Water leak help

[hikerboy1]

I have a 2011 Outdoors RV 18' Back Country travel trailer, and have had some mysterious water leakage that I'm having trouble finding. Seems to be under the hot water heater, with some migration beyond fore and aft to areas under the sink, etc. Sink connections and drains resealed. Doesn't seem to produce water under the cabninetry all the time, just occasionally. Seems to be noticed after we've towed somewhere. The water heater sits mid-chassis, right above the wheel wells, right under the stove. I've checked the wheel well sealing, seems OK. The hot water heater PEX connections were somewhat loose at one time, both are snug now and the water has appeared after a tow again. Water heater fittings are now tight, the brass nipple on the inlet is solid, as is the plastic check valve outlet....holds pressure without visual leaks...I've read that these plastic check valves can be problematic, but it appears to be fine. Styrofoam wrap on water tank makes further diagnosis difficult.

The water under the cabinetry under the water heater area is always clean, not dirty, which leads me to suspect something with the water heater. It's a Suburban 6 gallon model.

Windows, all sidewall sealing is maintained and doesn't appear to be a source for water intrusion.

Thanks for the words of advice!

[hikerboy1]

Thanks for the tips. Will double check things, and try the toilet paper trick on the plumbing fittings to make sure they are OK.

[lots2seeinmyrv]

Does the leak show up after raining?

Check the outside screws around the water tank. See if there is any rust. Remove them, put some caulk and screw them back in.

Also caulk the inside corners on the bottom if you see holes there. (Outside in the compartment).


See if that helps.

[Old-Biscuit]

Where is the fresh water tank fill, vent pump suction in relation to water heater?

Water heater LEAKS do not just show up from towing.
Water heater leaks would dribble a little w/o water supply on, a bit more when water supply is on and a lot more when water is heated due to pressure increase

Water heater TANK leaks would be ALL the time


Wrap connections, fittings, PEX Crimps....any thing/everything with Toilet Paper
Any weeping and TP will be wet....easy to identify vs feel or looking