Activating Your Camper's Hot Water Heater: A Quick Guide

If you're new to camping, learning how to turn on your camper's hot water heater is essential. The process can be a little tricky, especially if you're dealing with an older model or a propane-only heater. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started. First, locate your water heater and determine its power source. Modern campers typically have a switch inside the coach or control panel to turn on the water heater. Some models might have multiple control switches in different locations, like the kitchen and bathroom. If you have a propane-only heater, you'll need to locate the propane tank and ensure it's open to allow propane flow. You might also need to light a pilot manually. For electric heaters, connect your RV to a power source and turn on the water heater switch, usually labelled Water Heater. It's important to note that electric-only heaters are rare, and most modern campers have a combination of propane and electric options. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions.

Filling and prepping the water heater tank

Locate the Water Intake Valve:

Find the water intake valve on the outside of your camper. It usually has a blue handle. This is where you'll connect the water supply.

Connect the Hose:

Attach a clean hose to the water intake valve. Ensure that the connection is tight to prevent any leaks. The other end of the hose will be connected to your water source.

Connect to a Water Source:

Depending on your location, you can connect the hose to a spigot for your garden hose if you're at home, or a pump at a campsite. Make sure the connection is secure and tight.

Turn on the Water Source:

Open the valve by turning it counterclockwise to start the water flow into the tank. On some campers, you might also need to open the intake valve to allow water into the tank.

Fill the Water Tank:

Let the water tank fill up. Keep an eye on the fill line, and turn off the water source once the tank reaches capacity. Then, remove the hose from the intake valve and the water source.

Close the Water Heater Bypass Valve:

Locate and close the water heater bypass valve. This step is crucial as it ensures that water flows into the water heater tank instead of bypassing it through the cold water tap.

Turn on the Hot Water Tap:

Go to one of your sinks and turn on the hot water tap. This will bring water through the water heater. If water flows, your system is functioning correctly.

Bleed Air from the System:

Initially, the water may sputter due to air in the system. Let the water run until it flows smoothly, ensuring all air is bled from the system. It is important to never light the water heater while there is still air in the system, as this could damage the tank.

Now that you've filled and prepped the water heater tank, you can proceed to light the water heater, following the instructions for either a propane or electric heater.

Lighting a propane heater

To light a propane heater in a camper, safety precautions must be taken. Propane heaters require ventilation, so it is important to keep a window open. It is also recommended to get a carbon monoxide detector.

• Ensure there is water in the water heater and that the gas is turned on.
• Locate the regulator, which is the square thing with a blue dial, and rotate the blue dial to 'Pilot'.
• Identify the spring-loaded button on the regulator that allows gas to flow through the pilot gas line. Press and hold this button.
• While holding the button, use a match or lighter to ignite the pilot light at the end of the pilot line in the big pipe.
• Continue to hold the button for a few seconds until the thermocouple heats up enough to keep the pilot light gas valve open.
• Release the pressure on the dial. If the pilot light goes out, you didn't hold it long enough, or the thermocouple needs to be replaced.
• Turn the dial to 'On'. The burner should ignite, and the water will start heating.

It is important to keep a safe distance from the water heater when turning on the burner, as it may create a dramatic flare-up. Additionally, make sure to clean the burner nozzle and ensure there are no wasp or spider nests before lighting the heater.

Starting an electric heater

To start an electric heater in your camper, you'll first need to connect your RV to a power source. Run your RV's power cable to a power source and plug it in. Most campsites have electric hookups for RVs, but there may be an extra charge for using the electricity.

Once you're connected to a power source, turn the water heater power switch on. The switch is usually inside the cabin and looks like a normal light switch. It's usually labelled "Water Heater", so it should be easy to find. For older models, the switch might be on the water heater itself rather than inside the cabin.

After turning on the switch, you'll need to wait 60-90 minutes for the water to heat up. Electric heaters take a bit longer than propane heaters to warm the water. Depending on the size of the tank, it'll take about 60-90 minutes, so be patient before using the hot water.

RV water heaters usually have a light to indicate when they're on. If the light doesn't turn on, the bulb might be burned out or the water heater may not be working. Take the RV to a repair shop for servicing.

When you're done using the hot water, turn the switch off to conserve electricity. Leave the heater off until you're ready to use it again. If you're still using electricity in your RV, like for lights or the stove, then you can leave the power source plugged in. Otherwise, you can unplug it when the water is hot.

