A hot shower is a great way to start the day, or cap off an adventurous evening. But when your water heater isn’t working properly, it can put a damper on your plans. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic — there are some things you can do to troubleshoot and get your RV water heater working again.
Table of Contents
What Is an RV Water Heater?
The most common type is a propane-powered tankless water heater, which heats up the water as it passes through special coils or elements when you turn on the hot water tap. Electric models also exist, but they require an external power source and can be slower to heat. [1]
How Long Does It Take for an RV Water Heater to Heat?
How Long Does It Take a 6-Gallon RV Water Heater to Heat?
It depends on the size and type of your RV water heater. Generally, it takes between 10 and 20 minutes for a 6-gallon tank to heat up completely. If you have an electric model, it may take even longer since they are less efficient than propane-powered models. [1]
How Long Does It Take a 10-Gallon RV Water Heater to Heat?
It takes longer for a larger tank to heat up, so expect it to take between 15 and 30 minutes for a 10-gallon RV water heater to reach the desired temperature. Just like with smaller tanks, electric models will typically require more time than propane-powered models. [1]
How Long Does It Take a Tankless RV Water Heater to Heat?
Tankless RV water heaters typically heat up much more quickly than tanks. Depending on the size and type of your tankless heater, it can take as little as 30 seconds to a few minutes for hot water to flow from your taps. [1]
How Long Does It Take to Run Out of Hot Water with Your RV Water Heater?
It depends primarily on the size of your water heater and how much hot water you are using. Generally, a 6-gallon tank can provide about 20 minutes of hot showers, while a 10-gallon tank should last for up to 45 minutes. Tankless RV water heaters can usually provide an endless supply of hot water. [1]
RV Water Heater Not Working
A broken dip tube
One common issue that can cause an RV water heater to not heat up properly is a broken dip tube. The dip tube, also known as the “cold inlet” pipe, directs cold water into the bottom of the tank so that it can be heated. If this part breaks or becomes blocked, cold water will not enter the tank and can cause a lack of hot water. [3]
A broken gas valve
Another likely cause of an RV water heater not getting hot enough is a malfunctioning gas valve. This part is responsible for regulating the temperature of your water heater, so if it’s not working properly, it won’t be able to heat the water as much as you want it to. [3]
A broken internal heating element
If this part isn’t working correctly, it could be preventing your RV water heater from getting hot enough. [3]
Sediment build up in the tank
Sediment build up can block the flow of water in your tank and restrict its ability to heat properly. This is especially true if you’re using hard water, which can cause mineral deposits to accumulate in the tank over time. [3]
A leaking water tank
If your RV water heater is leaking, it’s likely that hot water will not be able to build up in the tank because it’s constantly escaping. This can cause a lack of hot water, so you should check for leaks and make sure all connections are secure. [3]
Clogged anode rod
The anode rod is responsible for attracting corrosive elements away from the metal in your RV water heater tank. If this part becomes clogged, it can prevent hot water from entering the tank and cause an inadequate level of heat. [3]
Tank RV water heater regular maintenance
Flushing your RV water heater
It is important to flush your RV water heater tank regularly. This helps remove any sediment that may have built up inside the tank and can prevent it from heating properly. To do this correctly, you will need to turn off the power source to the water heater and drain out all of the hot water inside. Once you have done so, fill up the tank with a mixture of water and a mild detergent. You can then run the electric element to create a circular motion which will help dislodge any sediment inside the tank. After about 10 minutes, turn off the electric element, drain out all of the water, and rinse out thoroughly.
Finally, it is important to check the anode rod inside the RV water heater tank.
If it does, then you will need to turn off the power source again, unscrew the anode rod, and replace it with a new one. [2]
Descaling your RV water heater tank
Another issue you might come across with your RV water heater is descaling. This happens when calcium and magnesium deposits build up inside the tank, reducing its efficiency and preventing it from getting hot enough. To prevent this from happening, it is important to use an RV-safe descaler periodically. This product helps prevent limescale buildup in the tank and will help ensure that your water heater is always functioning properly.
