CAMPLUX AY132 Tankless Water Heater Outdoor Review

Portable propane-powered hot water for camping and off-grid use

Introduction

Outdoor adventures, off-grid living, and remote work sites often come with one major inconvenience: the lack of reliable hot water. Cold showers, limited washing options, and inconsistent water temperatures can significantly reduce comfort in otherwise enjoyable environments. The CAMPLUX AY132 Tankless Water Heater Outdoor is designed to solve this challenge by delivering instant hot water wherever propane and water are available.

Compact, lightweight, and engineered specifically for portability, this 5-liter propane-powered unit provides on-demand hot water for camping, RV travel, rural cabins, and outdoor cleaning tasks. This in-depth review explores its design, performance, safety systems, installation process, and real-world usability to help determine whether it is the right solution for your outdoor hot water needs.

Brand Overview

The CAMPLUX AY132 is produced by CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE, a brand recognized for specializing in portable outdoor water heating solutions. CAMPLUX focuses on off-grid comfort, offering propane-powered systems designed for ease of use, safety, and dependable performance in rugged environments.

Product Specifications Table

Compact and Portable Design

Portability is the defining feature of the CAMPLUX AY132 portable propane water heater. Weighing just 10 pounds, it is easy to carry, transport, and mount in outdoor environments. The folding handle design allows it to be stored neatly when not in use while also serving as a convenient hanging mechanism during operation.

Its slim vertical profile minimizes space requirements, making it ideal for:

• Camping trips
• RV and van life
• Remote cabins
• Outdoor showers
• Livestock washing
• Equipment cleaning

The lightweight construction does not compromise durability, allowing the unit to withstand regular outdoor handling.

Instant Hot Water Performance

Unlike traditional tank heaters, the AY132 is a tankless system that heats water only when it flows through the unit. This design eliminates standby energy loss and provides continuous hot water as long as water flow and propane supply are maintained.

With a maximum flow rate of 1.32 gallons per minute, the heater produces sufficient hot water for:

• Outdoor showers
• Dishwashing
• Handwashing
• Pet washing
• General outdoor cleaning

The system delivers hot water within seconds of activation, ensuring convenience without long wait times.

Temperature Range and Flow Characteristics

The CAMPLUX AY132 tankless water heater offers a wide temperature rise range depending on flow rate. At lower flow levels, the temperature can increase by up to 114.8°F, while at maximum flow the system maintains a minimum temperature rise of 46.4°F.

This flexibility allows users to fine-tune water temperature by adjusting flow and gas settings, making it adaptable to various climates and seasonal conditions.

Low Water Pressure Compatibility

One of the standout features of this outdoor water heater is its ability to operate at a minimum starting pressure of just 3.0 PSI. This makes it particularly suitable for:

• Gravity-fed water systems
• Portable water tanks
• Off-grid locations
• Rural areas with limited infrastructure

Unlike many tankless heaters that require high pressure, the AY132 remains functional in environments where water pressure is inconsistent or limited.

Power and Ignition System

The heater operates using liquefied petroleum gas for heating and two standard D batteries for ignition. This battery-powered ignition system eliminates the need for electrical hookups, making the unit completely independent of grid power.

This setup ensures reliable ignition even in remote areas and allows the heater to be deployed wherever propane and water are available.

Safety Features and Protection Systems

Safety is a critical consideration for propane-powered equipment, especially when used outdoors. The CAMPLUX AY132 portable water heater incorporates a comprehensive 6-in-1 protection system designed to ensure safe operation in varying conditions.

Built-In Safety Protections:

• Anti-freezing protection
• Overheating protection
• Low water flow protection
• Dry combustion protection
• High water pressure protection
• Flame failure device

These integrated systems automatically shut down the heater if unsafe conditions are detected, protecting both users and equipment.

CSA Certification and Compliance

The AY132 is CSA approved, indicating that it meets rigorous safety and performance standards for gas-powered appliances. This certification adds an extra layer of confidence for users relying on the heater in outdoor or remote environments.

Installation Process and Included Accessories

Setting up the CAMPLUX AY132 outdoor propane water heater is straightforward and requires minimal tools. The manufacturer estimates installation time at approximately 10 minutes, making it accessible even for first-time users.

Included Package Contents:

• Premium on/off shower head (5 feet)
• Gas regulator (5 feet)
• US-standard garden hose
• Installation hardware pack

Clear instructions guide users through the setup process, ensuring safe and correct installation.

Important Installation Considerations

To prevent gas leaks, it is essential not to use Teflon tape between the gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. Proper sealing and leak checks before operation are critical steps to ensure safe usage.

Following the provided instructions carefully ensures optimal performance and minimizes potential risks.

Maintenance and Cold Weather Care

As with all outdoor water heaters, proper maintenance is essential, particularly in cold climates. The AY132 is equipped with anti-freezing protection, but freeze damage can still occur if water remains inside the unit during storage.

To prevent damage:

• Drain all water after use
• Open the drain stem fully
• Disconnect all water and gas lines
• Store the unit in a warm, dry location

Proper drainage ensures long-term reliability and prevents internal component damage.

Versatile Outdoor Applications

The CAMPLUX AY132 portable tankless water heater is designed for a wide range of outdoor applications.

Camping and Outdoor Showers

Provides reliable hot showers in campgrounds or wilderness settings without access to electricity.

RV and Van Life

Ideal for mobile living, offering compact hot water without permanent installation.

Rural and Off-Grid Living

Works well with low-pressure water systems and portable tanks.

Cleaning and Utility Use

Useful for washing equipment, pets, or outdoor gear with warm water.

Energy Efficiency and Fuel Use

Because the unit heats water only when needed, fuel consumption remains efficient. There is no energy wasted maintaining stored hot water, making it an economical choice for intermittent use.

Propane provides consistent heating performance even in colder conditions, ensuring dependable operation year-round when properly maintained.

Durability and Build Quality

The rugged housing and quality internal components allow the AY132 to withstand outdoor conditions. While lightweight, it is designed to handle frequent setup and transport without compromising performance.

The internal heat exchanger is engineered for consistent heat transfer while minimizing wear and tear over time.

Advantages of the CAMPLUX AY132 Tankless Water Heater

• Lightweight and highly portable
• Instant hot water on demand
• Operates with low water pressure
• Comprehensive safety protection system
• Simple installation process
• CSA safety certified
• Ideal for off-grid and outdoor use

Limitations to Consider

• Designed for outdoor use only
• Not intended for whole-house applications
• Requires proper drainage in freezing conditions

These limitations align with the heater’s intended portable and outdoor-focused design.

Real-World Performance Summary

In real-world use, the CAMPLUX AY132 portable propane water heater delivers consistent hot water with minimal setup. Its ability to function at low pressure makes it especially valuable in off-grid environments, while its lightweight design ensures easy transport and storage.

Users benefit from improved comfort during outdoor activities without the complexity of permanent installations.

Final Verdict

The CAMPLUX AY132 Tankless Water Heater Outdoor is a reliable and practical solution for anyone needing portable hot water in outdoor or off-grid environments. Its combination of lightweight design, strong safety features, and dependable heating performance makes it a valuable addition to camping gear, RV setups, and remote living arrangements.

For users seeking convenience, safety, and flexibility, this model offers excellent performance within its intended scope.

Conclusion

The CAMPLUX AY132 Tankless Water Heater Outdoor successfully transforms outdoor hot water access from a luxury into a practical reality. Its compact size, efficient propane operation, and comprehensive safety protections make it an ideal companion for camping trips, rural living, and mobile applications.

When used and maintained properly, it provides dependable hot water wherever adventure or necessity takes you.