11 Common RV Water Heater Issues and How to Solve Them

Owning a recreational vehicle (RV) offers great opportunities for travelers to explore the world around them, all while bringing along the comforts of home. From the cozy bedroom to the compact kitchen, RVs provide a unique and convenient way to travel. That might be why over 40 million people own RVs in the United States alone.

However, with all these luxuries comes responsibility – one of which is maintenance. It’s not uncommon for RV owners to encounter issues with their water heaters, especially after extended periods of travel or storage.

This can cause major headaches and inconvenience during a trip if not taken care of promptly. But fear not, as we’ve compiled a list of the 11 most common RV hot water heater issues and how to solve them. So, let’s dive in!

1. Hot Water Takes Longer to Heat Up

It’s normal for an RV water heater to take a little time to heat up the water when you first turn it on. However, if you notice that it’s taking significantly longer than usual, this could be a sign of an issue.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

Cause 1: Cold water is mixing with the hot water supply.

Solution: 

Before starting your journey, check all the valves (inside and outside the RV) to ensure that they are fully closed. If they are not, this could be causing a mix of cold and hot water, resulting in longer heating times.  

Cause 2: You are at a high altitude.

Solution:  

At higher altitudes, such as in mountainous regions, water takes longer to heat. This is due to the lower atmospheric pressure at these elevations. You may need to adjust your expectations and increase the length of time you give the RV water heater to warm up.

Cause 3: An issue with the heating element. 

Solution:  

If you cannot pinpoint the cause of the issue, it could be due to a faulty heating element. In this case, it’s best to consult an RV professional for diagnosis and repair.

2. Low Hot Water Flow

Sometimes, you may notice that the hot water flow from your RV’s faucets is weaker than usual. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to take a shower or wash dishes.

Possible Causes & Solutions: 

Cause 1: A clogged water inlet or outlet.

Solution:

Check the water inlet filter and outlet for any debris or buildup that may be blocking the water pressure of hot water. You can use a small brush or compressed air to clear out any obstructions. 

Cause 2: Sediment buildup in the tank.

Solution:

Over time, sediment can collect in the hot water tank, reducing its capacity and causing low hot water flow. To fix this issue, you will need to drain and flush the tank periodically to remove any buildup.

Cause 3: A defective pressure relief valve.

Solution:

If the pressure relief valve is stuck or not functioning properly, it can affect the hot water flow in your RV. This valve is designed to release pressure when it exceeds a certain level, so if it’s malfunctioning, it could restrict the hot water flow. In this case, you may need to replace the valve.

3. Leaking Water Heater

A leaking water heater in your RV is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Ignoring it can lead to costly damages to your vehicle.

Possible Causes & Solutions:   

Cause 1: Loose or damaged fittings.

Solution:

Inspect the fittings and connections on your water heater for any signs of damage or looseness. If you notice any issues, tighten or replace the fittings as necessary to prevent further leakage.

Cause 2: Cracked tank.

Solution:

If there is a crack in your RV water heater’s tank, it will need to be replaced. This is not an easy DIY fix and should be done by a professional to ensure proper installation.

4. No Hot Water at All

One of the most frustrating problems you can encounter when your RV water heater is not working is having no hot water at all. This can put a damper on your trip and make basic tasks like showering uncomfortable.

Possible Causes & Solutions:   

Cause 1: The gas supply is turned off or interrupted. 

Solution:

Make sure the gas supply to your water heater is turned on, and check for any obstructions in the lines. 

Cause 2: The gas tank is empty.

Solution:

Check the propane tank and refill if necessary If the tank is full, but you are still not getting hot water, there may be a problem with the gas control valve or ignitor. In this case, seeking a professional RV service technician for repairs is best.

5. Fluctuating Water Temperature

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to enjoy warm water, only to have the temperature fluctuate constantly.

Possible Causes & Solutions:   

Cause 1: The thermostat is not working correctly.

Solution:

Check the thermostat settings and ensure they are set to your desired temperature. If the thermostat is not working correctly, it may need to be replaced. 

Cause 2: A valve is open.

Solution:

If a valve is open, it will allow cold water to mix with your hot water and cause fluctuations in temperature. Make sure all valves are closed and check for any leaks or obstructions. 

6. Unusual Noises Coming from the Water Heater

Hearing strange noises coming from your water heater can be alarming, but it’s not uncommon. 

Possible Causes & Solutions:  

Cause 1: Sediment buildup in the tank.

