Check the water heater inlet for obstructions before connecting the RV water supply hose to the water heater. Verify that the valve that fills the tank is in the closed position before attaching the hose. Wrap Teflon tape on the threads and tighten the connection with an adjustable wrench.
Release the pressure relief valve on the tank so that the tank is properly equalized before use. Set the valve back into the ready position before operating the tank. This valve may drip occasionally during normal operation, and is designed to release if the pressure inside the tank becomes too great.
Connect an external supply hose to the RV's main water connection. Operate the water in the RV to ensure that the water system is working properly. Open the water heater main valve and allow the tank to fill completely.
Check all connection for leaks and use the wrench to tighten fittings as necessary. Make sure that the pressure valve is closed completely.
Plug the water heater ignition system into the RV electrical system, or connect the gas line and tighten it with a wrench. Activate the pilot light for gas connections. Set the thermostat to a safe temperature so that the water is hot but not scalding. Do not run any hot water from the system for approximately 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the tank.
Open a water valve in the RV to verify that there is hot water flowing from the system.
