Are you having trouble getting hot water from your Dometic RV water heater when running on electric? Don’t worry, it might be a minor issue that can be easily solved. In this article, we’ll help you troubleshoot and find a solution to get your off-grid RV water heater back up and running in no time. We’ll cover common causes for the problem, provide useful tips and answer frequently asked questions about Dometic off-grid RV water heaters.
Table of Contents
Why Is My RV Water Heater Not Heating?
The most common cause of a Dometic RV water heater not heating is an electrical issue. If your RV’s electric system isn’t working, the water heater won’t be able to heat up either. The first thing you should do is check the breaker and make sure it hasn’t tripped. You’ll also want to make sure that all connections are secure and properly connected. If everything checks out, try resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the fuse if needed.
If the electrical system is working correctly but there’s still no hot water, then it could be due to low voltage in the system. To fix this, you can install a Voltage Booster or Motor Run Capacitor from your local hardware store to increase voltage levels.
It’s also possible that the heating element in your RV water heater is damaged and needs to be replaced.
Troubleshooting
Lukewarm Water
If your Dometic RV water heater is working on electricity but the water isn’t getting hot, it’s likely due to one of two things: 1) a faulty thermostat, or 2) insufficient electrical power.
Start by checking the thermostat. If you have an analog model, adjust the dial until you hear the heating elements turn on. If you don’t hear them, it could indicate that the device needs to be replaced. On digital models, check that all settings are set correctly and replace any non-working parts as needed. [1]
Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
If the pilot light of your Dometic RV water heater keeps going out, it could be due to a few issues. The most common cause is a blocked vent pipe; check for blockage and clean as needed. If that doesn’t help, you may need to replace the thermocouple or other components. If you’re having trouble isolating the issue, contact an experienced technician for assistance.
Finally, make sure that your gas supply is sufficient — if it’s not, the pilot flame will go out quickly! [2]
Faulty Electronic Ignition
If the electronic ignition of your Dometic RV water heater is faulty, you could be dealing with a few different issues. The most common cause is an accumulation of dust and debris in the burner area, which can interfere with proper operation. Cleaning the burner regularly should help prevent this issue.
Another possible issue is a bad connection between the control board and heating elements, so check for any loose wires and ensure that they are firmly connected. If cleaning or tightening doesn’t work, you may need to replace components such as spark electrodes or flame sensors. Again, you may wish to consult a certified technician if the problem persists. [2]
Loose Parts
If you notice any loose or missing screws, replace them immediately as this can cause the unit to operate inefficiently and even pose a risk of fire. [1]
Power Issues
If your Dometic RV water heater isn’t working on electric, you may be dealing with a power issue. Check that the circuit breakers are in the correct position and that the main power switch is on — if they aren’t, reset them to their correct positions. If that still doesn’t help, you may need to check the voltage coming from your RV’s onboard power system with a voltmeter. Low voltage can cause issues with proper operation, so make sure it meets specifications before continuing to troubleshoot other issues. [1]
Lighting Issues
If the lights on your Dometic RV water heater won’t turn on or are flickering, it could be due to a faulty connection or other wiring issue. First, make sure all connections are secure and that there is no visible damage to any wires. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace components such as the board or spark electrodes. Again, it’s best to consult with an experienced technician if the issue persists. [1]
Resetting the Water Heater
If your Dometic RV water heater isn’t functioning properly, you may need to reset it. To do this, turn off the main power switch and wait a few seconds before turning it back on. This should restore the unit to its original settings and clear out any minor issues that were causing it to malfunction. [1]
Tankless and On-Demand Temperatures
If you own a Dometic tankless or on-demand water heater, it’s important to adjust the thermostat correctly. Set the temperature to your desired level and make sure that all other settings are correct as well. Additionally, check for any clogs in the burner area which can lead to lower temperatures than expected.
These tips should help keep your Dometic RV water heater working properly so you can enjoy hot showers even when off the grid! If you’re still having issues with your unit, contact an experienced technician for assistance. [1]
How To Fix RV Water Heater Not Working On Electric Or Gas?
Light The RV Water Heater Pilot
If your RV water heater is not working on electric or gas, the first thing to do is to light the pilot. Lighting the pilot may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. You’ll need to locate the access panel on the outside of your RV and open it up. Once you have access to the inside of your water heater, you will find two buttons – one for electric ignition and one for manual ignition.
For manually igniting your pilot light, first make sure that both valves are turned off by twisting them clockwise. Then press down on the manual push button until you hear a click noise from inside the tank – this means that the thermocouple has been activated and that gas is flowing. Now press the Ignition button on the outside of the panel and keep it pressed until you hear a whoosh sound, which indicates that the pilot has been lit. [2]
Replace The Thermocouple
If, after lighting the pilot, your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, it’s likely that the thermocouple needs to be replaced. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas if the pilot light goes out. It’s important to replace the thermocouple as soon as possible in order to avoid any potential hazards from a faulty appliance.
