Water heater not working

[greenmtnman-FUN]

I have a 2011 SF x189. I have a gas/ele water heater.

When I put the on button of the water heat to on the red light for the reset comes on. Outside at the water heater the two buttons that say reset I push and the clicking stops. I believe the water was full when testing it the other day.
Also there is a switch on - off that is off with a wire not allowing it to be switch to on. Is that making any sense?

So how do I test? is there a heating element that needs replacing?

Its like buy the camper and learn what and what not to do this way you become a expert! Depending on the gray cells that are left from the 60's n70's

any how thanks for the helpers and the jokers

 

[Dakota 1120]

Here is an owners manual for gas/electric water heater.

The last several pages detail operation.

http://bryantrv.com/docs2/docs/operating/swinstall.pdf

Not sure if you have the same water heater ... if not you can google your model and the owners manual will probably be on line.

 

[runner421]

Water Heater

The clicking you hear sounds like the ignitor is trying to light the pilot light. Make sure your propane tanks are full - make sure the propane has time to make it to the back of the camper to the water heater.
The button with the wire through it is the electric power button. They put a wire (cotter pin) through it to make sure you have put water in the tank before switching it on to electric mode. It will heat when connected to shore (electric) power.

There are two thermostats, one for the electric mode and one for the propane mode. I've had to replace one when it failed.

Hope this information helps.

 

[greenmtnman-FUN]

Thanks for all replies they have been helpful.
Propane side works and hot water we will have.
I also check out the heating element and its ok.
Next I'm planning on checking the thermostats. I'm sure that's were the problem lies. Well I'm hoping that's all that it could be and that its the only thing that's next. Since no one else has added a different problem that it could be.

Thanks again to all have a good weekend

 

[runner421]

More info

So - there are two thermostats. You can troubleshoot by switching the thermostats. They are contact thermostats - make contact with the outside of the water heater - not inside like residential water heaters.
What worked for me was simply swapping the wiring connections from one to the other thermostat. They're right next to each other.
If the propane thermostat is good - you should get ignition when you use the switch in the camper. If you can get the propane to work on both thermostats, they're both probably good. It's the fastest way to check without a meter or waiting for the electric mode to heat up.
I just had the electric switch go bad. It was sticky and when in the on position, no electric hot water. Removed the switch, tested and it's bad. Off to buy a new one.

 

[Dakota 1120]

Some more information if interested:

http://www.rvrepairclub.com/video/all-about-your-rv-water-heater-007925/


http://www.rvrepairclub.com/video/rv-water-heater-troubleshooting-tips-007928/