How to Reset an RV Hot Water Heater?

Resetting your RV hot water heater is essential when it stops working unexpectedly, often due to safety mechanisms like the reset button being triggered. Whether you’re using a gas or electric hot water heater, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why Your RV Hot Water Heater Needs a Reset

Before diving into the reset process, it’s important to understand why it might stop working. Common reasons include:

• Overheating
• Electrical surges
• Faulty thermostat
• Sediment buildup in the tank

Resetting the heater can often resolve these issues quickly and safely.

How to Reset an RV Hot Water Heater: Simple Steps

Resetting your RV hot water heater is often necessary when it stops functioning due to overheating, tripped breakers, or other issues. Follow these straightforward steps to get your hot water heater back in action.

Turn Off the Power Supply

• Locate your RV’s electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker connected to the hot water heater.
• If your heater runs on propane, shut off the propane supply valve.

Access the Heater’s Reset Button

• Find the exterior access panel for your hot water heater on the side of your RV.
• Open the panel and locate the reset button, usually red and positioned near the thermostat or heating element.

Press and Hold the Reset Button

• Press the reset button firmly and hold it for 10–15 seconds.
• Release the button and listen for a click, indicating the reset was successful.

Restore Power or Propane Supply

• Turn the circuit breaker back on for electric models.
• For propane models, reopen the propane valve.

Test the Hot Water Heater

• Wait a few minutes for the water to heat up.
• Turn on a faucet and check if hot water is flowing.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your hot water heater fails to reset or continues to malfunction after these steps, contact a qualified RV technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Methods to Reset an RV Hot Water Heater

Resetting your RV hot water heater can resolve common issues like tripped safety mechanisms, overheating, or power interruptions. Below are the most effective methods to reset your RV hot water heater, whether it’s electric, propane, or a combination model.

Method 1: Reset Using the Reset Button

Steps:

1. Turn Off Power or Propane Supply: Shut off the electrical breaker or close the propane valve.
2. Locate the Reset Button: Open the exterior access panel of your water heater and find the red reset button near the thermostat.
3. Press the Button: Hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds until you hear a click.
4. Restore Power: Turn the breaker or propane valve back on and test the water temperature.

When to Use This Method

• If the heater has overheated or the high-limit switch has tripped.

Method 2: Reset by Flipping the Circuit Breaker

Steps:

1. Go to your RV’s breaker panel.
2. Find the breaker labeled for the hot water heater.
3. Switch it off for 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
4. Test the water heater to ensure it is functioning.

When to Use This Method

• When the issue is due to an electrical surge or tripped breaker.

Method 3: Reset by Draining and Flushing

Steps:

1. Turn off power or propane supply.
2. Open the drain plug or valve to empty the water heater tank.
3. Use a flushing wand to remove sediment buildup inside the tank.
4. Refill the tank and restart the system.

When to Use This Method

• If sediment buildup is causing performance issues or blocking heating elements.

Method 4: Manual Thermostat Reset

Steps:

1. Remove the water heater’s thermostat cover.
2. Locate the reset switch and press it.
3. Reinstall the cover and restart the heater.

When to Use This Method

• For older models or when the main reset button does not work.

How to Reset Hot Water Tanks in Different Classes of RVs

Resetting a hot water tank in an RV depends on the RV class and its unique water heating system. Whether you own a Class A motorhome, Class B camper van, Class C RV, or a towable RV like a fifth wheel or travel trailer, this guide explains how to reset the hot water tank for each type.

Resetting the Hot Water Tank in a Class A Motorhome

Steps:

1. Turn Off Power or Propane: Locate and shut off the electrical breaker or propane valve for the water heater.
2. Access the Reset Button: Class A motorhomes typically use larger, residential-style water heaters with a red reset button. Open the heater access panel to locate it.
3. Press the Reset Button: Hold the button for 10–15 seconds until it clicks.
4. Restart the System: Turn the power or propane back on and test the water.

Tip:

Class A motorhomes may have advanced control panels to manage the water heater. Check for reset options on the touchscreen interface.

Resetting the Hot Water Tank in a Class B Camper Van

Steps:

1. Power Down the System: Camper vans often use compact tankless water heaters. Switch off the power or gas supply.
2. Manual Reset: Look for a small reset button, usually located on the side or back of the heater.
3. Flush the System: If issues persist, drain and flush the system to remove debris.
4. Restart: Restore power or gas and test the water heater.

Tip:

Class B RVs sometimes include all-in-one control systems. Check the owner’s manual for specific reset instructions.

Resetting the Hot Water Tank in a Class C RV

Steps:

1. Turn Off the Power Source: Locate the circuit breaker or propane supply.
2. Locate the Reset Button: Access the heater through the exterior panel. The reset button is often red and positioned near the thermostat.
3. Press and Hold: Hold the button for 10–15 seconds.
4. Inspect for Additional Issues: Check for tripped breakers or thermostat malfunctions if resetting doesn’t work.

