Best Replacement for an Atwood GCHGA-10E RV Water Heater

Updated 08/07/2026 | Published 08/04/2026

Question:

Have an atwood hot water heater model GCHGA-10E I need to replace unit i want something compatible. My opening is 16.5in w x 13in wide its going in old airstream would like a stainless or Grey door if possible. It is propane/electric. Thank you

asked by: David A

Expert Reply:

Hi David, happy to hear from you again!

If it were my Airstream, I'd replace that old Atwood GCHGA-10E with the Fogatti InstaShower Ultra, part # FG27VR. It's a really nice upgrade, and the included gray conversion door is made to cover the old Atwood opening, so you don't have to worry about cutting into the trailer or trying to hide the old opening. It ends up looking like it belongs there.

One of my favorite things about switching to a tankless water heater is that you don't have to wait for a tank to recover between showers. As long as you have propane and water, it keeps making hot water on demand, so if someone wants to take a shower right after you, they don't have to wait for the water heater to catch back up. The InstaShower Ultra also has a built in mixing tank, which helps get rid of that quick blast of cold water that some older tankless systems can have when you pause and restart the water. It's one of those little features that makes a big difference in everyday use.

Since you're replacing a gas and electric Atwood, there are a couple of things to be aware of during the installation. The Fogatti uses propane to heat the water and 12 volt power to run its controls, so the old 120 volt electric heating element wiring won't be used anymore. You may also need to make a few small plumbing adjustments because the water connections are located differently than on your Atwood. Other than that, it's a really nice upgrade that gives you modern performance without having to worry about running out of hot water. Check out the video I linked on an airstream!

Just out of curiosity, do you spend most of your time in campgrounds with hookups, or do you like taking that Airstream out for longer trips where having endless hot water really comes in handy?

expert reply by: Heather A