RV Water Heater Not Working? What to Check

Most RV water heaters run on propane, 120 volt electric, or both. Figure out which mode isn't working, because the causes are different.

Not heating on electric

1. Make sure you are plugged into shore power or a generator is running.
2. Check the water heater breaker in the 120 volt panel.
3. Check the switch. Many RVs have a separate electric switch, sometimes outside on the heater itself.
4. If those are fine, the heating element or a thermostat may have failed (a common, fairly cheap repair).

Not heating on propane

1. Make sure the propane tank is open and other propane appliances work.
2. Check the 12 volt power and the water heater fuse. The igniter needs it.
3. Look for a reset button on the heater (some models have one).
4. Check the outside burner tube for spider webs and nests, a very common cause after storage.
5. If it clicks but won't light, or lights and goes out, have an RV tech check the gas valve and igniter.

Other common issues

• Hot water runs out fast: the bypass valve may still be in winterize mode, mixing cold water in.
• Rotten egg smell: often a reaction with the anode rod. Flush the tank and check the anode.
• Dripping relief valve: a small drip when heating can be normal. Constant flow needs a look.