Manual vs automatic ignition

There are two main types of ignition systems for camper water heaters: manual pilot light ignition and direct spark ignition (DSI). Both types of ignition systems are suitable for liquid propane (LP) or gas water heaters, but there are some key differences between the two.

Manual pilot light ignition is the most basic type of ignition system for camper water heaters. It is popular due to its overall reliability and simplicity. With this type of system, the pilot flame needs to be lit manually, usually with a lighter or match. Some water heaters with manual pilot ignition also have a pilot flame re-ignite feature, which automatically re-ignites the pilot light if it goes out.

On the other hand, DSI is a fully automatic ignition system that does not require a flame to manually light the pilot. Instead, a signal is sent from the thermostat to the heater control circuit board, which opens the gas valve and activates the igniter to produce a flame. If the sensor doesn't detect a flame after 15 seconds, the gas valve will close, and an indicator light will turn on. DSI water heaters are designed to operate when the RV is in motion, making them a convenient option for those who frequently travel.

In terms of convenience, DSI water heaters have an edge over manual pilot light ignition systems. With DSI, you simply need to flip a switch to turn on the heater, whereas manual pilot light ignition requires you to go through the process of lighting the pilot flame each time. However, manual pilot light ignition systems are generally more reliable as they don't rely on electrical components that can malfunction.

When choosing between manual and automatic ignition for your camper water heater, consider your personal preferences, travel habits, and the level of convenience you desire. Both options have their advantages and will ensure you have access to hot water during your camping trips.

Troubleshooting

Lukewarm Water

If your water is lukewarm, it means that the water heater is functioning, but cold water is mixing with the hot water somewhere outside the tank. Check the following:

• Ensure that the bypass handles on the back of your water heater tank or in your water bay compartment are set correctly and not in the winterization position.
• Check the water pressure on showerheads and outdoor showers. Make sure the head is fully open, and water flow isn't restricted.
• Check the push button on handheld showerheads to ensure it's open and not restricting water flow.

Power Issues

If you have a tank-style water heater that operates on propane and shore power, but your shore power isn't working, check the following:

• Ensure a proper shore power connection and that the breaker on your campground pedestal is turned on.
• Check the 120-volt breaker panel in your RV's electrical panel box to see if the water heater breaker has tripped.
• Use a multimeter to check your water heater's heating element. Set the multimeter to ohms and place the leads on the metal plates under the screw heads of your heating element. The reading should be between 9.6 to 10 ohms. If it's out of this range, your heating element should be replaced by an RV technician.

Lighting Issues

If you're having trouble igniting the flame, check the following:

• Ensure your 12-volt fuse inside your RV's electrical panel isn't blown.
• Check your propane tanks to confirm they have enough propane and that the service valve is completely open.
• If the problem persists, you may have a faulty gas valve (solenoid), ignitor, a dirty burn chamber, or a flame issue. These issues will likely require an RV technician's expertise.

Resetting the Water Heater

You may need to reset your water heater due to safety features or high-temperature limit switches. To reset:

• For tank-style water heaters like Atwood and Dometic, and most tankless systems, turn the system off and back on to reset your 12-volt panel and circuit board.
• For tank-style water heaters like Suburban, press the reset buttons located in the exterior compartment of your system.
• If the issue persists, there may be a problem with your thermostat, or for tankless heaters, it may be time for decalcification. Do not repeatedly reset the water heater. Consult an RV technician if needed.

Additional Tips

• If you're experiencing issues with a tankless or on-demand water heater, keep in mind that these systems are activated by water flow volume and demand. Adjusting the hot water faucet handle may affect water flow rather than temperature.
• To check if there is water in the tank, lightly touch the brass "P&T" (pressure and temperature) relief valve when the water heater is on. If it's warm, there's water inside. Alternatively, carefully open the valve when the system is cooled down to see if water escapes.
• It takes approximately 10-15 minutes for water to heat on propane and up to 30 minutes on electric.
• Drain your water heater tank at least twice a year, especially if your water lines are smelly.
• Consult an RV technician for issues like a propane gas flame that isn't burning blue, replacing the 120-volt water heater element, a faulty gas valve, a malfunctioning ignitor, or an LP detector alarm indicating a propane leak.

Frequently asked questions