How to Use Your RV Water Heater
If you compare RV camping to conventional camping, it’s a step up in terms of luxury. RV campers not only have the luxury of sleeping in a comfy bed every night, but they also have the convenience of taking hot showers in their very own bathroom anytime they choose. Before anybody can take use of those hot showers, they must first get familiar with the operation of their RV water heater. Fortunately, this isn’t too difficult to accomplish, and as long as you keep up with routine maintenance, your RV’s water heater should continue to provide reliable service for many years.
RV Electric Water Heater vs RV Propane Water Heater
RV water heaters with tanks are available in three different configurations: electric water heaters, propane water heaters, and combination heaters. An electric water heater, as the name implies, warms water by utilizing electricity to do so. This works rather well and is especially useful for campers who have power included in their camping fees and who want to preserve gas. That being said, unless you have an inverter, you will be unable to use a water heater that is exclusively powered by electricity when boondocking.
The ideal RV water heater choice for folks who prefer dry camping and want to save money on energy is a propane RV water heater.
That being said, as long as the heater is operated properly and the propane pipes are properly maintained, you should have no problems at all with the heater.
This sort of hot water heater for an RV allows the user to choose between an electric heating element and a propane heating element, depending on the situation.
Using a Traditional RV Hot Water Heater
Electric water heaters, propane water heaters, and combination heaters are the three types of RV water heaters with tanks available. An electric water heater, as the name implies, warms water by utilizing electricity to generate heat. If you have power included in your camping fees and want to preserve gas, this method works pretty well and is recommended. However, unless you have an inverter, you will be unable to use a water heater that is exclusively powered by electricity when boondocking.
Camping with a propane RV water heater is the greatest option for individuals who prefer dry camping and want to save money on their power bill.
All of this being stated, you should have no problems at all if the heater is operated correctly and the propane pipes are properly maintained and protected.
According to the conditions, the user may choose between an electric heating element and a propane-fueled hot water heater using this type of hot water heater for RV. Alternatively, it is feasible to utilize both electricity and propane at the same time in order to heat up the water more rapidly.
Caring for an RV Hot Water Tank
In any case, after you’ve figured out how to correctly operate your RV water heater tank, you’ll want to make certain that it stays in good working order. An RV water heater should be serviced every 6 to 12 months, depending on its age. Fortunately, this is a straightforward process. Start by shutting off the heater and allowing plenty of time for the water inside to cool down. Removing the drain stopper or anode rod and letting the tank to drain entirely will ensure that any silt and debris will be removed from the tank once it has reached room temperature.
This helps to keep the accumulation in your tank to a minimum.
Another thing you should do to ensure the longevity of your water heater tank is to winterize your trailer every year before the weather gets cold and snowy.
You can find detailed instructions on how to winterize your home here.
Choosing an RV Tankless Water Heater
Not a fan of having to wait for the water to heat up every time you want to take a shower or wash dishes? No problem! A consistent stream of hot water is what you’re looking for. It’s possible that a tankless water heater for an RV is the best option for you. This RV modification is becoming increasingly popular, and after you’ve experienced the convenience of having hot water available on demand, you’ll understand why. Are you looking for the finest tankless water heater for your RV? TheCamplux 5L Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater, on the other hand, is quite popular among RV owners.
Carry out your own study to determine which one will best meet your requirements, and then get used to taking lengthy, hot showers even when you’re in the middle of nowhere.
Here are some suggestions.
With hot water, and a comfy compact home-on-wheels to boot, we hope you have a lovely camping experience.
electric water heater on and off switch
| 03-31-2018, 06:20 PM | 1 |
| MemberJoin Date: Jul 2012Location: ma.Posts: 53 | electric water heater on and off switch
I picked up a 2018 cedar creek silverback 35IK a few days ago. The water heater works on gas, but not on electric. When I called the dealer he told me there was a switch on the heater and also a switch somewhere inside. The only switch I have found inside the unit is for the gas water heater. You can call me blind but please tell me where I can find the switch. Thanks for your help! |
| 03-31-2018, 06:23 PM | 2 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jan 2011Posts: 948 | electric water heater on and off switch
Go out and remove the black water heater access panel, in the bottom left hand side you should see an on and off switch. Make sure the heater is full of water before turning it on, otherwise, you will burn out your heating element._LowbubbaWhat could go wrong? |
| 03-31-2018, 08:53 PM | 3 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jun 2013Location: Between Pickles Gap and Toad Suck, ARPosts: 6,070 | Quote:Originally Posted byjeffscudaI picked up a 2018 cedar creek silverback 35IK a few days ago. The water heater works on gas, but not on electric. When I called the dealer he told me there was a switch on the heater and also a switch somewhere inside. The only switch I have found inside the unit is for the gas water heater. You can call me blind but please tell me where I can find the switch. Thanks for your help!Dealer wrong. Electric on/off switch only on face of WH (Unless you want to get on the floor and turn off the circuit breaker to it, but no switch). It’s behind the WH plate outside. Inside is propane on/off switch. Both can be on at same time. Both can be off at same time. Either can be on by itself. Propane switch has DSI/FLT light so if it stays lit, your propane didn’t fire and isn’t on._”Next to prayer, fishing is the most personal relationship of man” Herbert Hoover”American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God”Lewis GrizzardFROG AR-0019-2422016 GMC Denali 3500Dually-2017 CC 36CKTS |
| 03-31-2018, 09:39 PM | 4 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jun 2012Posts: 10,907 | If you have a Suburban, your outside switch is here: |
| 04-01-2018, 04:14 AM | 5 |
| Site TeamJoin Date: Nov 2010Location: Northeast LouisianaPosts: 28,240 | If you have a Suburban dual power source tank type water heater in your RV, we keep a very detailed operational FAQ on the SWDE and SWDEL models at this link below:Hope it helps_2011 Flagstaff 831 RLBSSWhen I was young, I was poor. But after many years of hard work, I am no longer young. |
| 04-01-2018, 11:54 AM | 6 |
| Junior MemberJoin Date: May 2014Posts: 1 | I have a 2017 Silverback 31RK. I bought it off the lot brand new. When I got to our RV park, my water heater had the same symptoms as yours; no hot water on electric but the propane side worked. I did some trouble shooting thinking I had a burned out element. That tested good. I had to drive it back to the dealer, Grrr, for them to work on. They found the thermostat on the heater was bad. They had to replace it. All under warranty but a hassle none the less. The factory had also installed the stove vent in backwards so the air blew down on the stove extinguishing the stove burners. The dealer also fixed that. And I was told Cedar Creek was near the top of Forest River�s products. |
| 04-01-2018, 01:48 PM | 7 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Feb 2013Location: Pfafftown NCPosts: 2,353 | Quote:Originally Posted byschwabmt. And I was told Cedar Creek was near the top of Forest River�s products.Top of the needs most repairs after you take it home list! |
| 04-01-2018, 02:04 PM | 8 |
| Just as confused as youJoin Date: Aug 2013Location: south central WisconsinPosts: 5,108 | jeffscuda, check the high temperature limit resets. There is one each for gas and electric under the black square cover at the upper left of rockfordroo’s picture. Just push the center of the round things._RichardJill2014 Flagstaff 832IKBS Classic Super Lite2018 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Z71 4WD All Star EditionCamping since 1989, Seasonal since 2000.Car Shredder Op/Tech, Scrap Metal Recycling – retired |
| 04-01-2018, 04:12 PM | 9 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Nov 2017Location: Dayton OhioPosts: 2,422 | Just got back from the maiden voyage in our cc 34re.There is an on off switch for the gas in the coach panel.Electric switch left of the drain plug.Not sure if both will run at the same time.Note above the electric switch are the two reset buttons.Ours is 12 gallons. Plenty for two. |
| 04-01-2018, 04:18 PM | 10 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Oct 2012Posts: 187 | Quote:Originally Posted byEvereddieTop of the needs most repairs after you take it home list!So totally negative. We are in our third Cedarcreek and have loved all three of them.I would never keep an RV that I didn’t really like._Lawrence, JD and Bear2017 Champagne 38ELOur Rolling Earthquake |
| 04-01-2018, 04:38 PM | 11 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Aug 2015Location: Springfield, MOPosts: 455 | Quote:Originally Posted bytomkatbJust got back from the maiden voyage in our cc 34re.There is an on off switch for the gas in the coach panel.Electric switch left of the drain plug.Not sure if both will run at the same time.Note above the electric switch are the two reset buttons.Ours is 12 gallons. Plenty for two.tomkatb, yes you can use electric and propane at the same time if you need quicker recovery_2014 Chevy CC Duramax 4X4 Long Bed2017 Cedar Creek 36CKTSMORryde independent suspension with disc brakes |
| 04-01-2018, 04:47 PM | 12 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Aug 2015Location: Springfield, MOPosts: 455 | Quote:Originally Posted byschwabmtI have a 2017 Silverback 31RK. I bought it off the lot brand new. When I got to our RV park, my water heater had the same symptoms as yours; no hot water on electric but the propane side worked. I did some trouble shooting thinking I had a burned out element. That tested good. I had to drive it back to the dealer, Grrr, for them to work on. They found the thermostat on the heater was bad. They had to replace it. All under warranty but a hassle none the less. The factory had also installed the stove vent in backwards so the air blew down on the stove extinguishing the stove burners. The dealer also fixed that. And I was told Cedar Creek was near the top of Forest River�s products.WOW, 2 items wrong with a 2017 and you are complaining? Not to mention the water heater thermostat was a Suburban problem._2014 Chevy CC Duramax 4X4 Long Bed2017 Cedar Creek 36CKTSMORryde independent suspension with disc brakes |