Then locate the access panel and remove it – you should see two metal screws securing the thermocouple in place. Unscrew these and carefully lift out of its housing. Be sure to inspect for signs of damage before replacing with a new one. [2]
Replace The Igniter
If the thermocouple has been replaced and your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, it’s likely that the igniter needs to be replaced. This part helps ignite the pilot light when the thermostat of your RV’s water heater calls for heat.
You’ll need to locate the access panel again and remove it – you should see two wires connected to the igniter. Disconnect these and unscrew the retaining nut before carefully removing the old igniter from its housing. Be sure to inspect for signs of damage before replacing with a new one. [2]
Refer to Your Water Heater Manual
If after following these steps, your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, it’s time to refer to the manufacturer’s manual. This will provide you with detailed instructions specific to your particular make and model of RV water heater.
When referring to the manual, be sure to pay attention to any safety precautions as well as troubleshooting tips. If at any point you feel like you need help with a repair job, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance in order to avoid costly mistakes. [3]
Check the Hi-Limit/E.C.O. Button
If your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, it’s important to check the Hi-Limit/E.C.O. button located on the thermostat knob of your RV water heater. This button needs to be pressed in order for the thermostat to work correctly and send the signal to the igniter that it needs to light up or turn off when necessary.
If this button has been tripped and there are no other issues present with your RV water heater, you should now have hot water as usual. However, if any steps prior to this didn’t solve the problem, then professional help may be needed in order to identify and fix whatever issue is causing your RV’s water. [3]
Check Bypass Valves
If you’ve done all the above steps and your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, then it’s time to check the bypass valves. These valves divert the flow of water away from the heating element when necessary – for example, if there’s too much pressure in the tank.
To check these valves, locate each one and move its handle back and forth a few times. If there is any resistance in its movement, then it may be stuck and needs to be replaced. Once the new valve has been installed, turn on the power and test out if hot water is available once again! [3]
Check the Electric Heating Element
If all the above steps haven’t solved your RV water heater not working on electric issues, then it’s time to take a look at the electric heating element. This component is responsible for providing heat from the electricity supplied to the system.
In order to check this part, locate the access panel in order to see two wires connected to it – one black and one white. If both of these are securely connected, then you’ll need to remove them and check for voltage with a multimeter. If there is no voltage present, then it’s likely that either the wiring has become worn or damaged over time, or that there is an issue with your circuit breaker. [3]
Faulty Thermostat
If all the above steps have been taken and your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, then it’s likely that the thermostat needs replacing. This part controls when and how hot the water gets in your RV’s tank – if this fails, then you won’t be able to get any hot water at all!
To replace the thermostat, you’ll need to locate it inside the access panel. Disconnect any wires connected to it before unscrewing and removing it from its housing. Then take a look at the manual for details of what type of thermostat is compatible with your make and model – as well as instructions on how to fit it. With this done, turn on the power and you should now have hot water as usual. [3]
RV Water Heater Check Valve Malfunction
If all the above steps have been taken and your RV water heater is still not working on electric or gas, then it’s possible that the check valve may need replacing. This safety device prevents cold water from entering the hot side of the water tank – if it fails, then you’ll experience a lot of cold water in your hot taps!
To replace this part, first locate its access panel to disconnect any wires connected to it. Remove the old valve from its housing before fitting the new one.
With this last step done, you should now have hot water once again! [3]
How Do You Reset An RV Gas Water Heater?
If your RV gas water heater isn’t working, there are a few steps you can take to try and fix the issue. The first is to reset the system. To do this:
- Turn off the main power to your RV water heater
- Remove all wires connected to the control board
- Wait 5 minutes before reconnecting them and turning on the main power
- Test if it worked by turning on one of your hot water taps
If the reset was successful, you should have hot water flowing out of your tap within a few minutes. If not, you may need to look into other potential causes of your problem. [2]
What Is The Best Water Heater For A Motorhome?
When it comes to selecting the best water heater for an RV, the Dometic brand is one of the most popular choices. The company has a wide range of water heaters to choose from, so you can be sure that you’ll find something suitable for your motorhome. Whether you need a gas or electric-powered unit, there will likely be something from Dometic available on the market.
Before deciding on a specific model, make sure that you understand exactly what your requirements are and which features would be beneficial for your particular situation. Here are some things to consider when choosing an appropriate Dometic water heater:
- Size: Make sure that the size of the water heater is suitable for your RV. Some models are designed to be placed inside the vehicle, while others are portable and can be used outside the RV.
- Fuel source: If you plan to use a gas-powered heater, make sure that it is compatible with your motorhome’s fuel type. The same applies for electric-powered units; ensure that they are suitable for the electricity supply available in your area.
