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Forest River RV Hot Water Heater Not Working (Troubleshooting)

• July 25, 2023 /
• RV Water Heater /
• By James V.

Hot water is one of those features that help make life a little easier to live. When you have a working water heater life in an RV or trailer is not so bad. But when that water heater stops working, then RV life is not so grand anymore.

One of the sources for the Forest River water heater not working will be the fuel source. You could have run out of propane, forgot to turn the propane tank to on, or some other problem. Check your fuel source to make sure nothing is wrong.

To learn more about this topic and what to do about it, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about so you can repair the easy problems and leave the complicated issues or technological components to a technician.

Troubleshooting a Forest River RV Water Heater

Searching for the problem in your water heater can be simple or it can be a bit difficult. With the electric models or the electric side of a propane water heater, all you need is a multimeter to start.

This meter will help you determine if power is getting through to the appliance or if there are enough volts to operate the electronic ignition. Once you see that there is no power, you can check the connections, the wires, and cables to see if they are loose or damaged.

Then you can check the fuses, the breakers, and the battery to see if they are blown, tripped, or out of power. With propane, it is a little more difficult because an obstruction can happen anywhere along the gas line.

So can a leak making them both hard and very time-consuming to find. The good news is that there are some common sources that will help make your search easier and allow you to troubleshoot the problem without calling in a technician.

The technician will lonely be needed if there is a problem with a control or operating board and other more complicated components. Most repairs you should be able to do on your own.

What Brand Of Water Heater Does Forest River Use?

This is a very good question. As you know Forest River does have subsidiaries that also make RVs and trailers. The manuals for all of these RV-making companies are individually listed at this link .

Under the Forest River category, you will find the different types of RVs and trailers that the company makes. Once you click on that, you have to pick the model of your RV or trailer.

That click will take you to the manual web page and you have to click on the appliance category to get to the water heater manual. The reason we say this is because while the RVs we checked for water heater brands for the Forest River arm of the company may say Suburban, other Forest River companies use a variety of water heater manufacturers.

Some are not well known while others would include Dometic and Atwood. You would have to check the brand of your RV as well as the model and style of your RV to find the answer to this question.

Forest River RV Water Heater Not Working

Because water heaters are basically the same no matter which brand makes them, you will find that they all have common sources that keep them from working right. Here are some of the non-electric problems that can interfere with you getting enough hot water at shower time:

1 . Fuel supply- you may have run out of propane or the manual gas valve is closed or there are other problems with the fuel supply. This is a common problem that happens to everyone at some time.

2. Fuel line obstruction- hard to find as the gas lines are not always in easy-to-access routes. Obstructions can comprise of just about anything including nests from small animals.

3. Water supply- you may have forgotten to close the bypass valve and there is no water entering the water heater. Check to make sure the valves are in the right position before checking other possible sources.

4. The ignitor is not in the right position- this is not an electrical problem even though the ignitor is operated with electricity. It is easy for it to move out of position due to the bumps and holes you hit as you travel. Road vibration may move this part as well.

5. The burner is dirty or clogged- dirt and dust can foul up the burner very easily. It would need to be cleaned and there are a few steps to do this correctly, including shutting off any power to the water heater.

6. The thermocouple may have problems- dirt and dust will affect this part but it may not be the only source for why it is not working.

Forest River Water Heater Not Working On Electric

Like the previous section, there are plenty of sources for this problem.

1. No power- the battery may have lost power, you lost shore power, the fuses blew or the breaker tripped. Check all of these parts to make sure your electric water heater has power. This needs to be done for a gas water heater as electricity is needed to light the gas.

2 . The thermostat may be bad- This is a part that is also electrically run. When it goes bad it may send a wrong signal to the control panel or just not send any signals to it.

Either way, your water heater will not turn on when this part is bad. Replacement is your only option.

3. The element is bad- the heating element runs on electricity and if it goes bad, it will not generate any heat to heat up the water. Replacing the element is your only option.

4. Bad connections- the wires may have worked themselves loose or they were damaged in some way. If you have checked all the other possible sources, trace the wires from the water heater back to their connections to see if they are loose or damaged.

Tighten or replace the wires and double-check to make sure the connections are not corroded.

