Furrion Tankless Water Heater: Ultimate RV Upgrade – Excellent

The Furrion Tankless Water Heater represents a significant leap forward for RV owners seeking a reliable and efficient hot water solution. This innovative appliance promises to deliver continuous hot water on demand, transforming the camping experience from basic to luxurious. Gone are the days of waiting for a tank to reheat or suffering through cold showers when multiple people need to wash up.

This review will delve deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Furrion FWH09AFA-AM model. We aim to provide a comprehensive analysis for anyone considering this crucial upgrade for their recreational vehicle. Understanding its capabilities and limitations is key to making an informed decision for your mobile lifestyle.

Furrion Tankless Water Heater Overview

The Furrion Tankless Water Heater, model FWH09AFA-AM, is specifically engineered to meet the demands of recreational vehicle living. Unlike traditional RV water heaters that store and reheat a finite amount of water, this unit heats water directly as it flows through, providing an endless supply. This on-demand heating eliminates the common problem of running out of hot water during showers or dishwashing.

Furrion, a brand known for its innovative RV and marine solutions, has designed this model with efficiency and user convenience in mind. It operates on propane with an electric ignition, making it suitable for various camping scenarios, including boondocking where electrical hookups might be limited. The unit’s compact design ensures it fits seamlessly into existing RV compartments, often serving as a direct retrofit for older tank-style heaters.

The core principle behind this tankless technology is simple yet effective. When a hot water faucet is opened, cold water travels into the unit, where a powerful propane burner rapidly heats it to the desired temperature. A sophisticated sensor system monitors the water flow and temperature, adjusting the flame intensity to maintain a consistent output. This instantaneous heating process means you only use energy when hot water is actually needed, potentially leading to propane savings over time.

For RV enthusiasts, the benefits extend beyond just continuous hot water. Tankless heaters are generally more compact, freeing up valuable storage space that a bulky tank would otherwise occupy. They also eliminate the weight of a full water tank, which can contribute to better fuel efficiency and reduced wear on the RV’s suspension. The Furrion model specifically boasts features that cater to the unique challenges of RV travel, such as its robust construction designed to withstand vibrations and varying environmental conditions.

This particular Furrion Tankless Water Heater is rated at 2.4 GPM (gallons per minute) and boasts a heating capacity of 60,000 BTUs. These specifications are crucial for understanding its performance. A 2.4 GPM flow rate is generally sufficient for one major hot water appliance at a time, such as a shower, or for simultaneous use of a sink and a minor fixture. The 60,000 BTU rating indicates a powerful burner capable of quickly heating cold water to comfortable temperatures, even in cooler climates.

Moreover, the inclusion of antifreeze protection is a significant advantage for RVers who extend their camping season into colder months or store their RVs in freezing temperatures. This feature helps prevent damage to the unit’s internal components, offering peace of mind and reducing maintenance efforts associated with winterizing. The digital wall thermostat provides precise temperature control, allowing users to set their preferred hot water temperature with ease and accuracy.

The target audience for this product includes full-time RVers, weekend warriors, and anyone looking to significantly upgrade their RV’s hot water system. It’s especially appealing to those who value comfort, efficiency, and modern amenities on the road. The ease of retrofitting means that even owners of older RVs can enjoy the benefits of this advanced technology without extensive modifications.

In summary, the Furrion FWH09AFA-AM is more than just a water heater; it’s an investment in enhanced RV comfort and convenience. Its design and features reflect a deep understanding of the RV lifestyle, aiming to provide a home-like hot water experience no matter where your travels take you. Its robust build and smart features make it a strong contender in the competitive RV appliance market.

Furrion Tankless Water Heater Key Features & Specs

The Furrion Tankless Water Heater comes packed with features designed to optimize performance, efficiency, and user experience in an RV environment. Understanding these specifications is essential for appreciating the value this unit brings to your mobile home. Each component plays a crucial role in its overall functionality and reliability.

One of the most critical specifications is its 2.4 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) flow rate. This indicates the volume of hot water the unit can deliver continuously. For an RV, 2.4 GPM is generally sufficient for a comfortable shower, or for running a kitchen sink simultaneously with a smaller faucet. It ensures that you won’t experience significant drops in temperature during typical usage, a common complaint with smaller tank-style heaters.

Complementing the flow rate is the impressive 60,000 BTU heating capacity. BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures the heat output. A higher BTU rating means the heater can raise the water temperature more quickly and efficiently. This powerful burner allows the Furrion unit to heat cold incoming water to your desired temperature almost instantaneously, even in colder ambient conditions, providing truly on-demand hot water.

A standout feature for year-round RVers is the integrated Antifreeze Protection. This intelligent system automatically activates heating elements or circulation when temperatures drop below a certain threshold, preventing water in the lines and the unit itself from freezing and causing costly damage. This significantly reduces the hassle and worry associated with winterizing your RV, especially for those who travel in cold climates or store their vehicle without full winterization procedures.

