Suburban SW10D (5242A)
#3 in TankFull review
A 10-gallon steel tank heater on propane for a straight swap in an RV with the matching cutout.
Amazon $591.09$591.09
The Suburban SW10D (5242A) is the better RV water heater overall, rated 3.4 to 2.7. The Suburban SW10D (5242A) leads on value. The Dometic WH-6GEA costs $14.46 less ($576.63 vs $591.09).
Prices were last checked November 4, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Dometic WH-6GEA
#18 in TankFull review
A 6-gallon aluminum tank heater that runs on propane and electric for a straight swap in an RV with the matching cutout.
Amazon $576.63$576.63
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Suburban SW10D (5242A) for value ($59.11 per gallon of tank ($591.09, 10 gal) vs $96.11 per gallon of tank ($576.63, 6 gal)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every tank RV water heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Suburban SW10D (5242A) | Dometic WH-6GEA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.4/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 40% | 61 $59.11 per gallon of tank ($591.09, 10 gal) | 13 $96.11 per gallon of tank ($576.63, 6 gal) |
| Hot water output 35% | 51 10.1 gal/h recovery on gas | 50 recovery rate not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 25% | 50 2-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Suburban SW10D (5242A) | Dometic WH-6GEA | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat and water | ||
| Input capacity | 12,000 BTU | - |
| Tank size | 10 gal | 6 gal |
| Gas recovery | 10.1 gal/h | - |
| Fuel | Propane | Propane + electric |
| Fit | ||
| Weight | - | 15 lb |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |