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Topic: Water heater thermal fuses (Read 613 times) previous topic - next topic

Water heater thermal fuses

This repair actually took place last week.  While at Quartzsite our water heater quit working.  The water heater didn't seem to be getting 12 volts.  Several of the guys from nearby coaches came over to help (Karl, Jeff and Kent) and found the problem in short order!  Yes, there is strength in numbers!  The problem was a defective thermal cut off link.  See below.  Not sure why it blew (it did not appear to overheat), but I did get some water in its plastic tube cover a couple of weeks back while draining the tank.  Lesson learned, I will carry one of these with me from now on.  They cost about $20 for two.  Thankfully, Kent had a spare.

George

P.S.  Photos from the web
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George Hatfield

  Never ever use World Line Motors of Nacogdoches for service!

Re: Water heater thermal fuses

Reply #1 –
Quote from: George Hatfield –
... The problem was a defective thermal cut off link.  See below.  Not sure why it blew (it did not appear to overheat), ...
George, We started blowing thermal fuses on a water heater in our SOB coach. The water heater was OK near sea level, but started blowing fuses at altitudes above 4000'. Problem turned out to be dauber nests in the flue that takes hot air through the heater. Apparently the flue would breathe with enough air, but would blow back enough heat to knock out the thermal fuse at higher altitude. The fuse never appeared to be burned.

Thermal fuses may fail due to an obstruction in the flue. Altitude may make a difference.

It is indeed great to have nearby friends with knowledge and replacement parts.  :D
J D Stevens
1997 U295 CAI 36' Build #5085
2002 Subaru Outback
Motorcade 16869
Bellville, TX

Re: Water heater thermal fuses

Reply #2 –
I hope this helps someone.
I have purchased those thermal fuses for $.98 cents each from Digi-Key Electronics.
They matched the thermal rating of my Atwood heater to with in 4 degrees, close enough.
You have to do your own crimping of connector ends which is no problem.
Donald & Cheryl
1999 U295 36'
2006 Saturn Vue Toad
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