| 04-01-2018, 07:21 PM | 13 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jun 2013Location: Between Pickles Gap and Toad Suck, ARPosts: 6,070 | Quote:Originally Posted byschwabmtI have a 2017 Silverback 31RK. I bought it off the lot brand new. When I got to our RV park, my water heater had the same symptoms as yours; no hot water on electric but the propane side worked. I did some trouble shooting thinking I had a burned out element. That tested good. I had to drive it back to the dealer, Grrr, for them to work on. They found the thermostat on the heater was bad. They had to replace it. All under warranty but a hassle none the less. The factory had also installed the stove vent in backwards so the air blew down on the stove extinguishing the stove burners. The dealer also fixed that. And I was told Cedar Creek was near the top of Forest River�s products.You ought to sell it and get a better one._”Next to prayer, fishing is the most personal relationship of man” Herbert Hoover”American by Birth, Southern by the Grace of God”Lewis GrizzardFROG AR-0019-2422016 GMC Denali 3500Dually-2017 CC 36CKTS |
| 04-01-2018, 07:35 PM | 14 |
| MemberJoin Date: Oct 2017Location: Howe, OKPosts: 65 | Hot water switch
All kidding aside when we purchased our special order 2013 Cedar Creek Touring Addition we could not get hot water, low and behold they forgot to wire it up. |
| 04-02-2018, 03:52 AM | 15 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Dec 2015Location: Savannah, GAPosts: 185 | The same happened to us when we took delivery of our CC34RL2. Most likely the water heater is not plugged in to it’s outlet. Access the back of the WH and plug it in to the receptacle found there.CC does not ship units winterized with antifreeze. There is and never has been any water in the system unless your dealer added some. Rather, after pressure and integrity testing, CC leaves the system pressurized with air and does not plug in the WH to prevent destroying the electric heating element should the switch be selected to ON without water in the tank._2017.5 Cedar Creek 34RL22018 F-350 Lariat CC SRW PSD 4x4USMC Fighter Pilot (Ret) |
| 04-04-2018, 01:08 PM | 16 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jan 2016Posts: 239 | I never understood why the don’t wire an inside electric wh switch. I know it would add a little cost but it would be worth it. I’ve added an inside switch to our last two trailers._SteveJeanFurbaby – T.J. RIPTowmotor – 2013 Chevy LT DRW Duramax/Allison5er – 2013 Cedar Creek 36CKTS Classic Champagne Touring Edition |
| 04-04-2018, 01:21 PM | 17 |
| Denver To Yuma In 90 DaysJoin Date: Mar 2018Location: Yuma, ArizonaPosts: 3,882 | The two lighted switches are for the hot water heater in my rig.The one on the gauges is the gas switch.
|
| 04-04-2018, 01:24 PM | 18 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jan 2016Posts: 239 | That’s good. I wish Cedar Creeks had that from the factory._SteveJeanFurbaby – T.J. RIPTowmotor – 2013 Chevy LT DRW Duramax/Allison5er – 2013 Cedar Creek 36CKTS Classic Champagne Touring Edition |
| 04-04-2018, 01:41 PM | 19 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: May 2014Location: Alberta – East of the Rockies, West of the RestPosts: 1,785 | Quote:Originally Posted byJohnD10The two lighted switches are for the hot water heater in my rig.The one on the gauges is the gas switch.That’s the way to do it, run the wire from the breaker through the switch to the hot water tank_2018 RAM 5500 Laramie CCSold: Riverstone Legacy 38RE, 960 Watt Solar, 6×6 Volt AGM Battery Bank, Freedom SW 3012 Inv/ChargerOrdered: 2021. |
| 04-06-2018, 09:20 AM | 20 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Dec 2016Posts: 321 | This whole hot water is perplexing, we have the gas/electric unit and have experienced the same issues as posted. It was solved when we understand the issue.Sadly, one of my areas of expertise happens to be the man-machine interface, also known as the human interface if you are a computer engineer like I am.We have an electric switch, outside of the 5th wheel on an external wall, not in plain view, not with any clear labeling. The gas switch is inside on the control panel.Had you worked for me and brought that schematic in for review and approval, chances are you would not be working for me a lot longer.Our control which is countersunk in the wall and with a door covering it, its at its very best near worthless, its so dark we had to put a light in, IIRC I think only one switch was lighted. The switches are labeled with some kind of lettering that is meaningless to anyone unless you are a code breaker. We pulled all of our switches and installed lighted ones.I have seriously considered coming out of retirement and going to work as a CEO of a RV mfg. I will work for free if they agree to pay me a bonus of 10% of the increased sales and cost savings from better designed and built to equal fewer warrant claims. I can go back over my last 3 RV’s and I am amazed at how much warranty costs there are to companies.First thing I would do would be change the business model from the 50’s model to today’s. Put QC back in the model at origin and not depend solely upon the selling agent to warranty the unit.That would be a start._DonUS Army Infantry RetiredTexas Hill CountryCedar Creek Silverback 29RE’19 F 350 CC, LB King Ranch Ultimate |
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RVing 101 Guide: Water Heaters
If your RV is equipped with plumbing, there is a good probability that you have a water heater. Compared to a typical house or apartment water heater, the RV water heater will be smaller, but it will operate in essentially the same way. You can use hot water for anything from showering and washing your hands to cleaning the dishes since it warms water as it is used.
