I think I burned up my electric hot water heater

[Abnmarine]

Pulled the Cameo out of hibernation and set it up at the campground. I turned the two valves open for the bypass not realizing there was a third valve. Flipped the electric hot water heater switch and went about my business. About an hour later I checked and still didn't have hot water. Ran the gas heater and still nothing so I began to investigate. I then found the third valve and opened it. This just happened to be the valve to allow the tank to fill.

Now the water won't heat in electric mode, only gas. I've checked the breaker and it's okay. Did I burn out the electric element?

[Bjsrv]

The electric element will burn out in 30 seconds if energized without any water present. You can replace the element fairly easily depending on the make, model and location of your water heater.

[bdpreece]

It only takes about 20 seconds to burn out an electric element if it is not submerged in water. I got to replace one last year. Actually it is a rather simple task if you can reach it. In my case I needed at least six inch longer arms and ended up cutting a hole in the bottom of my washer/dryer cabinet in order to access it.

[Abnmarine]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bjsrv The electric element will burn out in 30 seconds if energized without any water present. You can replace the element fairly easily depending on the make, model and location of your water heater.

Do you acess the element from the outside or inside of the RV? It's a 12 gal. gas/electric water heater with DSI. I'll have to check to see the model and manufacture.

[Abnmarine]

My HWH is located under the kitchen sink and appears to be accessed easily.

[Bjsrv]

If is a suburban you access the 120v element from the outside. If it's an atwood the element is on the rear under a cover.