5. Hi-Limit/ECO Button Needs To Be Reset- another electrically powered component. If you forgot to hit this button to reset your water heater, then the appliance probably will not work

The final reason for this section, though there may be more sources like the control panel, is the water heater itself has worn out or been damaged. Both sources can wreak havoc on your hot water needs.

Forest River Water Heater Fault Light

On propane water heaters, you will find the DSI fault light right next to the on switch. It lights up when you turn the switch to light the propane. Then if everything is working normally, the light will go out as soon as the propane is lit.

If the light stays on, then the propane has not been lit and you have a problem in the system somewhere. One of the sources we did not mention above for the water heater not working is that air may be in the gas line.

You would have to bleed the propane line of the air and then see if the water heater will light up. Once you turn the switch on to light the propane, you should hear some clicking noises. That is the ignitor trying to light the gas.

Most companies that make water heaters give you about 3 chances to light the gas. After the third time, the system goes into lock out and you have to reset the system. The reset process is just shutting the water heater off, letting the gas clear, and then turning it on again.

Forest River Water Heater Element Replacement

To find these parts and replacing them is not a difficult task. The elements will be on sale just about anywhere the water heater and RV parts are sold. You just have to know the brand of your water heater to get the right element.

If you have a pure Forest River brand RV, that is usually a Suburban water heater so you would need to look for where Suburban parts are sold. You can check their website to see if they sell directly to the public or not.

There is supposed to be a special wrench made to remove the element from the water heater. They are not supposed to be that expensive. The same tool will tighten the replacement element once it is inserted into the water heater.

When you go to do this task, make sure to shut the electricity and the gas off before you start. Then either open a faucet inside your RV to drain any hot water from the system

The last thing you want to have to happen is for hot water to come out and burn you. You also do not want to lose any gas or be shocked by any electrical current. Make sure to take the proper safety precautions so you are not injured or worse.

Forest River Water Heater Diagram

The manual for the Suburban water heater has some great diagrams. A couple we will reproduce here for your convenience. The manual we looked at was for the FR3 2024 model and it is supposed to be for all Suburban water heater models.

Keep in mind that your water heater from Suburban may be older and have a different design:

There are electrical diagrams included in the manual

Simply click here to get to the manual for this specific RV model and Suburban water heater. You may have to do some searching for manuals for older Forest River models.

The Forest River seems to only publish manuals back to 2015 on their website. You should contact the company for manuals for RVs and trailers older than that cut-off date.

The same will apply to any subsidiary brand that Forest River owns. Those brands are Coachman, Dynamax, Shasta, Prime Time, and Palomino. When you go to the manual page, all you have to look for are the words water heater and you will find the brand installed in your specific RV or trailer.

Finding a Forest River Water Heater Replacement

The first thing to know about this task is that you cannot buy directly from Forest River. Their replacement parts are usually handled by their dealers and authorized repair centers. This can make buying the parts you need a bit expensive.

The good news is that you can try to see if Suburban sells directly to the public. If so you can start your search with that company. But you should be able to find Suburban water heaters and their parts at different marketplaces as well as RV parts and accessory dealers.

Suburban supplies water heaters to more companies than just Forest River so the replacement parts or water heaters should be readily available throughout America and Canada.

Some of the outlets and marketplaces can are Amazon, eBay, Suburban rv parts, and many more. A good local search on the internet should produce dealers or replacement water heater outlets near you.

The best thing to do when you get your list is to do some comparison shopping. Camping World may be the most expensive outlet you may come across. But parts should be readily available even used ones.

Some Additional Words

No matter the RV brand, water heaters will eventually break down and cause you some grief. To get the hot water flowing again, you just need to know where to look for the source of the problem.

If you cannot find the problem or have fixed some yet the water heater still does not work, you may need to call in a technician. There is nothing wrong with that move as they have a few tricks up their sleeves and have seen just about every problem water heaters throw their way.

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Forest River Salem Review

Built to maximize efficiency, The Forest River Salem 22RBS offers functional usage of every inch of space. It has proved to be the perfect couple's coach by including flexible common spaces and multifunctional storage options. 

It's loved by many RVers because of its features and ease of use, and more importantly it all comes at an affordable price tag.

If you're looking for a travel trailer for you and your family, the Forest River Salem 22RBS might be for you. We have reviewed it thoroughly, pointing out its unique features, and usage in detail so you can be sure you understand what you're getting.

As well as reviewing the trailer, we've also included a section on what could be improved with the Forest River Salem trailer. And have also included a comparison overview with similar trailers.

