Description
The Suburban SW12DE Gas-Electric RV Water Heater is a premium choice from the Suburban Advantage series, designed to deliver reliable and efficient hot water for all your RV needs. Combining LP gas and 120V electric operation, this 12-gallon model offers flexibility, fast recovery times, and durable performance trusted by RV owners for over 30 years.
Featuring a porcelain-lined, steel tank with an anode rod for long-lasting corrosion protection, the SW12DE ensures dependable hot water output wherever you travel. Its direct spark ignition (DSI) system provides safe, easy startup without the need for a pilot light. With a 12,000 BTU gas burner and a 1,440-watt Incoloy electric element, this model delivers a fast 6-gallon-per-hour recovery rate, keeping you supplied with steady hot water for showers, dishwashing, and more.
Built with Suburban’s quality craftsmanship, this unit undergoes rigorous pressure testing for superior reliability and longevity. The indoor-mounted control switch allows convenient operation right from your RV’s interior.
Please note: this model does not include an exterior access door (sold separately) and is non-portable for permanent RV installation.
Key Specifications
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Brand: Suburban
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Model: SW12DE
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Type: Gas-Electric Combination Water Heater
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Tank Capacity: 12 Gallons
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Ignition Type: Direct Spark Ignition (DSI)
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BTU Output (Gas): 12,000 BTU
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Wattage (Electric): 1,400 Watts
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Recovery Rate: 6 Gallons per Hour (Electric Element)
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Power Source: LP Gas / 120V AC
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Dimensions: 16-7/32" (H) x 16-7/32" (W) x 22-1/4" (D)
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Mounting Type: Permanent RV Installation
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With Access Door: No (Door Sold Separately)
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With Insulation: No
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With Indicator Light: No
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With Mounting Hardware: No
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Country of Origin: Made in USA
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Warranty: Limited 2-Year General / 3-Year Tank Warranty
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Manufacturer Part #: 5247A
Features & Benefits
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Durable Porcelain-Lined Steel Tank – Long-lasting protection against corrosion for extended heater life.
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Anode Rod Protection – Absorbs electrolytic action to minimize tank wear and extend service life.
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High Recovery Rate – The 1440-watt Incoloy heating element delivers 6 gallons per hour for rapid hot water replenishment.
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Dual-Fuel Flexibility – Operates on LP gas or 120V electric, providing reliable hot water no matter your power source.
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Direct Spark Ignition System – Safe, efficient electronic ignition eliminates the need for manual lighting.
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Pressure Tested Twice – Ensures maximum safety, quality, and performance durability.
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Convenient Interior Switch – Allows easy operation and ignition control from inside your RV.
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Trusted Suburban Advantage Quality – Engineered and manufactured for decades of proven reliability in RV water heating.
Ideal For
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RV owners seeking a high-capacity 12-gallon water heater for extended hot water use.
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Upgrading or replacing existing Suburban, Atwood, or Dometic gas/electric units.
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Full-time RVers who need dependable, high-performance dual-energy hot water.

