6 Gallon RV Water Heaters

6 Gallon Suburban RV Water Heaters

Shop 6 gallon Suburban RV water heaters for motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, toy haulers, and other recreational vehicles. Suburban offers propane and gas-electric water heaters for original Suburban installations, along with Direct Fit models designed to replace select older Atwood and Dometic 6 gallon water heaters.

Suburban 6 gallon water heaters feature durable porcelain-lined steel tanks, direct-spark ignition, and replaceable anode rods. Available models include propane-only water heaters, gas and electric units, relay-equipped models, and Direct Fit replacements for competitive aluminum-tank water heaters.

Current 6 Gallon Suburban Water Heater Models

Current Suburban 6 gallon RV water heaters include:

  • Suburban SW6D gas water heater

  • Suburban SW6DE gas and electric water heater

  • Suburban SW6DEL gas and electric water heater with a 12-volt relay

  • Suburban SAW6D Direct Fit gas water heater

  • Suburban SAW6DE Direct Fit gas and electric water heater

  • Suburban SAW6DEL Direct Fit gas and electric water heater with a 12-volt relay

The SW6 models are designed for standard Suburban water-heater openings. The SAW6 Direct Fit models are designed for select openings previously occupied by 6 gallon Atwood or Dometic aluminum-tank water heaters.

Suburban SW6D 6 Gallon Gas Water Heater

The Suburban SW6D is a 6 gallon propane RV water heater with direct-spark ignition. It uses a 12,000 BTU propane burner and does not include a 120-volt electric heating element.

Direct-spark ignition allows the burner to be activated electronically from inside the RV without manually lighting a pilot flame. Although propane provides the heat, the SW6D still requires 12-volt DC power for the control board, ignition system, gas valve, and safety components.

The SW6D is a practical choice for RV owners who primarily use propane, frequently camp without electrical hookups, or are replacing an existing Suburban gas-only water heater.

Suburban SW6D part number: 5238A.

Suburban SW6DE 6 Gallon Gas and Electric Water Heater

The Suburban SW6DE combines a 12,000 BTU propane burner with a 1,440-watt electric heating element.

Propane can be used while dry camping or traveling without shore power. The electric element can be used while the RV is connected to suitable campground or generator power, allowing the owner to conserve propane.

On the SW6DE, propane operation is controlled through an interior switch. The electric heating element is commonly controlled by a separate switch located on the water heater behind the exterior access door.

Gas and electric heat may be used together for faster recovery when the RV and water heater are properly wired.

Suburban SW6DE part number: 5239A.

Suburban SW6DEL 6 Gallon Water Heater

The Suburban SW6DEL is a gas and electric 6 gallon RV water heater equipped with a 12-volt relay for the electric heating element.

The relay allows both propane and electric operation to be controlled through a compatible interior switch panel. This can be more convenient than accessing the exterior water-heater compartment whenever the electric element is turned on or off.

The SW6DEL should not be treated as interchangeable with the SW6DE without verifying the RV’s switches, relay wiring, 12-volt controls, and 120-volt electrical connections.

Suburban SW6DEL part number: 5240A.

Gas-Only Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heaters

A gas-only Suburban water heater uses propane as its only source of heat. The Suburban SW6D is the standard gas-only model for a traditional Suburban opening.

A propane-only model may be a good choice when:

  • The RV does not have a dedicated 120-volt water-heater circuit

  • The existing water heater is gas-only

  • Propane operation is preferred

  • The owner frequently dry camps or boondocks

  • Campground electrical capacity is limited

  • A straightforward replacement is needed

Gas-only does not mean electricity-free. Direct-spark ignition requires 12-volt battery power to operate the control board, ignition electrode, gas valve, and safety system.

Gas and Electric Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heaters

Suburban gas and electric water heaters provide greater flexibility than propane-only models.

The propane burner can heat water while the RV is away from shore power. The electric element can be used while connected to a campground pedestal or suitable generator.

Using propane and electricity together can provide the fastest recovery when simultaneous operation is supported by the installation.

Current standard gas and electric models include the SW6DE and SW6DEL. The main difference is how the electric heating element is controlled.

SW6DE vs. SW6DEL

Both the SW6DE and SW6DEL include direct-spark propane ignition and a 1,440-watt electric heating element.

The SW6DE typically uses an interior switch for propane operation and a separate switch on the water heater for the electric element.

The SW6DEL includes a 12-volt relay that allows propane and electric operation to be controlled through a compatible interior switch panel.

