How to Start & Use an RV Water Heater

[@HM0777]

You sir earned a subscribed and a like, wife and I showered with cold water for 2 days before I found your video! Thank you so much 😂

[@etrailer]

Thank you very much, we're glad we could help!!

[@bertspiderking6683]

Thanks for keeping it simple. Most videos want to get to detailed about irrelevant topics, but you got straight to the point and were clear about the process. Keep up the good work.

[@etrailer]

Thank you. It's tough to strike a balance between providing not enough and too much information. We appreciate the kind words!

[@Alex-m6z9k]

Honestly this is what I can to the comments to say thank you I appreciate u teaching me something new

[@Alex-m6z9k]

Honestly this is what I can to the comments to say thank you I appreciate u teaching me something new

[@ChenzosWorld]

Thanks so much. I’ve watched a ton of videos and no one has filmed this type of water heater. For hours I’ve been searching for a pilot switch or dial like a fool! You’re a lifesaver

[@etrailer]

You are welcome! We're glad we could help!!

[@marcusgross9395]

appreciate the simple yet informative video, been in my trailer for 20 + years and never turned on the water heater, but showers were down. you're a lifesaver

[@etrailer]

Thank you very much, we appreciate your kind words!

[@georgejaquette7132]

So helpful, so clear, so short. Thank you! I wish every "how-to" video on KZbin was as straightforward as yours (and yes, we got the hot water working). Thanks!

[@etrailer]

That's great, we're glad to hear that!!

[@jtr4295]

THANK YOU THANK YOU! Got mine up and running thanks to your video.

[@etrailer]

Awesome, we're glad to hear that!

[@harrydonald3674]

You know, as a Christian I just can't help but commend you for a truly comprehensive and non confusing how to video - thanks for helping me and many more.

[@etrailer]

Why thanks, we really appreciate your kind words!

[@whendarknessfalls6969]

If you use "as a Christian" in a sentence. You're doing it wrong.

[@krysmcco8]

Why does your religion matter

[@wildlefteye]

This is our 2nd time camping (going full-time in 2 days) and you helped us get ours on! We had no clue! Thank you!!!

[@etrailer]

We are happy to help! Thank you for sharing this feedback with us! Good luck on your new journey! www.etrailer.com/maindept-RVandCamper.aspx

[@nelsonperez8619]

It's very good explanation A step-by-step very easy. I appreciate it because I'm new in the rv😊 word we just got ours.😊

[@etrailer]

Welcome! Please let us know if you have any questions!

[@ljdouglas053174]

Awesome video! Thanks for the intel - very well done! Less worried about using our hot water heater for the first time

[@etrailer]

That's great to hear, we're so glad the video was helpful!

[@darlenemckay265]

First time RVer. Thank you

[@etrailer]

You're welcome, glad you liked it!

[@foxtrot9000]

very helpful, and no unnecessary fluff, thank you

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome, thank you!

[@JordanLeung]

Exactly what I needed. Thanks so much!

[@FranchescaLong89]

Thank you so much!!!!! I just moved into my trailer and could NOT figure out how to get my water heater working!!!! 🤷‍♀️

[@etrailer]

You're welcome!! Here is a link to more help articles and guides if you are in need of anything else. www.etrailer.com/article-categories.aspx

[@ValsNegromancyandTarot]

Yeah I was missing some important steps. Thanks for simplicity 🎉

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome, we're glad it helped!

[@samename3926]

Ty for explaining this as I was unsure

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome, we're glad we could help!

[@danieljs125]

Thanks for the helpful video. I was wondering if there is a water temperature gauge on the water heater or do we just have mix the cold and hot water to our desire?

[@the22ndCJ]

Great video. This is exactly what I was looking for!

[@etrailer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@flamingcherryc]

This is great! However my trailer doesn't have a hot water monitor like yours does, so I'm not sure what to do with that step. My trailer is rare so it's been really difficult to find any info online and the owner's manual is sorely lacking in practical information.

