Atwood Water Heater Review: Key Features, Price, And More

Published by 
AllThingsHVAC
Last updated: 
May 23, 2024

The Things That Matter

When reviewing the options for Atwood water heaters, we considered several factors, including cost, value of included features, type and size of the water heater, BTUs, durability, longevity, and reviews from experts and past buyers .

Top 5 Atwood Water Heaters

1. GC10A-4E Water Heater

This unique hybrid model uses both electricity and gas, weighing 17.5 pounds and measuring 22.8 x 18.1 x 17.5 inches. Its through-tube combustion chamber improves heat retention, providing 10,000 BTUs with gas and 1,400 watts with electricity. The heat exchanger ensures energy conservation, and the unit features Atwood's corrosion resistance for added durability .

  • Price: $600 - $700
  • Pros: Excellent construction, easy to install, low maintenance
  • Cons: Higher price than some alternatives

2. WATER HEATER 6 GAL

This corrosion-resistant, stainless steel water heater has a six-gallon tank and uses a 110-volt power outlet. The double-tube model prevents fresh water from encountering engine coolant, and the heat exchange is optimized for quick heating .

  • Price: $675 - $950
  • Pros: Fast heating, durable, easy to install
  • Cons: Higher price than some alternatives

3. Bosch ES8-Point-Of-Use

Available in gas, electric, or hybrid, this large unit weighs nearly 50 pounds and measures 21.8 x 15.5 x 16 inches. The aluminum alloy tank holds up to 10 gallons and includes water corrosion protection. It features a heat exchanger, preconfigured bypass kit, gas/electric ignition, prefitted tee fittings, and a thermostatically controlled mixing valve .

  • Price: $575 - $850
  • Pros: Advanced features, long-lasting hot water
  • Cons: Large size, can be tricky to install without electrical experience

4. EcoSmart ECO 11 Electric Tankless Water Heater

The 96110 is a budget-friendly option with a six or 10-gallon tank, weighing just over 14 pounds and measuring 20 x 17 x 14.3 inches. This gas-only unit has settings that use up to 90% of the pilot light's heat to keep water hot and conserve energy. It has an input of 8,800 BTUs and a recovery rate of over seven gallons per hour .

  • Price: Around $325
  • Pros: Economical, easy to install, heats water quickly
  • Cons: Gas-only, limited features compared to higher-end models

5. Atwood GC10A-4E-10 10 Gallon RV Water Heater

This gas-only water heater has direct-spark ignition, a six-gallon capacity, 8,800 BTUs input, and a recovery rate of over 11 gallons per hour. Weighing about 19 pounds, it fits a 12-5/8 x 16 ¼-inch cutout for flush mounting to an RV sidewall. It features pressure relief, high-temperature-limit switch, and temperature control .

  • Price: Less than $400
  • Pros: Easy to install and service, safe and convenient
  • Cons: Gas-only, limited capacity compared to larger models

Buyer's Guide

When choosing a water heater for your RV, boat, or mobile home, consider the following factors:

  1. Type of Water Heater: Tank or tankless
  2. Tank Size: 4, 6, 10, or 16 gallons
  3. Choice of Fuels: Propane, electric, motor-aided, or hybrid
  4. BTU and Recovery Rate: Higher BTU means more effective heating, while recovery rate indicates how many gallons of hot water can be produced per hour

Wrapping Up

Atwood offers a range of innovative water heaters for RVs and marine vehicles, with options for gas, electric, or hybrid power. By considering your specific needs and the factors outlined in this article, you can find the best Atwood water heater for your boat or RV.

Sources:

  1. "How to Choose the Best RV Tankless Water Heater." RV Lifestyle, https://rvlifestyle.com/best-rv-tankless-water-heater/.
  2. "Atwood GC10A-4E RV Water Heater." Camping World, https://www.campingworld.com/atwood-gc10a-4e-rv-water-heater-10-gal-81050.html.
  3. "Atwood Water Heater." PPL Motor Homes, https://pplmotorhomes.com/parts/rv-appliances/atwood-water-heater.
  4. "Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4-Gallon (ES4) - Eliminate Time for Hot Water - Shelf, Wall or Floor Mounted." Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-Electric-Mini-Tank-Water-Heater-ES-4/dp/B0148O658Y.
  5. "Atwood 96110 Pilot Ignition Gas/Electric Water Heater - 10 Gallon." Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Atwood-96110-Ignition-Electric-Gallon/dp/B000BGM2NC.
  6. "Atwood GC10A-4E 10 Gallon Gas/Electric Water Heater." eTrailer, https://www.etrailer.com/RV-Water-Heater/Atwood/AT96110.html.

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