I live full-time in my 5th wheel. With that in mind, do you guys use propane or electric to heat your water.Suggestions and why please.Thanks guys,David

Electric when plugged in (rare) and propane otherwise. Propane seems faster and it’s cheaper than paying for an electric site.

We do not have the option, propane only.If I had the option, I would use 120 volt option if I were not paying for power.

Because I don't like the idea of burning up my propane 24/7, I only turn my water heater on when I'm about to use it. I would likely let it run if I was on electric.

Hi,Here is a cost comparative calculator:http://www.maxmcarter.com/fuels/fuelscalc.htmlI turn mine on electric in the morning. By breakfast time there is enough warm water to do the dishes. After 90 minutes I shut it down. That provide enough warm water for dishes for the rest of the day, and hand washing.

The membership CG we stay at in Texas charge $3 per day surcharge for a spot with 50 amp capability.While on 30 amp, the water heater has a nasty habit of kicking on when the microwave, toaster or coffemaker is running, which trips a breaker. (No, my rig does NOT have an internal on/off switch for WH electricity.) At few times a year, we do not have the option of 50 amp.We have never, ever, spent $90 per month on propane, even during a winter month when the temp dropped below freezing almost every night.So when on 30-Amp, we use propane, and the wife complains about the cost of propane while electricity is 'free'.Now, for AC in the hot part of the year, I'll pay the fee and we run the WH on electricity.

Propane of Electric to heat H2O whilst Full-Time

Lwiddis
Explorer II
Apr 27, 2020
Gee beemer my response on the same issue...double posting...was deleted!
rhagfo
Explorer III
Apr 27, 2020
We full time and use both! Gas for fast recovery and electric to help maintain. We
Both shower almost daily, wash dishes, and cook with gas, and don’t think we use 7 gal a month.
valhalla360
Navigator
Apr 27, 2020
If electricity is included in the cost of the site...of course use electric (assuming you have enough amps).

If you are trying to run the air/con or the electric is charged per KWH and is excessively high priced, then consider propane.

Another thought...if you need hot water quick or you are using a lot of hot water, you typically can run both at the same time and it will heat much quicker.
dedmiston
Moderator
Apr 27, 2020
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Propane of Electric to heat H2O whilst Full-Time

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