Don’t burn up your water heater element…

Remember to fill your water heater before turning on the electricity! (Rerun June 2024)

We’re having a heatwave!

It hit 60 degrees in Maryland yesterday afternoon, and I saw one of my neighbors working on their RV. So this is a great time to remind everyone not to dry fire their electric water heater.

I found this question on the Cool RV Stuff group…

Here’s what probably happened…

If your water heater tank is empty it only takes a few minutes of electrical current going through the heater element to turn it red hot and cause a meltdown.

Always be sure to turn off the circuit breaker feeding your RV water heater before doing any sort of service, including draining the tank for winterizing it. And double-check that your water heater if full before you turn on the power to prep for your first trip of the season.

Carry a spare

Also, I think it’s a good idea to get a backup water heater element and wrench for your RV and carry them with you on the road. Don’t expect to find what you need while you’re out camping, so be sure you carry the essential repair items that you and your family need to be Happy Campers.

Read more about how to determine the correct heating element for your water heater HERE!

Let’s play safe out there… Mike