The unit operates on Propane with Electric Ignition. Propane is the standard fuel source for most RV appliances, making this heater compatible with existing RV systems. The electric ignition eliminates the need for a pilot light, conserving propane and offering a more reliable start-up, particularly in windy conditions. This combination ensures consistent performance and ease of use, whether you’re hooked up to shore power or operating off-grid.

User control is managed via a dedicated Wall Thermostat. This digital interface allows for precise temperature adjustments, typically within a range suitable for showering and general household use. The ability to set an exact temperature prevents scalding and provides consistent comfort, a luxury often missing in basic RV water heaters. The thermostat is usually mounted conveniently inside the RV for easy access.

The design of the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is specifically geared towards a Retrofit RV Water Heater Upgrade. This means it’s engineered to fit into the standard cut-out dimensions of most existing tank-style RV water heaters, simplifying the installation process. This makes it an attractive option for owners looking to replace an old, inefficient, or broken unit without extensive modifications to their RV’s exterior or interior structure.

Safety is paramount, and Furrion has included multiple protective measures. A crucial one is the Safety Shutoff system. This includes features like over-temperature protection, which automatically shuts down the unit if the water gets too hot, and flame failure protection, which cuts off the propane supply if the burner flame extinguishes. These mechanisms ensure safe operation and provide peace of mind for RV occupants.

Beyond these primary features, the Furrion FWH09AFA-AM boasts a durable, corrosion-resistant construction, essential for the demanding conditions of RV travel. Its exterior casing is designed to withstand outdoor elements, while internal components are built for longevity. The compact dimensions (typically around 13.5″ W x 13.5″ H x 18″ D) ensure it doesn’t consume excessive space, a vital consideration in any RV.

This blend of high-performance heating, smart safety features, and RV-specific design elements makes the Furrion Tankless Water Heater a premium choice for modern RVers. It addresses common pain points of traditional RV water heating systems, offering a superior and more convenient experience on the road.

Pros & Cons of the Furrion Tankless Water Heater

Every product has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is no exception. A balanced view of its pros and cons is essential for prospective buyers to determine if it aligns with their specific RVing needs and budget. Let’s explore what makes this unit shine and where it might fall short.

Pros:

• Instant and Endless Hot Water: This is arguably the biggest advantage. Unlike tank heaters that run out, the Furrion provides continuous hot water as long as there’s water flow and propane. This means everyone in the RV can enjoy a hot shower without waiting, and dishwashing becomes a much more pleasant task.
• Space-Saving Design: Without a bulky tank to accommodate, the Furrion unit is significantly more compact than traditional RV water heaters. This frees up valuable storage space inside or outside the RV, which is a premium commodity in any recreational vehicle. The reduced footprint is a major benefit for interior design and storage optimization.
• Energy Efficiency (On-Demand Heating): Tankless heaters only consume energy when hot water is being used. This eliminates standby heat loss, where a tank full of hot water constantly cools and reheats, wasting propane. While it uses more propane during active heating, overall consumption can be lower for intermittent use, leading to potential fuel savings over time.
• Consistent Water Temperature: The precise digital wall thermostat and advanced heating controls ensure a stable and consistent hot water temperature. Say goodbye to sudden bursts of cold water or scalding hot water; the Furrion maintains your set temperature, providing a more comfortable and predictable experience.
• Advanced Antifreeze Protection: The automatic antifreeze feature is a game-changer for cold-weather RVing. It protects the unit from freezing temperatures, preventing costly damage and simplifying winterization routines. This built-in safeguard adds significant peace of mind for travelers in diverse climates.
• Safety Features: Equipped with multiple safety shutoffs, including over-temperature and flame failure protection, the Furrion prioritizes user safety. These mechanisms automatically prevent dangerous operating conditions, ensuring reliable and secure operation of the heating system.
• Retrofit Compatibility: Designed to fit standard RV water heater cut-outs, installation is often straightforward for those replacing an existing tank model. This reduces installation time and complexity, making it an accessible upgrade for many RV owners.