So, with that being said, let's find out why it's such a popular travel trailer ...

Forest River Salem 22RBS

Forest River Salem vs. Wildwood

Wildwood also belongs to Forest River like Salem and consists of a similar floor plan. The price point is also nearly the same. Some other ways they can be compared have been highlighted below;

Items such as the furnace, refrigerator, and tires are exactly the same in both models. They require very little energy in both models, which makes them equally efficient for making long trips. 

Forest River Salem Travel Trailer FAQs

Investing in a good trailer requires a lot of background research. To save your time and get you covered on all aspects, we have answered some of the frequently asked questions below; 

Is Forest River a Good Brand?

Forest River holds a reputation in the RV industry, known for its ability to provide trailers for the most functional needs at an affordable price point. Ever since its initiation, it has been able to offer an endless variety of trailers consisting of tiny pop-ups for camping to huge fifth-wheels designed for longer trips. 

It has recently introduced flagship Class A coaches, innovating frequently and learning from its setbacks to come up with even better, updated designs. It is one of the largest trailer dealers in America, having multiple subsidiaries operating under its name.  

New 2024 Forest River RV Salem Platinum 29VBUDX

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Description, 29vbudx floorplan.

Forest River Salem Platinum travel trailer 29VBUDX highlights:

• Private Bunkhouse
• Panoramic Windows
• Exterior Camp Kitchen
• Fiberglass Exterior

It won't be long before your family asks you to plan another trip with this Salem Platinum travel trailer! The 18' awning  lets you have fun playing games outside while you stay protected from the sun or rain, and the interior will certainly provide loads of excitement with great features. You will appreciate finding an 11 cu. ft. frost free refrigerator and walk-in pantry in the kitchen, a front private bedroom with a custom king bed with Versa Tilt , and a fireplace across from the Versa Lounge which happens to be the ultimate in furniture versatility. Your guests or the kids are sure to love their own space in the private bunkhouse with ample sleeping space!

Enjoy years and years of memories with any one of these Forest River Salem travel trailers! They are built with a Dicor PVC roof membrane , a powder coated I-beam frame, and an aerodynamic front radius profile for an easier tow. The triple seal slide out system prevents water from seeping inside and keeps it outside where it belongs. The Best In Class Value Package includes upgraded designer furniture, seamless countertops with no T-mold, and two zone residential soundbars with FM, Bluetooth, HDMI and USB. You will also appreciate the heated and enclosed Accessi-Belly with removable underbelly panels, the power tongue jack with an LED light, and the designated CPAP storage. Some new upgraded features include: a Versa-Tilt bed , a 60K tankless water heater, upgraded showerhead, and so much more!

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Explore Salem Hemisphere Travel Trailers

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SALEM HEMISPHERE TRAVEL TRAILERS

From luxurious fabrics to rich wood tones, Salem Hemisphere is truly in a class of its own. Plus, you’ll enjoy better gas mileage and a smoother ride with the wind resistant design of the Hemisphere.

2024 Salem Hemisphere Travel Trailers Floorplans

Salem hemisphere hyper-lyte travel trailers.

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Salem Hemisphere Travel Trailers

Specifications Definitions

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum permissible weight, including cargo, fluids, optional equipment and accessories that can be safely supported by a combination of all axles.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)* - is the typical weight of the unit as manufactured at the factory. It includes all weight at the unit’s axle(s) and tongue or pin and LP Gas. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh potable water, additional optional equipment or dealer installed accessories. *Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)** - is the amount of weight available for fresh potable water, cargo, additional optional equipment and accessories. CCC is equal to GVWR minus UVW. Available CCC should accommodate fresh potable water (8.3 lbs per gallon). Before filling the fresh water tank, empty the black and gray tanks to provide for more cargo capacity. **Estimated Average based on standard build optional equipment.

Each Forest River RV is weighed at the manufacturing facility prior to shipping. A label identifying the unloaded vehicle weight of the actual unit and the cargo carrying capacity is applied to every Forest River RV prior to leaving our facilities.

The load capacity of your unit is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading your unit.

May Show Optional Features. Features and Options Subject to Change Without Notice.

2024 Salem Hemisphere Travel Trailers Features & Options

Elevated value package (hyper-lyte travel trailers)(included).

