Hot Showers on the Road: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Your RV Water Heater
Having hot water readily available is one of the greatest comforts of RV travel. Whether you’re washing dishes after a delicious campfire meal, enjoying a refreshing shower after a long hike, or simply washing your hands, a functioning water heater is essential for a comfortable RV experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using your RV water heater safely and efficiently, ensuring you have hot water whenever you need it.
## Understanding Your RV Water Heater
Before diving into the operation, it’s crucial to understand the basic components and types of RV water heaters. Most RVs come equipped with one of two types:
* **Propane (LP Gas) Water Heaters:** These models primarily use propane to heat the water. They are typically more energy-efficient when boondocking (camping without hookups) since they don’t rely on electricity. Many propane water heaters also have an electric element for faster heating or when shore power is available.
* **Electric Water Heaters:** These heaters rely solely on electricity, requiring you to be connected to shore power or a generator. They are convenient when you have access to electricity but less practical for off-grid camping.
Regardless of the type, a standard RV water heater consists of these key components:
* **Tank:** The insulated tank holds the water to be heated. Common sizes range from 6 to 12 gallons, though larger RVs might have larger tanks.
* **Burner (Propane Models):** The burner ignites the propane gas to heat the tank.
* **Heating Element (Electric Models):** An electric coil heats the water when connected to shore power.
* **Thermostat:** Regulates the water temperature, preventing overheating.
* **Pressure Relief Valve (PRV):** This safety valve releases pressure if it builds up excessively in the tank.
* **Drain Plug:** Used to drain the water from the tank for winterization or maintenance.
* **Anode Rod:** A sacrificial rod made of magnesium or aluminum that attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank from rusting. This is a critical maintenance item.
## Pre-Trip Water Heater Inspection
Before each trip, it’s essential to inspect your water heater to ensure it’s in good working order. Here’s a checklist:
1. **Check for Leaks:** Inspect around the water heater compartment, looking for any signs of water leaks. Leaks can indicate a faulty connection, a cracked tank, or a malfunctioning valve.
2. **Inspect the Anode Rod:** Remove the anode rod and examine its condition. If it’s significantly corroded (less than 1/3 of its original size), replace it immediately. A deteriorating anode rod means the tank itself is starting to corrode.
3. **Test the Pressure Relief Valve:** Carefully lift the lever on the PRV to release a small amount of water. This ensures the valve isn’t stuck and can function properly in an emergency. Be cautious as the water may be very hot.
4. **Check the Burner (Propane Models):** Inspect the burner area for any debris, rust, or insect nests that could obstruct the burner. Make sure the burner tube is clean and unobstructed.
5. **Check Wiring (Electric Models):** Visually inspect the wiring connecting to the heating element for any signs of damage, fraying, or loose connections. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, have a qualified technician perform this check.
## Filling the Water Heater Tank
Before turning on your water heater, you *must* fill the tank with water. Running a water heater dry will quickly damage the heating element (in electric models) or potentially damage the burner (in propane models) and can even cause a fire hazard. Here’s how to fill the tank:
1. **Connect to a Water Source:** Connect your RV to a city water connection or use your RV’s water pump to draw water from the fresh water tank.
2. **Open Hot Water Faucets:** Open the hot water faucets in your RV’s kitchen and bathroom. This will allow air to escape as the tank fills.
3. **Fill Until Water Flows:** Wait until a steady stream of water flows from the hot water faucets. This indicates that the tank is full and all the air has been purged. Close the faucets.
4. **Check for Leaks:** Inspect around the water heater compartment and all plumbing connections for any leaks. Tighten any connections as needed.
**Important Note:** If you’re using the RV’s water pump, ensure your fresh water tank has enough water. Running the pump dry can also damage it.
## Operating a Propane RV Water Heater
Operating a propane water heater involves igniting the propane burner to heat the water. Here’s the step-by-step process:
1. **Ensure Propane is On:** Make sure your RV’s propane tank is turned on and has sufficient propane.
2. **Turn on the Water Heater:** Locate the water heater switch inside your RV. This switch is typically labeled “Water Heater” or “LP Water Heater.” Turn the switch to the “On” position.
3. **Listen for Ignition:** The water heater will attempt to ignite the propane burner. You should hear a clicking sound as the igniter tries to light the propane. If the burner doesn’t ignite on the first try, it will typically try again several times.
4. **Check for Flame:** Once the burner ignites, you should hear a whooshing sound, indicating that the propane is burning. Some water heaters have an indicator light that illuminates when the burner is lit.
5. **Wait for Hot Water:** Allow the water heater to run for 15-30 minutes to heat the water. The heating time will depend on the size of the tank and the initial water temperature.
6. **Test the Water Temperature:** Carefully test the water temperature at a hot water faucet to ensure it’s heated to your desired level.
7. **Turn Off When Not Needed (Optional):** To conserve propane, you can turn off the water heater when you don’t need hot water. However, keep in mind that the water will cool down over time, and you’ll need to reheat it when you want hot water again.
**Troubleshooting a Propane Water Heater:**
* **No Ignition:** If the water heater fails to ignite, check the following:
* **Propane Supply:** Ensure your propane tank is full and the valve is open.
* **Igniter:** The igniter may be faulty and need replacement.
* **Burner Obstruction:** Check the burner for any debris or obstructions.
* **Gas Valve:** The gas valve may be faulty and need replacement.
* **Air in the Line:** Try running other propane appliances (like the stove) to purge any air from the propane lines.
