Trystan Casey
The Suburban 10-gallon water heater is a popular choice for RVs and campers, providing hot water for showers and dishes. While the product is generally well-regarded, some users have reported issues with the electric heating element, resulting in water that is only warm rather than hot. This paragraph will discuss potential solutions to this problem, including replacing the heating element, adjusting the thermostat, and proper maintenance techniques to ensure the longevity of the water heater.
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What You'll Learn
Replacing the heating element
If your Suburban 10-gallon water heater is not heating up water as expected, you may need to replace the heating element. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Firstly, ensure the electricity supply to the water heater is turned off, or disconnect from the shore power supply. It is important to take this precaution for your safety.
You will need a wrench to remove the anode rod. It is recommended to keep a spare heating element with your camper's spare parts, as well as a wrench, so that you can perform this maintenance when needed.
If you are unfamiliar with working with 120V AC, it is advised to consult a professional or seek the services of a mobile RV repair service.
To test if the heating element needs replacing, you can use a meter to check for resistance and voltage. If the element is faulty, you can purchase a replacement Suburban SW Series Water Heater Element, which is 120V and 1440 Watts.
When replacing the heating element, use thermal paste between the thermostat and the side of the tank for good temperature conduction.
If, after replacing the heating element, the issue persists, you may need to replace the 120-side thermostat.
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Checking the thermostat
If your Suburban 10-gallon water heater is not working, you may need to check the thermostat.
Firstly, ensure that electricity is switched off or disconnect from the shore power supply. Then, open the thermostat panel and check the wiring for any signs of damage, such as melted or burnt wires. If the wiring looks intact, you can test the heating element with a meter for resistance and voltage. If there is no power to the element, the issue may lie elsewhere in the circuit.
If the heating element is faulty, you can replace it. When replacing the element, use thermal paste between the thermostat and the side of the tank for good temperature conduction. You can also inspect the thermostat compartment for any signs of moisture, as this can cause the insulation to short with the tank and burn up the coil. Ensure that the cover screws are tightened, and consider sealing with silicone.
If your Suburban thermostat is a combination unit with a Hi-limit/Emergency Cut Off (ECO) part, you may need to replace the entire assembly if any part is faulty. You can replace it with an equivalent model, such as the Rheem Protech Marathon thermostat, which offers variable temperature control and improved safety features.
It is important to note that some Suburban thermostats have a reset button, but according to some users, this has never worked for them. Thus, if your thermostat has a reset button that does not function, it may be a common issue with that particular model.
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Flushing the tank
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Heater
Before beginning any maintenance or repair work on your Suburban 10-gallon water heater, it is important to turn off the water heater. This will ensure your safety and prevent any accidental damage to the unit.
Step 2: Locate the Drain Valve
The next step is to locate the drain valve on your Suburban 10-gallon water heater. This valve is typically located at the bottom of the tank and is used to drain and flush the tank.
Step 3: Connect a Hose to the Drain Valve
To avoid making a mess, it is recommended to connect a hose to the drain valve. This will allow you to direct the drained water to a suitable location, such as a floor drain or an outdoor area. Make sure the other end of the hose is placed in a drain or an appropriate place where the water can be safely discharged.
Step 4: Open the Drain Valve and Flush the Tank
Now, you can open the drain valve to begin draining the water from the tank. It is a good idea to also open any hot water faucets nearby to help speed up the draining process and ensure that all the water is drained from the tank. Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve and close the hot water faucets.
Step 5: Refill the Tank and Check for Leaks
After draining and flushing the tank, it is important to refill it with fresh water. Open the water supply valve and let the tank fill up. Once the tank is full, check for any signs of leaks. Make sure all connections are secure and tight to prevent any water leaks.
Step 6: Repeat as Necessary
Depending on the condition of your water heater and the quality of your water, you may need to flush the tank more than once. It is generally recommended to flush your water heater tank at least once a year, or more frequently if you have hard water or if there are signs of sediment buildup.
Remember to always consult the owner's manual of your Suburban 10-gallon water heater for specific instructions and safety precautions. If you are uncomfortable performing this task, it is best to contact a qualified service technician or a professional RV repair service.
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Replacing the anode rod
The anode rod in the Suburban 10-gallon water heater is essential for protecting the water heater tank from corrosion. The rod attracts corrosive elements in the water, preventing them from attacking the interior of the tank.
To replace the anode rod, first ensure that the electricity is switched off or disconnected from the shore power supply. You will also need a wrench to remove the anode.
Once the electricity is off, open the water heater door and locate the anode rod. It is usually located near the electric heat element and drain plug. Remove the old anode rod by unscrewing it with a wrench.
Next, inspect the old anode rod. If it is mostly eaten away or corroded, replace it with a new one. You can purchase Suburban anode rod replacements online or from RV supply stores. The Suburban anode rod is made of magnesium, which is considered better than aluminum alternatives.
Finally, screw in the new anode rod by hand until it is tight. Do not overtighten it, as this can damage the anode rod and the water heater tank.
By regularly replacing the anode rod and maintaining your Suburban 10-gallon water heater, you can extend the life of the tank and ensure consistent protection against corrosion.
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Using propane alongside electricity
The Suburban 10-gallon water heater is a popular choice for many RV owners. It is highly regarded for its ability to run on electricity and propane, providing hot water for showers and dishes. The heater's porcelain-lined steel tank is designed to withstand the corrosive effects of heated water, ensuring durability.
When using propane alongside electricity in the Suburban 10-gallon water heater, it's important to understand the heating modes and controls. The heater typically features two thermostats, one for propane (12V DC) and another for electricity (120V AC). These heating modes are independent, allowing users to run both simultaneously for faster water heating. This is particularly useful when you are not connected to shore power and need to rely solely on propane for heating.
To ensure optimal performance when using propane and electricity together, proper maintenance is key. Regularly flushing the tank and changing the anode rod every six months can help prevent issues. Additionally, monitoring the heating elements and thermostats is crucial. If the water temperature is not reaching the desired level, consider testing and potentially replacing the heating element or adjusting the thermostat settings.
For safety and warranty reasons, it is always recommended to consult a qualified service technician for installation, maintenance, or repairs involving the Suburban 10-gallon water heater. While some experienced RV owners may feel comfortable performing their own maintenance, seeking professional assistance can ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
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Frequently asked questions
You can try replacing the heating element. If you are not familiar with working with 120v AC, consult a professional.
It could be due to a failing heating element. You can test it with a meter for resistance and voltage.
The Suburban 10-gallon water heater has a direct spark "on" switch that can be combined with an optional remote wall plate to turn on the heater wherever you install the switch. It also has a convenient exterior gas line connection and a copolymer insulation jacket for additional heat retention.
