV compromise.
But features alone don’t always mean a product is right for you. Below, we’ll break down the most important factors to consider, and see how the Apus performs in real-world RV life.
How Does The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater Work?
A tankless water heater, like the Apus, works by sending cold water through a powerful heat exchanger when you open a hot water tap. The Apus uses propane gas as its main fuel source, with electronic ignition and smart sensors to control the flame and water temperature.
Here’s what happens step-by-step:
- You open a hot water tap in your RV.
- The Apus senses water flow and automatically ignites.
- Cold water flows through a copper or stainless steel heat exchanger.
- The propane burner heats the water instantly, as it passes through.
- Hot water comes out at the set temperature.
You don’t have to adjust any dials while it’s working—modern units like the Apus use digital controls and safety sensors to keep the temperature stable. This means no more “hot-cold-hot” water surprises in the shower, a common problem with older tank models.
Key Features Of The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater
Let’s look at the main features that set the Apus apart from other RV water heaters:
- On-demand hot water: No tank to empty or refill.
- Compact size: Fits standard RV water heater openings.
- Digital temperature control: Set your preferred temperature, often in 1-degree increments.
- Propane-powered: Efficient and easy to refuel.
- High flow rate: Provides enough hot water for showers, washing dishes, and more.
- Safety sensors: Includes flame-out, overheat, anti-freeze, and water pressure protection.
- Easy installation: Designed to replace old tank units with minimal changes.
Not every RV tankless heater offers all these features. The Apus is built for RV owners who want home-like comfort without giving up safety or space.
Installation: What To Expect
Many people worry about installing a tankless water heater in their RV. Will it fit? Do you need special tools? The Apus is designed for a DIY-friendly installation, but some basic skills are required.
Here’s a typical installation process:
- Remove the old tank-based water heater.
- Clean and prepare the opening—Apus units fit most standard 16” x 12.5” cutouts.
- Connect the gas line (propane) and water lines. Use Teflon tape or pipe sealant for a secure fit.
- Connect the 12V power supply for digital controls and ignition.
- Secure the unit with screws and seal the outside to prevent leaks.
- Test for gas leaks and water leaks before operating.
Most users report installation takes 1–3 hours with standard tools. If you’re not comfortable with propane or electrical work, hiring a certified RV technician is a smart move. The Apus comes with a detailed manual, but watching a video tutorial is helpful for beginners.
Comparison: Apus Vs. Traditional Rv Water Heater Installation
| Aspect | Apus Tankless | Traditional Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | 1–3 hours | 2–4 hours |
| Tools Required | Basic hand tools | Basic hand tools |
| Skill Level | Intermediate DIY | Intermediate DIY |
| Retrofitting | Usually fits existing opening | Fits original opening |
Non-obvious tip: Always check your RV’s propane line size and water pressure before starting. Some older RVs might need minor upgrades.
Performance: Real-world Hot Water
Performance is where the Apus stands out for many RV owners. Tankless heaters promise unlimited hot water—but does the Apus really deliver?
Hot Water Flow Rate
The Apus is rated for a flow rate of around 2.6–3.2 gallons per minute (GPM). This is enough for:
- One long, comfortable shower
- Shower plus hand washing at the same time
- Dishwashing (hot water won’t run out)
However, using two showers at once may stretch the unit’s limit, especially in colder climates where incoming water is very cold.
Pro insight: The flow rate will drop if your water pressure is low, or if the weather is cold and the heater must work harder. Always check your campground or pump pressure before blaming the heater.
Temperature Stability
Older tankless RV water heaters often had problems with “temperature swings. ” The Apus uses modern sensors to keep water at the set temperature, usually within 2–3°F of your target.
Some users report a slight delay (3–7 seconds) before hot water arrives at the tap. This is normal for all tankless systems—water in the pipes must clear before new hot water flows.
Cold Weather Use
The Apus includes built-in anti-freeze protection. This means the unit will automatically turn on a low-power heater if the temperature drops near freezing, protecting internal parts. However, you still need to winterize your RV if you plan to store it in very cold conditions.