[@Tasha_Darnell]

Great information!! And explanation! Thank you!

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome, we're glad you found the video helpful!

[@output8598]

Great video you answered all my questions

[@etrailer]

Why thanks, we're glad we could help!

[@sassyssexysweet5086]

So I have this valve near the tank where the water goes in which way is that thing supposed to be pointing

[@JuniorJaimes-k9c]

So my water heater has been on quite awhile, is it not supposed to turn off when the water is already hot? Or does it remain on at all time?

[@kellywooster9721]

Does the hot water heater need to be plugged in for it to run off propane? It could be a dumb question, but my plug just burnt up. Have a electric/ propane hot water heater. Hoping the propane side will work without the plug.

[@darryljohnston1284]

Excellent video thank you cheers Darryl from Australia

[@ruthmagana9593]

I'm a second time RV owner long story short I recently purchased a 2024 Coleman 21ft the sales person told me that everything is electric except for stove burners unfortunately I'm still trying to understand how to turn on water heater I've seen your videos over and over and I wonder I'm connected to the city water are we able to leave the propane on all day ?

[@Desperadoughss]

Right now I connected my rv to the city water I removed the air from the lines by turning the cold water on the kitchen sink and the restroom sink, turned them off when they stopped bubbling But when I turn it towards the hot side it bubbles a lot and smells weird/does funny noises (All of this while the water heater switch is off, propane tanks closed) Any help?

[@geralsmith9718]

Thank you so much this video helped me after months of bathing cold 😂

[@lilliananderson1986]

I’m a mobile groomer and don’t want to use my generator. I’m plugged into a regular outlet (15W). Will it support the water heater?

[@lilliananderson1986]

Just figured it out 2 minutes after asking. Lol It’s a Wagontails conversion

[@marianomendoza5010]

What if on my water heater the bolt on the bottom I have water leaking from there is that normal ? I believe it’s a heater anode ? Please any input

[@etrailer]

It sounds like it's the anode rod, there might be some gunk or corrosion on the threads. Start by cutting the power to the unit and turning off the water pump(s). Open all the faucet taps to relieve the pressure in the tank. Use a wrench to remove the anode rod. There will be some residual water left in the tank, and it could be hot so be careful. If the rod is more than 75% consumed, you should replace it. Make sure the threads on the heater and anode rod are clean and free of debris and corrosion before reinstalling or replacing. You'll want to use thread sealer or teflon tape on the threads. Be sure to use tape or sealant that's rated for use with potable water. I hope that helps, please let me know how it works out!

[@flaviogabriel8980]

Just bought a trailer and going to camping next weekend for the first time and I’m so excite, thank you so much for your video it’s so helpful and I hope to learn more and more.

[@etrailer]

Hope you enjoy it! Make sure to get a list of all the things you love and hate about it and come see if we have what you need to make it better! www.etrailer.com/article-categories.aspx

[@jakobh6257]

Great info, thank you

[@etrailer]

Good deal, make sure you check out our site for anything else you might need. www.etrailer.com/

[@joseacevedo8026]

Thanks I just bought a 2008 travel trailer, is this the same way to turn on the water heater for all trailers? Thanks

[@etrailer]

Most water heaters operate in the same manner, but the startup procedure can vary a bit depending on the make and model of water heater you have.

[@joeytherich]

I have an old 1982 camper and there is no switch inside the camper to turn are heater on. The control panel outside is from Unitrol haven’t been able to turn it on any other suggestions?

[@etrailer]

Using a multimeter to check if the panel is getting voltage would be the logical starting point. If this is a gas water heater, it's recommended to have a professional check it out if you're not comfortable dealing with gas appliances.

[@turboguy7]

Had mine going and clicking and igniting however it stopped and it won't click anymore....I accidentally turned off the breaker labeled water heater but turned back on....any tips? 2013 crossroads zinger

[@etrailer]

What's the manufacturer and model number of the water heater?

