Your RV hot water heater is essential for comfortable living while on the road, providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, and other daily tasks. If you’re experiencing issues with your hot water heater, a simple reset might solve the problem. Resetting the RV water heater can fix common issues like the pilot light not staying lit, water not heating, or the system not functioning properly.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to resetting your RV hot water heater:
1. Turn Off Power and Gas Supply
Before working on your water heater, it’s essential to ensure safety:
- For Electric Heaters: Turn off the breaker or disconnect the RV from shore power.
- For Propane Heaters: Turn off the propane supply at the propane tank.
Shutting off the power and gas reduces the risk of accidents while resetting the system.
2. Locate the Water Heater
RV water heaters are typically located outside the vehicle. You’ll need to find the external access panel, which is usually a square or rectangular cover located on the exterior wall of your RV.
- Remove the panel cover by turning the latch or screws that hold it in place.
- You’ll now have access to the water heater controls.
3. Find the Reset Button
Once the cover is off, you’ll need to locate the reset button:
- The reset button is usually red and can be found near the thermostat or electrical elements.
- Depending on your model, the reset button may be recessed. You might need a small tool like a paperclip or pen to press it.
4. Press the Reset Button
Press and hold the red reset button for a few seconds, then release it. This should trigger a reset of the water heater system. If the water heater was malfunctioning due to overheating or a temporary issue, this should resolve the problem.
5. Restore Power and Gas
- For Electric Heaters: Turn the breaker back on or reconnect the RV to shore power.
- For Propane Heaters: Open the propane valve and ensure the gas is flowing.
6. Test the Water Heater
Now that you’ve reset the heater:
- Turn on the hot water tap inside your RV and wait for a few minutes to see if the water heats up.
- Check the pilot light or burner if you have a propane water heater. It should ignite and function normally after resetting.
Additional Troubleshooting (If Reset Doesn’t Work)
If the reset doesn’t resolve your hot water heater issue, there may be other underlying problems:
- Check the Thermostat: The thermostat could be malfunctioning or set too low.
- Inspect the Heating Elements: If you’re using an electric heater, the heating elements might need replacement.
- Check Fuses and Breakers: A blown fuse or tripped breaker could prevent the water heater from working properly.
- Pilot Light or Igniter: If you have a propane water heater, ensure the pilot light is functioning. Sometimes, the igniter might be faulty and require replacement.
When to Call a Professional
If resetting the RV water heater doesn’t solve the problem or you suspect more significant issues like a faulty thermostat, broken heating elements, or gas leaks, it’s best to seek professional help. At Custom-way, we specialize in RV repairs, including hot water heater diagnostics and replacements. Whether your heater needs a quick reset or a complete overhaul, our team can help ensure you’re back to enjoying hot water in no time.
Contact Custom-way for any RV maintenance or repairs, including hot water heater troubleshooting. We’re here to keep your RV comfortable and functional for all your road adventures!