Suburban SW12DE 12-Gal DSI Gas/Electric Water Heater | 5147A

Reliable hot water for your RV with the Suburban SW12DE Direct Spark Ignition Gas/Electric Water Heater — 12 Gallon. Genuine Suburban OEM 12-gallon dual-fuel water heater with DSI (Direct Spark Ignition), 12,000 BTU/hr gas recovery, and 1440W Incoloy electric element. Perfect for extended trips and larger RVs.

⭐ 12-Gallon Capacity — Largest in the SW-Series

12-gallon tank capacity is the largest in Suburban's SW-Series lineup — meaningfully more hot water reserve than 6 or 10-gallon units. Ideal for larger RVs, families, or extended full-hookup stays.

⭐ Dual Fuel — Gas AND Electric Operation

Meaningful flexibility across power sources:

• 12,000 BTU/hr LP gas recovery — swift recovery enhances hot water availability and reduces cool water cycles
• 1440W Incoloy electric element — specifically designed for compatibility with campground shore power
• Run on either or both depending on available power

⭐ DSI (Direct Spark Ignition)

Direct Spark Ignition provides automatic burner lighting — no manual pilot lighting required. Meaningful convenience improvement over pilot-light systems.

⭐ Suburban SW-Series Naming Key

Understanding the Suburban water heater model naming convention:

• SW = Suburban Water Heater
• # = Gallon Tank Capacity
• D = DSI (Direct Spark Ignition)
• E = 110V Electric
• L = Relay
• M = Heat Exchange
• P = Pilot

SW12DE = 12-gallon, DSI ignition, 110V electric.

⭐ Multiple Part Number Match — All the Same Unit

All the following part numbers correspond to this same water heater model:

• SW12DE
• 5147
• 5147A
• 5247A

If your existing water heater or parts documentation references any of these numbers, this is the correct replacement.

Porcelain Steel Tank with Foam Insulation

Enhanced durability and efficiency construction:

• Porcelain-lined steel tank — corrosion resistance and longevity
• Foam insulation — improved efficiency and hot water retention

Easy Exterior Gas Line Connection

Simplified gas plumbing installation.

⚠️ Access Door and Frame Sold Separately

Important buyer note: this listing is the water heater only. The access door and frame are sold separately. Compatible door and frame available in the catalog.

Related Suburban Water Heaters — Different Capacity

Other Suburban SW-Series DE water heaters in different capacities:

• Suburban SW10DE Water Heater Bundle — 10-Gallon with White Door

Cross-Reference Part Numbers

• Model: SW12DE
• Alt Part Numbers: 5147, 5147A, 5247A

⚠️ Professional Installation Required

Installation involves LP gas connections, 12V DC electrical wiring, 110V AC wiring for the electric element, water plumbing connections, and exterior sidewall mounting. Because of the safety-critical nature of LP gas systems and 110V AC electrical work, installation should be performed by a qualified RV service technician. Improper installation can result in gas leaks, electrical hazards, or water damage. Always test all gas connections with leak detection solution before returning the unit to service.

2-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Genuine Suburban OEM

Key Features

• Genuine Suburban OEM DSI gas/electric water heater
• Model: SW12DE (also 5147, 5147A, 5247A — same unit)
• 12-gallon capacity — largest in SW-Series lineup
• 12,000 BTU/hr LP gas recovery rate
• 1440W Incoloy electric element — campground power compatible
• DSI (Direct Spark Ignition) — automatic burner lighting
• Porcelain-lined steel tank — corrosion resistance
• Foam insulated for efficiency
• Quick recovery rate — reduces cool water cycles
• Easy exterior gas line connection
• Access door and frame sold separately
• Backed by 2-year manufacturer warranty

Specifications

• Brand: Suburban
• Model: SW12DE
• Alt Part Numbers: 5147, 5147A, 5247A (all same unit)
• Type: DSI Gas/Electric RV Water Heater
• Capacity: 12 gallons
• LP Gas Recovery: 12,000 BTU/hour
• Electric Element: 1440W Incoloy
• Ignition: DSI (Direct Spark Ignition)
• Tank Construction: Porcelain-lined steel
• Insulation: Foam
• Gas Line Connection: Easy exterior
• Access Door and Frame: Sold separately
• Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty