Troubleshooting Your Suburban or Dometic RV Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide.

To specify, we are not talking about AquaHot, Oasis or Hurricane Hydronic heating systems. Today we are talking tank-water heaters most common to RVs. We’re talking about the Dometic and Suburban Tank water heaters. The good ol fashioned, repairable, reliable, simple, robust kind of RV water heaters.

A working water heater is crucial for enjoying the comforts of any RV, whether you’re washing dishes or taking a warm shower after a long day. However, water heater problems can arise, leaving you with cold water when you least expect it.. not to mention, the potential for extensive water damage if not caught in time. This guide will walk you through common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Common RV Water Heater Problems

1. No Hot Water:

   • Possible causes include pilot light issues, a faulty heating element, or a tripped breaker/blown fuse.

2. Inconsistent Water Temperature:

   • Often caused by sediment buildup, thermostat issues (not the one on the wall), or a malfunctioning/incorrectly turned plumbing valve.

3. Water Heater Won’t Ignite:

   • Check for gas supply issues, debris in the burner assembly, or an electronic ignition failure. The gas orifice is sensitive and can be clogged by as little as a spiderweb.

4. Leaking Water Heater:

   • Typically due to loose connections, a cracked tank, or a failing pressure relief valve, also known as a P&T valve. If you do want to get another P&T valve in a pinch, big box stores carry them, but they will not fit inside the cover of your water heater.

5. Strange Noises:

   • Rumbling or popping sounds are often caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. “Now would be a great time for a tank flush, I will call Noah at Odyssey”, is what you should be thinking in this moment.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Check the Power Supply:

   • If your water heater is electric, confirm it’s receiving 120V power (photo you see above) and check for tripped breakers. If it’s gas-powered, ensure your propane tank is full and the valves are open.

2. Inspect the Thermostat:

   • Test the thermostat for proper operation. Adjust the temperature settings and see if the issue resolves. If not, the thermostat may need replacement.

3. Examine the Pilot Light or Igniter:

   • For manual ignition systems, relight the pilot light following the manufacturer’s instructions. For electronic systems, check the igniter for dirt or corrosion.

4. Flush the Tank:

   • Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and cause noises. Attach a hose to the drain valve and flush the tank to remove sediment.

5. Inspect for Leaks:

   • Check connections, the pressure relief valve, and the tank itself for signs of leaks. Tighten connections or replace faulty components as needed.

6. Test Heating Elements:

   • Use a multimeter to test the continuity of electric heating elements. Replace if faulty.

7. Clean the Burner Assembly:

   • If your gas water heater won’t ignite, clean the burner assembly to remove debris that might be blocking gas flow.

Affiliate Product Recommendations

• Durable Tank Rinser: Perfect for flushing out sediment and prolonging your water heater’s life. Check it out here.

• RV Water Heater Anode Rod: Protects your tank from corrosion and extends its lifespan. Shop now.

Note: These products are highly recommended for maintaining your RV water heater for longevity and reliability.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve followed these steps and your water heater still isn’t working, it’s time to bring in the experts. At Odyssey Mobile RV Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing RV water heaters across Washington’s I-5 corridor. From Skagit County to Tacoma, we’ll get your hot water flowing again.

Submit your service request now for the top mobile rv repair service in Washington state, based in Skagit Valley.

Tips for Preventing Future Problems

1. Flush the Tank Regularly:

   • Prevent sediment buildup by flushing the tank every 6-12 months. Consider how hard your water is in the area you are camping or even installing a water filter system.

2. Replace the Anode Rod:

   • Protect the tank from corrosion by replacing the anode rod annually or as needed.

3. Perform Routine Inspections:

   • Regularly check connections, valves, and components for signs of wear or leaks.

4. Use Quality Propane and Filters:

   • Ensure clean propane and filtered water to minimize deposits and contaminants.

Affiliate Disclosure

Some links in this article may be affiliate links. This means if you click on a link and purchase an item, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep providing useful content and quality services to our customers. Thank you for your support!