Tip:

Class C RVs commonly use mid-sized water heaters. Flushing the tank can help resolve recurring problems.

Resetting the Hot Water Tank in Towable RVs (Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels)

Steps:

1. Shut Off Power and Propane: Safety first—turn off all power sources.
2. Access the Panel: Open the water heater panel to find the reset button.
3. Manual Reset: Press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds.
4. Flush the Tank: For towable RVs stored for long periods, sediment buildup might require a tank flush.
5. Restart: Turn on power or propane and test.

Common Mistakes When Resetting an RV Hot Water Tank

Resetting your RV hot water tank can be straightforward, but common mistakes may hinder the process or cause further issues. Here’s a guide to avoid these pitfalls while resetting your RV’s hot water tank.

Mistake 1: Skipping the Power or Propane Shutoff

One of the most common mistakes is failing to turn off the power supply or propane before resetting the water tank. This can lead to:

• Electrical shocks
• Risk of fire with propane systems
• Damage to the water heater components

Tip:

Always locate and switch off the circuit breaker or propane valve before accessing the heater.

Mistake 2: Forgetting to Drain the Tank

Sediment buildup in the hot water tank can mimic the symptoms of a malfunction, causing overheating or poor performance. Skipping the tank flush can result in repeated trips of the reset button.

Tip:

Flush the hot water tank regularly to prevent sediment accumulation, especially after long periods of storage.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Reset Button Location

Each type of RV hot water tank has its own reset mechanism. Common errors include:

• Searching for the reset button in the wrong place
• Pressing unrelated buttons, like the thermostat adjustment

Tip:

Consult your owner’s manual to identify the correct reset button location for your specific model.

Mistake 4: Holding the Reset Button Incorrectly

Pressing the reset button too briefly or too firmly can prevent the system from resetting properly.

Tip:

Hold the reset button for 10–15 seconds until you hear a click or feel a soft resistance.

Mistake 5: Overlooking Tripped Breakers

Some RV owners focus solely on the water heater reset button and forget to check the electrical panel. A tripped breaker can prevent the heater from functioning even after a reset.

Tip:

Inspect your RV’s electrical panel for tripped breakers and reset them as needed.

Mistake 6: Not Restarting the System Properly

After resetting, failing to turn the power or propane back on can leave you thinking the heater is still broken.

Tip:

Double-check that all switches, breakers, or valves are restored to their operational settings after the reset.

Mistake 7: Neglecting Professional Help

If multiple resets fail, continuing to troubleshoot without professional help can damage the system further.

Tip:

Contact a certified RV technician if the hot water tank repeatedly trips or fails to work after a reset.

Safety Precautions When Resetting an RV Hot Water Tank

Resetting your RV hot water tank involves handling electrical or propane systems, which can pose risks if done incorrectly. Follow these essential safety precautions to ensure a smooth and hazard-free process.

Why Safety Precautions Are Important

Without proper safety measures, resetting your RV hot water tank can lead to:

• Electrical shocks
• Fire hazards
• Equipment damage
• Personal injury

By taking the right precautions, you can avoid these risks and reset your hot water tank safely.

Safety Precautions for Resetting an RV Hot Water Tank

1. Turn Off Power and Propane Supplies

• Locate your RV’s circuit breaker and switch off the water heater power supply.
• If your system runs on propane, close the propane valve to avoid gas leaks.

Why It Matters: Prevents electrical shocks and reduces fire risk.

2. Allow the Tank to Cool Down

• Let the hot water tank cool before opening the access panel or handling any components.

Why It Matters: Prevents burns from hot surfaces or water.

3. Inspect for Leaks

• Check for water or propane leaks around the heater before starting the reset process.
• Use a soapy water solution to detect gas leaks.

Why It Matters: Reduces the risk of gas explosions or water damage.

4. Wear Protective Gear

• Use insulated gloves and safety goggles when handling electrical components or working near hot surfaces.

Why It Matters: Protects against burns, electrical shocks, and debris.

5. Use the Right Tools

• Avoid makeshift tools that could damage the access panel or reset button. Stick to tools recommended in your RV manual.

Why It Matters: Ensures safe and precise handling of delicate components.

6. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

• Refer to your RV’s owner manual for model-specific reset procedures and safety guidelines.

Why It Matters: Each RV water heater system has unique requirements; incorrect actions could void warranties or cause damage.

7. Keep Fire Extinguishers Nearby

• Ensure a working fire extinguisher is accessible while working on the propane system.

Why It Matters: Provides quick response in case of accidental ignition.

8. Test After Resetting

• After completing the reset, check the water heater for normal function and look for unusual sounds, smells, or leaks.

Why It Matters: Confirms the system is operating safely and effectively.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice persistent issues, such as frequent tripping of the reset button, electrical sparks, or strong gas odors, stop immediately and consult an RV technician.

Final Thoughts

Safety should always come first when working on your RV hot water tank. By following these precautions, you’ll minimize risks and ensure your hot water heater operates safely and efficiently.

More related details will be available on Flamingo Motorhomes.