Forum Discussion

slyone65's avatar
slyone65
Explorer
Aug 10, 2014

Hot water issue

Ive got a 1998 21' Damon Hornet TT with an Atwood water heater. Our last two trips the hot water pressure has diminished to little more than a trickle. I have double and triple checked my valves all seems to be in order. I have downloded the Atwood service manual for this particular model and it doesn't address this issue. Have read other threads about relevent issues and check valves are mentioned. I dont believe this particuler model has a check valve. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

5 Replies

  • Thank you everyone. Old-Biscuit, I was thinking something in order of this troubleshooting method,your idea of using the PRV in this manner is a great idea. Thanks
  • How many valves on backside of water heater?
    1, 2 or 3

    3 valve systems (cold inlet/bottom valve, hot outlet/top valve and bypass valve/connects cold/hot water lines.
    They typically do not have any check valves.

    1 and 2 valve system do have check valves.
    Typically the check valve is in hot outlet....inside nipple that is screwed into tank (hot outlet line is then connected to that nipple)

    The check valves are cheap plastic plunger/spring/o-ring assembly. The fail and block flow out of water heater.

    Sometimes a check valve can be used on cold inlet nipple.

    So........
    With heater turned off turn off water supply.
    Then flip open the Pressure Relief Valve (outside compartment)
    CAUTION: WATER CAN BE VERY HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE

    With the PRV OPEN turn on water supply
    Does water flow out of PRV under pressure?
    IF so..cold inlet is OK (allowing water into tank) and problem is with hot outlet
    IF water flow doesn't increase.....then cold inlet is problem

  • Check valve installation will vary by coach manufacturer.
    Only way to tell is to look in the back of the water heater. Sometimes that doesn't work.
    Have you flushed the tank out?

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,348 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 13, 2026