Cold showers at a campsite are nobody's idea of a good time. If your RV water heater won't ignite, here are the most likely culprits — and what to check first.
No Hot Water? Start Here.
RV water heaters are simple, reliable appliances — until they aren't. When yours won't light, work through these causes in order.
1. Check Propane Supply
Make sure your tank isn't empty and the valve is open. Light a stove burner to confirm propane is reaching the appliances.
2. Failed Igniter or Electrode
If you hear clicking but nothing lights, the electrode may be dirty or out of position. A dirty burner tube also prevents ignition.
3. Bad Circuit Board
The ignition control board coordinates spark and gas valve timing. If it fails, the heater won't light — and it's a common failure on older units.
4. Tripped Thermal Cutoff
Water heaters have a high-limit thermal switch that trips on overheating. If it's tripped, the unit won't fire. Resetting it is easy, but if it trips again, something else is wrong.
5. Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell
That smell is usually a failing anode rod reacting with your water supply. Replace the rod or flush and treat the tank.
If your water heater is beyond repair, we carry and install replacement units from Atwood/Dometic and Suburban on-site.