Anyone move the elec HW heater switch inside?

[jkordzi]

We have a dual gas/electric HWH. So I have to replace the HW heater element because - yup, forgot to turn it off when I drained the HWH. Anyone move that switch inside next to the switch for the gas side of the HWH? Seems that I've seen other campers that have dual gas/elec HWH switches inside. Thanks.

[tdf-texas]

Originally Posted by jkordzi

We have a dual gas/electric HWH. So I have to replace the HW heater element because - yup, forgot to turn it off when I drained the HWH. Anyone move that switch inside next to the switch for the gas side of the HWH? Seems that I've seen other campers that have dual gas/elec HWH switches inside. Thanks.

https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...itch-8535.html
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post226380
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post158579

Below is the location that the relay is installed.

[jkordzi]

Thanks. So is the relay really necessary? The new switch is not rated for 15A A/C?

[rubicon327]

Originally Posted by jkordzi

Thanks. So is the relay really necessary? The new switch is not rated for 15A A/C?

Two ways to skin it. Buy the upgraded KIB panel that is wired with 12VDC to a relay to engage 120VAC to element. This is what Suburban does on their SW6DEL models. Or you may be able to just intercept the 120V line and put in an appropriately rated switch. Both obviously involve leaving the outside switch in the on position. In a pinch you could just use the breaker in the power center but they are not meant for continual connection/disconnection. Here are a couple examples of the 120V switch install:
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...itch-1165.html
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post158552

[Ron in BC]

I did it because of the way we use the hot water tank. Unlike some folks that stay in one place with power for a few days or more, we don't. On the rare times when we have power it's turn the tank on, heat water, turn tank off. So obviously having the switch inside makes sense.

I skinned the cat the second way. Removed the line from the tank, ran it to a switch and then new wire to the tank. Works fine for me.

Ron