Issues with hot water - Suburban SW6 PE in TT

Question

Newbies with 1991 Skamper 23' TT.Suburban WH was replaced a few years ago by PO.Until this weekend, we had never attempted the hot water heater.The 120V On/Off switch on the heater itself was VERY hard to turn on, but finally clicked ON and stayed.We could hear the electric element heating the water.Water was definitely warm/hot.The tank appeared to be full - by opening the pop-off and had goof flow.We have always had (and still do) have good col water volume and pressure.BUT - the hot side of both the kitchen and bathroom sinks had very little flow and pressure and was only warm for a few seconds then cool again.Any suggestions on where to start?Thanks

scottg · Answer

If it has an outside shower and the mixing valves are on but the head is off, it will have the effect you describe.

sch911 · Answer

Or, the water heater bypass valve(s) are set incorrectly.

j-d · Answer

The water heater lines can have a little Check Valve or two. Sometimes they stick. Also, there's a Winterize/Bypass circuit that might not be set right for camping use.

jwicker · Answer

No outside shower. I'll check the WH valves tomorrow. Thanks

old-biscuit · Answer

We have always had (and still do) have good col water volume and pressure.

BUT - the hot side of both the kitchen and bathroom sinks had very little flow and pressure and was only warm for a few seconds then cool again.

Good cold water volume & pressure......hot side very little flow warm/cool

Sounds like 2 problems
warm/cool is indicative of cold water mixing with hot and is typically mis-valving (bypass valve open/cracked open)

The very little flow & pressure sounds like water heater outlet check valve is sticking/failing.

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Issues with hot water - Suburban SW6 PE in TT

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