Top 7 Propane Heaters for Camper Vans in 2024

Ted Curley
Journeymen wiremen at US Electric-International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

Hello, I'm Ted Curley, a licensed electrician with a wealth of experience in the electrical field. I've launched this platform to share my extensive knowledge and insights with you. My journey in the electrical field spans over a decade, during which I have cultivated a deep understanding and expertise in...Read more

Ted Curley
Journeymen wiremen at US Electric-International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

Hello, I'm Ted Curley, a licensed electrician with a wealth of experience in the electrical field. I've launched this platform to share my extensive knowledge and insights with you. My journey in the electrical field spans over a decade, during which I have cultivated a deep understanding and expertise in...Read more

Hey there! Looking to make your camper van even cozier for your next adventure? Well, you're in luck! In this post, I'll be sharing with you the top 7 propane heaters for camper vans in 2024. These heaters are not only efficient and reliable, but they'll also keep you warm and toasty during those chilly nights on the road. So, without further ado, let's dive in and discover the best propane heaters that will take your camper van experience to the next level!

1
Hotdevil Propane Tank Heater: Portable, Safe & Efficient
✯ Excellent outdoor heater ✯
BUY NOW Amazon.com
10
2
SANAUGAS Propane Tankless Water Heater
9.6
3
Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Heater
Reliable and efficient
BUY NOW Amazon.com
9.3
4
EcoSmart ECO 11 Tankless Water Heater
Reliable and efficient
BUY NOW Amazon.com
8.7
1

Hotdevil Propane Tank Heater: Portable, Safe & Efficient

$79.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
10
Excellent outdoor heater
The Hotdevil Outdoor Propane Tank Heaters 13000 BTU is a powerful and reliable heater perfect for warming up large outdoor spaces. With its safety shut-off valve and tip-over switch, it ensures peace of mind while providing efficient heating. The only drawbacks are the lack of information about the warranty and limited color options.
Heating Perfection: Unbeatable Convenience!
  • Powerful output for warming up large spaces
  • Made with quality materials, heavy-duty and reliable
  • Suitable for use with 20lb or 40lb LPG propane tanks
  • Includes safety measures such as tip-over protection and automatic shut-off function
Downsides
  • Drawbacks:
  • No information provided about the warranty
  • Limited color options available

The Hotdevil Outdoor Propane Tank Heater is a powerful and energy-efficient heating solution for outdoor spaces. With a maximum heat setting of 13,000 BTU and a ceramic radiant panel, this heater provides fast and stable heating output. It can be operated continuously for up to 30 hours using a standard 20-pound propane tank. The propane heater is made with quality materials and is heavy-duty, making it perfect for use in garages, workshops, patios, and even outdoor camping sites. It also features several safety measures, including an automatic shut-off function and tip-over protection. Overall, this propane heater is highly recommended for its powerful performance and safety features.

Stay Warm Anywhere
  • Powerful 13,000 BTU heat output
  • CSA certified for safety
  • Ceramic radiant panel for fast and efficient heating
  • Safety shut-off valve and tip-over switch
  • Portable and cordless design
  • Suitable for outdoor use
2

SANAUGAS Propane Tankless Water Heater

$139.99
$109.99
 in stock
Amazon.com
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
9.6
The SANAUGAS Tankless Water Heater Propane is a small and compact portable water heater that provides instant hot water output. It is user-friendly, easy to install, and equipped with multiple safety features. However, it is not waterproof and requires a shelter for outdoor use, and the inlet water hose and adapter are not included, requiring an additional purchase.
Benefits
  • Small and compact design
  • Efficient performance
  • User-friendly and easy to install
  • Equipped with multiple safety features
Drawbacks
  • Not waterproof, requires a shelter for outdoor use
  • Inlet water hose and adapter not included, requiring an additional purchase

The SANAUGAS Tankless Water Heater Propane is an excellent choice for outdoor use, whether you're camping, traveling in an RV, or enjoying time in your backyard. This portable instant hot water heater provides a steady flow of hot water whenever you need it. With its LED display, you can easily check the power status, and the 6-in-1 protection ensures a safe and comfortable bathing experience. Although it's not waterproof, it's easy to set up and offers great water pressure. The quality of this water heater is top-notch, making it worth every penny. However, it's worth noting that the inlet water hose and adapter are not included, so you may need to purchase those separately. Overall, I highly recommend this product for its efficiency and user-friendliness.

