How to Troubleshoot the Atwood G6A 7E

A working heater will enhance your RV experience.

Atwood is an Indiana-based manufacturer of varied products for boats, RVs and mobile homes, along with other industrial products. The Atwood G6A 7E water heater is equipped with electronic ignition. As with all appliances, problems may crop up with extended use. If the Atwood heater in your RV starts acting up, troubleshoot to see if you can fix the problem yourself before going to the expense and trouble of calling in a service professional.

Instructions

1. Check the gas pressure if there is a spark but no gas. The pressure should be 11 inches W.C. ("water column," the standard way gas pressure is measured). Ensure that the appliance is receiving enough voltage; 10.5 volts D.C. is the minimum. Clean any blockages in the main burner tube or orifice and check electrical connections, tightening any that are loose.

2. Tighten the high-tension wire lead to the circuit board connection if there is gas but not spark. Make sure electrodes are attached to the main burner and clean them if they are dirty. Re-gap the spark plug to 1/8-inch and position it in the flame. If the porcelain is cracked on the electrodes or if the wires in the electrode porcelain are loose, replace the electrodes.

3. Re-seat the thermostat against the tank if the water is too hot or too cold. Ensure that the bypass kit valves are in the proper position. If this doesn't work, the thermostat may be defective; try replacing it.

4. Check the gas pressure as explained in Step 1 if the flame is erratic or if sooting is present. The main burner air shutter should be about one-quarter open with a quiet, mainly blue flame; adjust it if needed. Clean and remove any blockages from the main burner, burner orifice, U tube or exhaust grille.

5. Check the power supply as explained in Step 1 if there is both no gas and no spark. Check the "On/Off" switch, the thermal cut-off and thermostat, and replace them if defective.

References

• Atwood: Water Heater Service Manual; 2003
• Atwood: Company Profile
• Brewers Hardware: LPG Regulator for 11" WC with 5' Hose