All RV owners should be familiar with the fundamentals of their RV water heater since it comes in handy whether you’re cooking, cleaning, showering, or doing anything else while on the road. Photograph by Ricky Kresslein / Getty Images
RV Water Heaters 101
The first thing you should know about RV water heaters is that they are fueled by propane, not electricity. Unless you’ve spent a lot of money on a high-end vehicle, A propane-fueled water heater and other equipment will be required in your motorhome, motorcoach, or luxury recreational vehicle (RV). A six-gallon tank is standard for most RVs, with some units using as much as a ten-gallon tank depending on the size of the vehicle. Some water heaters are exclusively compatible with gas, while others are compatible with both propane and electricity.
- A pilot light is used in the majority of recreational vehicle water heaters.
- Alternatively, if the latter is placed in your RV, you will utilize a switch located within the RV or trailer to activate the water heater after the vehicle is parked.
- Safety devices, similar to those found in your home water heater, are included into the unit to guarantee that the water does not heat up too much or that pressure does not accumulate.
- Pro Tip: The hotter you like your water to be, the more propane will be required to heat it.
Before Your RV Water Heater’s First Use
Before turning on your RV water heater for the first time, ensure sure it’s fully stocked with enough water to last the whole trip. For instructions on how to fill and maintain the water level in the device, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions once again. The following steps can be applied to RV and trailer water heaters in the vast majority of cases:
- Check the bypass valve on the water heater. Allow the water to flow into the primary tank by opening the valve. To begin pumping water, connect your RV to a local water outlet and use the onboard pump to start the process. Start by turning on the hot water faucet. Water will begin to flow through your lines and into the heating tank
- This is a normal occurrence. Fill it all the way up to the fill line, and your water heater will be ready to use
Advice from the experts: Once again, consult your manufacturer’s instructions on how to fill the specific water heater for your RV or trailer before using it for the very first time. During the off-season, be sure to empty your water heater. This is especially important during the winter and while placing your RV or trailer in storage for the winter. If you fail to do so, you may wind up with mold and mildew in your home, as well as the need to repair your water heater sooner rather than later.
RV Water Heater Maintenance
When you examine, clean, and care for them on and off the road, they will last longer and require less maintenance than the majority of the components in your RV or trailer. It is no different with your water heater.
- Depending on the sort of water heater you have, you may need to clean it more frequently than once a year. Make sure your water heater is included in your normal RV maintenance plan, and anytime you take your rig to the shop, ask the mechanic to check it to make sure it’s in good operating condition. When winterizing your RV or trailer, you should always drain all of the water from the water heater and check that all of the lines are clear. Follow the same procedure for all of the lines in your RV or trailer to guarantee that your water heater is ready for the winter or a lengthy period of time when it will be parked and not in use.
Advice from the pros: If you’re not confident in your ability to manage your RV water heater, consider bringing it to your RV dealer or a repair shop and having them handle it. Make a point of doing this if you detect any problems, or at least once a year before you begin traveling for the year.
You should now be aware of all you need to do to maintain your RV water heater and guarantee that it continues to perform both on and off the road. Thank you for informing us about this!
RV Electric Water Heater Switch: How Do I Turn It On?
When you first join the RV community, one of the first things you discover is that not all recreational vehicles (RVs) are created equal. Even though you have the same characteristics, the pieces may be located in various places, have different numbers, and even appear different from one another. What is the procedure for turning on my RV’s electric water heater? Some water heaters feature a simple switch, similar to the ones you would have in your home, and it is conveniently situated directly next to the heater.
Continue reading our post to find out more about how to turn on the water heater’s switch on your house.
Do not be startled if you must walk outdoors in order to use it.
How do I Turn On My Electric Water Heater in My RV?
