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wdgold's avatar
wdgold
Explorer
May 26, 2014

Atwood water heater

I have a 6 Gallon heater with push button ignition. It is hard to get started, 3 or 4 attempts, then it will run fine but won't restart automatically at times after it shuts down when water is hot. I have done all the checks that have been suggested to me over time without replacing any parts. I am now convinced something needs to be replaced what part would most likely be causing this?

2 Replies

  • One troublesome area on the connection path of our water heater is the push on connection on the post that is part of the control board. The post is not unlike the connection on a sprak plug. What happens over time with the expansion and contraction on the metals, the contact at the end of the wire that pushes onto the post expands just enough to rendure intermittant solid connection. With a 12 volt system this minute amount of voltage will cause the symtom you describe. Put a pair of pliers to the end of he wire connection and close the half circle openning so that you must push solidly to press it back onto the post connection. Hope this helps.
  • Totally best to go to your tank, and look up the information online about it, there will be manuals and peoples experiences.

    Then post what you have, and see what people have to say about it. There are really many types and most information is available online just for putting in your model number.