If you already have a build-up of limescale in the tank, then you will need to do a descaling process. This involves turning off the power to the water heater and draining out any hot water from inside. You can then fill up the tank with the descaler and let it sit for a few hours. After this time, you should drain out the descaler and rinse out the tank thoroughly with fresh water. [2]
Anode rod replacement
As mentioned earlier, it is important to check the anode rod in your RV water heater tank periodically. The anode rod is a sacrificial piece of metal which helps prevent corrosion and rusting of your water heater tank. If it needs replacing, then you will need to turn off the power source again, unscrew the anode rod, and replace it with a new one. This should be done every two years or so, to ensure that the water heater is always functioning properly.
It’s also important to make sure that the anode rod is correctly installed after you have replaced it. If not, then this could cause your RV water heater tank to not heat up enough. Make sure that the anode rod is screwed in tightly and that there are no leaks or cracks in the tank. [2]
Visual Inspection
If all of the above steps have been taken, then it is time to perform a visual inspection of your RV water heater. Look for any signs of corrosion or rusting on the outside of the tank. Make sure that there are no hoses or connections which appear to be leaking and check that all power sources are correctly connected and in working order.
If you have checked all of the above and your RV water heater is still not getting hot enough, then it is time to call in a professional who can diagnose the issue further. They will be able to determine what the problem is and recommend the best course of action for fixing it. [2]
Common RV Water Heater Troubleshooting Questions
Why Do I Have No Hot Water in My RV?
If your RV water heater isn’t getting hot enough or you’re having difficulty with it, there are a few things you can try before calling for repairs. First and foremost, make sure the gas burners are lit properly. In some cases, this may require adjusting the pilot light. If that doesn’t work, check to see if any valves or switches have been tripped.
If none of these actions solve your problem, it may be time to check the thermostat. Make sure that the temperature setting on the thermostat is correct and not set too low or too high. If you don’t know how to adjust the thermostat, consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV service technician. [1]
Why Am I Running Out of Hot Water So Fast in My RV?
If you’re running out of hot water quickly, it could be because the water heater is not functioning properly. Make sure that the gas burners are lit and that all valves and switches are in the correct positions. It’s also possible that your water heater may need to be drained or serviced. If this doesn’t solve the problem, contact a qualified RV service technician. [1]
Why Is the Water in My RV Too Hot?
If the water in your RV is too hot, it may be because the temperature setting on the thermostat is too high. Double-check the settings and adjust as needed. If you’re still having problems, consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
Why Does It Take So Long for My RV Water Heater to Recover?
If it takes an unusually long time for your RV water heater to recover, there could be a few possible causes. First, make sure that the gas burners are lit and all valves and switches are in the correct positions. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it’s possible that the tank is too small or you may need to drain or service the water heater. If these steps don’t work, contact a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
Why Won’t My RV Water Heater Light?
If your RV water heater isn’t lighting, check the pilot light to make sure it’s lit properly. If the pilot light is out, try relighting it following the instructions in your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV service technician for assistance. It’s also possible that there may be an issue with the gas supply or one of the valves or switches. Make sure they’re all in the correct positions, then try lighting the pilot again. If this doesn’t work, it may be time to contact a qualified RV service technician for help. [1]
Why Won’t My RV Water Heater Pilot Light Stay Lit?
If your RV water heater pilot light won’t stay lit, make sure all gas valves and switches are in the correct positions. It’s also possible that the pilot is not adjusted properly or there may be a problem with the thermocouple or other components of the system. If adjusting the pilot doesn’t solve your problem, it’s time to consult a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
Why Won’t the RV Water Heater Burner Stay Lit?
If the burner in your RV water heater won’t stay lit, make sure that all valves and switches are in the correct positions. Also, check to see if there’s a problem with the electrical connections or if any of the components of the system need to be adjusted or replaced. If adjusting or replacing these doesn’t solve your problem, consult a qualified RV service technician for help. [1]
Why Does My RV Water Have a Rust Color?
If your RV water has a rust color, it could be because of an issue with the water heater. Check all valves and switches to make sure they’re in the correct positions and that there’s no blockage in the gas line or other components of the system. If these steps don’t solve your problem, contact a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
Why Does My RV Hot Water Smell Bad?
