Atwood water heater

[Dano1955]

Dual mode atwood water heater electric element needs to be replaced on my 27RK (my fault, yada yada).

This element is in the BACK of the unit, so I suppose that it will need to be removed for replacement. Can't see any access to it from under and no panels that I can find.

My question is whether this is something I should attempt or not? I'm not inept, but not exactly a "Handy Dan" either. I've replaced heating element in residential dryer that went out (thanks Google), but still hesitant on tackling this as I can find no videos, walk throughs etc for removing the water heater.

Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.

[5picker]

Atwood elements are in the back so you are going to need to gain access to that area.
I believe the Atwood element takes a 1-1/2" socket to remove.
Simply remove the wires, unscrew the element and replace and reinstall the wires.
*Be sure electric is off*

Take a photo of the wiring if you are unsure you'll remember.

[Dano1955]

Yes that's what I noted. But access is the issue. Since I cannot find access to the back of the unit, it appears that I will have to completely remove the water heater and I'm unsure of the scope or magnitude of that effort, as I have never done it before.

Is that something that would be recommended for DIY project? Is it straightforward or possibility of many "gotchas"?

Lots of stuff (videos etc.) on Suburban water heaters but can't find much on Atwoods

[5picker]

You are not going to be able to pull the unit unless you get access to the back.
The plumbing lines and wiring and such won't allow the unit to be pulled from the outside unless unhooked first.

Often times drawers, panels, hinges and the like are needed to be removed from the area near the back for access.

[Dano1955]

Hmm, OK will check further, haven't found anything but could be missing something, will look around more today when I'm out at storage.