Solution:  

Over time, sediment and minerals can build up in your water heater tank and cause loud banging or popping noises. Flushing the tank regularly can help prevent this issue. 

Cause 2: Loose or damaged heating elements.

Solution:

If you hear a sizzling or hissing noise, this could indicate that your heating elements are loose or damaged. It’s important to address this issue quickly, as it can cause further damage to your RV’s water heater. Consult a professional for replacement or repair of the heating elements. 

7. Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

If you have a gas RV water heater, you may experience issues with the pilot light constantly going out. This can be frustrating and potentially dangerous if not addressed properly.

Possible Causes & Solutions:  

Cause 1: A dirty or damaged thermocouple.

Solution:

The thermocouple is a safety device that senses when the pilot light is lit and allows gas to flow to the burner. If it’s dirty or damaged, it may not be able to sense the flame and will shut off the gas supply, causing the pilot light to go out. Try cleaning or replacing the thermocouple if you suspect this is the issue.

Cause 2: Low gas supply or pressure.

Solution:

If you’re low on gas or your RV’s propane tanks are running out, it could cause the pilot light to go out. Check your propane tank levels and refill if needed. 

8. Rust-Colored Water

If you turn on your RV’s hot water and notice that the water has a reddish-brown tint to it, this is a sign of rust in the system. This can be caused by a few different factors.

Possible Causes & Solutions: 

Cause 1: Sediment buildup in the RV water heater tank.

Solution:

Just like with low hot water flow, sediment buildup can also cause rust-colored water. Drain and flush the tank to remove any sediment and improve the quality of your hot water.

Cause 2: Corroded pipes or fittings.

Solution:

Over time, metal pipes and fittings in your RV’s plumbing system can corrode and deposit rust particles into the water. If this is the case, you may need to replace the affected parts.

Cause 3: Old or deteriorating RV water heater.

Solution:

If your RV’s water heater is old and rusted, it may be time to replace it with a new one. This will not only improve the quality of your hot water but also ensure that your system is in good working condition.

9. Foul Odors from the Water Heater

One common problem with RV water heaters is the presence of foul odors coming from the hot water. This can be unpleasant and make it difficult to use the hot water for cooking or cleaning.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

Cause 1: Bacteria growth in the tank.

Solution:

If you notice a sulfur-like smell coming from your RV’s hot water system, it is likely due to the growth of bacteria in the tank. To get rid of this odor, you will need to clean and sanitize the tank with a mixture of water and vinegar. 

Cause 2: Poor water quality.

Solution:

If the water source for your RV has high levels of sulfur or other minerals, it can cause foul odors in the hot water. In this case, you may need to install a water filtration system specifically designed for RV use to improve the water quality and eliminate any unpleasant smells.

10. Corroded Anode Rod

The anode rod is a crucial component in your RV’s hot water heater, as it helps prevent corrosion inside the tank. Over time, this sacrificial rod can become corroded and ineffective, leading to potential damage to your water heater.

Possible Causes & Solutions:

Cause 1: Exposure to corrosive elements.

Solution:

If your anode rod is corroded, it may be due to exposure to harsh chemicals or minerals in the water supply. To prevent this, you can install a high-quality anode rod made of aluminum or magnesium that is designed to resist corrosion.

Cause 2: Age and wear.

Solution:

Anode rods have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. It’s recommended to check and replace the anode rod every 3-5 years, depending on usage.

11. Water Heater Won’t Turn On

One of the most common RV water heater problems is when it fails to turn on. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you’re looking forward to a hot shower after a long day of travel.

Possible Causes & Solutions: 

Cause 1: A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.

Solution:  

Check your RV’s circuit breaker panel or fuse box to see if the water heater’s circuit has been tripped or the fuse is blown. If this is the case, you can reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse to get your water heater running again. 

Cause 2: The propane tank is empty, or the valve is closed.

Solution:

If your RV water heater runs on propane, make sure your propane tank is not empty and the valve is open. If it’s empty, you will need to refill the tank. If the valve is closed, simply open it and try turning on your water heater again.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many potential issues that can arise with your RV’s water heater. By understanding the possible causes and solutions for these problems, you can troubleshoot and fix any issues that may occur while on the road. Regular maintenance and proper usage can also help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place, ensuring a consistent supply of hot water during your travels.

If you need assistance with your RV water heater, the team at RV Service Club is here to help. We offer comprehensive RV maintenance and repair services, including water heater troubleshooting and repairs. Contact us today for all your RV service needs!