According to the model of your water heater, this will vary. Many electric versions are equipped with a switch, which may be found either on the device itself or in the same room as the device. They may be located on the same control panel as all of your other switches at times. If your water heater is a combo unit, you may see a dual switch choice in the same area as your water heater. However, it is possible that this is not the case. The twin switches are plainly labeled ‘gas’ and ‘electric,’ and there is a reset button in the middle of the switch panel between them.
One piece of good news is that both the gas and electric switches may be turned on at the same time.
When they are not there, you must step outside to the water heater plate and remove it before manually operating the switch in accordance with the instructions in your owner’s handbook.
Where Is My RV Water Heater Switch?
According to the manufacturer of your water heater, this will vary. Many electric versions are equipped with a switch, which may be found either on the device itself or in the same room as the appliance. They may be located on the same control panel as all of your other switches at different times. Additionally, if you have a combination water heater, you may see a dual switch choice that is in the same area as your water heater. However, it’s possible that it isn’t. A reset button is located in between the two dual switches, which are clearly labeled ‘gas’ and ‘electric.’ With such sorts of switches, you just use them in the same manner that you would a light switch in a conventional home.
Those without these switches are in for a tough time, to put it mildly.
Remember to fill the tank before turning on the water heater, or you risk causing the elements to burn out prematurely.
Can I Leave My RV Hot Water Heater On all the Time?
The situation is not going to be a concern. For those of us who are prone to forgetting things, it may be preferable to leave our water heaters running constantly. As a result, you will have hot water waiting for you rather than having to wait for the hot water to arrive. However, be certain that you complete the two tasks we outlined in the preceding section before making this option. The cost of replacing burned-out components in an RV water heater may quickly add up. As an added bonus, you will avoid humiliation if the repairman does not discover the water heater has been disconnected.
The frequent turning on and off might wear out the switch, resulting in you having to do another unneeded repair down the road.
You should have no need to be concerned if you choose to leave the switch turned on for the convenience of your family members.
RV Water Heater Switch On Or off?
Which method is the most effective for completing this activity will be entirely up to you to determine. If you are camping or driving, there is nothing wrong with keeping the switch turned on while you are away. When you connect to the campsite’s power grid, just the switch is activated; as a result, you will not be consuming any electricity while driving. The water heater switch should not be powered by the inverter since that equipment generates a high amount of demand that the switch is unable to cope with properly.
- When there is no water in the tank, it is possible that the switch may be mistakenly left on, which is something you should consider seriously.
- In the event that this occurs, which may be extremely unusual, you may be faced with significant repair costs.
- The most prudent course of action would be to turn off the switch while driving and then turn it back on when camping to avoid any inconvenience.
- It’s important to remember to turn off the water heater while putting your RV away for the winter.
RV Rater Heater Switch Not Working
Determine the most effective method of doing this assignment will be entirely up to you! While camping or traveling, there is nothing wrong with leaving the light on in the car. When you connect to the campsite’s power grid, just the switch is activated; as a result, you are not consuming any electricity while you are driving. This device should not be powered by the inverter since it produces a significant amount of load that the switch is unable to handle. It is recommended that you turn off the switch if your switch is powered by an inverter when you are not using the heater.
Given that such parts may become extremely hot, they have the potential to inflict harm to not just the water heater but also to the person who made the error.
We’re not going to go overboard and claim that a fire may erupt, but there is a potential if you’re not paying close attention.
Turning off the switch while traveling and turning it back on while camping would probably be the most prudent course of action. Accidents can be avoided if you follow these precautions: It is important to remember to turn off the water heater when storing your RV for the winter.
A Few Water Heater Facts
- Atwood and Suburban are the two largest manufacturers of RV water heaters. As a result, you may find yourself in the same predicament as other RV owners, and the same solutions should be available for all problems. Because RV water heater tanks are tiny, you’ll need to get used to talking about water while you’re on the road. On-demand water heaters are a wonderful alternative to the tank-style water heater you already have. Furthermore, you will never run out of hot water.
Some Final Words
If you want to play hide and seek as an adult, you should consider purchasing an RV. Very fast, you’ll have had your fill of that particular game. The location of the water heater switch will be determined by where the manufacturer decides to install it on the water heater. Regardless of where they are located, replacing the switches when they fail is a simple process.
How to Use an RV Water Heater
Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation An RV water heater allows you to have warm water even when you are camping in the middle of nowhere. Even better, RV water heaters are simple to install and use, so you’ll be able to enjoy hot water in no time at all!
- Read More About ItRead More About It Warm water may be enjoyed even when camping in the woods thanks to an RV water heater. Even better, RV water heaters are simple to install and run, so you’ll be able to enjoy hot water in no time at all.
