Suburban Advantage SAW6DEL 6 Gallon RV Water Heater Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your Suburban Advantage SAW6DEL 6 Gallon RV Water Heater. This unit is designed as a direct replacement for many competitive 6-gallon aluminum tank water heaters, minimizing the need for RV sidewall modifications. It features a porcelain-lined steel tank for durability, Direct Spark Ignition (DSI) for LP Gas operation, and an Incoloy Electric Element with a 12VDC relay for electric heating.

Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation, operation, or maintenance procedures. Retain this manual for future reference.

Image 1.1: Exterior view of the Suburban Advantage SAW6DEL 6 Gallon RV Water Heater. This image shows the access panel and vent.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can cause property damage, injury, or death. Read the installation, operating, and maintenance instructions thoroughly before installing or servicing this equipment.

IMPORTANT: Gas appliances should be installed and/or serviced by a qualified service technician. Electrical connections should be performed by a qualified electrician.

Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. Setup and Installation

The Suburban Advantage SAW6DEL is designed for direct fit replacement, often requiring no modifications to the RV's sidewall cut-out, interior cabinetry depth, or major plumbing connections when replacing similar 6-gallon aluminum tank units.

3.1 Pre-Installation Checks

• Verify that the new water heater dimensions match the existing opening.
• Ensure all necessary tools and materials are available.
• Turn off all power (12VDC and 120VAC) and gas supply to the RV before beginning installation.

3.2 Mounting

• Carefully slide the water heater into the designated opening.
• Secure the unit using appropriate fasteners. The existing heater door may be compatible with this unit.

3.3 Plumbing Connections

• Connect the hot and cold water lines to the corresponding ports on the water heater. Use Teflon tape or pipe sealant on threaded connections to prevent leaks.
• Ensure all connections are tight but do not overtighten.

3.4 Gas and Electrical Connections

• Connect the LP gas line to the water heater's gas inlet. Perform a leak test on all gas connections using a suitable leak detection solution.
• Connect the 12VDC and 120VAC wiring according to the wiring diagram provided with the unit. Note that wiring colors may differ from previous units; consult the specific wiring instructions for the SAW6DEL model.
• Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated.

4. Operating Instructions

The SAW6DEL water heater can operate on LP Gas, electric power, or both simultaneously for faster recovery.

4.1 Filling the Water Heater

1. Ensure the drain plug (anode rod) is securely installed.
2. Open a hot water faucet inside the RV.
3. Turn on the RV's fresh water pump or connect to city water supply.
4. Allow water to flow from the hot water faucet until all air is purged and a steady stream of water is present. Close the faucet.

4.2 LP Gas Operation (Direct Spark Ignition)

• Ensure the RV's LP gas supply is turned on.
• Locate the gas ON/OFF switch for the water heater, typically inside the RV. This switch may be discreetly placed.
• Flip the switch to the ON position. The Direct Spark Ignition system will attempt to light the burner. A red fault light may illuminate if ignition fails; turn the switch OFF and then ON again to reset and retry.
• The LP Gas heating provides approximately 10,000 BTU input, resulting in a recovery rate of 14.14 gallons per hour.

4.3 Electric Element Operation

• Ensure the RV is connected to a 120VAC power source (shore power or generator).
• Locate the electric ON/OFF switch for the water heater, typically inside the RV.
• Flip the switch to the ON position. The Incoloy Electric Element will begin heating the water.
• The electric element provides a recovery rate of 6.10 gallons per hour.

4.4 Combined Operation

For the fastest hot water recovery, operate both the LP Gas and Electric Element simultaneously. This combined operation yields a recovery rate of 20.24 gallons per hour.

5. Maintenance

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

5.1 Anode Rod Inspection and Replacement

• The anode rod protects the porcelain-lined steel tank from corrosion. It also serves as the drain plug.
• Inspect the anode rod annually or more frequently depending on water conditions. Replace it when it has corroded to approximately 25% of its original size.
• To access, ensure the water heater is drained and cool. Unscrew the anode rod from the tank.

5.2 Draining and Winterization

• Before freezing temperatures, the water heater must be completely drained to prevent damage.
• Turn off all power and gas to the unit.
• Open a hot water faucet inside the RV to relieve pressure.
• Remove the anode rod to drain the tank. Be aware that due to the anode rod's position, the tank may not fully drain by gravity alone. Ensure your RV's plumbing system allows for back-draining or use compressed air to clear remaining water from the supply lines.
• After draining, reinstall the anode rod with new Teflon tape on the threads.

5.3 Pressure Relief Valve

Periodically check the pressure relief valve for proper operation and any signs of leakage. If the valve is leaking or appears faulty, it should be replaced by a qualified technician.

5.4 Electric Element Replacement

If the electric heating element requires replacement, note that its location may necessitate removing the entire water heater unit from the RV for access. This procedure should be performed by a qualified technician.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues. For complex problems, contact a qualified service technician.

• No Hot Water (Gas):
  • Check LP gas supply and ensure tanks are not empty.
  • Verify the gas ON/OFF switch is in the ON position.
  • If a fault light is on, turn the gas switch OFF then ON to reset the ignition sequence.
• No Hot Water (Electric):
  • Ensure RV is connected to 120VAC power.
  • Check the electric ON/OFF switch is in the ON position.
  • Verify circuit breakers for the water heater are not tripped.
• Water Leakage:
  • Inspect all plumbing connections for tightness.
  • Check the anode rod for proper installation and sealing.
  • Examine the pressure relief valve for drips or continuous flow. Replace if faulty.
• Slow Heating:
  • Ensure both gas and electric heating modes are engaged for maximum recovery.
  • Check for adequate gas pressure and electrical supply.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

This Suburban water heater is backed by a 2-year limited warranty. The steel tank is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact Suburban customer support.

9. Customer Support

For technical assistance, replacement parts, or warranty claims, please contact Suburban customer support. Have your model number (5322A) and serial number ready when contacting support.