Replacement For Atwood Water Heater on 2017 Airstream Trailer

Updated 08/22/2025 | Published 08/05/2025

Question:

Hi David Winick here...I designed Airstreams 75th anniversary Bambi. I build custom trailers for clients nation-wide. This particular Airstream trailer was manufactured in 2017 I have an issue with the Atwood water heater, model GE 9 EXT W/PL LPG + Elec What replacement do you offer that will fit in the pocket and will it accept the accessory stainless steel access door? Thanks in advance for any assistance you may offer David Winick

asked by: David W

Atwood Water Heater
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hi David, what a cool collaboration with Airstream! The most direct replacement for that old Atwood 6 gallon water heater is the Dometic RV Water Heater # DMC74FR you were looking at. However, these aren't always a perfect fit so you will want to double check the space there. The cutout dimensions are 12-3/4" tall x 12-3/4" wide x 19-7/8" deep.

Also, I'm really not sure on that stainless steel door, this is the first time I've seen that but it makes sense for an Airstream of course. I can reach out to Dometic if you want and ask them if they know about compatibility but, I won't hear anything until later in the week at best since it is Sunday. More than likely you will have to do some of that custom work to get it to fit properly and maintain the same appearance.

expert reply by: Robin H

David W.

8/19/2025

Robin My apology for the delay in replying. I've been out of state and have just returned Thanks so much for the water heater replacement recommendation. I will measure the opening for the unit and determine if it's a good replacement fit. Again, many thanks for your reply David Winick