Suburban gas hot water heater not heating

[louiseinfl]

We have a Flagstaff RV that is less than 3 years old. It has been winterized twice. This spring when we de-winterized, the gas Surburban 6 gal. hot water heater will not heat the water past warm. The pilot light is working, the heater kicks on fine, but when it completes the heating cycle, the water is only lukewarm. We have replaced the anode rods before they have been completely corroded. Any ideas?

[bikendan]

your WH bypass valve is still in winterizing position.

[louiseinfl]

Thanks so much for you response--my husband are new to RVs, and last year several of our camping neighbors helped us winterize. Since we did not use the antifreeze method, but blew all the pipes out instead, we assumed the bypass valve was not changed. Can you tell this ignorant novice exactly where the bypass valve is located and what position it should be in now.

[Still Kickin]

Originally Posted by louiseinfl

Thanks so much for you response--my husband are new to RVs, and last year several of our camping neighbors helped us winterize. Since we did not use the antifreeze method, but blew all the pipes out instead, we assumed the bypass valve was not changed. Can you tell this ignorant novice exactly where the bypass valve is located and what position it should be in now.

Location of valves are behind or in close proximity of your HW tank. Valve setting can be searched in this forum, as that is a common topic that pops up every Spring.

[wmtire]

Very common thing, and why we made a sticky here. See if this link helps. It explains where the valve(s) may be located and the proper position of them.

Many people confuse the handle position of the all important cross over valve and have it open instead of closed...which is what results in a short period of hot water, or warm water at best.

http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...st-103381.html

[wmtire]

louiseinfl, I sent you a private message also about another matter.

[louiseinfl]

Originally Posted by Still Kickin

Location of valves are behind or in close proximity of your HW tank. Valve setting can be searched in this forum, as that is a common topic that pops up every Spring.

Thanks to you the problem is solved! Found a photo of winter and summer positions of bypass valves, and ours was still in the winter position--one of our wonderful "helpers" likely did that when it was unnecessary since we were not using the anitfreeze method in our pipes. Hot water is perfect now. This was a huge issue for us, but as a result of the error, I have learned a lot more about RVs. Greatly appreciate your help.