Energy And Propane Efficiency
Saving fuel is a big reason RV owners switch to tankless. With a tank, energy is wasted keeping water hot even when you’re not using it (standby loss). The Apus only uses propane when you turn on the hot water.
How Much Propane Does The Apus Use?
On average, the Apus uses 0.5–1.5 pounds of propane per hour while heating. In real-world use, most RVers report a 20-pound propane tank lasts 2–4 weeks with daily hot water use for showers and dishes.
Compared to a tank model, you’ll likely use 10–20% less propane each month, depending on your habits.
Electric Power Draw
The Apus needs a 12V DC connection for its digital controls and ignition. It uses about 10–20 watts when running, and nearly zero when idle. This is a small draw for most RV battery systems.
Extra tip: If you often boondock (camp without hookups), the lower propane use and small electric draw can help your batteries and propane last longer.
Comfort And User Experience
Switching to a tankless heater is a big change for some RVers. Here’s what it feels like to use the Apus, day-to-day.
Showering And Dishwashing
Most users say the shower experience feels “endless” compared to a 6 or 10-gallon tank heater. There’s no rush to finish before the hot water runs out. This is a huge upgrade for families or anyone who likes longer showers.
Washing dishes is easier, too. You won’t have to wait for the tank to reheat if you run out of hot water halfway through.
Noise And Operation
The Apus makes a soft “whoosh” sound when the burner starts, but it’s not loud. It’s quieter than many older tank-based heaters, which often include a noisy pilot light.
The digital display and controls are easy to read, even in low light. You can set the temperature and see error codes if there’s a problem.
Common surprise: Some users forget that the hot water will stop instantly when the tap turns off—there’s no “leftover” hot water in a tank. This is normal but can feel odd at first.
Durability And Maintenance
Nobody wants to spend vacation time fixing their water heater. The Apus is built with stainless steel and high-quality electronics, designed for years of use.
How Long Will It Last?
With proper maintenance, tankless heaters like the Apus can last 10–15 years—longer than most tank models, which often need replacing after 5–8 years.
Maintenance Tasks
- Descale the heat exchanger every 12–18 months if you use hard water. This prevents mineral buildup.
- Clean air intake and exhaust vents regularly to keep airflow strong.
- Check for propane leaks at connections during your annual RV checkup.
- Test safety sensors by running the unit and checking for error codes.
Most maintenance can be done with basic tools and doesn’t require removing the heater.
Hidden insight: Even if your water seems soft, minerals can build up faster in a tankless unit because the water moves quickly through the heat exchanger. A simple vinegar flush can prevent costly repairs.
Comparing The Apus To Other Rv Tankless Heaters
There are several tankless brands on the market. How does the Apus stack up against its main competitors?
Side-by-side Comparison
| Feature | Apus | Girard | Furrion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 2.6–3.2 | 2.4–2.7 | 2.4–2.6 |
| Digital Controls | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-Freeze Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Installation Fit | Standard 16” x 12.5” | Standard 16” x 12.5” | Standard 16” x 12.5” |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Average Price | $450–$600 | $500–$650 | $480–$620 |
The Apus is typically a little less expensive than Girard or Furrion, with a slightly higher flow rate. All three offer similar features, but the Apus is praised for its easy-to-use controls and reliable customer support.
Pros And Cons: Is The Apus Right For You?
Every product has advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a clear look at both for the Apus:
Advantages
- Endless hot water for showers, dishes, and more
- Saves propane by heating only when needed
- Fits most RV cutouts—no major remodeling required
- Quiet operation and fast heating
- Digital controls for precise temperature
- Solid warranty and reputation
Drawbacks
- Higher upfront cost than tank models
- Requires minimum water flow to activate (usually 0.5 GPM)
- Slight learning curve for installation and use
- Can be sensitive to water pressure fluctuations
- Maintenance needed to prevent scale buildup
Pro tip: If you camp mostly with full hookups (unlimited water), the Apus shines. If you dry camp with low water pressure, make sure your pump is strong enough for tankless operation.
