Electrical
RV Water Heater Electrical Parts: Heating Elements, Thermostats & Switches
Maintain or upgrade your RV water heater with our wide selection of electrical components from trusted brands like Dometic, Suburban, Camco, and Atwood. Whether you're replacing a faulty heating element, installing a new thermostat, or converting to electric operation, we have the right parts for your RV. Find everything from reset switches and ECO thermostats to complete electric conversion kits designed for both 6 and 10-gallon water heaters. Ensure reliable hot water performance on every adventure.
Explore Trusted RV Water Heater Electrical Brands & Solutions
Whether you’re restoring an older unit or upgrading to electric operation, our RV water heater electrical parts category includes heating elements, thermostats, relays, switches, and conversion kits from top-tier brands like Suburban, Dometic (Atwood), Camco, Girard, and Valterra. These parts are engineered to deliver reliable hot water performance, energy efficiency, and compatibility across a range of RV models. Many kits are designed for easy installation, making it simple to keep your RV hot water system in peak condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which heating element fits my RV water heater?
Check your RV water heater’s brand, model number, and wattage requirements. Popular replacements include Suburban 1440W screw-in elements and Dometic/Atwood 1400W versions. Always confirm voltage and thread compatibility.
Can I convert my gas RV water heater to electric?
Yes, RV electric water heater conversion kits—such as those from Camco and Valterra—allow you to convert a 6 or 10-gallon LP gas heater to 120V electric, enabling on-demand electric heating when shore power is available.
What’s the difference between a thermostat and a thermal cut-off?
A thermostat regulates water temperature by turning the heating element on/off. A thermal cut-off (ECO) is a safety device that shuts off power if the water gets too hot, preventing damage or fire hazards.
How do I replace a thermostat in an RV water heater?
Disconnect power, remove the access panel, and unscrew the faulty thermostat. Replace it with the correct part—such as Atwood 91447 or Suburban 232317—then re-secure and test. Always refer to your unit's manual for wiring specifics.
Are Dometic and Atwood water heater parts compatible?
Dometic acquired Atwood, so many Atwood-branded thermostats and elements are now under the Dometic name. Compatibility remains the same, but check part numbers and model references for confirmation.
What’s the purpose of the Suburban water heater reset button?
The reset button, found on Suburban water heater thermostats or switches, restores power after an over-temperature shutdown. It’s an essential safety feature that prevents damage to the heating element or tank.
Can I upgrade the control board on my RV water heater?
Yes, universal ignitor and control boards like those from Dinosaur Electronics offer improved ignition reliability and diagnostic capabilities. Ensure compatibility with your model before upgrading.
How often should I replace the thermostat or heating element?
Thermostats and heating elements typically last several years. Replace them if you notice inconsistent heating, no hot water, or if the element appears corroded or burned out.