• WeatherShield One Piece Fiberglass Roof - Leading The Charge!
• Square Windows With Built In Shades With Reflecting Thermal-Foil Backing & Painted Hardwood Trim
• Versa-Tilt Power Bed Mechanism - Providing Approximately 14.5” Of Additional Walk-Around Space
• 60K BTU On-Demand Tankless Water Heaters
• 2” Accessory Hitch Receiver
• Good Year Radial Tires With Black Accented Rims

Expedition Package (Hyper-Lyte Travel Trailers)(Included)

• Wide Stance Axle (Approx. 42” Hub to Hub)
• 15K BTU Quiet Cool A/C on a Race Track Duct System
• Enclosed Underbelly With 12V Tank Heaters on all Holding Tanks
• 30” Wide Black Glass Main Entry Door With Window Shade Prep
• Automotive Grade Paint & Gel Coat On Front Cap
• 60” x 80” Beds In All Master Bedrooms
• Outside Kitchen With Griddle, Fridge, & Spray port (22RKHL, 23BHHL, 24RDHL, 25RBHL, 26BHHL, 27RKHL, & 29XBHL)
• 40” LED TV & Furrion Soundbar With FM, Bluetooth, HDMI, & USB (32” TV in 19RBHL & 22RKHL)
• BAL by Norco Industries Chassis: E-Coated Frames & All Fastened Components Are Joined With Huck Fasteners Providing Consistent Clamp Load

Standard Features (Hyper-Lyte Travel Trailers)

• Vacuum Bonded “Aluma Frame” Sidewalls & Floor
• Power Tongue Jack With LED Docking Light
• Outside Shower With Hot & Cold Water
• (4) Storage Bins Included Under Bed
• Extra Large Pass Thru Storage With Slam Latch Baggage Doors & Magnetic Catches
• Electric Awning
• Step Above Aluminium Steps (Main Entry Door)
• Back Up/Observation Camera Prep
• Block Foam Insulation
• 10 CU. FT. (12V) Refrigerator
• Porcelain Toilet
• Prepped For Roof-Mounted Solar Panel & Charge Controller
• Side Mounted Heat Ducts = No Floor Vents
• Black Tank Flush
• Wood Door Casings IPO Plastic Door Casings
• Hidden Hinges On Cabinet Doors
• Built In Laundry Hamper
• Pantry Doors With Glass Inserts & Motion Sensor Lights
• Residential Sized Single Bowl Undermount Sink
• 7-Way “Rain Defence” Plug Holder (Front Frame)
• Nordic Marble Countertops Throughout The Coach & Corresponding Frozen Nordic Backsplash
• Shaded Pet Tether / Security Hook
• Saddle Coloured Wood Cabinetry
• Friction Door Hinges On Entry Door
• LED Awning, Marker & Taillights
• Color-Matched T-Rail On Slide Outs For A Cleaner Aesthetic
• Undermount Spare Tire & Carrier
• Matte Gold Cabinet Hardware
• Lippert On The Go Ladder Prep
• LP Quick Connect

Elevated Value Package (Standard Travel Trailers)(Included)

Expedition package (standard travel trailers)(included).

• Wide Stance Axles (Approx. 42” Hub to Hub)
• 15K BTU Quiet Cool A/C on a Racetrack Duct System
• 2-Tone Automotive Painted Fiberglass Front Cap With Automotive Windshield (Windshield N/A on 308RL)
• 60” x 80” Beds In All Master Bedrooms (66” x 80” on 270FKS, 308RL, & 322VIEW)
• Outside Kitchen (270FKS, 273RL, 310BHI, & 314BUD)
• 50” LED TV & Furrion Soundbar With FM, Bluetooth, HDMI, & USB
• 50 AMP Service With Wiring & Brace For Second A/C
• Power Stabilizer & Tongue Jack

Standard Features (Standard Travel Trailers)

• Full Length Barreled Ceilings For Additional Head Room
• Stackable Washer/Dryer Prep Standard On 270FKS, 308RL, 310BHI, & 322VIEW
• Versa Queen In Bunk Slides
• Step Above Aluminum Steps (Main Entry Door)
• Side Mounted Heat Ducts = No Floor Vents (Floor Vent in Bedroom of 322VIEW)
• 7-Way “Rain Defense” Plug Holder (Front Frame)
• Yacht Trim Ceiling Finishes

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