Gas heated hot water

[nwclassic]

Our start cycle is normal, but it stops heating before reaching the set temperature. It then begins a restart, which also fails. Other than cleaning the orifice, are there some likely TS tips I can try to diagnose/Rx our heater?

[CBWELL]

Good possibility that thermostats have failed. They are easy to replace.

[BigAl]

The orifice for the gas is a ruby so don’t use a pin to clean. It will ruin it. Soak in alcohol. That’s it. Like said probably a temp sensor on the tank.

[nwclassic]

CBWELL, Big Al - thanks for the assists. Five videos later, I found one that included gas dynamics. After disassembly and some housekeeping that really wasn't necessary, the culprit turned out to be a misadjusted airflow tube. Once I was taught its function and proper adjustment, we're back to nominal again.
Both of your suggestions were included, referenced in the videos and checked. Happy camping again!

[hhendrix]

Originally Posted by nwclassic

CBWELL, Big Al - thanks for the assists. Five videos later, I found one that included gas dynamics. After disassembly and some housekeeping that really wasn't necessary, the culprit turned out to be a misadjusted airflow tube. Once I was taught its function and proper adjustment, we're back to nominal again.
Both of your suggestions were included, referenced in the videos and checked. Happy camping again!

Can you post the link to the video?

[nwclassic]

Browsing history showed these. Not sure which one ultimately educated me,
but they'll get you in the ballpark.

[emelaich01]

Also a good idea to check your airflow tube adjustment with the door to the unit closed. Somehow, ours would spit and sputter but when the door was opened, it 'settled down'.

Opened the tube up just a tad more, closed the door and it worked perfectly. Had this same problem with a Jayco we owned prior.

[nwclassic]

Good point - What's important, is that proper gas operation gives a quiet, blue flame... the result of the correct gas/oxygen ratio. Changing elevation, changes that ratio (as does opening/closing the access door. If it spits and coughs, or sounds like a jet engine, a tube adjustment is required.

[mythbuster88]

Since we go from sea level to 6,000 + feet we carry a thingy tool and adjust air flow a lot for that clean burn.