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Hot Water Heater Test

rkymtn57
Explorer
Explorer
Is there a way for me to make sure my hot water is functioning properly
with out filling my entire system with water.
I live in Co. and we are still getting a few freezing nights.
I just bought this unit used and due to winter i havnt been able to test it, and im leaving the 1st part of May for S. Tx.
Also where would I purchase a replacement for a Flagstaff by Forest River. Thanks , D
5 REPLIES 5

3_dog_nights
Explorer
Explorer
No need to test the hot water heater...if it's already hot it's working! You might be concerned about the regular water heater though....
Bob & Lynn
2 Chihuahua's, Ella, Gracie

was-2013 Open Range 424RLS,06' Chevy 3500, dually, Duramax/Allison

also was - 2015 Winnebago Adventurer 37F, towing 2003 Jeep Wrangler

now - 2021 NoBo 19.5, 2019 Honda Ridgeline RTL (Talk about downsizing!)

rkymtn57
Explorer
Explorer
OK , thank you guys , it's a Suburban and I got the gas to light it just took a little while.
The switch next to the Suburban gas on/off switch isn't labeled well and only says tank heater it must be the electric element. I could take the elec. element out see how it looks and test the contacts with a meter. Thanks , D

popeyemth
Explorer
Explorer
Rv antifreeze about $3 gallon
Just check the whole water system at the same time and rewinterize it only takes a gallon and 10 minutes .
The water heaters are not made by the camper cos but by third parties.
Open the outside access door and look for the brand or post a pic here and we ll help you find one if need be.
Installed yourself complete sys about $300.
"wine is a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy" ben franklin

Old-Biscuit
Explorer III
Explorer III
Only way to fill water heater with water is to fill rv plumbing system with water.

Course you could.........close cold water inlet (and hot outlet if you have one) then remove PRV and with a funnel pour water into WH tank. Then re-install PRV after you have filled it and fire it up.

You can fire up gas side without water in tank......valve in propane, light off stove top burners to get propane flowing and then turn on WH on 'gas'. Listen for it to 'click' (spark) and then listen form main flame. After you hear main flame light off and stay lit then turn it off. Won't be enough heat generated to do any harm.

Then later on when you have water in system you can test electric heat side of WH. At least you'll know that gas side works.
Is it time for your medication or mine?


2007 DODGE 3500 QC SRW 5.9L CTD In-Bed 'quiet gen'
2007 HitchHiker II 32.5 UKTG 2000W Xantex Inverter
US NAVY------USS Decatur DDG31

donn0128
Explorer II
Explorer II
Replacement what?
To test the water heater it must be filled with water or yo run tye risk of burning it up.