Can the APUS RV Tankless Water Heater provide enough hot water for a truck camper?

You need a supply of at least 1.5 to 2.5 GPM for a standard shower, so you should verify your camper’s internal plumbing can support this volume before ordering.

APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand performance at high elevations

The 68,000 BTU output allows this unit to maintain a steady flame even at high elevations up to 9,800 feet, which is a critical requirement for RV owners who travel to mountain regions. We selected the APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand for this analysis because its 3.9 GPM flow rate exceeds the typical requirements for van life and family showers. Because this is a propane gas on demand heater—a device that heats water instantly as it flows through a compact unit—you must ensure your propane gas pressure (the force of the fuel supply) is sufficient to maintain a steady flame. If the pressure is too low, the unit may shut down mid-use. You should also confirm your 12V DC power connection is compatible with the ignition system to ensure the unit fires correctly.

If you need more options, see our list of heaters for truck camper hot water.

What to Check Before Buying the APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand

• Confirm your propane gas pressure meets the requirements for a 68,000 BTU load to prevent mid-shower flame outs.
• Measure your available mounting space to ensure it accommodates the 14.96 x 14.96 x 14.18 inch dimensions.
• Verify your local fire codes regarding venting clearance and required materials for propane-fired units.
• Check that your RV’s existing plumbing lines accept standard NPT fittings for a leak-free connection.
• Ensure your 12V DC power source provides a stable circuit for the electronic ignition system.

Choosing the Right RV Tankless Water Heater

The APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand is a high-output option suitable for users who prioritize high flow rates and high-altitude performance. If you require a unit with a mixing tank to blend water temperatures or need to integrate with specific oversized storage tanks, you may want to look at different models that offer those specific features. This unit is designed for those who want immediate hot water without the wait time of a traditional tank.

For a more detailed look at flow rates, see how to get consistent hot water for camping shower.

Using a flow restrictor with the APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand

If you need a high-flow system that performs reliably in mountain environments, choose the APUS 68,000 BTU Propane Gas On Demand. For example, this unit can provide a steady shower for a family of four because its 3.9 GPM output exceeds the 2.5 GPM threshold required for that task. If your camper’s plumbing is restricted to a lower flow rate, you should measure your maximum GPM; if it is below 3.9 GPM, you will need to use a flow restrictor to prevent the heater from cycling off.

Reviewed by the Refrigerant Recovery Pro editorial team. Refrigerant Recovery Pro writes these guides from the 50 most-reviewed rv tankless water heater listings in our retail dataset, not from manufacturer copy.