- Bring new water into your RV using a clean hose to avoid contaminating the water
- Otherwise, the water may get contaminated. Installing a tankless water heater is as simple as connecting a hose to the intake and connecting it to a water supply. You are not required to fill a tank. It is possible that your RV has specific instructions for filling the tank, therefore always check with the owner’s handbook first
- Secondly, connect the other end of the hose to a water supply. Depending on where you are filling up, this may be a garden hose connection if you are filling up at home, or a pump if you are filling up while camping. Whichever method you choose, attach the other end of the hose to this source and tighten it down to avoid any leaks.
- For those staying at a campsite, there are generally designated water sources where people may fill their campers with water. If you are unable to locate it, inquire as to its whereabouts. You will not be able to fill your tank from a lake or stream unless you have a pump mechanism. In order for the water to flow into the tank, it must be under pressure.
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- s3 Turn on the water supply valve. Turning the valve counterclockwise will allow it to be opened. Water should begin to flow into the tank at this point.
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- s3 To begin using the water, turn on the water supply. By rotating the valve counterclockwise, you may let the air in and out. Flowing water should begin to fill the tank.
- 4 Fill the water tank all the way to the top of the fill line. Keep the water running and let the tank to full. When it reaches its maximum capacity, switch off the water and disconnect the hose from the intake and source sockets.
- Some recreational vehicles are equipped with a fill meter located near the intake valve. Other than that, check the tank itself to verify whether the water level reaches the fill line
- Else Maintain your focus on the fact that water is heavy, and that your car will consume a lot of petrol if you load it to its maximum capacity. If you’re intending on traveling, you might want to fill the tank only halfway and then fill it the rest of the way when you get at your location.
- 5Close the bypass valve for the water heater. When the bypass valve is activated, water is diverted away from the heater tank and into your cold water faucet. Close the bypass valve to ensure that water is sent into the water heater instead
- 6 One of your sinks should have a hot water tap turned on. This circulates water through the water heater and out the faucet at the same time. If water is flowing, then the system is operating properly
- Otherwise, it is not.
- If there is no water flowing out of the faucet, this indicates that the hot tank is depleted of its water supply. Double-check to ensure that the bypass valve is properly closed.
- 7 Allow the water to run until no more air can be seen coming out of the faucet. When you initially turn on the water, it may splutter a little. This is normal. This is okay since it just indicates that air is being expelled from the system. Continue to run the faucet until the water flows out smoothly and without any air bubbles, at which point you may turn on the water heater.
- There should never be any air left in the water heater system when it is turned on. This might result in damage to the tank.
- 1 Fill your propane tank with water. Your RV’s tank should be located on the exterior of the vehicle. To open the valve and allow propane to flow, turn the knob counterclockwise.
- It is best not to open the propane tank until just before you are ready to turn on the water heating system. When you’re not using propane, it’s quite dangerous to leave it running.
- 2 If your RV has an automatic start, turn on the “Water Heater” switch located within the vehicle. Electronic auto starters are quite simple to operate. Simply press the “Water Heater” button to ignite the pilot light and begin heating the water
- This is all it takes.
- A little indicator light is normally located next to this switch, which indicates whether or not the heater is turned on. If your heater would not ignite, it is possible that the propane tank is not open. If you don’t do this, you may have an issue with your switch. Taking the RV in for maintenance is a good idea.
- This switch is frequently accompanied by an indicator light, which indicates whether or not the heater is turned on. You may not have enough propane in your tank if your heater won’t light. It is possible that your switch will not function properly if this is the case. It’s time to get the RV serviced.
- A little indicator light is normally located next to this switch, showing whether or not the heater is turned on. The propane tank may be closed if your heater would not ignite. In any other case, you may have an issue with your switch. Bring the RV in for maintenance
- 4 To begin manually, turn the knob on the control panel to the “Pilot” position. It is necessary to crank the control knob in order to pick the desired setting. Turn it so that it reads “Pilot” on it so that you may start the pilot light.
- Propane will not begin to flow until you turn the knob all the way down. Don’t press until you’re ready to fire the pilot light
- Else, you may burn yourself.
- 5 Light the pilot light with a long barbeque lighter to ensure proper ventilation. To release propane, turn the control knob all the way down. Afterwards, bring the lighter up close to the pilot light and light it to ignite the gas.
- Keep the knob down for a few seconds to allow the system to warm up
- This is only necessary for manual starters. An automated starter will start the pilot light without the need for any further actions.
- 6 Change the setting of the control knob from “Pilot” to “On.” After the pilot light has been turned on, turn on the main heater. Turn the control knob all the way to the “On” position. This ignites the primary heater and causes the water in the tank to begin to heat up.
