I just bought a camper. I'm new to this forum.My camper came with a cracked hot water heater. I'm thinking I'll have to replace it. My question is...1. Can someone provide me with a link for buying a decent one (and does my camper year/model have anything to do with what I buy?)2. Is a tankless water heater an option?If these answers are in an area I haven't found yet, please direct me. Thank you

I have been pleased with prices and service from PPL RV Parts Get your model number and give them a call.

There is dimensional differences between an At wood and Suburban water heater. Look to see what make and model you have. Is it a pilot or DSI version? Does it have a 120 volt element?I purchased some items from AdventureRV.netI would not opt for a tankless.

The sponsors of this forum, Camping World, sells water heaters and also offers installation. You will need to know the size of the heater, which is expressed in gallons. Sometimes a larger heater will fit, and other times not. So, get the information off of the old heater and aim for an identical brand & model. That makes it easier to install. The make and model of your camper is almost useless since manufactures often change suppliers and offer different options. No, a tankless model would involve a major remodel and significant expense. You don't want to go down that road. Stick with replacing what is already installed.

Tankless just seemed like an easier and cheaper alternative, given the size and price. Unless I'm missing something.

Hot water heater | Good Sam Community

14 Replies

SARGUY
Explorer
Jan 10, 2016
I had one with a crack a few years ago, I removed it and took it to a Good welding shop and they welded it for $40.00. Worked great afterwards.
jalichty
Explorer
Dec 30, 2015
I see where Campers World is having a "year-end" sale on Atwood water heaters. Don't really know if the prices are any good, but you might take a look if you decide you need a new one and it's an Atwood.
Old-Biscuit
Explorer III
Dec 30, 2015
Atwood uses an aluminum tank.........
It can be welded OR a NEW replacement tank can be purchased

Suburban uses a steel glass lined tank
Can NOT be welded NOR are replacement tanks available
Whole new unit (or a whole salvaged unit)

6 gallon for 6 gallon AND 10 gallon for 10 gallon
Atwood for Atwood and Suburban for Suburban

Otherwise lots of mods needed to swap one for other
donn0128
Explorer II
Dec 30, 2015
Welding a tank would likely cost you 2/3 the cost of a new one, so unless your doing it yourself a complete new assembly is the most logical way to go. Same make and models are readily available both online and local RV dealers.
georgelesley
Explorer
Dec 30, 2015
replacing the old one with a similiar model and type will greatly simplify the new install.
Eagle424
Explorer
Dec 29, 2015
No. I have not seen it for myself. Only pictures. I got the camper right before dark today, so I haven't gone thru it all yet. I'll look closer tomorrow and get back. Thank you.
EV2
Explorer
Dec 29, 2015
SDcampowneroperator wrote:
I ve welded many an Atwood.

Yes, just remove, strip and close the gap and have the aluminum tank heliarc welded by a pro, reassemble and reinstall. Assume it was frozen?
SDcampowneroper
Explorer
Dec 29, 2015
I ve welded many an Atwood.
wrgrs50s
Explorer
Dec 29, 2015
Have you actually pulled the unit and found the crack? Reason I'm asking is that it would be a shame to just assume it's cracked and it be a check valve leaking or something simple like that.

If it's cracked and is an Atwood, It has an aluminum tank that can possibly be tig welded. If the crack is beyond repair you can purchase the tank only. I'm not sure of your options if it's a suburban because it has a steel tank with some type of glass coating inside, but surely it can be replaced, assuming the rest of the unit is still in good working condition.
Eagle424
Explorer
Dec 29, 2015
Tankless just seemed like an easier and cheaper alternative, given the size and price. Unless I'm missing something.