This “weeping” or dripping will continue until the pressure is reduced to below 150
pounds, and the valve closes. This condition is normal and does not indicate a defective
relief valve.
One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintain an air pocket at the top
of the water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design; however, it will be
reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater. To replenish this air pocket:
1. Turn off the water heater.
2. Turn off the cold water supply line.
3. Open a faucet in the recreation vehicle.
4. Pull out the handle of the pressure relief (P&T) valve and allow water to flow from
the valve until it stops.
5. Release the handle on the P&T valve - it should snap closed.
Close the faucet and turn on the cold water supply. As the tank fills, the air pocket will
develop. Repeat this procedure as often as needed to reduce the frequency of the weeping
P&T valve.
Maintenance
Do not allow the burner to burn with a yellow flame, or continue to operate the water
heater with an improper burner flame.
Periodically, inspect the water heater vent for soot. Soot is a sign of incomplete
combustion and must be corrected before operating the water heater. This is your visual
warning that the water heater is operating in an unsafe manner. If soot is present,
immediately shut the unit down and contact your dealer or a qualified service agency.
Periodically inspect the vent for obstructions. Do not terminate the vent on your water
heater inside of add-on rooms, screen porches or patios. Doing so will result in products of
combustion being vented into the rooms or occupied areas.
Draining and winterization:
If the recreation vehicle is to be stored over the winter months, the water heater must be
drained to prevent damage from freezing. Damage to the water heater caused by freezing is
not warrantable. It is recommended the water heater be drained and bypassed during the
winterization process, particularly if introducing RV antifreeze into the plumbing
system. The water heater should never be drained when HOT or UNDER
PRESSURE.
To drain the water heater:
1. Turn off electrical power to the water heater either at the switch from the electrical
element or at the breaker.
2. Shut off the propane supply to the water heater.
3. Turn off the water pump.
4. Open both hot and cold water faucets.
5. Remove the anode rod from the tank.
For detailed information see the Winterizing The Plumbing System and Water Heater
Bypass sections of this manual.
WATER HEATER BYPASS VALVES (IF SO EQUIPPED)
Most floor plans have a factory installed water heater bypass which enables you to avoid
filling the water heater with RV antifreeze. Bypass valves are typically located in close
proximity to the water heater. Outside utility centers (if so equipped) operate differently
than a factory installed bypass system.
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