Restarting a water heater in your Enlighten trailer is a crucial skill for ensuring a comfortable camping experience. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, helping you troubleshoot common issues and get your hot water flowing again.

Understanding Your Enlighten Trailer Water Heater

Enlighten trailers typically come equipped with dual-power water heaters that can run on both propane and electricity. This versatility allows you to use the most convenient power source available at your campsite.

Steps to Restart Your Water Heater

1. Check Power Supply: Ensure your trailer is connected to a power source. If using propane, verify that your tank is full and the valve is open.
2. Locate the Control Panel: In most Enlighten trailers, the water heater switches are located in the bathroom. Look for two switches: one with a lightning bolt symbol (for electric) and another with a flame symbol (for propane).
3. Reset the System: Turn off both the electric and propane switches. This step is crucial for allowing the system to reset fully.
4. Wait and Cool: Allow the water in the tank to cool down. This may take 15-30 minutes, depending on the current water temperature.
5. Restart the Heater: Once cooled, turn on your preferred power source by flipping the corresponding switch. If you’re at a campsite with electrical hookups, using the electric option is often more efficient.
6. Check for Ignition: Listen for the sound of the water heater igniting. If using propane, you may hear a slight “whoosh” as the gas ignites.
7. Verify Operation: After a few minutes, check a hot water tap to see if the water is heating up. It may take 20-30 minutes for the water to reach full temperature.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your water heater doesn’t restart properly, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Reset Button Tripped

Many RV water heaters have reset buttons both inside and outside the unit. If either has tripped:

1. Locate the reset button (usually red) on the exterior access panel of your water heater.
2. Press the button firmly to reset the system.

No Ignition

If you don’t hear the heater igniting:

1. Check your propane supply and connections.
2. Ensure the gas valve is fully open.
3. Inspect the ignition source for any loose wires or damage.

Overheating Issues

If the water heater keeps shutting off due to overheating:

1. The thermostat may be faulty. Consider having it checked or replaced.
2. Ensure the water heater isn’t running for extended periods unnecessarily.

Maintenance Tips

To prevent future issues and ensure efficient operation:

1. Regular Checks: Inspect your water heater connections and valves at the start of each camping season.
2. Clean the Burner Tube: If using propane, occasionally clean the burner tube to prevent blockages.
3. Anode Rod Replacement: Check and replace the anode rod as needed to prevent tank corrosion.
4. Winter Preparation: Properly winterize your water heater to prevent damage during cold months.

By following these steps and maintaining your water heater regularly, you can ensure a reliable supply of hot water in your Enlighten trailer. Remember, if you’re uncomfortable performing any of these tasks or if problems persist, it’s always best to consult with a professional RV technician.

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