Water Heaters

The right water heater depends on how you use it day to day. Short trips, longer travel, and full off grid setups all place different demands on your system.

Start by considering:

✔ How often you’ll need hot water
✔ How many people are using it
✔ Your water supply and pressure
✔ Your available power or gas setup

Getting this right means reliable hot water without wasting fuel, water, or energy.

One of the first decisions is choosing between gas and electric. 

A gas hot water system is the more practical option for off grid use. It heats quickly, runs independently of mains power, and works well with portable gas bottles.

Electric water heaters can suit powered sites or home setups, but they rely more on a consistent power supply.

For most off grid setups, gas is the simpler and more reliable choice.

Not all water heaters work the same way.

An instant hot water system heats water only when you need it. It’s compact, efficient, and ideal for caravans and camping.

A storage system heats and stores water in a tank. These are more common in fixed setups but tend to be bulkier for travel.

If space and efficiency matter, instant systems are usually the better fit.

For off grid setups, efficiency and reliability matter most. Gas-powered water heaters are a popular choice because they don’t rely on mains electricity and can run almost anywhere. They’re simple to use and deliver steady hot water when paired with the right setup.

If you have a strong solar and battery system, some electric options can work, but most people stick with gas for ease and consistency.

Setting up a water heater is usually straightforward, especially with models designed for off grid use. Most units connect to a gas bottle and a standard hose, then deliver hot water through a shower head or tap.

If you’re setting up for a caravan, campsite, or outdoor shower, look for systems with simple connections and clear setup instructions. For fixed home installations, it’s best to use a licensed installer.

Water pressure is just as important. Many off grid setups rely on tanks or portable pumps, which can vary in flow.

To keep things running smoothly, look for water heaters that:

✔ Work well with low-pressure systems
✔ Have low-pressure ignition
✔ Maintain stable temperature control
✔ Are compatible with 12V pumps

Choosing a unit built for low-flow conditions helps avoid inconsistent heating and makes day-to-day use far more reliable.

The right features make a big difference when you’re relying on hot water off grid.

Look for:

✔ Fast heat-up time for quick showers
✔ Efficient gas or power use to reduce load on your system
✔ Stable temperature control, especially with changing water flow
✔ Built-in safety features like flame failure protection
✔ Compatibility with low-pressure setups and 12V pumps
✔ Durable construction for outdoor and travel conditions

These features help your hot water system run reliably, even in remote or demanding setups.