Cons:

• Higher Initial Cost: Tankless water heaters, including the Furrion model, typically have a higher upfront purchase price compared to traditional tank-style RV water heaters. This initial investment can be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers, although the long-term benefits often justify the cost.
• Installation Complexity: While designed for retrofit, proper installation can still be complex and may require professional assistance. Ensuring correct propane line connections, ventilation, and water line integration is crucial for safety and optimal performance. DIY installation requires a good understanding of RV plumbing and gas systems.
• Propane Consumption During Continuous Use: While generally more efficient, if you run hot water continuously for extended periods (e.g., very long showers for multiple people), a tankless heater can consume propane at a higher rate than a tank heater would during a single heating cycle. This is because it’s constantly firing at maximum output.
• Water Pressure Requirements: Tankless heaters require a minimum water flow rate to activate and operate correctly. If your RV’s water pump or campsite water pressure is too low, the unit may struggle to ignite or maintain consistent hot water. This can be a concern in some boondocking or low-pressure situations.
• Limited Simultaneous Hot Water Use: While 2.4 GPM is good for one major fixture, it might be stretched thin if two people try to shower simultaneously or if a shower and dishwasher run at the same time. The hot water output can become less consistent under heavy, simultaneous demand, though this is typical for most RV systems.

Weighing these factors carefully will help you decide if the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is the right choice for your RV. Its advantages in convenience, space, and modern features are significant, but the investment and specific operational considerations should be noted. The superior experience it offers often outweighs these minor drawbacks for many users.

Who Should Buy the Furrion Tankless Water Heater?

Deciding if the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is the right investment for your RV depends heavily on your specific travel habits, priorities, and budget. This advanced appliance offers substantial benefits, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Let’s explore the types of RVers who would benefit most from this upgrade.

Full-time RVers and Extended Travelers: If you live in your RV or spend significant periods on the road, the continuous hot water supply is an invaluable luxury. The ability to take long, comfortable showers without interruption dramatically enhances the quality of life in a mobile home. This unit supports a more residential-like experience, which is crucial for those who spend months or years in their RV.

Families or Groups Traveling Together: When multiple people need hot water for showers or other uses in quick succession, a tank-style heater quickly runs out. The Furrion tankless system eliminates this bottleneck, ensuring everyone has access to hot water on demand. This greatly reduces morning rush hour stress and improves overall harmony within the RV.

Owners of Older RVs Looking for an Upgrade: Many older RVs come with inefficient or undersized water heaters. The Furrion’s retrofit design makes it an ideal replacement, offering modern performance and features without requiring extensive modifications. It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into an aging RV’s amenities and significantly boost its comfort level.

Boondockers and Off-Grid Adventurers (with considerations): While tankless heaters use propane, their on-demand nature means they only consume fuel when hot water is flowing. This can be more efficient than constantly heating and reheating a tank, making it appealing for boondockers who manage their resources carefully. However, ensuring sufficient water pressure from your pump is critical for activation and consistent operation.

Those Prioritizing Space and Efficiency: The compact nature of the Furrion unit frees up valuable storage space in your RV. If maximizing every inch of your living area is important, or if you’re looking to reduce overall RV weight for better fuel economy, the tankless design offers a significant advantage over bulky tank heaters. The energy savings from eliminating standby loss also contribute to efficiency.

Cold Weather Campers: The integrated antifreeze protection is a major selling point for those who camp in cooler climates or extend their season into the colder months. This feature protects your investment from freezing damage, offering peace of mind and reducing the effort required for winterization. It allows for more spontaneous cold-weather trips without extensive preparation.

RVers Seeking Modern Comfort and Convenience: Ultimately, if you value the comforts of home while on the road, the Furrion Tankless Water Heater delivers. The precise temperature control, instant hot water, and advanced safety features contribute to a more enjoyable and hassle-free RV experience. It’s about upgrading from basic functionality to true luxury.

However, if you’re on a very tight budget, rarely use hot water, or primarily camp with full hookups where a smaller tank heater might suffice, the higher initial cost might be a consideration. For everyone else looking to enhance their RV lifestyle with reliable, endless hot water, the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is an excellent choice.

Consider your personal RVing style and needs carefully. The investment in a high-quality tankless water heater like the Furrion can significantly elevate your comfort and convenience on every journey. It’s a premium upgrade that pays dividends in daily enjoyment and ease of use.

FAQ about the Furrion Tankless Water Heater

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Furrion Tankless Water Heater to help clarify common concerns and provide deeper insights into its operation and benefits.

Q1: How does the Furrion Tankless Water Heater differ from traditional RV water heaters?
A1: Traditional RV water heaters store a finite amount of water in a tank and heat it, meaning the hot water supply can run out. The Furrion Tankless Water Heater heats water on demand as it flows through the unit. This provides a continuous, endless supply of hot water, eliminating the wait time and the risk of cold showers. It also saves space by not requiring a large storage tank.

Q2: Is installation difficult for an RV? Can I do it myself?
A2: The Furrion Tankless Water Heater is designed as a retrofit upgrade, meaning it’s built to fit into existing standard RV water heater cut-outs. While this simplifies the physical mounting, the installation involves working with propane lines, electrical connections, and plumbing. For safety and optimal performance, professional installation by a certified RV technician is highly recommended, especially if you’re not experienced with these systems. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards and void warranties.

