Diagnosing A Suburban RV Water Heater Not Working On Electric

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through diagnosing and repairing a Suburban RV water heater that isn't functioning on AC electric power. By following these steps, you'll learn how to troubleshoot the issue using a voltmeter and some basic tools. Whether you're a seasoned RV owner or a beginner, this guide will make it easier to restore hot water in your RV.

Step 1: Gather Required Tools and Parts

Before you start the troubleshooting process, make sure you have the following tools and parts:

• Tools Needed:

  • Voltmeter
  • Screwdriver
  • Wrench (Camco 5" Residential Screw-In Water Heater Element Wrench)

• Parts for Replacement (if needed):

  • Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch
  • Camco 02462/02463 1500W 120V Screw-In Water Heater Element

Step 2: Check Power Supply

1. Inspect the Circuit Breaker:

   • Locate the circuit breaker for the water heater. Ensure it hasn't tripped.
   • Reset the breaker if needed.

2. Test Voltage:

   • Set your voltmeter to measure AC voltage.
   • Connect the voltmeter leads to the input terminals of the water heater.
   • Verify that you have the correct voltage (around 120V). If there’s no voltage, you may have a power supply issue.

Step 3: Examine the Water Heater Components

1. Remove Access Panel:

   • Use a screwdriver to remove the access panel on the water heater.

2. Inspect the Thermostat:

   • Look for any visible damage or wear.
   • If the thermostat appears faulty, consider replacing it with the Suburban 232306 Thermostat Switch.

3. Check the Heating Element:

   • Inspect the heating element for signs of corrosion or burning.
   • If damaged, replace it with the Camco 02462/02463 heating element.

Step 4: Replace Faulty Components

1. Disconnect Power:

   • Ensure power to the water heater is turned off before making any replacements.

2. Replace Thermostat or Heating Element:

   • If replacing the thermostat, carefully disconnect the wires and install the new one, ensuring proper connections.
   • For the heating element, use the wrench to unscrew the old element, then screw in the new one.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

1. Reattach Access Panel:

   • Securely fasten the access panel back in place.

2. Restore Power:

   • Turn the circuit breaker back on.

3. Test the Water Heater:

   • Allow some time for the water heater to heat up.
   • Check the hot water supply to ensure it's functioning correctly.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and repair your Suburban RV water heater. Remember to always prioritize safety by disconnecting power before working on electrical components. If issues persist after these steps, consider consulting a professional RV technician. Regular maintenance can help prevent future problems, ensuring you always have hot water available during your travels.