How to Replace RV Hot Water Heater Parts

Art by Trey Ratcliff

Everyone loves an antique, however, antique water heaters can cause you problems. Regular maintenance and replacement of parts will ensure that your family always has hot water.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• replacement parts
• pipe wrench
• sockets
• screwdriver

1. Hot Water Heater

   If you have an older RV then you know how temperamental they can be. Every once in a while they demand a little attention to stay running. A common problem with hot water tanks is that the pilot light just won't stay lit. If this is the case there is a solution to the problem that is not as costly as replacing the whole tank. Simple tools such as a wrench and screwdriver should be all you need to get the job done.

2. Thermo Couple

   The thermocouple is the most likely cause of the pilot light going out. The thermocouple is a safety device that emits a small amount of electrical current when heated by the pilot flame. The current allows the gas valve to stay open and feed the fuel to the pilot light. If the thermocouple is old or damaged it will not produce the current required and the gas valve will close and the flame will go out. The thermocouple is easily identified it looks like a thick uninsulated copper wire.

3. Air Shutter Valve

   Start by turning all the gas valves to the off position. A 3/8 wrench will remove the thermocouple. Take the part to your local hardware store, Home Depot, or Lowe's as a thermocouple is a universal part in most home appliances. Replacing the part is as simple as removal and requires the same tools. Open your gas valves again and relight your pilot light.

4. Flame to rich

   Now is a good time to check your air to fuel ratio. If the mixture is too rich, or too lean, it can affect the pilot light and your heaters efficiency. Adjusting the fuel ratio can save you money, and save you from mechanical failure. With the hot water heater operating loosen the screw on the air shutter and slide the shutter until it is 1/4 of the way open. The main burner flame should be blue with a hint of yellow tips. If there is too much yellow on the flame gradually open the shutter more. If you hear a roaring noise you need to close the air shutter a bit as this is a sign of too much air.

5. Solar Hot Water Heater

   Most hot water heater problems can be eliminated with proper maintenance. You can, however, eliminate the need for maintenance as well as the need for fuel by equipping your RV with a solar hot water heater. A solar hot water heater is easy to build and can save you money wherever you install it. It can be built with simple tools and equipped with a solar powered water pump if desired. A glass cutter may be needed but this tool is inexpensive. I have provided a link in the resources section with detailed instructions on how to build a solar hot water heater.

Tips & Warnings

• Regular maintenance for your RV systems can keep them running smoothly.

• Make sure gas is turned off before you replace parts on a hot water heater.

Resources

• Solar Hot Water Heater
• RV Travel