Replacing an Atwood RV Electric Water Heater Element

Atwood manufacturers water heater systems for recreational vehicles (RVs) in 6-gallon and 10-gallon sizes. The heating element used to warm the water is a two-prong component similar to the element inside a kitchen stove, only much smaller. The element is fitted into a threaded knob with a rubberized gasket to seal the water tank, which must be drained before you can change out the bad part. Follow basic safety precautions when removing the old element.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers or wrenches
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Disconnect the green cable on the back of the Atwood RV water heater from the battery or electrical terminal, using pliers or a wrench to loosen the bolt in the clamp.

2. Close the valve knob for the water supply if the RV is hooked up to water in a park. Turn the knob clockwise to shut off the water to the Atwood tank.

3. Place a bucket under the metal drain valve on the front of the Atwood and lift the valve lever to empty the tank.

4. Unscrew the heater element knob on the front of the Atwood water heater and pull the defective element straight out of the unit. The element slides horizontally in and out of the water heater.

5. Insert the new element and twist clockwise to secure the part inside the Atwood water heater.

6. Fill the water tank by unscrewing the supply knob.

7. Dry your hands.

8. Reconnect the green cable on the back of the Atwood to the power source, tightening the clamp with pliers.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not connect the power to the Atwood while the water tank is empty. This can cause the heating element to burn out prematurely.

References

• Atwood: RV Water Heater Owner's Manual
• Plumbing Supply: Heating Element Installation Instructions