Atwood 91365 Circuit Board Kit for RV Water Heaters - Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Atwood 91365 Circuit Board Kit. This kit is designed to replace the Atwood 93851 control board and is compatible with various Atwood Electronic Water Heater Models. It controls both the LP (Liquid Propane) ignition and the Electric Element, ensuring efficient and reliable water heating in your RV.

Figure 1: Atwood 91365 Circuit Board Kit

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with electrical and gas appliances. Failure to follow these instructions could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.

• Disconnect Power: Before performing any installation, maintenance, or troubleshooting, ensure all power to the water heater (both 12V DC and 120V AC) and the LP gas supply are completely disconnected.
• Qualified Personnel: Installation and service should ideally be performed by a qualified service technician.
• Gas Leaks: After working on gas connections, always check for gas leaks using a soapy water solution. Never use an open flame.
• Water Pressure: Ensure the water heater tank is full and purged of air before applying heat.
• Hot Surfaces: Water heater components can become very hot. Allow sufficient time for cooling before handling.

3. Compatibility

The Atwood 91365 Circuit Board Kit is a direct replacement for the Atwood 93851 control board. It is compatible with the following Atwood Electronic Water Heater Models:

• GCH6A-10E
• GC6AA-10E
• GC10A-4E
• GCH10A-4E
• XT Series
• G9-EXT
• G16-EXT
• GE9-EXT
• GE16-EXT
• GEH9-EXT
• GEH16-EXT
• WH-6GEA
• WH-9GEA

It also replaces part numbers 91226, 93305, 91346, and AT93851.

Video 1: Overview of RV Water Heater Parts, including compatibility information for various models.

4. Key Features

• Dual Control: This combo board controls both the LP (Liquid Propane) ignition and the Electric Element for versatile heating options.
• Direct Replacement: Designed as the newest model to directly replace the Atwood 93851.
• High-Quality Construction: Built with durable components for reliable performance.

5. Installation Guide

Follow these steps carefully to install your new Atwood 91365 Circuit Board Kit. Refer to your water heater's specific service manual for detailed diagrams and additional safety precautions.

5.1. Preparation

1. Disconnect Power and Gas: Before performing any installation, maintenance, or troubleshooting, ensure all power to the RV and the water heater (both 12V DC and 120V AC) and the LP gas supply are completely disconnected.
2. Access Panel: Open the exterior access panel to your RV water heater.
3. Document Wiring: Take clear photos of the existing wiring connections to the old circuit board. This will serve as a reference during reinstallation.
4. Drain Water (if necessary): If replacing other components or if there's a leak, you may need to drain some water from the water heater tank.

5.2. Removing the Old Circuit Board

5. Disconnect Wires: Carefully disconnect all wires from the old circuit board. Note their positions if not already documented.
6. Remove Mounting Screws: Locate and remove the screws securing the old circuit board to its mounting bracket.
7. Remove Board: Gently remove the old circuit board.

5.3. Installing the New Circuit Board

8. Position New Board: Place the new Atwood 91365 circuit board into position, aligning the mounting holes.
9. Secure Board: Secure the new board with the mounting screws.
10. Connect Wires: Refer to your photos and the wiring diagram (if available in your water heater manual) to reconnect all wires to the new circuit board. Ensure all connections are secure.
11. Install Adapter (if needed): If your water heater model requires an adapter (e.g., for older Atwood 93309 edge pin connectors), install it according to the kit instructions. The 91365 kit typically includes necessary components or is designed for direct fit.

Figure 2: Atwood 91365 Circuit Board with included adapter for certain models.

5.4. Post-Installation

11. Restore Water and Gas: Open the water supply valve to the RV and the water heater. Open the LP gas supply valve.
12. Check for Leaks: Inspect all water and gas connections for leaks.
13. Restore Power: Turn on the 12V DC and 120V AC power to the RV and the water heater.
14. Test Operation: Proceed to the "Operating Instructions" section to test the water heater.

Video 2: Installation overview of the 91365 RV Water Heater Control Circuit Board Kit.

Video 3: Detailed installation steps for the 91365 RV Water Heater Ignition Control Board.

6. Operating Instructions

The Atwood 91365 circuit board supports both LP gas and electric heating modes. Ensure the water heater tank is full before operating.

6.1. LP Gas Operation

1. Ensure the LP gas supply is open and purged of air.
2. Turn on the "LP Gas" switch on your RV's control panel.
3. The water heater will attempt to ignite. You should hear the igniter clicking and the burner firing.
4. If ignition fails after several attempts, the fault light on your control panel may illuminate. Refer to the Troubleshooting section.

6.2. Electric Operation (120V AC)

5. Ensure the RV is connected to a 120V AC power source (shore power or generator).
6. Turn on the "120V AC" or "Electric" switch on your RV's control panel.
7. The electric heating element will begin to heat the water. This mode is typically quieter than gas operation.
8. If the electric element does not heat, check for tripped breakers or refer to the Troubleshooting section.

Note: Both LP gas and electric modes can be used simultaneously for faster water heating.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and efficient operation of your water heater and circuit board.

• Inspect Wiring: Periodically check all wiring connections to the circuit board for tightness and signs of corrosion or damage.
• Clean Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are clean and free of debris.
• Check for Water Leaks: Regularly inspect the water heater area for any signs of water leaks, especially around the pressure relief valve and plumbing connections.
• Anode Rod: Inspect and replace the anode rod annually or as recommended by your water heater manufacturer to prevent tank corrosion.
• Winterization: Follow your RV and water heater manufacturer's guidelines for proper winterization to prevent freeze damage.

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your water heater and the 91365 circuit board.

8.1. Water Heater Not Heating (Gas or Electric)

• Check Power/Gas: Ensure both 12V DC and 120V AC power are supplied (for electric mode) and LP gas is open (for gas mode).
• Fault Light On: If the fault light on your RV's control panel is illuminated, it indicates an issue. Try cycling the water heater switch off and on. If it persists, proceed to check thermostats.
• Thermostat/ECO: The water heater uses two fixed temperature thermostats: one for normal operation (60°C/140°F) and an Emergency Cut-Off (ECO) for overheating protection (82°C/180°F). If the main thermostat fails, the ECO will eventually trip, leading to very hot water and then no heat.
• Thermal Cut-Off: A thermal cut-off fuse may blow if the water overheats, disabling the heating element. This is a safety feature.
• Ignition Probe: For gas operation, ensure the ignition probe is clean and correctly positioned.

8.2. Water is Too Hot or Too Cold

• Too Hot: This often indicates a faulty main thermostat (60°C/140°F) allowing the water to heat beyond its normal set point until the ECO (82°C/180°F) trips. Replacement of the thermostat is likely required.
• Too Cold: If the water eventually becomes cold after being hot, it suggests the ECO has tripped, disabling the electric element. This can also be caused by a faulty main thermostat.

8.3. Water Leaks

• Pressure Relief Valve: Check the pressure relief valve for leaks. If it's leaking from its threads, it may need to be re-sealed with thread sealant. If leaking from the spigot, the valve itself may need replacement.
• Plumbing Connections: Inspect all water line connections for tightness.

Video 4: Comprehensive guide on diagnosing and replacing the RV water heater circuit board and thermostats.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

Atwood is committed to providing quality products and excellent customer service. For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Atwood's customer support directly. They provide prompt support in diagnosing and resolving technical problems.

Refer to your product packaging or the official Atwood website for the most current contact information and warranty details.