Having tested the SANAUGAS Tankless Water Heater Propane, I can confidently say that it is a well-made and easy-to-use product. This compact water heater is perfect for those looking to save space and reduce their electric bills. The installation process is a breeze, and the temperature control feature allows you to set your desired temperature with ease. The LED readout screen is a great addition, providing clear visibility. I would highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient hot water solution.

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I recently had the opportunity to test the SANAUGAS Tankless Water Heater Propane, and I was thoroughly impressed with its performance. This water heater is not only well-made but also packed with safety features, ensuring a worry-free experience. From flame failure protection to low water flow protection, it covers all the bases. The portable design makes it easy to install, and it comes with all the necessary hardware. With a maximum power output of 50,000 BTU/Hour and a flow rate of 1.85 GPM, you can enjoy a hot shower in minutes. Although I couldn't review another model from the same manufacturer, I can confidently say that both the 1.85 GPM 7L and 1.45 GPM 5L models are great options, depending on your needs. Overall, I highly recommend the SANAUGAS Tankless Water Heater Propane for its performance and versatility.

Efficient and Reliable Hot Water
  • Instant hot water output
  • LED display for power status
  • 6-in-1 protection for safe and comfortable bathing experience
  • Portable and easy to use for outdoor activities
$109.99
$139.99
in stock
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
Amazon.com
3

Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Heater

$69.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
9.3
Reliable and efficient
The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy is a powerful and portable propane heater that is perfect for heating enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet. It is easy to use and operate, and comes with safety features such as auto-shutoff for tilting and low oxygen levels. However, some users have experienced initial difficulty in starting the heater and the grid cage is too wide apart, which could be a potential safety concern. Overall, it is a reliable and efficient heater for various uses and environments.
Efficient and Reliable
  • Powerful heat output
  • Indoor-safe certification
  • Auto-shutoff for tilting
  • Auto-shutoff for low oxygen levels
  • Easy to use and operate
  • Portable and lightweight design
  • Compatible with both small and large propane tanks
Potential Drawbacks
  • Initial difficulty in starting the heater, requiring extra time to prime
  • Grid cage is too wide apart, allowing smaller flammable materials to slip through and potentially catch on fire

The Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater is North America's most popular portable propane heater for a reason. With its compact size and powerful output, it's the perfect solution for heating enclosed spaces like large tents up to 200 sq. ft. The fold-down handle and swivel regulator make it easy to use and adapt to different fuel sources. And with safety features like the Oxygen Depletion Sensor and tip-over shut-off, you can enjoy years of comfortable indoor heat with peace of mind. Plus, it's portable and versatile, making it ideal for emergency heat, camping, workshops, tailgate parties, and more. Get ready to stay warm and cozy wherever you go with this reliable and efficient propane radiant heater.

Stay cozy and warm
  • Portable design
  • Suitable for various uses and environments
  • Can heat enclosed spaces up to 225 square feet
  • Uses propane gas for fuel
$69.99
in stock
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
Amazon.com
4

EcoSmart ECO 11 Tankless Water Heater

$299.00
$207.76
 in stock
Amazon.com
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
8.7
Reliable and efficient
The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater with Patented Self Modulating Technology is an efficient and cost-effective option for endless on-demand hot water. With its controlled flow rates and versatile installation options, this water heater provides consistently hot water that never runs out. However, be aware of the potential for persistent leaks from the left side connector and the requirement for a dual-pole 60 AMP circuit for optimal performance. Overall, it offers good value for the price and is a space-saving solution for those looking to replace their older on-demand water heaters.
Efficient and Cost-Saving
  • Efficient heating of water
  • Good value for the price
  • Space-saving design
  • Adjustable heating temperature
  • Versatile installation options
  • Good quality construction
  • Can be used as a replacement for older on-demand water heaters
Weaknesses
  • Persistent leaks from the left side connector
  • Requires a dual-pole 60 AMP circuit for optimal performance

The EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater is designed to provide endless on-demand hot water with consistent performance. It ensures efficiency and precise temperature control within 1 degree of your selected temperature. This water heater is built with high-quality materials and is a reliable choice for both new construction and replacing older models. It is recommended to check the electrical capacity of your home and ensure proper installation to avoid any potential issues. Overall, the EcoSmart ECO 11 is a good value for its price and offers space-saving benefits.

