Atwood Water Heater Relay Wiring Diagram

Atwood water heaters are a popular choice among RV owners due to their efficient operation and reliability in providing hot water. The Atwood water heater relay is an essential component that helps to regulate the flow of electricity to the heater. In this article, we will explore the wiring diagram of the Atwood water heater relay and provide useful information on how to install and troubleshoot it.

What is an Atwood Water Heater Relay?

An Atwood water heater relay is an electrical device that controls the flow of electricity to the water heater. It helps to regulate the temperature of the water by turning the heater on and off as needed. The relay is typically located inside the control panel of the water heater and is connected to the thermostat and other electrical components.

The Atwood water heater relay is designed to handle high amounts of current, making it an essential safety feature in any RV water heating system. It helps to prevent overheating and other potential hazards that can occur when the electrical current is not properly regulated.

Wiring Diagram of Atwood Water Heater Relay

The Atwood water heater relay is a simple device that can be easily installed by following the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer. The wiring diagram consists of several components, including the thermostat, relay, and power supply. Here is a simple wiring diagram of the Atwood water heater relay:

Component Wire Color Wire Gauge Function
Thermostat Red 14 gauge Sends signal to the relay when the water temperature drops below the set point.
Relay Black 10 gauge Turns the water heater on and off based on the signal received from the thermostat.
Power Supply White 12 gauge Provides the necessary electrical power to the water heater and relay.

It is important to note that the wire colors and gauge may vary depending on the specific model of the Atwood water heater. Always refer to the manufacturer’s wiring diagram and instructions when installing or troubleshooting the water heater relay.

How to Install Atwood Water Heater Relay

Installing an Atwood water heater relay is a straightforward process that can be completed by following these steps:

Step 1: Turn off the Power Supply

Before beginning any electrical work, it is important to turn off the power supply to the water heater. This can be done by switching off the circuit breaker or unplugging the power cord from the outlet.

Step 2: Open the Control Panel

Locate the control panel of the water heater and remove the screws that hold it in place. Carefully open the panel and identify the thermostat and relay.

Step 3: Connect the Wires

Using the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer, connect the wires of the thermostat, relay, and power supply. Make sure that the wire connections are tight and secure.

Step 4: Close the Control Panel

Once all the wires are connected, close the control panel and secure it with the screws. Make sure that there are no loose wires or exposed electrical components.

Step 5: Turn on the Power Supply

Turn on the power supply to the water heater and monitor the operation of the relay. If there are any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section below.

Atwood Water Heater Relay Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with the Atwood water heater relay, follow these troubleshooting tips:

No Hot Water

If the water is not heating up, check the thermostat and relay connections. Make sure that they are properly connected and have not come loose. You may also need to check the power supply to ensure that it is providing enough power to the water heater and relay.

Overheating

If the water is overheating, it could be due to a faulty thermostat or relay. Check the wiring connections and replace any faulty components as needed.

Electrical Shorts

If you notice any electrical shorts, turn off the power supply immediately and inspect the wiring connections. Look for any signs of damage or wear and replace any damaged wires or components.

Conclusion

The Atwood water heater relay is an essential component that helps to regulate the flow of electricity to the water heater. By following the wiring diagram and instructions provided by the manufacturer, you can easily install and troubleshoot any issues with the relay. Always exercise caution and turn off the power supply before working on any electrical components of the water heater.