rpbuttery Report post Posted May 14, 2017 I have an electric or gas, or both, hot water heater, but normally run it on electricity since we rarely boondocks. Is it better for the water heater (less wear and tear) to turn it off when not being used or needed, or to leave it on all the time? Thanks. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tbutler Report post Posted May 14, 2017 If you are thinking short periods of time when you don't use it, a few hours to a day, leave it on. If you are thinking longer than that,turn it off. It takes about 15 minutes to heat up the standard 10 gallon RV water heater so you can have hot water on short notice. When we were full time we usually left the hot water heater on unless we were going to be out of the motor home for a while. It is very important that you turn the water heater off while fueling if you are using it on gas. If on electric only, it won't hurt to leave it on while fueling. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BillAdams Report post Posted May 14, 2017 It sounds like you are asking about leaving the electric element running 24/7. If so, yes, you can just let it run, keep the propane off and use all the hot water you need. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RKSPAS Report post Posted May 14, 2017 We have always left the water heater on electric 24/7, even when in one location for months. About five years ago had to replace an element. But now that the subject comes up for discussion, it does seem to make sense to shut down during periods when not needed for awhile. Think we will begin this practice...sure can't hurt anything Looking forward to future comments on this topic. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