- When you’re lighting the heater, keep your face away from the control panel on the wall. When it ignites, there may be a brief flash of light. After you turn on the heater, it will take around 30 minutes for the water in the tank to reach the desired temperature. Close the propane valve when you’re through with the water heater. When you aren’t using it, it is quite risky to leave it running.
- 1 Connect the RV’s power cord to a power outlet. Connect the power line from your RV to a power source and plug it in. The majority of campgrounds provide RVs with power hookups like this.
- Depending on where you are camping, there may be an additional price for utilizing the electricity.
- 2 Turn on the water heater’s power switch by pressing it. The power switch for the water heater is normally located within the cabin and appears similar to a standard light switch. To begin heating the water, turn the knob to the “On” position.
- As a general rule, the switch is labeled “Water Heater,” thus it should be straightforward to locate
- It is possible that an earlier model’s On switch is located on the water heater itself rather than within the cabin.
- 3 Allow 60-90 minutes for the water to reach the desired temperature. Warming the water with electric heaters takes a little longer than with gas heaters. It will take around 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of the tank, so be patient before utilizing the hot water
- RV water heaters are typically equipped with a light that indicates when they are operational. If the light does not come on, it is possible that the bulb has burned out or that the water heater is not functioning properly. Take the RV to a repair shop so that it may be serviced
- 4 When you’re through using the hot water, turn the switch off. As soon as the water is hot, turn off the water heater to preserve power. Wait until you’re ready to use the heater again before turning it back on.
- You should leave the power source plugged in if you are still using energy in your RV, for example, to power lights or the kitchen. If you don’t want to use it, you may disconnect it when the water is hot.
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- Never use your RV water heater until you have read and followed the manufacturer’s instructions. Different models may operate in a different manner. Some RVs are equipped with both propane and electric heaters, allowing you to pick which you want to use. Having your RV serviced before to embarking on a journey is recommended by experts. If something goes wrong, it’s likely that you won’t be able to fix it on your own.
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- Unless you’re an expert, it’s best to leave RV water heater repairs to the professionals. If something isn’t working properly, it’s better to take it to a repair shop.
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Having a recreational vehicle, usually referred to as an RV, is a wonderful thing! It allows you to go whenever and anywhere you choose, and at any time of the year you want. In addition, traveling and camping in an RV is far more pleasant than camping in a tent! Toilets and even showers are available in recreational RVs! However, here is where a large number of business entrepreneurs fail. What is the proper way to make use of an RV water heater? If this is an issue for you as well, we are here to lend a helping hand right now.
In this article, we will explain how to properly switch on your water heater, how to maintain your water heater tank clean and in proper operating order, and how to find it in your RV vehicle.
How to Turn On Your RV Electric Hot Water Heater?
Driving a recreational vehicle and camping in it may be a wonderful experience, to say the least. Apart from sleeping on a comfortable bed, you can also prepare meals on a stove and take a nice shower anytime you like! Showers, on the other hand, are precisely what many RV owners find to be a stumbling block when traveling. A common complaint is that many have trouble figuring out how to turn on their RV water heater, or even where to look for it after it is turned on. Speaking of which, the method by which you turn on your RV water heater will be determined by the type of the heater.
- It is possible that they will be positioned on the same control panel as all of the other switches in certain instances.
- You will have no trouble identifying such a switch since it will be prominently labeled with the marks “gas” and “electric,” with a reset button sandwiched in between these two markings.
- Each water heater is different and must be turned on in a certain way depending on the type.
- We have wonderful news in that we can turn on both the gas and electric switches at the same time!
- It is possible that the switches are not functioning properly in this situation; in this case, you will need to walk outside to the water heater plate and remove it before manually turning on the switch according to the directions in your owner’s handbook.
If this is not done beforehand, before to turning on the power, you run the danger of completely burning out all of your components! Images courtesy of denfotoblog, through Crello.com
How Do I Locate My RV Hot Water Heater Switch?
Of course, after such a lengthy introduction, many of you may be left scratching your heads, wondering where the heck you can find the RV water heater switch in the first place. Although it may appear to be hard at first glance, once you give it a try, you will discover that it is actually rather simple and straightforward. As a result, the location of the switch on your recreational vehicle will normally be determined by two factors. They are the sort of water heater that your RV is equipped with, as well as the location where the manufacturer opted to install the switch.
- Why?
- Images courtesy of denfotoblog, through Crello.com Unfortunately, not all of the dealers have access to this valuable and desperately needed information, which is a shame.
- Perhaps you will be the fortunate one who receives the proper response!
- For those of you who are unable to locate an inside switch, you will employ a different set of procedures.
- Remove the plates and have a look inside.
- Occasionally, a propane switch is located adjacent to the cigarette lighter in select RV models.
- Both switches, on the other hand, should be properly labeled.