If your RV hot water has a bad smell, it could be due to a buildup of bacteria in the tank. Make sure that all valves and switches are in the correct positions and then try draining and flushing the tank.
Why Is the Hot Water Pressure Low in My RV?
If the hot water pressure in your RV is low, check to make sure that all valves and switches are in the correct positions. It’s also possible that there may be a clog or blockage in the system. If this doesn’t solve your problem, consult a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
Why Is My RV Hot Water Pressure Only Getting Lukewarm?
If the hot water pressure in your RV is only getting lukewarm, there could be a few possible causes. First, make sure that all valves and switches are in the correct positions. If this doesn’t solve your problem, it’s possible that the tank is too small or you may need to drain or service the water heater. If these steps don’t work, contact a qualified RV service technician for assistance. [1]
FAQ
Why is my hot water not getting hot just warm?
There are a few possible reasons why your hot water isn’t reaching the desired temperature. The first thing to check is whether the RV’s water heater settings are set correctly. You should also check for any issues with the heating element, thermostat, or gas control valve that might be affecting its performance. If all of these appear to be in order, there may be an issue with the plumbing system that’s preventing hot water from reaching your faucet.
How do I know if my heating element is bad in my RV water heater?
If your RV water heater isn’t heating the water as much as it should, then the heating element may be damaged or worn out. You can inspect the element to see if there are any signs of corrosion or damage. If the element looks OK, you can test it with a multimeter to make sure that it’s still functioning correctly.
How do I reset my RV hot water heater?
If your RV hot water heater isn’t getting hot enough, you may need to reset it. To do this, turn off the power supply and then wait for five minutes before turning it back on again. If that doesn’t work, you can try performing a hard reset by pressing and holding the reset button located on the heater itself.
Why Does My RV water heater only lukewarm?
If your RV water heater is only producing lukewarm water, then there may be an issue with the thermostat. The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water, so you should check it to make sure that it’s set correctly and isn’t malfunctioning. You can also check for any issues with the heating element or gas control valve that might be affecting its performance. If these are all in order, it’s possible that there could be a plumbing issue preventing hot water from reaching your faucet.
How do I make sure my RV hot water tank is full?
In order to make sure that your RV hot water tank is full, you should check the water level indicator. If it’s not registering as full, then you can fill it up by turning on a faucet until the indicator reads “full”. If the tank still isn’t filling all the way up, there could be an issue with the plumbing system that needs to be addressed.
Why does my RV hot water run out so quickly?
If your RV hot water runs out quickly, there could be an issue with the amount of hot water that is being stored. You should check the temperature settings on the tank to make sure they are set correctly and then inspect the plumbing system for any obstructions or leaks that may be preventing it from filling up properly. If all of these appear to be in order, then you may need to invest in a larger hot water tank for your RV.
Should I leave my RV water heater on all the time?
No, it’s not necessary to leave your RV water heater on all the time.
However, you should also make sure that the tank is filled before turning it off in order to avoid any issues with it starting up again properly.
How often should you flush your RV water heater?
It’s recommended that you flush your RV water heater at least once a year to remove any sediment build-up and ensure that it’s operating efficiently. This process can be done by connecting a hose to the drain valve on the bottom of the tank and allowing the water to flow out until it runs clear. You should also check the anode rod at least once a year to make sure it’s in good condition.
Useful Video: No Hot Water in Your RV?! Try This First! || DIY RV & RV Newbies
Conclusion
If your RV water heater is not getting hot enough, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. First, check that all valves and switches are in the correct position. Second, check for any blockages or other restrictions in your plumbing system. You may also need to flush the tank and replace old anode rods. If all else fails, it’s a good idea to have a qualified professional inspect the unit to diagnose and fix any underlying problems that may be causing your RV water heater to not heat up enough. With these tips and tricks, you should be able to get your hot water running again in no time. Good luck!
References
- https://rvblogger.com/blog/rv-water-heater-not-getting-hot-enough/#
- https://outdoormiles.com/rv-water-heater-troubleshooting-a-complete-guide-to-fixing-common-problems/
- https://www.petetheplumber.com/hot-water-hard-to-get/