* **Yellow Flame:** A yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide. This is a serious safety hazard. Turn off the water heater immediately and have it inspected by a qualified technician. Yellow flames can be caused by a dirty burner, insufficient air supply, or a faulty gas regulator.
* **Burning Smell:** A burning smell could indicate a problem with the burner, wiring, or insulation. Turn off the water heater and investigate the source of the smell. If you can’t identify the cause, have it inspected by a qualified technician.
## Operating an Electric RV Water Heater
Operating an electric water heater is simpler than a propane model, but it requires a reliable source of electricity. Here’s the process:
1. **Ensure Shore Power or Generator is On:** Make sure your RV is connected to shore power or a generator that is providing sufficient power.
2. **Turn on the Water Heater:** Locate the water heater switch inside your RV. This switch is typically labeled “Water Heater” or “Electric Water Heater.” Turn the switch to the “On” position.
3. **Check for Power:** Some water heaters have an indicator light that illuminates when the heating element is receiving power.
4. **Wait for Hot Water:** Allow the water heater to run for 30-60 minutes to heat the water. The heating time will depend on the size of the tank and the initial water temperature. Electric water heaters generally take longer to heat water than propane models.
5. **Test the Water Temperature:** Carefully test the water temperature at a hot water faucet to ensure it’s heated to your desired level.
6. **Turn Off When Not Needed (Optional):** To conserve electricity, you can turn off the water heater when you don’t need hot water. However, keep in mind that the water will cool down over time, and you’ll need to reheat it when you want hot water again. Consider the energy consumption of your electric water heater when deciding whether to leave it on or off.
**Troubleshooting an Electric Water Heater:**
* **No Hot Water:** If the water heater is not producing hot water, check the following:
* **Power Supply:** Ensure your RV is connected to a working power source.
* **Circuit Breaker:** Check the circuit breaker for the water heater. If it’s tripped, reset it.
* **Heating Element:** The heating element may be burned out and need replacement. Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If there is no continuity, the element is faulty.
* **Thermostat:** The thermostat may be faulty and preventing the heating element from turning on. Test the thermostat with a multimeter to ensure it’s functioning properly.
* **Wiring:** Check the wiring connecting to the heating element for any loose connections or damage.
* **Tripping Circuit Breaker:** If the circuit breaker repeatedly trips when the water heater is turned on, it could indicate a short circuit in the heating element or wiring. Have a qualified electrician inspect the water heater.
## Combination Propane/Electric Water Heaters
Many RVs have water heaters that can operate on both propane and electricity. This gives you the flexibility to choose the most efficient option depending on your camping situation. Here’s how to use a combination water heater:
1. **Choose Your Power Source:** Decide whether you want to use propane or electricity to heat the water.
2. **Turn on the Appropriate Switch:** Turn on the switch for the power source you want to use (either the “LP Water Heater” switch or the “Electric Water Heater” switch).
3. **Do Not Run Both at the Same Time (Generally):** While some models allow simultaneous operation for faster heating, it is generally not recommended unless the manufacturer specifically states it’s safe. Running both can overload the electrical system and potentially damage the water heater. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
4. **Follow the Operating Instructions:** Follow the operating instructions for the selected power source, as described above.
## Extending the Life of Your RV Water Heater
Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your RV water heater and preventing costly repairs. Here are some essential maintenance tips:
* **Replace the Anode Rod Regularly:** The anode rod is designed to protect the tank from corrosion. Replace it at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice it corroding rapidly. The frequency of replacement depends on the water quality in your area. Hard water accelerates corrosion.
* **Flush the Tank Regularly:** Sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank over time, reducing its efficiency and potentially damaging the heating element or burner. Flush the tank at least twice a year to remove sediment. To flush the tank:
* Turn off the water heater and let the water cool completely.
* Turn off the water supply to the RV.
* Remove the drain plug and let the water drain completely.
* Use a tank flushing wand (available at most RV supply stores) to spray water into the tank and dislodge any remaining sediment.
* Replace the drain plug and refill the tank.
* **Winterize the Water Heater:** If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, it’s essential to winterize your water heater to prevent the tank from freezing and cracking. To winterize the water heater:
* Turn off the water heater and let the water cool completely.
* Turn off the water supply to the RV.
* Drain the water heater tank by removing the drain plug.
* Bypass the water heater using the bypass valves (if your RV has them). This will prevent antifreeze from entering the water heater tank.
* Add RV antifreeze to the water lines by running the water pump and opening each faucet until antifreeze flows out.
* **Inspect Regularly:** Regularly inspect the water heater for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into more serious problems.
* **Properly Store the RV:** If storing the RV for extended periods, drain the water heater completely and leave the drain plug removed to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup.
## Safety Precautions
* **Never run the water heater dry:** Always ensure the tank is full of water before turning on the water heater. Running it dry can cause serious damage and create a fire hazard.
* **Be cautious when draining hot water:** The water in the tank can be very hot. Use caution when draining the tank to avoid scalding yourself.
* **Never tamper with safety devices:** The pressure relief valve is a critical safety device. Never tamper with it or attempt to disable it.
* **If you smell propane, take immediate action:** If you smell propane, turn off the propane supply immediately, ventilate the area, and have the system inspected by a qualified technician before using it again.
* **Carbon Monoxide Detectors:** Ensure your RV has working carbon monoxide detectors, and test them regularly. Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas that can be produced by propane appliances.
## Conclusion
By following these guidelines, you can safely and efficiently operate your RV water heater and enjoy the comfort of hot water on your travels. Remember to perform regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of your water heater. A little preventative care goes a long way in ensuring trouble-free hot showers on the open road!