Dometic GC6AA-8E 6-Gallon Gas+Electric RV Water Heater
Dometic GC6AA-8E 6-Gallon Gas+Electric RV Water Heater Review
The Dometic GC6AA-8E is a 6-gallon dual-energy (gas + electric) RV water heater designed for standard travel trailers and smaller motorhomes. Dometic's renaming of the previous Atwood G6A-8E model — same fundamental unit, current production carries Dometic branding.
Specs: 6 gallons stored, 8,800 BTU propane burner, 1500W electric element, recovery rate ~11 gph on propane or 6 gph on electric (both modes simultaneously for fastest recovery). Aluminum tank with optional anode rod. 12V DC ignition control.
The 6-gallon Dometic GC6AA is one of the dominant RV water heater configurations in modern US travel trailers and fifth wheels. Drops into the same exterior cutout as predecessor Atwood G6A and most competing 6-gallon RV water heaters with minor trim adjustments.
The dual-energy "8E" configuration provides flexibility: propane for boondocking, electric when on shore power. Both modes can operate simultaneously for fastest recovery (12 gph combined vs 11 gph propane-only).
About $475 for replacement unit, $250-$400 installed. Parts widely available through Camping World and RV-specific suppliers. Right buyer: like-for-like replacement of existing 6-gallon Atwood/Dometic in a travel trailer or smaller motorhome.
- No combustion, no venting required — installs anywhere with 240V electrical access
- Below-average UEF 0.62 — modern standard models reach 0.65+, condensing 0.95+
- 2-year warranty — well below the 8–12 year category average; extended warranty advisable
- Resistance electric has slower recovery than gas at comparable capacity — schedule heavy use to match tank recovery
- Small 6-gallon reserve — supplemental or 1–2 person use only