Suburban SW12DE (5247A)
#2 in TankFull review
A 12-gallon steel tank heater that runs on propane and electric for a straight swap in an RV with the matching cutout.
Amazon $690.92$690.92
The Suburban SW12DE (5247A) rates 3.5 among tank RV water heaters; the Girard 2GWHAM 42,000 BTU rates 2.2 among tankless ones. The Girard 2GWHAM 42,000 BTU costs $56.31 less ($634.61 vs $690.92).
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.
Girard 2GWHAM 42,000 BTU
#18 in TanklessFull review
A tankless heater rated 42,000 BTU for endless hot water in an RV that has the cutout for it.
Amazon $634.61$634.61
Scores side by side
These two sit in different type classes (tank and tankless), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own type peers. How we rank explains each factor.
| Factor weight | Suburban SW12DE (5247A) | Girard 2GWHAM 42,000 BTU |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 2.2/5 |
| Value 40% | 64 $57.58 per gallon of tank ($690.92, 12 gal) | 10 $15.11 per 1,000 BTU ($634.61, 42,000 BTU) |
| Hot water output 35% | 51 10.1 gal/h recovery on gas | 50 maximum flow not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 25% | 50 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Suburban SW12DE (5247A) | Girard 2GWHAM 42,000 BTU | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat and water | ||
| Input capacity | 12,000 BTU | 42,000 BTU |
| Tank size | 12 gal | - |
| Gas recovery | 10.1 gal/h | - |
| Fuel | Propane + electric | Propane |
| 12 V amp draw | - | 3 A |
| Fit | ||
| Weight | 47.5 lb | 23 lb |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |