The only thing that will prolong the life of a RV WH is flushing/rinsing tank so that sediment and minerals do not build up and if it is a Suburban changing the anode rod as needed.
Using it doesn't make it last longer.
Not using it doesn't make it last longer
Electric has a recovery rate roughly 6 gal/hr
Propane has a recovery rate between 10 & 12 gal/hr depending on size/brand
Electric/propane together roughly 16 & 19 gal/hr (size.brand)
****recovery rates based on initial heat cycle 70*F
Atwood heats water to 140*F (160*F on the XT models)
Suburban heats water to 130*F
15-20 min reheat should produce hot water
When we FT I like hot water when I want hot water and when I want hot water was when I opened the faucet hotside so WH was always on when 5vr was set up.
I was willing to pay for the convenience
Weekend camping.....also ON
Again convenience