- Capacity: Consider how much hot water you will need on a regular basis and choose an appropriately sized unit. A larger model may be more expensive but it could save you time if you have multiple users or large amounts of hot water needs. [2]
Tankless Water Heater Maintenance
If your Dometic RV water heater is not working on electricity, there are a few maintenance tips that may help.
First, check the thermostat and wiring. Make sure the thermostat is set correctly and all wiring connections are secure. If your thermostat looks worn or corroded, replace it with a new one. If you can’t find the cause of the problem with these checks, consider calling a professional for assistance.
Second, inspect the heating element to make sure it isn’t blocked by lint or dirt buildup. You can do this by removing the screws from its cover plate and cleaning off any dust and debris that has built up over time. Additionally, check the heater’s anode rod if it has one, and replace this if necessary.
Finally, check to ensure your water lines are properly connected and without any leaks or blockages. If everything looks good here but you still can’t get hot water from your Dometic RV water heater on electric, consider flushing out the system with a vinegar solution. This will help remove built-up deposits of sediment and scale that may be preventing proper operation. [4]
Common Rv Tankless Water Heater Problems
Water Is Getting Hot And Cold When In Use
If your tankless water heater is getting hot and cold when in use, the likely cause is a worn-out heating element. A new heating element should be installed by a professional.
Another possible problem could be low voltage to the unit. Make sure all wires are connected correctly and that there’s enough power coming through to keep the unit running efficiently. [4]
Water Is Not Hot Enough Or Uneven
If your tankless water heater is not heating the water properly, or if it’s giving you uneven temperatures, the likely cause is a buildup of sediment in the unit. This can be caused by hard water and minerals that have built up over time. To clear out any blockages, try flushing the unit with vinegar and then running clean water through it.
Another possible issue could be low voltage or incorrect wiring connections. Inspect all wires and make sure they are connected correctly to ensure the proper power supply to the unit. [4]
The Tankless Heater Is Failing To Light
If your tankless heater isn’t lighting up, it could be a few different things. The first thing to check is the spark igniter. If the spark igniter is not working correctly, it won’t light the unit properly. Check for any loose wires and make sure they are connected securely. [4]
FAQ
Why is my electric water heater not turning on?
There can be many reasons why your Dometic off-grid RV water heater is not turning on when set to the electric mode. Common causes include a tripped circuit breaker, lack of power from shore, an overheated element, or a faulty heating element.
If you’ve checked each of these and are still having trouble getting your electric water heater to function properly, it’s possible that there may be an issue with the thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for controlling how hot the water gets in your tank, and if this isn’t working correctly then the electric heating element won’t have anything to work with.
How do I reset my Dometic RV water heater?
If you’re having trouble getting your Dometic off-grid RV water heater to turn on, you may need to reset it. To do this, locate the circuit breaker box and switch off the power supply to the tank. Then switch it back on after a few moments. If this doesn’t work, try unplugging the tank from its power source for 30 seconds before plugging it back in again.
How do I reset my electric hot water heater?
If your electric hot water heater is not working, it’s possible that the thermostat may need to be reset. To do this, locate the circuit breaker box and switch off the power supply to the tank. Then wait for a few moments before switching it back on again. If this doesn’t work, try unplugging the tank from its power source for 30 seconds before plugging it back in again.
How do I know if my water heater fuse is blown?
If your electric hot water heater is not working, it’s possible that the fuse may need to be replaced. To check if this is the cause of the problem, locate the circuit breaker box and switch off the power supply to the tank. Then open up the breaker box and inspect each fuse. If you find one that has been damaged or looks worn out, then it may need to be replaced before your electric hot water heater will work again.
Where is the fuse located on an electric water heater?
The fuse for an electric hot water heater is typically located in the circuit breaker box. To find the fuse, switch off the power supply to the tank and then open up the breaker box. The fuse should be clearly visible and will likely be labeled with an electrical symbol.
What to check if water heater is not working?
If your electric hot water heater is not working, there are a few things you should check. First, make sure the circuit breaker has not tripped and that power is being supplied to the tank. Secondly, inspect the heating element for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Finally, make sure the thermostat is set to an appropriate temperature and that it’s functioning properly. If all else fails, try resetting the system by unplugging it from its power source for 30 seconds before plugging it back in again.
Useful Video: RV Water Heater Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot, Diagnose, and Repair
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you understand the Dometic RV water heater and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. If you follow these tips, you should be able to enjoy hot showers in no time! Though it can seem intimidating, knowing the basics of your RV’s water heating system will help ensure a smooth camping experience every time. Thanks for reading and happy adventuring!
References
- https://togorv.com/rv-living/rv-troubleshooting-water-heater-issues/
- https://vehq.com/rv-water-heater-isnt-working-on-electric-or-gas-what-to-do/
- https://www.thervgeeks.com/no-hot-water-in-rv/
- https://outdoormiles.com/rv-water-heater-troubleshooting-a-complete-guide-to-fixing-common-problems/