- As a result, finding the switch will be considerably easier in this scenario, and it will almost certainly be properly labelled so that you will not confuse it for anything else.
- It is also conceivable that your on and off switches will be positioned on a general control board, in which case you will have to search for them.
- However, both switches must always be properly labeled to avoid confusion.
RV Water Heater Switch On Or Off
This is a problem that RV owners face on a regular basis. Whether to leave the switch turned on or off is up to you. In reality, how you handle this situation is all up to you, and you are the one who makes the final decision. The fact that you have the switch switched on while camping or even driving is not always a negative thing. Seeing as how the switch is only activated when you connect to the campsite’s power grid, driving does not result in any electricity consumption as long as you remain on the road.
- In this circumstance, you should constantly remember to turn off the heater’s switch while it is not being utilized!
- The water heater switch, on the other hand, should not be powered by the inverter since that equipment generates a significant load that the switch is unable to handle.
- We would advise you to take this point seriously enough because the switch can be accidentally left on while there is no water in the tank, which is dangerous.
- Perhaps the best course of action in this situation would be to just turn off the switch if you are driving and put it back on when you are camping each time the situation arises.
You will be better equipped to prevent mishaps if you do so. Aside from that, remember to turn the water heater off prior to putting your leisure trailer away for the winter months. Images courtesy of kotikov, through Crello.com How to Clean an RV Awning is a related topic.
RV Electric Water Heater vs RV Propane Water Heater
When it comes to dealing with your RV water heater switch, you must be prepared for the possibility that one of the three various types of heaters that your recreational vehicle is equipped with! RVs do, in fact, often have one of the following types of water heaters installed on board:
- Electric water heaters, combined/combination water heaters, propane water heaters, and more options are available.
The name implies that an electrical water heater heats water by using electricity, which is exactly what it does. This sort of water heater performs admirably, and it is particularly well suited for RV owners who already have power included in their camping fees and/or who prefer to save on propane expenses. However, there is one distinction between this sort of water heater and others. It is not possible to use a water heater that is only powered by electricity when boondocking unless you have an inverter installed.
- When compared to electric water heaters, propane RV water heaters are the most cost-effective solution for those of you who like dry camping and want to save money on your utility bill.
- Some individuals are less comfortable with it, though, because utilizing propane implies that you will be dealing with gas, which is a potentially dangerous substance.
- Finally, here is a heater that can be used in several ways!
- This sort of hot water heater for an RV allows you to choose between using an electric heating element or a propane heater, depending on your needs and circumstances.
- Images courtesy of mihail39, through Crello.com Related: How Do I Heat the Underside of a Mobile Home?
How to Use a Traditional RV Water Heater?
Finally, here’s how to make use of your RV water heater and get it up and running again. As a result, we have created a brief explanation for those who own recreational vehicles and are wondering how to turn on the heating in their car. First and foremost, you will need to double-check and make certain that your hot water tank is fully stocked with water. Make sure that all of the bypass valves that may cut off the water supply to your tank are open rather than closed in order to do this first.
- You have the option of connecting your recreational vehicle to a city water connection as an alternative.
- If you do this, you will ensure that you have enough water in your tank to heat it and that you will not end up burning it instead.
- As previously said, if you happen to have a heater that has both propane and electricity alternatives, you are free to utilize them in conjunction with one another.
- However, even if you switch on both sources of heat, you will still have to wait at least twenty minutes before you have a full tank of hot water to use!
- You make the call.
Furthermore, leaving an electric heater going on increases the chance of igniting an element if your tank happens to be completely depleted at any point. Images courtesy of mihail39, through Crello.com
How to Take Care For Your RV Hot Water Tank?
Keep in mind that the better you take care of your RV water heater tank, the longer it will last. After you’ve learned how to use it properly, you’ll want to make certain that you’re taking good care of the water heater tank in your recreational vehicle as much as you possibly can. In general, it is recommended that you do maintenance on your RV water heater every six to twelve months. Regularly checking on the tank and being alert to any problems, should any manifest themselves, is sufficient.
- To properly care for your RV water heater tank, begin by turning the heater off completely.
- Continue with removing the drain stopper or the anode rod only when you are absolutely certain that it is completely cool already.
- If there is any silt or debris in the water, it will enable it to flow away.
- Using this method, you will be able to prevent the building of buildup in your aquarium.
- Every year, before the weather becomes too cold, you should winterize your trailer.
- Now that you know how to switch on your RV water heater, how to maintain and care for it, and even what sorts of heaters are available in modern recreational trailers, you can go on to the next step.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Atwood and Suburban are the two largest manufacturers of RV water heaters.
⭐ Why can RV water heater stop working?
If it’s unclean, worn out, or broken, it’s a bad sign.