Atwood 6 Gallon Water Heater

Having trouble with your Atwood 6-gallon water heater? Don't panic! Many issues can be diagnosed and even fixed with a little patience and a systematic approach. This guide will walk you through common problems, offering step-by-step troubleshooting tips and when it's time to call in the professionals.

No Hot Water: The Most Common Culprit

The most frustrating problem is, of course, no hot water at all. Before assuming the worst, let's break down the potential causes.

Step 1: Check the Basics

Is the water heater turned on? This might seem obvious, but it's often overlooked. Locate the power switch for the water heater, usually near the unit itself or on a control panel inside your RV or home. Make sure it's in the "on" position. Sometimes a simple switch flip is all it takes!

Is the propane tank full (if applicable)? If your Atwood water heater uses propane, check the tank level. A low or empty tank will prevent the burner from igniting. Refill the tank if necessary.

Is there water in the tank? Open a hot water faucet. If no water comes out, there's likely no water in the tank. This could be due to a recent draining or a problem with the water supply. Ensure your water pump (if applicable) is turned on and that your freshwater tank is full. Also, check for any kinks in the water lines leading to the water heater.

Step 2: Electrical Issues (Electric Element Models)

If your Atwood water heater uses an electric heating element, electrical problems are a common cause of no hot water.

Check the Circuit Breaker: Locate the circuit breaker in your electrical panel that controls the water heater. Is it tripped? If so, reset it. If the breaker trips immediately again, there's likely a short circuit in the heating element or the wiring. This requires professional attention! Do not continue trying to reset the breaker.

Test the Heating Element (Advanced - Use Caution!): This step involves working with electricity. If you're not comfortable with electrical work, stop here and call a qualified electrician or RV technician.

1. Turn off the power to the water heater at the circuit breaker!
2. Disconnect the wires leading to the heating element.
3. Using a multimeter set to ohms (resistance), touch the probes to the terminals of the heating element.
4. A functioning heating element should show a resistance reading. If the multimeter reads "OL" (open line) or very high resistance, the heating element is likely burned out and needs to be replaced.

Heating elements are relatively inexpensive and can be replaced, but again, if you are not comfortable working with electricity, seek professional help.

Step 3: Gas Issues (Propane Models)

For propane-powered Atwood water heaters, ignition problems are a frequent source of trouble.

Listen for the Igniter: When you turn on the water heater, you should hear a clicking sound as the igniter tries to light the propane. Do you hear the clicking? If not, the igniter itself may be faulty.

Check the Gas Valve: Make sure the gas valve on the water heater is fully open. Sometimes these valves can be partially closed accidentally.

Clean the Burner Assembly: A dirty burner assembly can prevent proper ignition.

• Turn off the gas supply to the water heater!
• Carefully remove the burner assembly. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions, as procedures vary slightly depending on the model.
• Use a wire brush and compressed air to clean the burner and the orifice (the small hole where the gas comes out). Be gentle! You don't want to damage the orifice.
• Reassemble the burner assembly and turn the gas back on.

Check the Pilot Light (Older Models): Some older Atwood models have a pilot light that needs to be manually lit. Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to light the pilot light. A weak or nonexistent pilot light could indicate a problem with the thermocouple (a safety device that keeps the gas valve open when the pilot light is lit). A faulty thermocouple needs to be replaced by a qualified technician.

Check for Gas Leaks: After working on any gas appliance, it's crucial to check for gas leaks! Mix a solution of soapy water (dish soap works well) and apply it to all gas connections. Look for bubbles, which indicate a leak. If you find a leak, immediately turn off the gas supply and call a qualified gas technician. Do not attempt to repair gas leaks yourself!

Water Not Hot Enough

Sometimes the water heater works, but the water isn't as hot as you'd like. Here are a few things to consider:

Adjust the Temperature Setting: Many Atwood water heaters have an adjustable thermostat. Check the setting and increase it if needed. Be careful not to set it too high, as this can cause scalding.

Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank, reducing its efficiency. Flushing the tank can help remove sediment.

• Turn off the power to the water heater and let the water cool completely!
• Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater.
• Open the drain valve and flush the tank until the water runs clear. You may need to open a pressure relief valve (explained below) to allow air in and help the water drain.
• Close the drain valve and refill the tank.

Mixing Valve Problems: Some RVs and homes have a mixing valve that blends hot and cold water to prevent scalding. A malfunctioning mixing valve can cause the water to be lukewarm even when the water heater is working correctly. This is best left to a professional.

Leaking Water Heater

A leaking water heater is a serious problem that needs to be addressed quickly.

Check the Drain Valve: Make sure the drain valve is closed tightly. If it's leaking, try tightening it further. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the drain valve.

Check the Pressure Relief Valve: The pressure relief valve is a safety device that releases pressure if it gets too high inside the tank. It's normal for it to release a small amount of water occasionally, especially if the water heater is overfilled. However, if it's constantly leaking, it could indicate a problem with the valve itself or excessive pressure inside the tank. Do not attempt to plug or cap the pressure relief valve! Replace the valve or call a plumber to investigate the cause of the high pressure.

Leaks from the Tank Itself: If the tank itself is leaking, especially from a seam or weld, the water heater needs to be replaced! There is no safe or reliable way to repair a leaking water heater tank. Continuing to use a leaking tank can be dangerous and cause significant water damage.

Strange Noises

Unusual noises coming from your water heater can be a sign of a problem.

Rumbling or Popping: This is usually caused by sediment buildup in the tank. The sediment heats up and boils, creating the noise. Flushing the tank (as described above) can often resolve this issue.

Sizzling or Hissing: This could be caused by water leaking onto the burner or heating element. Inspect the water heater for leaks and address them promptly.

When to Call a Professional

While many Atwood water heater problems can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, some issues require professional attention. Call a qualified electrician, plumber, or RV technician if:

• You are uncomfortable working with electricity or gas.
• You suspect a gas leak.
• The circuit breaker trips repeatedly.
• The water heater tank is leaking.
• You are unable to diagnose the problem.
• You are unsure about any of the steps outlined in this guide.
• You suspect an internal component failure like the high-limit switch.
• The anode rod needs replacing (this is a maintenance item).

Safety First! Always prioritize your safety when working on any appliance. Turn off the power and gas supply before starting any repairs. If you are unsure about anything, call a professional.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can often diagnose and resolve common problems with your Atwood 6-gallon water heater, saving you time and money. Remember to be patient, methodical, and always prioritize safety. Good luck!