RV Water Heater Elements

8 products

An element only heats water when you are on shore power, so the classic symptom of a failed one is hot water on gas and nothing on electric. Before ordering, rule out the simple causes: the breaker, the electric switch, and a tripped ECO will all produce the same result.

Match the wattage and thread to what is already in the tank rather than to the tank size. Suburban steel tanks and Atwood or Dometic aluminum tanks do not take the same element, and the figure stamped on the old one is the number that matters.

The Hott Rod kits here are a different job. They add a 120V element to a gas-only heater, so you can run on shore power instead of burning propane at a full-hookup site.

An element socket makes the removal far easier.

How do I know which RV water heater element replacement fits my unit?

Start with the data plate on your water heater, usually inside the outside access door. Note the brand (Suburban or Atwood/Dometic), the model number, and the voltage and wattage stamped on your existing element. Most RV electric elements run on 120V AC, and the wattage, thread type, and length need to match the original. Suburban steel-tank heaters and Atwood/Dometic aluminum-tank heaters do not always share the same element, so confirm the brand before ordering. If you can't read the old element, text or call 817-984-1852 with your water heater model number and our team will confirm the correct part.

How do I know my camper water heater heating element has failed?

The most common sign is hot water when the heater runs on LP gas but none on the electric setting. Before replacing the element, check that the 120V breaker is on and the electric switch is engaged. Then turn off all power and test the element terminals with a multimeter. A 1440-watt, 120V element reads about 10 ohms. A reading of zero or no continuity means the element has failed. Also check the thermostat and the ECO (high-limit) switch, because a tripped ECO causes the same no-heat symptom.

How do I replace an RV water heater element?

Turn off the 120V breaker and the electric switch, shut off the LP gas, and let the water cool. Turn off the water pump or city water connection, then open the pressure relief valve and remove the drain plug or anode rod to empty the tank. Disconnect the wires, remove the old element with an element socket, and thread in the new element with its gasket. Refill the tank completely and bleed air from the relief valve before restoring power. If you are replacing a worn tank instead, compare units in our 10 gallon RV water heaters collection.

Why does a camper water heater element burn out after replacement?

Dry firing is the usual cause. If you switch on electric power before the tank is full, the element overheats and fails within seconds. This often happens after winterizing, when the bypass valve leaves the tank empty. Always confirm water flows steadily from the pressure relief valve before turning the electric switch on. Voltage spikes at the campground pedestal can also damage elements and other 120V components, and a Southwire Surge Guard RV surge protector guards against that.

Do you carry elements and parts for Dometic 6 gallon water heaters?

Yes. Our element selection includes replacements for Atwood/Dometic gas/electric water heaters, but element specs vary between model years, so match the wattage and thread stamped on your original. If the outside access door is cracked or missing, the replacement doors for Dometic 6 gallon water heaters cover that repair. For full unit swaps, see our Dometic 6 gallon RV water heaters. Orders over $100 ship free.