Suburban Gas-Electric Water Heater Model Number SW6DEL - S6U5240A
The Suburban Advantage line of RV water heaters includes high recovery gas, gas/electric combination, gas/electric/motor aid and tankless, continuous models with sizes and features to match the requirements of almost any RV. Tank capacities include 4, 6, 10, 12 and 16 gallon models and tankless models provide up to 60,000 BTUH of endless hot water. Quality, efficiency, features, service, and selection - for more than 30 years, these have been the gold standard of Suburban water heaters. Take ADVANTAGE of Suburban’s expertise and reliability with longer lasting residential style tank and tankless water heaters.
Uses A Porcelain-Lined, Steel Water Heater Tank With An Anode Rod To "Absorb" The Electrolytical Action
Pressure Tested Twice During The Manufacturing Process To Ensure Its Integrity
A 1440 Watt Incoloy Electric Element Provides A Recovery Rate Of 6 Gallons Per Hour
Features An Indoor Mounted Switch Which Controls The Water Heater Ignition And Operation
Specifications
| Type: Electric/ LP Gas |
23.07" x 18.13" x 21.57" |
| Model: SW6DEL |
20 3/8" x 22 ¾" x 18 1/4" |
| Capacity: 6 Gallon |
Black |
| Ignition Type: Electronic Ignition |
Front: 9,000 Rear right: 6,500 Rear left: 6,500 Oven: 7,100" |
| Wattage Rating: 1400 Watt |
Conventional |
| BTU Level: 12000 BTU |
3 |
| Width: 12-11/16 Inch |
Piezo |
| Height: 12-11/16 Inch |
17" |
| Depth: 19-3/16 Inch |
Black |
| With Insulation: No |
Metal Pane- Black |
| With Access Door: No |
Black |
| With Indicator Light: No |
Plastic Radius- Black |
| With Mounting Hardware: No |
Black |
| Blue Backlit Oven Knobs |
No |
| Broiler Function |
Yes |
| Grate |
Wire |
| Oven Light |
No |
| Racks |
1 |
| Rack Positions |
3 |
What our Experts Think
-
Flexible Dual‑Fuel Heating: Combines LP gas (12,000 BTU) with a 1440 W electric element so you can heat water using propane, campground shore power, or both for faster recovery — ideal for varied RV power situations.
-
High Recovery, Small Package: Efficient recovery of hot water — ~10.1 GPH gas only and ~6.1 GPH electric, with ~16.2 GPH when used together — gives more hot water when you need it without oversizing your unit.
-
Proven Ignition & Durability: Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) ensures reliable starts without a standing pilot light, and the porcelain‑lined steel tank with replaceable anode rod resists corrosion for long service life.
-
RV‑Friendly Design: Compact 6‑gallon size and dimensions fit standard RV cut‑outs, and a 12 V relay lets you operate the electric heating from inside your rig.
Q&A
Q: What is the Suburban SW6DEL (S6U5240A)?
A: A 6‑gallon gas‑electric RV water heater with propane and 120 V electric heating for flexible hot water performance.
Q: What energy sources and ignition does it use?
A: Runs on LP propane gas and a 1440 W electric element, with 12 V Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) and a built‑in 12 V relay for interior control.
Q: What is the heating capacity and recovery rates?
A: 12,000 BTU gas input; gas only recovery ~10.1 gal/hr; electric only ~6.1 gal/hr; gas + electric ~16.2 gal/hr for fastest hot water ready.
Q: What are the construction and durability features?
A: Porcelain‑lined steel tank with a replaceable anode rod for corrosion resistance and foam insulation to retain heat.
Q: What are the dimensions and installation notes?
A: ~12.69″ H × 12.69″ W × 19.19″ D and fits standard RV cut‑outs similar to prior models; access door and switches are sold separately. Professional LP installation is recommended.
Q: What warranty support does it have?
A: Typically includes a 2‑year limited unit warranty and 3‑year limited tank warranty.
Q: Who should choose this model?
A: RV, camper, or motorhome owners who want a compact dual‑fuel water heater with efficient hot water delivery whether on propane or shore pow
Maintenance Tips
-
Annual Flush & Drain: Drain and clean the tank at least once a year to remove sediment and improve heating performance. Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and shorten tank life.
-
Inspect & Replace Anode Rod: Check the anode rod yearly; replace it when mostly deteriorated to prevent tank corrosion. It protects the porcelain‑lined steel tank from rust.
-
Check Pressure‑Temperature (P&T) Relief Valve: Test the pressure relief valve annually — lift its test lever to confirm it opens freely and reseals properly for safety.
-
Clean Burner & Vent Areas: Keep the combustion chamber, burner, and vent openings free of debris, insect nests, and blockages to ensure proper gas combustion and airflow.
-
Inspect Connections: Regularly check all LP gas and water connections for tight seals and leaks; tighten or repair as necessary with a soapy water test.
-
Turn Off Before Servicing: Always shut off both LP gas and electrical power before performing any maintenance to avoid injury.
-
Winterize Properly: If exposed to freezing temperatures, drain completely and use a bypass kit to protect internal components; antifreeze in the tank can damage the anode.
-
Professional Check: Schedule an annual inspection by a qualified RV technician to ensure safe, efficient operation and catch issues early.
