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Atwood OD50 - User Manual

Atwood OD50
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1
This water heater design has been certified by the Canadian
Standards Association for installation in recreation vehicles. This
water heater is not for use in marine applications.
SERVICE CALLS & QUESTIONS
Location and phone numbers of qualified Service Centers can
be found at our website http:/www.askforatwood.com or call
866.869.8116 to locate a Service Center.
SAFETY ALERT SYMBOLS
Safety Symbols alerting you to potential personal safety hazards.
Obey all safety messages following these symbols.
m warning m caution
avoid possible avoid possible
injury or death injury and/or property damage
EngLiSH - FranÇaiS 
Effective 07.09.13
literature number

L.P. GAS
ON DEMAND
WATER HEATER
Models
OD50, OD50CW
m warning

• If the information in this manual is not followed
exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing
property damage, personal injury or loss of life.
– Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors
and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Evacuate ALL persons from vehicle.
• Shut off gas supply at gas container or source.
• DO NOT touch any electrical switch, or use any phone
or radio in vehicle.
• DO NOT start vehicle’s engine or electric generator.
• Contact nearest gas supplier or qualified Service
Technician for repairs.
• If you cannot reach a gas supplier or qualified Service
Technician, contact the nearest fire department.
• DO NOT turn on gas supply until gas leak(s) has been
repaired.
– Installation and service must be performed by a
qualified installer, service agency or the gas supplier.
Explanation of Model Number:
OD_____________________ On Demand
50________________ Input in 1000’s Btu
01__________ Generation
CW______ Cold Weather Kit
m criticaL inStaLLation warningS
• Installinrecreationvehiclesonly.RV’sarerecreationvehicles
designedastemporarylivingquartersforrecreation,camping,
ortravelusehavingtheirownpowerortowedbyanothervehicle.
• AllcombustionairmustbesuppliedfromoutsidetheRV,andall
productsofcombustionmustbeventedtooutsidetheRV.
• DONOTventwaterheaterwithventingsystemservinganother
appliance.
• DONOTventwaterheatertoanoutsideenclosedporcharea.
• Protectbuildingmaterialsfromuegasexhaust.
• Installwaterheateronanexteriorwall,withaccessdooropeningto
outdoors.
• DONOTmodifywaterheaterinanyway.
• DONOTalterwaterheaterforapositivegroundingsystem.
• DONOTHI-POTwaterheaterunlesselectronicignitionsystem
(circuitboard)hasbeendisconnected.
• DONOTusebatterychargertosupplypowertowaterheatereven
whentesting.
Do not install close to opening door or under room slide-out where
the vent or inlet louvers can be obstructed.
USA and Canada – Follow all applicable state and local codes. In the
absence of local codes or regulations, refer to the current standards
of:
— Local codes or, in the absence of local codes, the National Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54 and/or CSA B149.1, Natural Gas and
Propane Installation Code.
— Local codes or, in the absence of local codes, the Standard on
Recreational Vehicles, NFPA1192 and/or CAN/CSA-Z240 RV.
CUTOUT Requirements
OEM and Aftermarket – Unit can be installed in Atwood, Suburban and Girard
openings. Unit can also be installed through the wall from exterior, or prior to
erecting wall into place at OEM manufacturing facility.
Atwood 6 Gallon Opening 12.7 H x 16.25 W x 17.62 D
Suburban 6 Gallon Opening 12.7 H x 12.7 W x 19.2 D
Atwood 10 Gallon Opening* 15.75 H x 16.2 W x 20.6 D
Suburban 10 Gallon Opening* 16.2 H x 16.2 W x 20.5 D
*Door/Adapter Kit Required

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • E
    Evan SmithAug 14, 2025
    What to do if the burner ignites but the Atwood OD50 temperature is too low?
    • J
      Jason BrownAug 14, 2025
      If your Atwood Water Heater's burner ignites but the water temperature remains too low, there are several things you can check. The water flow might be too high, exceeding the heater's capacity, especially if the supply water is very cold, so try slowing the water flow. Ensure the gas flow control valve is in the full “on” position, and check the gas pressure while the water is on at full flow; it should match the “manifold pressure” on the specification label. Also, inspect the heater door louvers and flue pipe for airflow obstructions and clean them. Finally, make sure the “winter/summer” valve is in the proper position for the temperature of the incoming water.
  • O
    Omar KingAug 17, 2025
    Why is the water temperature too low at lower water flow rates in Atwood Water Heater?
    • S
      sjonesAug 17, 2025
      If you're experiencing low water temperature at lower flow rates with your Atwood Water Heater, ensure the “winter/summer” valve is in the correct position for the incoming water temperature. When turning on a water faucet, momentarily turn the hot water flow to high, then back to the lower flow. For single lever shower controls, you may need to adjust the internal temperature control to a higher setting to allow for more hot water flow to properly activate the water heater.
  • S
    Sheila ThomasAug 20, 2025
    Why does my Atwood OD50 Water Heater cycle on and off rapidly?
    • J
      Jamie ChavezAug 20, 2025
      If your Atwood Water Heater cycles on and off rapidly, several factors could be at play. First, ensure adequate water flow by increasing it at a tap and cleaning all GPM of water flow. Second, the water pump may not be functioning correctly and require repair or replacement. If the cycling coincides with the pump's cycles, consider adding a pressure accumulator tank to your water system, or drain the existing one if it's filled with water so that it contains air only. Air in the water line can also cause this issue; bleed the air by turning on all water taps. Finally, check the incoming water source pressure, ensuring it's a minimum of 30 psi, as fluctuating pressure can cause loss of flow.
  • T
    taylorheatherAug 27, 2025
    How to fix Atwood Water Heater that does not come on when water is turned on?
    • S
      Steven KennedyAug 27, 2025
      If your Atwood Water Heater doesn't come on when the water is turned on and the power vent isn't running, start by ensuring all electrical connectors are secure and the polarity is correct (red wire to positive terminal). Also, confirm that power is on and the panel breaker hasn't tripped. Check the electrical contacts to ensure the connector is plugged into the board and use a voltmeter to check for 12 Volts. Finally, inspect the fuse in the power wire and replace it if it's blown.
  • J
    jennifer78Aug 31, 2025
    Why is the water temperature too hot on my Atwood Water Heater?
    • I
      iyorkAug 31, 2025
      If your Atwood Water Heater's water temperature is too hot or there's no temperature control, ensure that the “winter/summer” valve is in the proper position for the incoming water temperature. Also, the water flow might be too low for the incoming water temperature.
  • W
    wwebbSep 2, 2025
    Why does the temperature fluctuate erratically on my Atwood Water Heater?
    • O
      okaiserSep 3, 2025
      If the burner in your Atwood Water Heater turns on but the temperature fluctuates erratically, this may be caused by excessive restriction at the water outlets, showerheads, aerators, or water strainers. Clean these components and remove any showerhead flow restrictors.
  • A
    Amy WarrenSep 6, 2025
    Why does my Atwood OD50 need excessive water flow to trigger?
    • R
      ralph75Sep 6, 2025
      If your Atwood Water Heater requires excessive water flow to trigger and has low heat rise, check that all valves and faucets are closed when not in use. If your showerhead has an on/off button, always turn the water valves off after showering to prevent cold water from bleeding into the hot water system. Also, make sure the bypass valve at the water plumbing connections is in the “off” position, as an open valve can allow water to bypass the heater, preventing it from firing.
  • P
    Patrick ThompsonSep 9, 2025
    What to do if no water flows from tap when tap is turned on in Atwood OD50 Water Heater?
    • H
      Harry SimsSep 10, 2025
      If no water flows from the tap when turned on in your Atwood Water Heater, ensure that the water supply is turned on and that there are no obstructions.
  • M
    Melissa Nichols PhDNov 23, 2025
    What to do if Atwood Water Heater has no ignition when water is on?
    • G
      Garrett WheelerNov 23, 2025
      If there is no ignition in your Atwood Water Heater when the water is on and the power vent is running, first, ensure the gas valve at the tank is “On,” that there is gas in the tank, and that the gas line is purged of all air. Verify that the ignition wire is properly plugged into the spark tower on the ignition control and is not touching anything else. Check the flame site hole to see if the igniter is sparking from the probe to the burner, and adjust the ignition wire to achieve the proper gap. Also, ensure the power vent fan has 12 volts when water is flowing and that there are no obstructions in the flue pipe. Lastly, confirm that the pressure switch is closed by checking for voltage across the terminals; it should be 0 volts. If it reads 12 volts, inspect for flue obstruction or obs...

Summary

Product Identification and Safety

Model Number Explanation

Explains the designation and components of the water heater model number.

General Safety Alerts

Highlights safety symbols, general warnings, and fire/explosion risks.

Gas Leak Procedures

Provides step-by-step actions to take if gas is smelled.

Critical Installation Warnings

Essential warnings and precautions for RV installation, venting, and material protection.

Regulatory Compliance and Cutouts

Outlines code adherence and necessary cutout dimensions for installation.

General Installation Procedures

Unit Placement and Support

Guidelines for locating and supporting the water heater within the vehicle.

Plumbing and Gas Connections

Steps for connecting water lines and LP gas, ensuring proper sealing.

Wall Opening and Securing

Instructions for preparing the wall opening and securing the unit with corner brackets.

Installation Details and Valves

Access Door and Pressure Testing

Steps for installing the access door and requirements for pressure testing.

Gas Pressure Specifications

Specifies the required gas manifold pressure for operation.

Pressure Relief Valve Importance

Explains the function and importance of the safety pressure relief valve.

Wiring Instructions

Electrical Grounding and Connections

Requirements for electrical grounding and connecting to a 12V DC power source.

Operation and Maintenance

Wiring Schematic

Diagram illustrating the electrical connections for the water heater.

Operating the Water Heater

Step-by-step guide on how to operate the water heater.

General Information and Ignition Maintenance

General tips, system checks, and electronic ignition maintenance.

Modulating Valve Adjustment

Guidance on adjusting the modulating valve for desired water temperature.

Temperature Control and Seasonal Use

Modulating Valve Adjustment Details

Visual and textual guide for adjusting the modulating valve for summer/winter.

Winter Operation and Protection

Recommendations for winter operation and protection against freezing.

Summer Operation and Storage

Guidance for summer use and procedures for winter storage.

Parts and Troubleshooting

Water Heater Parts List

Comprehensive list of parts with corresponding part numbers for the water heater.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Guidance on diagnosing and resolving common problems with the water heater.

Troubleshooting Specific Issues

No Ignition or Water Flow Problems

Diagnosing and resolving issues with ignition, water flow, and cycling.

Water Temperature Control Issues

Troubleshooting low or too-high water temperatures and control problems.

Operational Notes and Warranty

Low Heat Rise and Flow Requirements

Explains why high flow might be needed and potential causes for issues.

Warranty Information and Claims

Details the warranty coverage, conditions, exclusions, and claims process.

Atwood OD50 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandAtwood
ModelOD50
CategoryWater Heater
LanguageEnglish

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