How to Repair an RV Gas Heater
The purpose of an RV gas heater is to properly heat the stored water used for the shower and sink. Although the process of repairing a gas heater can be time consuming, money will be saved by not having to take the RV to a mechanic. The cost of labor and parts can become expensive. The Duck Tec website explains that in order to determine why the gas heater is not functioning correctly, a series of parts must be checked and cleaned throughout the repair process, including the pilot light and the gas connection.
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Things You'll Need
- Phillips screwdrivers
- Flathead screwdrivers
- Wrenches
- Flashlight
- Pipe cleaner
- Lighter
Instructions
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Remove the pilot light panel in order to gain access to the gas heater. Turn the valve in order to turn on the gas in the RV. Clean the heater vents and remove any dust that has built up. The Hot Water Heater Review website says to use a lighter to test whether the pilot light is working by holding the flame at the end of the pilot tube.
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Turn off the gas and remove the pilot tube if the pilot light was unable to start. Use the pipe cleaner repeatedly to thoroughly clean the inside of the pilot tube. Securely screw the pilot tube back onto the gas RV heating unit.
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3
Turn the valve in order to open the gas supply. Attempt to ignite the pilot light again using the lighter. The pilot light should work effectively once all of the dust and debris have been removed from the heating system.
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4
Check all of the seals around the various parts on the tank before concluding the repair process. Although there will be some amount of condensation, check for any leaks. Apply waterproof caulking around any seals that are experiencing leaks and reinforce any caulking that has become dry or cracked over time.
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Tips & Warnings
Occasionally check the vents in the gas RV heater in order to keep them free of dust and debris. The air flow in and out of the gas RV heater will be much more efficient if the unit and vents are kept clean.
Always use caution when working around an RV gas water heater. Care should be taken when attempting to ignite the pilot light. Also, the gas RV heater should always be checked to ensure that no gas is leaking in order to avoid serious injuries.
References
- Photo Credit rv image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
