Forum Discussion
DrewE
May 28, 2015Explorer II
Some (mostly older) RV water heaters need to have a pilot light lit, kind of like (older) residential water heaters. Most newer ones have some sort of electronic ignition and have a switch in the camper somewhere to turn on the control board and thermostat. On mine, it's next to the switch for the water pump on the little tank level indicator and control panel, and labeled "heater."
Make sure you have it filled with water (i.e. not bypassed) before trying to fire it up. As others have said, it may need cleaning or repair after three years. You may also have a weepy pressure relief valve, which may or may not start sealing better with a bit of time/use. A little bit of dripping from the relief valve is generally nothing to be too concerned about.
It would also be a good idea to check for things like wasp nests before starting the heater.
Make sure you have it filled with water (i.e. not bypassed) before trying to fire it up. As others have said, it may need cleaning or repair after three years. You may also have a weepy pressure relief valve, which may or may not start sealing better with a bit of time/use. A little bit of dripping from the relief valve is generally nothing to be too concerned about.
It would also be a good idea to check for things like wasp nests before starting the heater.
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