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Efficient and Reliable Heating
  • Endless on-demand hot water
  • Consistent hot water that never runs out
  • Continuously monitored water temperature
  • Controlled flow rates for efficiency
  • Performance within 1 degree of selected temperature
  • Energy-saving special features
$207.76
$299.00
in stock
as of September 30, 2025 10:15 pm
Amazon.com
5

Thermomate Portable Gas Water Heater

 in stock
Amazon.com
8.2
Verdict: Convenient and efficient
The propane water heater tankless, thermomate 1.32GPM outdoor portable gas water heater is a compact and lightweight option that provides instant hot water on demand, making it ideal for camping, boating, RVing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. However, it does not come with extra attachments and the showerhead quality could be improved.
Convenient and Efficient
  • Provides hot water on demand
  • Ideal for camping, boating, RVing, hiking, and other outdoor activities
  • Compact and portable design for easy transportation
Limitations
  • Extra attachments not included
  • Showerhead quality could be improved

The Propane Water Heater Tankless by Thermomate is a compact and lightweight outdoor portable gas water heater that provides instant hot water on demand. With a rating of 1.32 GPM and 34000BTU/hr, it doesn't require preheating and offers a consistent and reliable supply of hot water, even with low water pressure starting at only 3.0PSI. This water heater is perfect for camping, boats, RVs, and hiking trips. It is designed for convenience and ease of use, although some customers have noted that additional attachments, such as a quick connect and handle, are not included. Overall, it is a good product that delivers excellent water flow and is ideal for those looking for a portable and efficient water heating solution.

Efficient and Easy-to-use Features
  • Instant hot water on demand
  • Rated at 1.32 GPM with 34000BTU/hr
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Can start with low water pressure (only 3.0PSI)
6

FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater Gen 2

 in stock
Amazon.com
8.2
Final Verdict: Reliable Upgrade
The FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater, Gen 2, DC 12V with Black Door and Remote Controller, InstaShower 6, is a great replacement for old Suburban water heaters. It provides plenty of hot water for showers and allows for multiple consecutive showers without a temperature drop. The easy installation process and compact size also provide additional storage space. However, some users have reported inconsistent temperatures when running and constant errors that require resets.
Efficient and Reliable
  • Perfect fit for replacing old Suburban water heaters
  • Provides plenty of hot water for showers
  • Allows multiple consecutive showers without temperature drop
  • Easy installation process
  • Compact size provides additional storage space
Drawbacks
  • Drawbacks:
  • Inconsistent temperatures when running
  • Constant errors and need for resets

The FOGATTI RV Tankless Water Heater, Gen 2, DC 12V with Black Door and Remote Controller, InstaShower 6, Optimized Summer Comfort Performance, is an incredible addition to any RV. With its high altitude suitability mode, it can run smoothly even at 9800 feet, making it perfect for those trips to the Denver plateau. The staged combustion technology ensures that the water temperature doesn't get too hot in the summer, providing you with optimized summer comfort performance. This water heater is ideal for families, as it allows for back-to-back showers without any issues. Installation is easy, and you even gain some storage space thanks to its compact size.

