“Short Circuits” Don’t burn up your water heater element…
Remember to fill your water heater before turning on the electricity!
“Short Circuits”: Short articles on electrical theory and troubleshooting…
I just 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
Given the state of automation in the electronics world today, wouldn't it be feasible for manufacturers to include some kind of auto-shutoff in heating elements when they're approaching a red-hot status?
one of my better investments was a genuine Camco socket for removing these elements. the thin flimsy tool is terrible. put it on my small impact tool and it works great