Q3: What are the power requirements for the Furrion Tankless Water Heater?
A3: The Furrion Tankless Water Heater primarily uses propane as its fuel source for heating the water. It also requires a 12V DC electrical connection for its electronic ignition system, control board, and fan. This low-voltage electrical requirement is easily met by your RV’s existing battery system, making it suitable for boondocking as well as full hookup camping. It does not require 120V AC power for operation.

Q4: How much propane does the Furrion Tankless Water Heater use?
A4: Propane consumption depends entirely on usage. Since it only heats water on demand, it can be more fuel-efficient than a tank heater that constantly reheats stored water. However, during active use (e.g., showering), it consumes propane at a higher rate (60,000 BTU/hour). For intermittent use, overall consumption might be lower, but for continuous, heavy use, you might notice faster propane depletion than with a small tank heater that cycles less frequently.

Q5: Can the Furrion Tankless Water Heater handle multiple showers at once?
A5: The Furrion Tankless Water Heater has a flow rate of 2.4 GPM. This is typically sufficient for one comfortable shower at a time. If two showers or a shower and a high-flow faucet (like a kitchen sink) are used simultaneously, the water temperature may fluctuate or become less hot. For optimal performance, it’s best to use one major hot water fixture at a time. This is a common characteristic for most RV water heating systems, tankless or otherwise.

Q6: What exactly is the antifreeze protection feature and how does it work?
A6: The antifreeze protection is a crucial safeguard for cold climates. The unit incorporates sensors that detect when ambient temperatures drop to near freezing. If this occurs, the system automatically activates a small heating element or cycles the water to prevent the internal components and water lines from freezing and cracking. This greatly reduces the need for manual winterization and protects the unit from damage during cold weather storage or travel.

Q7: Is the Furrion Tankless Water Heater suitable for cold climates?
A7: Yes, with its 60,000 BTU heating capacity and built-in antifreeze protection, the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is well-suited for cold climates. The powerful burner ensures water is heated quickly even from very cold inlet temperatures, and the antifreeze feature prevents damage to the unit itself. However, proper RV insulation and protection for external water lines are still necessary for overall cold-weather camping.

Q8: What kind of maintenance does the Furrion Tankless Water Heater require?
A8: Tankless water heaters generally require less maintenance than tank models (no anode rod to replace). Key maintenance tasks include periodic flushing of the heat exchanger to remove mineral buildup, especially in hard water areas. This helps maintain efficiency and longevity. Regularly checking the propane connections and ensuring the exhaust vent is clear of obstructions are also important. Consult the owner’s manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures.

These answers should provide a clearer understanding of the Furrion Tankless Water Heater and help you make an informed decision for your RV hot water needs. Its advanced features are designed to offer convenience and reliability on your travels.

Final Verdict on the Furrion Tankless Water Heater

After a thorough examination of its features, specifications, and real-world applications, the Furrion Tankless Water Heater (FWH09AFA-AM) stands out as an excellent, premium upgrade for any RV. It successfully addresses many of the common frustrations associated with traditional tank-style water heaters, delivering a truly enhanced hot water experience on the road. Its blend of performance, convenience, and safety features makes it a compelling choice for discerning RV owners.

The core promise of instant and endless hot water is fully realized, transforming daily routines from rushed to relaxed. Whether it’s taking a long, hot shower after a day of hiking or washing dishes without interruption, the continuous supply is a game-changer. This level of comfort significantly elevates the RV living experience, making it feel more like a home away from home.

Beyond the luxury of endless hot water, the practical benefits are substantial. The compact, space-saving design is a major plus in an RV where every inch counts, potentially freeing up valuable storage. Its on-demand heating approach contributes to energy efficiency by eliminating standby heat loss, a common inefficiency in tank-based systems. This can lead to noticeable propane savings over time, especially for those who use hot water intermittently.

Furrion’s attention to RV-specific needs is evident in features like the antifreeze protection and retrofit compatibility. The antifreeze system offers crucial peace of mind for cold-weather enthusiasts, protecting the unit from damage and simplifying winterization. The ability to easily replace an old tank heater with this modern unit without extensive modifications makes it an accessible upgrade for a wide range of RVs.

While the initial investment is higher than that of a basic tank heater, the long-term value, comfort, and potential efficiency gains often justify the cost. The robust construction and advanced safety features further underscore its quality and reliability, ensuring that your investment will provide consistent performance for years to come. The digital wall thermostat provides precise control, adding to the overall user-friendly design.

For full-time RVers, families, or anyone who values consistent hot water, space efficiency, and modern amenities, the Furrion Tankless Water Heater is an outstanding choice. It’s an investment in comfort, convenience, and a superior RV lifestyle. This unit is highly recommended for those looking to significantly upgrade their RV’s hot water system and enjoy a truly unlimited supply of warmth on their adventures.