Let’s Dive into Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater promises endless hot water on the go, a game-changer for any RVer tired of lukewarm showers after the first few minutes. Manufactured by Girard, this unit boasts a microprocessor-controlled system that regulates water temperature, a digital control panel, and easy-access door, all designed to enhance the RVing experience. At a price point of $659.87, it positions itself as a premium upgrade.
My RV trips always seemed to be punctuated by the drama of the six-gallon tank water heater, especially when dry camping with limited water resources. I needed a system that could provide continuous hot water, even with low flow rates and varying water pressures, without the anxiety of depleting a tank. Tankless seemed the only viable route.
Unboxing the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater, I was immediately impressed by its compact design and seemingly robust construction. The exterior housing felt solid, and the digital control panel looked modern and intuitive. The weight felt manageable, suggesting a relatively straightforward installation, a huge relief considering my past experiences with RV modifications.
I considered the Truma AquaGo and the Suburban Nautilus as alternatives, but the Girard stood out due to its focus on user-friendly controls and perceived ease of installation. The positive reviews regarding its ability to maintain consistent water temperature even with fluctuating water flow also swayed my decision. The Suburbans have a reputation for needing higher flow rates to trigger.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Tankless water heaters in RVs can be notoriously finicky, but the promise of endless hot water was too alluring to ignore. The hope was that the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater would finally deliver on that promise, making RV showers a truly luxurious experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater to the Test
First Use Experience
The first real test came during a week-long camping trip in the mountains of Colorado, where evening temperatures dipped into the 40s. Installation was surprisingly smooth; it directly replaced my old tank water heater after adapting the gas line. The initial setup was simple, and the digital controller fired right up.
The unit delivered hot water almost instantly, a welcome change from the agonizing wait of the old tank heater. Even with the low-flow showerhead I installed to conserve water, the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater maintained a consistent temperature, eliminating the frustrating cold bursts I had grown accustomed to. I even tried it with the outdoor shower for cleaning gear; consistent heat, despite the chilly evening air!
There was a slight learning curve in finding the optimal temperature setting on the digital controller. Initially, I set it too high, resulting in scalding water, but after a few adjustments, I found the sweet spot. The diagnostic features are a boon; the peace of mind knowing I could troubleshoot any potential issues quickly was a huge benefit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of near-constant use during a cross-country RV trip, the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater has proven to be remarkably reliable. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the exterior housing looks as good as new, despite being exposed to rain, dust, and intense sunlight. The hinged door is a simple yet effective design; the sliding latch is much easier to operate than the twist-latches on my previous water heater.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick flush with vinegar every few weeks is all it takes to keep the system running smoothly. Compared to my old tank heater, which required annual draining and cleaning to prevent sediment buildup, the Girard is a breeze to maintain. The constant hot water availability far surpasses the old tank, making boondocking so much more enjoyable.
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater has significantly outperformed my expectations. I was initially hesitant about switching to tankless, but the consistent performance, ease of use, and low maintenance have made me a convert. This upgrade has truly enhanced the RVing experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater
Specifications
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater features a microprocessor-controlled system designed to maintain a consistent hot water temperature. This ensures a comfortable and reliable shower experience, regardless of water flow fluctuations. It operates on 12V DC power, consuming less than 3 amps, making it efficient for RV electrical systems.
- BTU Rating: 42,000 BTUs. This provides ample heating power for RV plumbing systems without requiring specialized LP gas lines.
- Temperature Range: 95°F to 124°F. This allows users to customize the hot water temperature to their preference, preventing scalding and ensuring comfort.
- Digital Control Panel: Features visual diagnostics and temperature settings in both Fahrenheit and Celsius, enhancing ease of use.
- Freeze Protection: Designed for winter use, preventing damage from freezing temperatures.
- Quiet Brush-less Motor: Ensures silent operation, minimizing noise disturbance within the RV.
- Easy Access Door: Hinged door with a sliding latch for fast and easy access to the water heater components.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the performance and user experience of the water heater. A high BTU rating ensures rapid heating, while the microprocessor control guarantees a consistent temperature. The freeze protection is essential for RVers traveling in colder climates, and the easy access door simplifies maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater excels at providing a continuous supply of hot water, which is its primary function. Its ability to maintain a consistent temperature, even with low water flow, sets it apart from traditional tank heaters. The digital control panel is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for precise temperature adjustments.
The unit’s primary strength is its endless hot water supply, removing the limitations of a tank. A minor weakness is the initial learning curve in finding the ideal temperature setting; however, once dialed in, it performs flawlessly. It meets and exceeds expectations by delivering hot water on demand, conserving water, and minimizing maintenance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater is impressive, with durable materials that withstand the rigors of RV travel. The compact design allows for easy installation in standard RV water heater compartments. The unit’s weight is reasonable, making it manageable for most RVers to install and maintain.
The digital control panel is user-friendly, featuring clear and concise displays. The intuitive interface eliminates the need for complex manuals, and the diagnostic codes simplify troubleshooting. The easy-access door is a thoughtful design element, making maintenance quick and hassle-free.
Durability & Maintenance
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater is built to last, with durable components that resist wear and tear. Its robust construction ensures longevity, even with frequent use and exposure to varying weather conditions. The simple design facilitates easy maintenance and repair, minimizing downtime.
Maintaining the Girard is straightforward; a regular flush with vinegar prevents scale buildup and ensures optimal performance. The unit’s design allows for easy access to key components, simplifying repairs if needed. With proper care, the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater does not come with extensive accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. The key feature is its compatibility with standard RV plumbing and electrical systems, ensuring easy integration. Although not directly customizable, the unit is compatible with various aftermarket low-flow showerheads, which enhance water conservation.
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater is designed to work seamlessly with standard RV components, minimizing the need for specialized accessories. This ensures broad compatibility and simplifies the installation process. RVers can enhance their water conservation efforts by pairing the water heater with low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, improving overall efficiency.
Pros and Cons of Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater
Pros
- Endless Hot Water: Provides a continuous supply of hot water, eliminating the limitations of a tank.
- Consistent Temperature: The microprocessor control maintains a stable hot water temperature, even with low flow rates.
- User-Friendly: The digital control panel is intuitive and easy to operate, with clear diagnostic codes.
- Easy Installation: Designed for easy installation in standard RV water heater compartments.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional tank heaters.
Cons
- Initial Temperature Adjustment: There may be a slight learning curve in finding the optimal temperature setting.
- Power Consumption: Requires 12V DC power, which could strain battery systems during prolonged use.
Who Should Buy Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater?
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater is perfect for full-time RVers, boondockers, and anyone who values consistent hot water. It is also ideal for families who want to avoid running out of hot water during showers. Anyone looking to upgrade from a traditional tank water heater will find it a significant improvement.
Those who are very conservative with power usage and primarily camp with full hookups may not fully appreciate the benefits. If you’re only camping a few weekends a year, the initial investment might not be worth it. Someone intimidated by basic RV maintenance or electrical systems should also skip this product and consider professional installation and maintenance.
A must-have accessory is a low-flow showerhead to maximize water conservation. Consider a water pressure regulator to protect the unit from damage due to high water pressure.
Conclusion on Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater
The Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater is a worthwhile investment for any RVer seeking a reliable and convenient hot water solution. The value proposition is strong, considering the endless hot water, consistent temperature, and ease of use it provides. At $659.87, it’s a premium option, but the benefits justify the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Girard 2GWHAM On-Demand Gswh-2 Tankless RV Water Heater to anyone tired of the limitations of traditional tank heaters. It transforms the RVing experience, making showers more enjoyable and convenient. Upgrade your RV today and experience the luxury of endless hot water!