Efficient and Powerful Heating Solution
  • High altitude suitability mode
  • Staged combustion technology
  • Black door and remote controller
  • InstaShower 6
  • Optimized summer comfort performance
  • Ideal for RVers' family use
7

Ecosmart POU 3.5 Electric Tankless Water Heater

 in stock
Amazon.com
7.1
Efficient and versatile
The Ecosmart POU 3.5 Point of Use Electric Tankless Water Heater is a reliable and versatile option for those in need of hot water in a single sink or shower. It works well in various settings, including RVs and off-grid installations. However, it does require some additional electrical preparation and may not provide instant hot water.
Efficient and Convenient
Limitations
  • Requires additional electrical preparation, including purchasing and installing electrical plugs and potentially changing the breaker in the electrical box
  • The unit may not provide instant hot water, as it takes about a second to come on and requires tweaking the flow of water for desired temperature and consistent heating

The Ecosmart POU 3.5 Point of Use Electric Tankless Water Heater is a compact and efficient solution for providing hot water to a single sink. With a maximum flow rate of 0.5 gallons per minute (gpm), it is specifically designed for under the sink installations. It comes with a 0.5 gpm sink aerator and is ideal for Wet Bars, Strip Malls, Doctor's Offices, Boats, Recreational Vehicles (RVs), and Bathroom Sinks. The unit requires a 30 amp breaker and 10 AWG wire for installation. It operates at 120 volts and has an amperage draw of 29 amps with a power output of 3.5 kW. Please note that in colder climates, it is recommended to use the POU 6 model for a sink at 0.5 gpm. Overall, this water heater has received positive reviews for its performance and suitability for smaller hot water needs.

Efficient & Compact Water Heater
  • Provides hot water for one sink at 0.5 GPM in warmer climates
  • Requires a 30 amp breaker and 10 AWG wire
  • Recommended for one sink at 0.5 GPM in colder climates
  • Amperage Draw: 29 amp, kW: 3.5 kW
  • Connection Fittings: 1/2″ NPT
  • Max… (Please complete the product description for the last feature)

The Ultimate Heater for Vanlife – Discover the Olympian Wave 3 Propane Safety Heater!

Choosing the Perfect Propane Heater for Your Camper Van

How does the propane heater compare to other heating options for camper vans in terms of efficiency and convenience?

As an expert, I can tell you that the propane heater is a popular choice for camper vans due to its efficiency and convenience. Propane heaters are known for their ability to quickly and effectively heat up small spaces, making them perfect for camper vans. Compared to other heating options, such as electric heaters or diesel-powered heaters, propane heaters are often more energy-efficient and cost-effective.

One of the main advantages of using a propane heater is that it doesn't rely on electricity, which is especially beneficial when you're camping in remote areas without access to power. Propane heaters typically operate on propane gas, which is easy to find and can be stored in portable tanks. This allows you to stay warm even when you're off the grid.

Another convenience of propane heaters is their simplicity and ease of use. They often come with user-friendly controls, making it simple to adjust the temperature and settings to your liking. Additionally, propane heaters are usually compact and portable, so you can easily install them in your camper van without taking up too much space.

However, it's important to note that propane heaters do require proper ventilation to ensure the safety of the occupants. Adequate airflow is needed to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide, which can be harmful. Therefore, it's crucial to install a ventilation system or keep windows slightly open while using a propane heater in your camper van.

In conclusion, propane heaters for camper vans offer excellent efficiency and convenience compared to other heating options. They are energy-efficient, cost-effective, and can be used in remote areas without relying on electricity. Just remember to prioritize safety by providing proper ventilation.

Ted CurleyJourneymen wiremen at US Electric-International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

Hello, I'm Ted Curley, a licensed electrician with a wealth of experience in the electrical field. I've launched this platform to share my extensive knowledge and insights with you. My journey in the electrical field spans over a decade, during which I have cultivated a deep understanding and expertise in various roles. Let me take you through my journey and my passion for electricity and space heaters. If you have any questions, feel free to drop me a line at ted.curley@tedreviews.com

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4 Comments
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  1. I’ve been using the SANAUGAS Propane Tankless Water Heater for my camper van and it’s been fantastic. It provides hot water quickly and efficiently.

  2. Thanks for putting this list together! I’ve been looking for a propane heater for my camper van and this roundup has been really helpful. Do you have any recommendations for the best propane heater for cold weather camping?

  3. Is this roundup still up to date? I’m wondering if there have been any new propane heaters released since 2024.

  4. I would suggest adding the Mr. Heater Buddy FLEX Portable Propane Radiant Heater to the list. It’s compact, safe, and provides consistent heat for camper vans.

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