RV Bathroom Upgrades
Part of our Ideas & Budget Upgrades guides.
RV bathrooms are small, run on limited water and propane, and bounce down the road. Upgrades should be light, compact and frugal with water.
Endless hot showers
An RV tankless water heater (42,000 BTU) fits standard 15x15-inch openings and replaces the small tank that runs out mid-shower. For stronger flow, the 65,000 BTU model.
Backup toilet
A portable flush toilet is useful for boondocking or when the black tank is full.
Low ceilings
Many RV showers can't fit a 53-inch panel. The 49-inch panel is the shortest in VEVOR's lineup; check the height from the shower arm first.
Water saving
Use a shower head with a pause button and do "navy showers". Every gallon counts against your fresh and grey tanks.
Measure the RV water heater opening
Most RV water heaters sit behind an exterior access door. Standard openings are often around 15x15 inches; VEVOR's RV tankless units ship with doors sized for that. Measure the opening, the gas line location and the 12 V wiring before ordering, and compare with the install diagram.
Tankless in an RV: what changes
- No tank to winterize, but the unit's internal lines still need draining or bypassing before freezing weather.
- Most units need a minimum flow to fire; very low-flow shower heads may not trigger them.
- Propane use rises during long showers; carry enough for your trip.
Saving fresh and grey tank capacity
A shower head with a shut-off button lets you lather without running water. Catch the cold water while waiting for hot in a jug for drinking or dishes. A portable toilet as backup lets you extend time between black tank dumps when boondocking.
Storage in a tiny wet bath
Use tension rods, mesh caddies and over-door hooks, and secure everything before driving. Avoid glass items. A corner shower bench doubles as a shelf for toiletries.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace an RV tank water heater with tankless?
Yes, many RV tankless units are designed for the same opening; check gas line, power and door size.
Do RV tankless heaters need power?
They use 12 V for the ignition and controls, plus propane for heat.
Can I install a household toilet in an RV?
RVs use special toilets designed for black tanks; household toilets don't fit the system.
How do I improve RV shower pressure?
Clean the shower head, check the water pump and use a pressure regulator at campsites.
What's the best RV bathroom fan?
A roof vent fan with a rain cover keeps humidity down.
Can I replace an RV water heater door?
Yes, many tankless kits include new doors.