Suburban SW6D (5238A)
#7 in TankFull review
A 6-gallon steel tank heater on propane for a straight swap in an RV with the matching cutout.
Amazon $439.99$439.99
The Suburban SW6D (5238A) is the better RV water heater overall, rated 3.1 to 3.0. The Suburban SW6D (5238A) leads on value. The Suburban SW6D (5238A) costs $40 less ($439.99 vs $479.99).
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.
Suburban SW6DEL (5240A)
#9 in TankFull review
A 6-gallon steel tank heater that runs on propane and electric for a straight swap in an RV with the matching cutout.
Amazon $479.99$479.99
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Suburban SW6D (5238A) for value ($73.33 per gallon of tank ($439.99, 6 gal) vs $80 per gallon of tank ($479.99, 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 SW6D (5238A) | Suburban SW6DEL (5240A) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 40% | 40 $73.33 per gallon of tank ($439.99, 6 gal) | 31 $80 per gallon of tank ($479.99, 6 gal) |
| Hot water output 35% | 51 10.1 gal/h recovery on gas | 51 10.1 gal/h recovery on gas |
| Warranty 25% | 50 2-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| Suburban SW6D (5238A) | Suburban SW6DEL (5240A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat and water | ||
| Input capacity | 12,000 BTU | 12,000 BTU |
| Tank size | 6 gal | 6 gal |
| Gas recovery | 10.1 gal/h | 10.1 gal/h |
| Fuel | Propane | Propane + electric |
| Fit | ||
| Weight | 34 lb | 36 lb |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |