Your RV’s water heater is key to comfort, especially when traveling for long stretches. Learning how to maintain your RV water heater for reliable hot water ensures that showers, dishwashing, and daily routines stay smooth and stress-free.
Understand Your RV Water Heater Type
Most RVs have either a propane-only water heater or a dual-mode (propane and electric) unit. Common brands include Suburban and Atwood. Each has specific maintenance needs, but all require regular care to function reliably.
If you’re unsure what system your RV has, the team at Daisy RV can identify it and provide custom maintenance solutions.
Flush the Water Heater Tank Regularly
Mineral buildup and sediment can collect in the tank, especially when using hard water. To flush:
- Turn off the water heater and let it cool completely.
- Drain the tank using the drain plug or anode rod opening.
- Use a tank rinser or wand to spray inside and flush out debris.
- Reinstall the plug and refill with clean water.
This process helps prevent clogs, bad odors, and poor heating performance. If you’d prefer help, Daisy RV offers tank flushing as part of seasonal service.
Inspect the Anode Rod or Heating Element
Suburban water heaters include a sacrificial anode rod that protects the tank from corrosion. Check it every 6-12 months—if it’s heavily corroded or less than half its original size, replace it.
Atwood heaters use aluminum tanks and don’t require an anode, but they do have electric elements that should be inspected for damage or scaling.
Maintaining these parts is an essential step in how to maintain your RV water heater for reliable hot water.
Check for Leaks and Proper Operation
Visually inspect around the water heater compartment for:
- Water stains or corrosion
- Loose fittings
- Soot or burn marks around the burner
Also, ignite the water heater (on both gas and electric modes, if applicable) and make sure it’s cycling properly and heating quickly. If not, Daisy RV can test the thermostat, burner, and heating element.
Winterize and Store It Correctly Off-Season
If you’re storing your RV, be sure to:
- Drain the water heater completely
- Bypass it when winterizing with antifreeze
- Remove the anode rod or plug and leave it open to breathe
Failing to winterize properly can crack the tank and lead to expensive replacements.
Understanding how to maintain your RV water heater for reliable hot water gives you confidence on every trip and extends the life of your system.
