How to Install RV Hot Water Heater Pilot Light

Water heaters improve your RV experience.

A water heater is one of the key elements in an RV. Without a working water heater you can say goodbye to warm water for showers and dishes. Warm water when needed is one of the many luxuries you purchase when you invest in an RV. Over time water heaters can break down due to a variety of problems. One of the easiest ways to troubleshoot the problems with an RV water heater is by replacing the pilot light. Generally you need to replace the thermocouple.

Things You'll Need

• New thermocouple
• Adjustable wrench
• Assorted sockets and ratchets (varies based on thermocouple model)
• A variety of screwdrivers (varies based on thermocouple model)

Instructions

1. Turn off the gas supply running to the water heater as well as throughout the entire RV unit.

2. Remove the thermocouple with a 3/8-inch wrench.

3. Screw the new thermocouple in where you removed the old one from.

4. Tighten the thermocouple with a wrench.

5. Turn on the gas supply to the water heater.

6. Light the pilot light.

Tips & Warnings

• Never light a water heater that's empty.

References

• RV Basics: Troubleshooting RV Furnace Problems
• NADA RV Blue Book Guide: Water Heater Tips