We have a 1994 mobile home, the Rheem water heater busted recently. On the heater, it says it is basically a special model designed for mobile homes. It also has two strange-looking copper fittings going into it and attached to polybutelene pipes (don't get me started on the polybutilene... )
My question is, do I need to somehow find a "special" water heater designed for mobile homes, or can I just find one that fits and use that?
It is also on a 20 amp circuit, which I found odd...
Thanks.

Back in the 70's I worked as a line plumber for mobile home factories. At that time we installed 20 gallon single element water heaters in our units. You don't need a "special mobile home heater, Any electric heater that fits will work. You need to swap that 20 amp breaker for a 30 amp one ASAP. Good luck, Tom

Thanks, although if I can help it, I'd rather keep the 20amp breaker, because it's on #12 wire.

While 20 amps will work you're cutting it close. Your element pulls 19 amps. A 30 amp breaker's standard for all heaters. Good luck, Tom