How To Flush and Clean Your RV Water Heater

A close up of the vent of an RV water heater. The metal on the heater is white, and it's labeled as hot near the exhaust port.

November 25, 2024

Keeping your RV water heater in prime condition is essential for any RV owner who enjoys the comforts of hot water on the road. However, over time, sediment and mineral buildup can affect the efficiency and longevity of this vital piece of equipment. Fortunately, this isn’t the end of your water heater! By learning how to flush and clean your RV water heater, you’ll be able to ensure your system runs smoothly and reliably for many years to come. This post is here to guide you through a step-by-step process for flushing and cleaning your RV water heater while offering maintenance tips to help you prevent future issues.

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

As with any other checklist, before you begin, you must ensure you have all the necessary supplies. Typically, you will need:

A socket wrench to remove the drain plug or anode rod
A water heater flush wand or hose attachment
White vinegar for deep cleaning
A bucket or container to catch draining water
Safety goggles and gloves for protection

While you might need a few other specific tools for your particular water heater, having these items on hand will streamline the cleaning process and help ensure safety and efficiency as you work.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power and Water Supply

Safety is paramount when working with your water heater. That’s why you should always start by turning off the power supply. If you own an electric water heater, you’ll need to switch off the breaker at the electrical panel. If you own a gas one, be sure to turn the gas valve off. Next, shut off the water supply to the heater to prevent further water from entering the tank while you flush it.

Step 3: Relieve Pressure from the System

Relieving pressure from the water heater is an important step to avoid potential burns or injury. Open a hot water tap inside your RV to allow steam and pressure to escape from the system. This step ensures that pressure doesn’t build up when you remove the drain plug or anode rod.

Step 4: Drain the Water Heater

Locate the drain plug or anode rod at the bottom of your water heater. Use a socket wrench to carefully remove it, allowing water to flow out into your bucket or container. Be prepared for the water to be hot and ensure your safety goggles and gloves are on during this step. Draining the water clears out loose sediment and prepares the tank for a more thorough cleaning.

Step 5: Flush the Tank

Using a water heater flush wand or hose attachment, rinse the inside of the tank thoroughly. Insert the wand through the opening where you removed the drain plug or anode rod. Move it around to spray water in different directions, helping dislodge any remaining sediment stuck inside the tank. Continue flushing until no more sentiment or dirty water is coming out.

Pouring white vinegar into a small ingredient bowl.

Step 6: Deep Clean With Vinegar

While the flush likely got the job done, it’s always wise to go for a deeper clean every so often. You can do this by filling the water heater tank with a mixture of white vinegar and water. The vinegar is included to help dissolve any remaining mineral build-up. Allow this solution to sit in the tank for a few hours. Afterward, drain the tank again and flush it with clean water. This thorough cleaning process helps maintain the efficiency of your water heater.

Step 7: Clean the Heating Element (if Applicable)

If your RV water heater has a removable heating element, consider cleaning it as well. Carefully extract the element according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean it with a gentle brush and white vinegar to remove any mineral deposits. Once cleaned, replace the heating element securely.

Step 8: Reassemble and Refill

Once the tank is clean, replace the drain plug or anode rod. Ensure it is tightened securely to prevent leaks. Turn on the water supply and allow the tank to refill. Check for any leaks around the drain plug or heating element as the tank fills. After confirming there are no leaks, restore power to the water heater. For gas heaters, reignite the pilot light if necessary.

Up close shot of a clear water drop with ripples.

Maintenance Tips for Your RV Water Heater

Of course, knowing how to flush and clean your RV’s water heater is only half the battle. In order to best maintain your water heater’s speed and performance over time, it’s important to adopt a few key maintenance practices. First, make it a habit to flush your water heater at least twice a year. If you travel often or use hard water, you might need to do it more frequently, but two times is usually enough. Doing this regularly helps prevent sediment build-up and prolongs the life of your water heater. Additionally, inspecting the anode rod annually is crucial, as it plays a vital role in preventing rust and corrosion within the tank. Replace it when it is more than 50 percent worn to ensure effective protection and longevity of your water heater.

If you frequently find yourself in areas with hard water, consider using a water softener to minimize mineral deposits, which can reduce the need for cleanings and help maintain efficient operation. It’s also advisable to regularly inspect your water heater and associated plumbing for any signs of leaks. Addressing small leaks promptly can prevent larger issues and potential water damage. By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance practices, you can ensure that your RV water heater remains in optimal condition, providing reliable hot water throughout your adventures.

What To Do if the Water Heater Has Reached Its Limit

If flushing and cleaning has not solved your issues, your unit might be near the end of its life cycle. In this case, replacing your water heater may be your best option. When searching for a new one, start by assessing your needs; consider the capacity and type of water heater that will best serve your water consumption needs in your RV, and decide between tankless or traditional tank models based on your space and usage patterns.

Next, research replacement options by looking for reputable brands and models that fit your criteria, ensuring energy efficiency and effectiveness. Reading user reviews and consulting RV forums can provide valuable insights.

Before making a purchase, measure the space where your existing water heater is installed to ensure the new unit will fit comfortably and is compatible with your RV’s system. After selecting an RV water heater replacement, buy from a trusted supplier. Depending on your mechanical skills, you can either follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions yourself or hire a professional to ensure safe and proper installation.

Finally, properly dispose of your old water heater according to local regulations, as many areas have specific guidelines for handling and disposing of large appliances due to environmental concerns. By following these steps, you can replace a nonfunctional water heater and continue enjoying the convenience of hot water throughout your travels.