The correct choice depends on the RV’s original wiring and control system. Match the complete model number instead of choosing based only on tank capacity or the presence of an electric element.

Suburban Advantage Direct Fit 6 Gallon Water Heaters

Suburban Advantage Direct Fit water heaters are designed to replace select 6 gallon Atwood and Dometic aluminum-tank water heaters.

Traditional Suburban and Atwood-style water heaters use different opening dimensions, depths, doors, and connection locations. The Direct Fit series is designed to fit certain competitive openings without major sidewall or cabinet modifications.

Current Direct Fit models include:

  • Suburban SAW6D

  • Suburban SAW6DE

  • Suburban SAW6DEL

The correct model depends on whether the original water heater was gas-only, gas and electric, or equipped with interior controls for both heat sources.

Suburban SAW6D Direct Fit Water Heater

The Suburban SAW6D is a 6 gallon gas-only Direct Fit water heater intended for select openings previously occupied by Atwood or Dometic aluminum-tank water heaters.

It features direct-spark ignition, a porcelain-lined steel tank, a replaceable anode rod, and a 10,000 BTU propane burner.

The SAW6D may reduce the amount of modification required when replacing a compatible Atwood or Dometic gas-only model.

Suburban SAW6D part number: 5320A.

Suburban SAW6DE Direct Fit Water Heater

The Suburban SAW6DE is a 6 gallon Direct Fit water heater with propane and electric heating.

It includes a 10,000 BTU propane burner and a 1,440-watt electric heating element. The propane system is controlled through a compatible interior switch, while the electric element is controlled separately.

The SAW6DE may replace select Atwood or Dometic gas and electric models, but the original wiring, switches, dimensions, and connections must be verified before ordering.

Suburban SAW6DE part number: 5321A.

Suburban SAW6DEL Direct Fit Water Heater

The Suburban SAW6DEL combines propane heating, a 1,440-watt electric element, and a 12-volt relay for interior control of both heating modes.

This model is often the appropriate Direct Fit choice when replacing an older Atwood or Dometic gas and electric water heater that used an interior dual-control switch.

The SAW6DEL includes different wiring and control requirements than the SAW6DE. Confirm the complete original model number and existing control arrangement before selecting either unit.

Suburban SAW6DEL part number: 5322A.

Standard SW6 vs. SAW6 Direct Fit Water Heaters

The standard SW6 and Direct Fit SAW6 models both have physical 6 gallon tanks, but they are designed for different RV openings.

Standard SW6 models are intended for traditional Suburban installations. They use an approximately square exterior opening and standard Suburban access doors.

SAW6 models are designed to replace select competitive aluminum-tank water heaters, including certain Atwood and Dometic models.

Do not select between SW6 and SAW6 based only on gallon capacity. The exterior opening, interior depth, door, plumbing, propane connection, and wiring must all match the intended installation.

Replacing an Older Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heater

The complete model number is the most important information when replacing an older Suburban water heater.

Common model families may include:

  • SW6D

  • SW6DE

  • SW6DEL

  • SW6DEM

  • Older pilot-ignition models

  • Older electronic-ignition revisions

The letters after SW6 identify important differences in ignition, electric heating, relays, controls, and motor-aid capability.

Before ordering, verify:

  • Complete model number

  • Product or serial number

  • Gas-only or gas and electric operation

  • Direct-spark or pilot ignition

  • Electric-element wiring

  • Interior switch arrangement

  • Relay requirements

  • Motor-aid connections

  • Exterior opening dimensions

  • Available installation depth

  • Door size and style

  • Propane-line location

  • Water-line locations

A current model may require wiring, plumbing, switch, or door changes when replacing an older water heater.

Replacing an Atwood or Dometic 6 Gallon Water Heater

The Suburban SAW6 Direct Fit series is designed for select older Atwood and Dometic 6 gallon installations.

The complete Atwood or Dometic model number should be located before selecting a replacement. Common older model families may include G6A, GC6AA, and related electronic-ignition or gas-electric versions.

The letters and revision numbers identify differences in energy sources, ignition, controls, wiring, and installation requirements.

A Direct Fit replacement may still require:

  • A new exterior door

  • A compatible interior switch

  • Wiring changes

  • Minor plumbing adjustments

  • Updated mounting hardware

  • Propane-line adjustments

  • A vent cap or door components

The water heater, exterior door, and interior switch may be sold separately.

Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heater Dimensions

Standard Suburban SW6 water heaters measure approximately 12.69 inches high by 12.69 inches wide by 19.19 inches deep.

The recommended rough opening is approximately:

  • 12.75 inches high

  • 12.75 inches wide

  • 19.19 inches deep

Direct Fit SAW6 models use a different cabinet arrangement intended for select Atwood and Dometic openings.

Always measure the RV’s actual opening and interior depth before ordering. Framing, plumbing, propane fittings, wiring, insulation, and nearby equipment may reduce available space.

Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heater Recovery Rates

Standard Suburban 6 gallon water heaters use a 12,000 BTU propane burner.

Approximate recovery rates are:

  • Gas only: 10.1 gallons per hour

  • Electric only: 6.1 gallons per hour

  • Gas and electric combined: approximately 16.2 gallons per hour

Actual recovery performance can vary with incoming water temperature, propane pressure, electrical voltage, burner condition, mineral buildup, and installation conditions.

The Direct Fit SAW6 models use a 10,000 BTU propane burner and may have different recovery performance from standard SW6 models.

Porcelain-Lined Steel Water-Heater Tanks

Suburban Advantage water heaters use porcelain-lined steel tanks similar in construction to residential water heaters.

The porcelain lining helps protect the steel from direct contact with water. A replaceable sacrificial anode rod provides additional corrosion protection in areas where the steel may be exposed.

This construction differs from the aluminum tanks used in many older Atwood and current Dometic water heaters.

Do Suburban 6 Gallon Water Heaters Need an Anode Rod?

Suburban 6 gallon tank water heaters require a replaceable sacrificial anode rod.

The anode rod is designed to corrode before the steel tank. It also functions as the water heater’s drain plug.

The rod should be inspected regularly and replaced when significantly deteriorated. Always use an anode rod with the size, thread, and material specified for the Suburban water heater.

A plain drain plug should not be substituted unless Suburban specifically authorizes it for the model.

Does the Exterior Door Come with the Water Heater?

Suburban replacement water heaters are frequently sold without an exterior access door.

Standard SW6 models are compatible with select flush-mount and radius-corner doors for 4 gallon and 6 gallon Suburban water heaters.

Direct Fit SAW6 models require a replacement panel designed for the Atwood or Dometic-style opening. Available finishes may include Arctic White, Polar White, and Black.

Verify whether the following items are included:

  • Exterior access door

  • Door frame or replacement panel

  • Vent components

  • Interior control switch

  • Mounting hardware

  • Wiring harnesses

  • Anode rod

  • Installation fittings

Do not assume the original door will fit a new water heater.

How Long Does a 6 Gallon Suburban Water Heater Last During a Shower?

Shower time depends on more than the physical tank capacity.

Important factors include:

  • Stored-water temperature

  • Incoming cold-water temperature

  • Showerhead flow rate

  • Desired shower temperature

  • Amount of cold water mixed at the faucet

  • Burner recovery rate

  • Electric-element operation

  • Whether gas and electricity are used together

  • Other hot-water fixtures operating at the same time

A low-flow showerhead and moderate outlet temperature can extend the available supply. Recovery also begins while hot water is being used.

Choosing the Correct 6 Gallon Suburban Water Heater

Start with the complete model number from the existing water heater.

Choose the SW6D when replacing a standard Suburban gas-only model.

Choose the SW6DE when gas and electric heating are needed and the electric element is controlled separately.

Choose the SW6DEL when gas and electric operation must be controlled through a compatible interior panel.

Choose an SAW6 Direct Fit model when replacing a compatible 6 gallon Atwood or Dometic aluminum-tank water heater.

Before ordering, confirm:

  • Original manufacturer

  • Complete model number

  • Gas-only or gas and electric operation

  • Ignition type

  • Switch and relay configuration

  • Sidewall opening

  • Installation depth

  • Exterior-door requirements

  • Water and propane connections

  • 12-volt DC wiring

  • 120-volt AC wiring

  • Required mounting components

Find the Correct 6 Gallon Suburban RV Water Heater

Browse 6 gallon Suburban RV water heaters for motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, toy haulers, and other recreational vehicles.

Choose from the SW6D gas water heater, SW6DE gas and electric model, SW6DEL relay-equipped water heater, and SAW6 Direct Fit replacements for select Atwood and Dometic installations.

For the most accurate match, locate the data plate behind the exterior water-heater door. Record the complete model and serial number, then compare the dimensions, heating sources, controls, wiring, plumbing, exterior door, and installation requirements before ordering.

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