water heater works fine - IF- I leave door open

Burner tube needs to be blown out with compressed air, bugs and dirt hinder the air flow and cause issues, common problem

My guess is the airflow mixture/regulator needs to be adjusted to get more airflow into the burner. Have you travelled to a higher elevation than you are normally at?

Assuming this is on gas, sounds to me that there is an air flow issue thru the small air input port on the door. Door open plenty of air, door closed not so much.

Old-Biscuit wrote:
Check that the High Voltage wiring (large Orange wire) is not being pitched when you close access panel....shorting to ground


Does the AC Element heat to temp with access panel closed?
*DEL uses DC to control AC & Gas

The High Voltage wire when igniting puts out a hi voltage spark that will overcome a short to ground on the door. The RETURN millivolt signal for flame is NOT that strong and will be disrupted by a slight short to ground. So, do as he states. You can even use electrical tape to wrap the orange plug wire to stop the problem until you replace the Plug wire. Doug

PS. Pull the rubber boot off the electrode and make SURE the wire spade terminal is secured on the electrode spade. Closing the door may cause the gap if not secure to cause to lack of flame signal

Check that the High Voltage wiring (large Orange wire) is not being pitched when you close access panel....shorting to ground


Does the AC Element heat to temp with access panel closed?
*DEL uses DC to control AC & Gas

Make sure wiring is clear of door
Check burner tube for bugs and or their nest.