Common Buyer Mistakes To Avoid
- Not checking water pressure: Tankless heaters need steady pressure (at least 35 PSI). Weak pumps or old plumbing can cause problems.
- Ignoring installation size: Measure your existing opening before buying. Most RVs fit, but not all.
- Skipping maintenance: Hard water will clog the heat exchanger if not descaled.
- Expecting instant hot water: There’s always a short delay as cold water clears the pipes.
- Thinking it will run multiple showers at once: The Apus handles one shower plus sink, but not two showers at full blast.
Real User Reviews And Feedback
Online reviews for the Apus RV Tankless Water Heater are mostly positive. Users mention:
- “The best upgrade we’ve made to our camper—no more cold showers!”
- “Easy install, even for a first-timer. The instructions were clear.”
- “Saved us a lot on propane, especially in summer.”
- “Needed to replace our water pump for stronger flow, but now it works perfectly.”
A few negative reviews focus on:
- “Didn’t fit my old Airstream without extra trim.”
- “Had to descale after six months in hard water areas.”
- “Digital controller got wet and needed replacing under warranty.”
Non-obvious insight: Many negative reviews come from buyers not reading the manual or skipping the first-time setup steps. Spending an extra 15 minutes on setup can prevent most issues.
Who Should Buy (and Not Buy) The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater?
The Apus is a smart choice for:
- RV owners who want endless hot water
- Campers with families or frequent guests
- People who like long showers or do lots of dishes
- Anyone tired of waiting for a tank to reheat
You might want to reconsider if:
- Your RV has low water pressure or a weak pump
- You rarely use hot water (weekend-only campers)
- You need to run two showers at once, often
For most active RVers, the Apus offers a big upgrade in comfort and convenience.
Cost And Value For Money
The Apus typically sells for $450–$600, depending on retailer and options. This is $100–$200 more than a basic tank model, but less than some other tankless competitors.
Is it worth the price? If you use your RV often, the comfort and propane savings quickly add up. Many users report the heater pays for itself in 2–3 years through lower energy costs and less maintenance.
For occasional campers, a tank model might be more cost-effective. But for full-timers or frequent travelers, the Apus is a luxury that quickly feels like a necessity.
Where To Buy And Warranty Information
You can buy the Apus from RV dealers, online retailers, and sometimes directly from the manufacturer. Always buy from a source that honors the 2-year warranty and provides technical support.
For more technical specifications, check the Wikipedia page on tankless water heaters.
Final Thoughts: Is The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater Worth Buying?
If you want to upgrade your RV’s comfort, the Apus is one of the best tankless water heaters available. It delivers reliable, endless hot water, saves fuel, and fits most RVs with minimal hassle. There’s a bit of a learning curve, and you need to maintain it, but the benefits far outweigh the downsides for most users.
Think about how much you value a long, hot shower after a day outdoors, or never having to plan your dishwashing around tank recovery time. If these matter to you, the Apus is absolutely worth buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Propane Does The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater Use?
The Apus uses 0.5–1.5 pounds of propane per hour while heating water. Most RVers find a standard 20-pound tank lasts 2–4 weeks with regular use.
Does The Apus Need Electricity To Run?
Yes, it needs a 12V DC connection for ignition and digital controls. The power draw is low (10–20 watts), so it works well with most RV battery systems.
Can I Install The Apus Myself?
Many RV owners install the Apus themselves with basic tools. If you’re not comfortable working with propane or electricity, hiring a professional is a good idea.
Will It Work With Low Water Pressure?
The Apus needs a minimum of 35 PSI water pressure to operate correctly. If your pump is weak, you may need an upgrade for best results.
How Do I Maintain The Apus Rv Tankless Water Heater?
You should descale the heat exchanger every 12–18 months and check for leaks or blockages regularly. Follow the manual for simple cleaning steps to keep your unit working for years.