[@louesraphael]

good job buddy

[@szandor888]

Mine has an anode rod. It has electric and gas switch in the trailer. It has a on switch on the water heater panel outside. It has a reset button. But there is no way to light the gas anywhere?

[@etrailer]

Newer water heaters have an electric starter for the pilot. What's the make and part number of your water heater?

[@TheEmmauswalk]

Thank you so much. Your video answered my questions. ❤😀

[@etrailer]

We're glad to hear it was helpful, thanks for letting us know!

[@kathleenhudson1510]

Mine leaking after freeze. How to bypass hot water heater in National Traveler? Will research. I do not need hot water. I have the tankless one.

[@Th3DavidPugh]

I'm still trying to figure out how to get my hot water heater to turn on its gas powered but I do not have a on/off switch outside the camper where the heater is like yours

[@heavy-reign-]

If you find an answer to that id like to know myself

[@bumponlog]

If it's gas only then you probably turn it on at the gas valve behind the outside water heater access door. Obviously, have your propane tanks hooked up and turned on first. You may need to bleed the lines of air (light a cooktop burner) in order for propane to reach the water heater.

[@jonathanpolinkas255]

No one ever talks about that the valve on the propane tanks are double seating valves. It needs to be all the way open or all the way closed make sure propane doesn't leak out around the valve stem. So make sure that you run the valve all the way open when you are using gas, and all the way closed when you are turning it off.

[@etrailer]

Great tip, thank you!

[@stevefader795]

Very helpful, thank you!

[@etrailer]

Glad we could help!

[@COMMANDERVLOGS1]

wow thanks man. I couldn't figure out how to light up the propane part of the water heater. Your video helped so much! Do I need to relight the water heater every time I shower?

[@etrailer]

We are happy to help! You should not have to relight the water heater everytime you take a shower. It is just like your water heater at home and will run when it needs to warm the water. www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-RV_Water_Heaters.aspx

[@xxxytheguy1296]

Thanks this video was extremely helpful!

[@jamesmartin7282]

How do I start a WH without direct spark ignition?

[@alive-awake]

My water heater can use either electric or propane. I've been using only electric, meaning I turn on the switch there at the water heater and do not turn on the switch in the rig panel for gas. If I want to use gas for it, do I turn on the switch on the inside panel and leave off the switch at the water heater itself?

[@etrailer]

You would want to be sure to check in your owners manual to see exactly how your water heater works. From our experience, you will need to turn the switch on your water heater on and the water heater activation switch on the inside of the camper. You will also need to turn your propane on so that the water heater is getting the fuel it needs. www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-RV_Water_Heaters.aspx

[@tingliu9282]

how to using only electric in the water heater of RV

[@TinaFinicum]

@@etrailer I have a Dometic Atwood water heater. I have two issues. (1) I can’t locate the on/off switch on the unit so I’ve been turning on the Water Heater LP Gas on the interior panel. Occasionally, it’s lukewarm but never hot. My 81 mother keep complaining of the cold water showers. (2) The water heater is heating up via propane (I can touch it without burning my fingers) but NO hot water flows from any faucet. I can’t tell which way to turn the COLD shut off valve at the water heater . Since we get lukewarm to cold water, I’m thinking the valves aren’t turned in the right direction? I’ve watched videos on the direction of the cold shut off valves with no luck. Could all this be a different issue? My heat sensor has been cleaned & it doesn’t look burned out. I was able to light it but it burned off after approximately 10 minutes. I’ve also cleaned the flume, vent, flame adjustable air vent pipe of dobbers and debris. Suggestions are kindly appreciated. Sorry for the long message.

[@justinrosssss4546]

This is a great video.

[@etrailer]

Why thank you, we're delighted that you found it helpful!

[@jamesgutierrez8606]

Does anyone know if the gas furnace needs a roof vent or do they vent at the unit?

[@bumponlog]

Both a furnace and a water heater vent combustion out the side at their access panels. A fridge vents out the roof.

[@kaseygolden7712]

I did it thanks to this video!!!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!

[@etrailer]

We are happy to help! Thank you for sharing this with us! www.etrailer.com/faq-rv-water-heaters.aspx

[@scottnorris5371]

Outstanding video…thank you

[@etrailer]

Thanks, we're glad you enjoyed it!

[@celsoluna7615]

Why is it when we are camping off grid we leave our hot water heater on but when you go to take a shower it loses hot water fast and we got to turn the heater off for about 20 minutes and then turn it back on and then it will get hot

[@tambram4677]

I have the same issue. It either runs out really fast and or it's just warm. I have to turn it off and on then it takes about 5 min or so before it starts heating again. Did you ever find an answer?

[@MarthaGillette-z5r]

thanks we're looking forward to #HotWaterShower no kidding nights are getting colder in Northeast

[@ChrisYonkers-b7q]

Very good help.. I will survive. Thank you for video

[@etrailer]

The news of your survival is awesome! We're glad to hear that!

[@sealedinchrist5413]

Hmmmm, I went camping the other day and my hot water wasn't working. The flame started for a few seconds and turned off. I didn't pull that valve to fill the tank with water. Do you think that was the issue?

[@etrailer]

You're probably right, your unit might have a safety feature that won't let it run if it is dry. www.etrailer.com/article-categories.aspx?productgroup=RV-Plumbing

[@sealedinchrist5413]

@@etrailer Thank you for the reply. Apparently I had the hot water bypass on. Once the water was in the tank, I flipped the switch to turn the hot water on and it fired right up. So it turns out you have to have water in the tank or it wont work, lol.

[@brod12313]

My tanks flt light is on...what's that?

[@etrailer]

Fit light? What's the manufacturer and model number of your water heater?

[@CoreyEdwards-th9hh]

Do you adjust the hot water tank temperature the same way for electric or gas

[@etrailer]

What water heater do you have? Make and model number....

[@villegas59chevy53]

Helped me out ,thanks

[@etrailer]

We are happy to help! Check out the following link to see the article this is paired with on our website. www.etrailer.com/faq-rv-water-heaters.aspx

[@larryhall6057]

Don't pull in to a gas station to get gas with any propane appliance going, that includes hot water heater. Great concise video. Thank you..

[@etrailer]

That is very sound advice!

[@peeweep47]

Very helpful. 😊

[@etrailer]

We're so glad to hear that!!

[@lisaholtzclaw4947]

Thank you. This answered all my questions. A

[@etrailer]

That's awesome, we're glad it was helpful! Please let us know if you have any questions that aren't covered in the video.

[@Sebastian-dx2xg]

Do you have to pull pressure release valve before starting water heater? Can’t you just open a faucet inside the rv?

[@etrailer]

You will need to relieve the pressure inside the water heater in order for it to fill up. www.etrailer.com/faq-rv-water-heaters.aspx

[@juancanolopez8]

Does that work with the fresh water tank also to heat up?

[@etrailer]

An RV water heater won't heat the fresh water tank. It'll only heat water that's pumped through it when you open a hot water tap. We do offer fresh water tank heaters, which you can see by clicking the provided link. The heaters are categorized by the tank's size in gallons, so make sure to pay attention to that. Hope that helps you! www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-RV_Fresh_Water-pt-Holding_Tank_Heating_Pad.aspx

[@eldiony45360]

Thanks for the info mate

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome, we're glad to help!

[@godzilla964]

Do they make electric water heaters?

[@etrailer]

They are manufactured, but we don't carry them.

[@themysticsupreme5946]

Were you plugged into electric?

[@RoseCityRVofMichigan]

Great video!

[@etrailer]

Thank you, we're glad you liked it!

[@jus4kelley]

Great video but I wish you would have addressed: is there a pilot light or how to reset it. Why did my propane alarm go off in my trailer?

[@etrailer]

Let's start with the alarm. There's a couple possible reasons why it's sounding. Either there's a leak, the batteries in the detector (not all of them have internal batteries) have gone bad, the detector itself is going bad or finally, there isn't enough power reaching the detector. What's the brand and model number of your water heater?

