If you’re an avid recreational, you ought to look after your RV and all other armamentaria that are related to it. Whether it’s the mechanical fitness or integrity of the equipment that offers amenities and luxury, your motorhome should be in top condition.
Most RVs come equipped with water tanks to keep your water supply running, whether it’s for cooking, drinking, or staying fresh. These water tanks on RVs come fitted with heaters to keep the water warm when you need it and prevent the pipes from getting damaged from freezing water.
These RV tank heaters tend to lose their efficacy over time and one fine day, you run into trouble with freezing cold water or clogged pipelines on your RV. Hence, it is crucial that you know how these RV tank heaters work, so you know when something is wrong and get them fixed quickly.
How do RV Water Tank Heaters Work?
Almost all modern RVs come equipped with water tank heaters and needless to say, it is the need of the hour as well. These heaters come pre-installed and are usually attached to the lower side of the tank.
Powered by either gas, propane, or electric current, these tank heaters usually work in the range of 44o – 65o F temperature. The switch for tank heaters is located on the inside, usually on a panel on the dashboard for easy access.
There is an option for setting the temperature according to your desire, and you can simply rotate the knob to switch between warm and hot water. Not only do these tank heaters keep the warm water supply running for your comfortable winter trips, but they also protect against the damaging effects of sub-freezing temperatures on the piping and other systems of the RV.
Additionally, they also guarantee that no matter how harsh the weather, you have accessibility to a plumbing system that is in perfect working order and supplies clean water. In particular, they guard against RV tanks freezing over and getting damaged by cracks, obstructions, and other problems that could harm your RV’s internal plumbing systems.
How to Tell if RV Tank Heaters Are Working? Basic Guide
Like any other electrical system or a part of the machinery, the water tank heaters on your RV can go bad. It occurs mostly due to usage over time and wear due to environmental factors and other damages.
It is important that you know when the tank heaters of your RV have malfunctioned, so you can get them repaired before you set out on a journey and keep regretting it. Here’s how you can tell if RV tank heaters have gone bad:
CHECKING THEM OVERNIGHT
USING AN AMP METER
INSPECTION OF THE WIRING
LIGHTS AND INDICATORS
You could simply check this light if it’s running or not, and get the heaters fixed promptly.
GETTING CHECKED BY A PROFESSIONAL
FAQs
How many types of tank heaters are available in RVs?
There are different types of water tank heaters in RVs, mostly classified by the power source they use;
- Gas heaters
- Propane heaters
- Electric heaters
How can I keep my RV’s tank heaters in good condition?
Just like your RV and other onboard equipment, you can keep the tank heaters in mint condition by:
- Regularly keeping a check and replacing the faulty fuse (if required)
- Not using it on the highest temperature setting for too long.
- Cleaning it regularly to avoid rusting and corrosion.
- Tightening the loose wires and connections in the circuit, to prevent overheating or short-circuiting.
- Flushing the tanks regularly to avoid the buildup of debris and contaminants.
Is solar a good source of powering RV tank heaters?
Portable solar panels are one of the best sources to generate power to supply your RV’s water tank heaters. It is a clean and renewable source of energy, and you don’t have to worry about gas or an outdoor power outlet for a warm water supply on your camping trips.
Final Thoughts
Modern RVs are now equipped with the majority of luxury and amenity features, and water tank heaters are undeniably the most useful of them. Not only do these supply you with warm water in freezing temperatures, but they also protect the RV’s plumbing and pipes from rust and environmental damage.
It is crucial that you know how to diagnose a problem with faulty RV tank heaters, so you can get them fixed before you plan your next winter trip and don’t have to suffer in the agony of cold weather out there in the woods.
Citations
https://www.forestriverforums.com/forums/f16/tank-heaters-how-to-tell-if-working-123865.html
https://www.rvforum.net/threads/test-for-working-tank-heaters.111565/
Ever since I was a kid, I've been fascinated by travel. I inherited this passion from my parents. Since my college years and to this day, I have had a passion for traveling in a motorhome. I am here to share my experiences with you.
