Water Heater
The Aurora 16BHX has a 6-gallon Suburban water heater that can run on propane, electric (120V), or both simultaneously.
| Mode | Requires | Heat time |
|---|---|---|
| Propane | Open propane tanks | ~20 min |
| Electric | Shore power (30A) | ~30 min |
| Both | Propane + shore power | ~15 min |
Running both modes simultaneously heats water fastest and is fine to do.
Turning on (propane mode)
Section titled “Turning on (propane mode)”- Make sure propane tanks are open.
- Locate the water heater switch on the interior control panel (labeled DSI or Water Heater).
- Flip the switch to ON.
- You’ll hear a click as the igniter fires — the burner should light within 5–10 seconds.
- The indicator light will stay on when the burner is active.
Turning on (electric mode)
Section titled “Turning on (electric mode)”- Make sure shore power is connected.
- Locate the electric water heater switch on the control panel (may be a separate switch labeled “Water Heater - Electric”).
- Flip to ON.
- No sound — the electric element heats silently.
Turning off
Section titled “Turning off”- Flip the switch(es) back to OFF.
- Turn off at least 30 minutes before winterizing or draining the tank.
Bypass valve (for winterizing)
Section titled “Bypass valve (for winterizing)”The water heater has a bypass valve that routes antifreeze around the tank during winterizing. This prevents wasting antifreeze filling the 6-gallon tank.
See Winterizing guide for full instructions.
Anode rod
Section titled “Anode rod”The water heater has a magnesium anode rod that protects the tank from corrosion. Replace it every 1–2 years or when it’s less than 50% of its original size.
- Location: Outside of camper, on the water heater access panel (driver’s side).
- Use a 1-1/16” socket to remove.
- Drain the tank before replacing.
Troubleshooting
Section titled “Troubleshooting”| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t ignite (propane) | No propane / tanks closed | Check tanks, open valves |
| Won’t ignite (propane) | Air in lines | Try igniting 2–3 times to purge air |
| No hot water (electric) | No shore power / tripped breaker | Check power and breaker panel |
| Water smells like sulfur | Anode rod degrading | Replace anode rod |
| Water heater leaks | Loose drain plug or fittings | Tighten drain plug, check fittings |
| Pressure relief valve dripping | Overpressure or faulty valve | Let tank cool, replace valve if needed |