[@gomez619]

Hello, I am new to the RV Trailer game: So, I can turn on the water heater for about 15 minutes before a shower and I will get hot water? and then I can turn it off? Also, has anyone switched from this water heater to a tankless??? Is it better? Faster hot water? thank you all!

[@etrailer]

You can do that, but be aware that the length of time it takes for the water to heat can vary by heater capacity, the brand and by the ambient temperature. A tankless heater will heat the water almost immediately, but that flow of hot water can be limited so you wouldn't want to use a dishwasher or run hot water at the sink while somebody's showering. Other than the added initial expense vs a standard water heater, that's really the only downside to a tankless heater.

[@cynthiaincolorado3373]

Great video!

[@wasachevyguy]

Should the hot water tank be drained at the end of every trip?

[@etrailer]

You don't need to drain it at the end of every trip but it is not a bad idea if you are not going to use your RV for a few months to drain it. You also want to drain it if the temperature if going to drop below freezing. www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-RV_Water_Heaters.aspx

[@karlakrobertson8504]

How does one camp without a fire I can't imagine why one would have cold water while also having a fire

[@montrovant4]

Thank you sir!

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome!

[@scottsmith4012]

will the hotwater tank be automatically filled when i fill my fresh water tank?

[@themysticsupreme5946]

No. You fill them separately.

[@annetteomalley5702]

Thanks so much! Very helpful!!

[@etrailer]

We are happy we could help! Thank you for sharing this feedback!

[@ricdegroot9532]

thank-you, that helped!

[@etrailer]

You're welcome! www.etrailer.com/

[@hope4all562]

Ty sir .

[@etrailer]

You're very welcome!

[@markhildebrand1983]

Great vid. I’m new to owning a trailer and I have a stupid question. Once the switch on the inside is flipped and the WH is heating, will the WH automatically switch off once it reaches a certain temperature? Or would I need to gauge the time and turn the switch off when I think it’s hot?

[@jimltidw]

It has a thermostat that shuts it off at the set temp

[@kurtisplatt6918]

Thank you!

[@etrailer]

You're welcome!

[@clearancestalker1230]

Can you use electric only or do you need the propane too?

[@bumponlog]

On dual models you can use only electric but it will take significantly longer to heat than using both at the same time or just propane.

[@patrickmcgrawc6017]

Merci ok

[@GeorgeEmile-f7w]

Very helpful 5:26

[@etrailer]

Outstanding! We're glad to hear that!

[@Maryculligan]

😊

[@anthonywhitehead9660]

Its so funny. Hot water heater? If the water is already hot why does it need heated? 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@anamargaridaantunes3530]

Oh too are so funny , uff if you don’t appreciate , don’t see the video that is all, unnecessary comment for sure

[@gabrieltony502]

Just say that your broke.

[@anthonywhitehead9660]

@@anamargaridaantunes3530 yes I am glad you could tell.

[@anthonywhitehead9660]

@@gabrieltony502 i am. Literally had to file for bankruptcy this year. And I and not sure if I will be able to pay the fevkin rent either.

[@Doc.Holiday]

Yes, you can just let the gas hot water heater just run,… but why would you want to? It’s noisy at night cycling on and off for you AND YOUR NEIGHBORS. It burns your propane and costs you money. It wears out. If you are not using water during the day while fishing or recreating, why run it? Turn it on when you get up or return from activities it takes ten minutes,… not a big deal. Be a better neighbor and save a propane trip AND MONEY! Sleep interruptions suck for you AND YOUR NEIGHBOR...

[@leejennifercorlewayres9193]

I stayed in a 5th wheel that stayed hot but never cycled on and off unless you were using it. I wonder how.

[@Mr69barracuda]

Blah - blah ~ common sense written in the users manual. Show us how to re-wire and install the dang thing.

[@cyntiaarman4192]

The propane does it get change often?

[@etrailer]

That'll depend on the BTU rating of your water heater and how often and how long it's used. Too many variables to provide you with a good answer on that...