Hi Everyone. Well, after 15 years the RV-Dreams Community Forum is coming to an end. Since it began in August 2005, we've had 58 Million page views, 124,000 posts, and we've spent about $15,000 to keep this valuable resource for RVers free and open. But since we are now off the road and have settled down for the next chapter of our lives, we are taking the Forum down effective June 30, 2021. It has been a tough decision, but it is now time.
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When I flip the switch to turn on my water heater it will try three times and then a red light comes on. I turn the switch off and wait a few seconds, then try again. Usually it lights the next try or two. I would like to know if anyone can tell right away what it could be. My water heater doesn't have an anode, by the way. If I have to get it serviced, I'd like to have an idea of possible problems so I can at least sound intelligent about it and maybe they won't try to rip me off as badly. There is also a switch for using electric to heat the water, but there is definitely something wrong with it and I have it shut off. Thanks.
gypsy
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gypsy97 www.gypsy97.blogspot.com 2004 Hitchhiker II 2002 Ford F-350, diesel, dually Fulltimer as of 12/01/2008!
If there is air in the propane line going to the water heater, this can cause it to try to light several times. Does it do like that every time it tries to light? After it lights do you leave it on to go ahead and make hot water? If so, does it turn itself off when the water reaches temperature, and then does it take several times of trying before it lights. The auto ignition can be dirty, the ground surface can be dirty or out of adjustment, there can be a loose electrical connection on the module. Just a few opportunities for a problem. I would believe you could operate the wtr htr on electric, if you are connected to shore power, with out a problem. The common denomenator between propane and electric are the temperature controls, more or less. Hope this helps a bit.
Thanks for your reply, Sand. The propane sometimes lights on the first try, or at least the 2nd or 3rd, so I don't have to switch it off and then back on again. It seems like if I go a day without turning it on, it takes more time to light it. I usually leave it on for 30-45 minutes - long enough to build up enough hot water for a shower & hair wash, and then plenty left over to wash dishes.
In Asheville the guy at the campground office came over to see why the electric part didn't work. He turned the switch on at the water heater, and then the flipped the circuit breaker back on. Within seconds smoke started pouring out of the electrical connection at the water heater, which is under the kitchen sink. We turned everything off and left it until such time as I have it checked out. I run it strictly with propane, which I have to pay for and which is why I'm very saving of hot water. If I could use both the electric & propane at the same time it would heat twice as fast.
I will make a note of some of the things you mention. I don't want a repair person to think I am totally in the dark about it, so I'm glad to have some ideas what it could be.
gypsy
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gypsy97 www.gypsy97.blogspot.com 2004 Hitchhiker II 2002 Ford F-350, diesel, dually Fulltimer as of 12/01/2008!
I strongly suggest you call NUWA Service in Chanute. Talk with RV or Darrell. They will likely be able to give you a good idea of the problem and the best solution.
(Although NUWA is not currently in production, their service department is open and available.)
Gypsy, More than likely before you bought the trailer some one turned on the electrical switch on the water heater without water in it and burnt out the heating element causing a short. As far as the ignition on the propane side as stated above either you have air in the line( normal when off for a while) or the unit needs to be cleaned and serviced. Any competant service person can clean and adjust the Ignitor and replace your heating element.
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RVing probably not a reality any more.It was a good time while it lasted.
