For those of you RV owners who have a shower on board, you know that there’s nothing worse than hopping in the shower and then realizing that there’s something wrong with your water heater. The most common problem, and in my opinion the worst, with water heaters in RVs is that foul, rotten egg smell. Though this isn’t harmful to you, it’s definitely not ideal. This happens when there are high levels of sulphur in the water and you can try to eliminate by flushing the water heater.
Another common problem is a dripping pressure relief valve. When the air pocket at the top of your water heaters gets absorbed by the water, there is no where for the heated water to expand to and pressure is released through the pressure relief valve. If this occurs, RV-Basics suggests the following:
Turn off the water heater and let the water cool. Then shut off the water supply to the water heater, open a faucet inside your camper to let off the pressure, open the pressure valve on the water heater and let the water flow until it stops on its own, then snap shut the valve, close the faucet, and turn the water supply back on.
If you have any problems with the water heater staying lit, this could be an issue with the gas valve or circuit. You should definitely come by and get it checked out.
There are three tips to help keep your water heater trouble-free. First, make sure your water heater is full before lighting. To check this, open a hot water faucet and wait until you see a steady flow. Second, regularly check the exterior vent and burner for anything obstructing the air flow. Lastly, drain and flush the heater at least twice a year.
Safe Travels and Happy RVing!
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If you don’t thiink you will remember to drain your heater or you know you are going to be lazzy and not do it an easy water 1100 is a good option and you wont have to drain it. still replace the anode rod every couple of years though.