JAYCO TOWABLE SECTION 8-PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Water heater bypass (If So Equipped)
Your recreation vehicle may be equipped with a water heater bypass. This three-valve
system is located at either the water heater, or on the system panel depending on your
model. For detailed information see the Water Heater Bypass section
Water heater switches (if so equipped):
Switches are located on the Monitor Panel. For detailed information on their operation
refer to the Monitor Panel section.
Odor from the hot water system
Many water supplies contain sufficient amounts of sulfur to produce an odor, often called
“sulfur water.” Sulfur water can be caused by a chemical action or by bacteria. Generally,
sulfur water is not harmful, only unpleasant to smell. Refer to the water heater
manufacturer’s owner’s manual for details on eliminating the odor from sulfur water.
Odor from sulfur water is not a service problem.
Anode rod protection
The tank in the water heater is protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong
the life of the tank by absorbing the corrosive action of hot water. Under normal use, the
anode rod will deteriorate and because of this, the water heater manufacturer recommends
the anode rod be replaced yearly. Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will
increase the rate of deterioration; therefore, more frequent replacements may be required.
If an anode rod is mostly eaten away, replace it with a new one. The water heater
manufacturer recommends replacement of the anode rod when consumption or weight loss
is greater than 75 percent.
Anode rod replacement chart
Operating the water heater without the proper
anode rod protection will decrease tank life and will void the tank
manufacturer’s warranty on the tank. To extend the anode life, drain the water from the
water heater tank whenever the RV is not being used. Avoid any extended time of non-use
with water in the tank.
To prevent a water leak when replacing the anode rod, a pipe thread sealant approved for
potable water (such as Teflon Tape) must be applied to the threads of the anode rod.
Proper application of a thread sealant will not interfere with the anode’s
High altitude deration
Operation of the water heater at high altitudes may require derating. If the water heater is
not properly derated, lack of sufficient oxygen for combustion may produce improper
burner operation.
WARNING
Do not replace anode rod or any other component with an accessory part that is not
authorized by the water heater manufacturer, such as an “add-on electric heating
element. Such items are not approved to be installed and could create an unsafe
condition and will void all warranties
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