Let’s Talk About Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition
The Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition is a workhorse for RV enthusiasts, providing a reliable hot water source on the road. Manufactured by Suburban, a name synonymous with quality in the RV industry, this 6-gallon heater boasts a porcelain-lined steel tank and direct spark ignition, features designed for longevity and ease of use. Its compact dimensions and 12,000 BTU burner make it a practical choice for various RV sizes.
Having spent years wrestling with inconsistent campground water pressure and lukewarm showers in my own camper, I was on the hunt for a self-contained water heating solution. I needed something that wouldn’t leave me shivering after the first minute and that could handle off-grid situations. This model stood out due to its combination of gas and electric operation, offering flexibility in different camping scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the heater felt solid and well-constructed. The porcelain-lined tank gave me confidence in its ability to resist corrosion, a major concern in RV water systems. The direct spark ignition system looked straightforward and promised a hassle-free startup.
I considered the Atwood GC6AA-10E and the Girard 2GWHAM, both popular options. I chose the Suburban primarily for its simpler, more robust design. I was looking for reliability over cutting-edge features, and the Suburban seemed to strike that balance perfectly.
My initial impression was positive, a mix of excitement and relief. I was excited at the prospect of hot showers on demand, and relieved to be potentially free of campground water woes. The unit felt like a significant upgrade, promising comfort and convenience on future adventures.
Real-World Testing: Putting Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition in my 24-foot travel trailer. The maiden voyage was a week-long camping trip in the Colorado Rockies. We experienced everything from sunny days to chilly nights with light rain.
The heater fired up quickly and consistently, even in the slightly thinner air at higher altitudes. We used the gas option primarily, as we were boondocking without electrical hookups. The water heated up quickly, and the temperature remained surprisingly stable throughout showers.
The direct spark ignition was a dream, lighting on the first try every single time. There was a brief learning curve to understanding the thermostat settings, but it was simple enough to master within a day. After the first use, there were no issues, just consistent hot water.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition has performed admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the tank or burner assembly. I did notice some minor surface rust on the exterior casing, easily addressed with a coat of heat-resistant paint.
The maintenance is simple: draining the tank and inspecting the anode rod annually. Cleaning is minimal; a quick wipe-down of the exterior is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experience with unreliable tankless heaters, this Suburban is a rockstar.
This unit outperforms my past experiences significantly. The peace of mind knowing I’ll have hot water is invaluable when I’m miles from civilization.
Breaking Down the Features of Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition
Specifications
Capacity: 6 gallons. This provides sufficient hot water for quick showers or washing dishes for a small family.
Ignition Type: Direct Spark Ignition. This eliminates the need for a pilot light, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of gas leaks.
Wattage Rating: 1400 Watt. This applies when using the optional electric heating element (not included in the base SW6D model).
BTU Level: 12000 BTU. This determines the speed at which the water heats up using propane.
Depth: 19-3/16″. Compact dimensions are crucial for RV installations.
Width: 12-11/16″. Consider the overall space available in your RV before purchasing.
Height: 12-11/16″. Again, accurate measurement is essential.
Porcelain-lined steel tank. This resists corrosion and extends the life of the water heater.
The specifications highlight the Suburban’s design focus on reliability and efficiency. The direct spark ignition and porcelain-lined tank are key features that contribute to its long-term performance. The compact size allows it to fit in a variety of RV configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition performs its job admirably. It heats water quickly and reliably, providing a consistent hot water supply. Its simplicity is its strength.
The main strength is its reliable operation. The weakness is that it only holds 6 gallons, which might be limiting for larger families or extended showers. It definitely meets my expectations for a basic, dependable RV water heater.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is robust. The materials used are high-quality, and the unit feels solid. The weight is manageable, considering it’s a 6-gallon tank.
It is user-friendly. The thermostat is simple to adjust, and the direct spark ignition eliminates the complexities of a pilot light.
Durability & Maintenance
This unit is designed to last. The porcelain-lined tank and robust burner assembly should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the unit is easy. Draining the tank and replacing the anode rod annually are the only major requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The base model doesn’t come with many accessories. You’ll need to purchase mounting hardware separately. Aftermarket accessories are limited.
A common upgrade is adding an electric heating element. The unit is designed to accept standard electric elements from Suburban.
Pros and Cons of Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark IgnitionPros
- Reliable Direct Spark Ignition: Lights quickly and consistently, even in challenging conditions.
- Durable Porcelain-Lined Tank: Resists corrosion and extends the life of the water heater.
- Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated settings or procedures; a user-friendly design.
- Compact Size: Fits well in a variety of RV configurations.
- Efficient Gas Operation: Heats water quickly with 12,000 BTU burner.
Cons
- Limited 6-Gallon Capacity: May not be sufficient for larger families or extended showers.
- Mounting Hardware Not Included: Requires a separate purchase.
Who Should Buy Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition?
Pros
- Reliable Direct Spark Ignition: Lights quickly and consistently, even in challenging conditions.
- Durable Porcelain-Lined Tank: Resists corrosion and extends the life of the water heater.
- Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated settings or procedures; a user-friendly design.
- Compact Size: Fits well in a variety of RV configurations.
- Efficient Gas Operation: Heats water quickly with 12,000 BTU burner.
Cons
- Limited 6-Gallon Capacity: May not be sufficient for larger families or extended showers.
- Mounting Hardware Not Included: Requires a separate purchase.
Perfect for: RVers who prioritize reliability and simplicity, especially those who frequently boondock or camp without electrical hookups. Small families or couples who need a dependable hot water source for showers and washing dishes.
Who should skip this product? Larger families who require a higher hot water capacity. Those seeking advanced features like tankless operation or digital controls.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A Suburban-compatible electric heating element for campgrounds with hookups, and a quality anode rod for extending tank life.
Conclusion on Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition
The Suburban Mfg Sw6D Gas Water Heater With Direct Spark Ignition is a solid, dependable choice for RV owners seeking a reliable hot water solution. Its simple design, durable construction, and efficient gas operation make it a valuable addition to any camper. At around $510, the price is justified by the quality and longevity you can expect from a Suburban product.
I would absolutely recommend it. It’s a no-frills water heater that gets the job done without any fuss. If you’re tired of cold showers and inconsistent water pressure, this is a worthwhile investment for your RV. Upgrade your RV experience and enjoy hot water on demand with the Suburban Sw6D!