Forum Discussion

path1's avatar
path1
Explorer
Apr 24, 2017

10 gal suburban DSI water heater won't start

Last time used may 2016. Furnace works, stove works (so I do have propane)

When I turn on switch from inside RV I can hear the spark thing making clicking noise but it doesn't fire off. Clicking stops and then tries again and again. I'm thinking spider webs or such.

Any hints to a good tool to clean out the brass air tube looking thing without taking it off?

I can not smell propane when its trying to start. Is it OK to put a match to the little orifice to see if propane is it thru the orifice? Or is there maybe to much volume of propane and don't put a match to it.

Any other ideas?

Thanks

(Added on to orginal post)

Tried again and I can now here the clunk verses the spark thing. Is noise from some type of valve or solenoid?

12 Replies

Show More
  • path1's avatar
    path1
    Explorer
    Apr 24, 2017
    donn0128 wrote:
    Did you purge the gas lines prior to attempting to light the WH? Did you leave the propane tanks on?


    NO, did not purge. But stove line is probably within 3 feet of water heater. Yes, propane tanks have been on since cold snap in January.

    Also added info post.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Apr 24, 2017
    Did you purge the gas lines prior to attempting to light the WH? Did you leave the propane tanks on?

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,369 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 11, 2026