How To Replace Atwood Water Heater Gas Valve?

This guide on Atwood Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement will describe how to replace a gas control valve like a pro. 

How To Replace Atwood Water Heater Gas (Control) Valve?

Tools or equipment you need: 

• A 13/16 wrench
• A 5/8 wrench
• A quarter-inch small socket
• A new gas valve 
• Soapy water

Once you have these tools at your fingertips, go along with the following steps to replace the gas control valve: 

• Ensure you turn off the gas and electric supply to your water heater.
• Open the access panel and locate the gas control valve on your Atwood RV Water Heater. 
• Use your 13/16 wrench to disconnect the propane gas line that is attached to the gas valve. Loosen up the nut, and the gas valve base will come out completely.
• Get your quarter-inch small socket to remove the small screw on the gas control to take out the valve. 
• Remove the gas valve electricals. 
• Install the new gas control valve and reconnect it with the gas line. Ensure you tighten up the connection between the gas control valve and the gas line snugly. 
• Also, screw the small nut to let the end valve base connect with the air shutter or pilot orifice. 
• Apply soapy water around the fittings to check leaks. If bubbles come from the fittings, tighten up the connection. 
• Lastly, turn on the gas supply and the power supply if applicable. Inspect the water heater for proper operation and ensure there is no unusual sound or smell. 

Relevant: Atwood Water Heater Troubleshooting Manual

FAQs

How do I know if the gas control valve is bad on my Atwood Water Heater?

The burner won’t come on, or no gas will flow to the burner if the gas valve is bad. You must replace the gas control valve with a new one to ignite your RV water heater. 

Can I replace a gas valve myself?

Yes, you can. It’s simple. Follow the step-by-step guidelines I mentioned and have the gas control valve replaced like a charm. 

Are Atwood water heater gas valves interchangeable?

Fortunately, the gas valves Atwood Water Heater uses are interchangeable. Atwood Water Heater uses the White Rodger and Robertshaw controls. Though these controls appear quite different in size, they are interchangeable. Their manifolds will both line up with the burner tube properly. But when it comes to residential water heaters, the gas valves are not interchangeable. 

How much does it cost to replace a gas valve on the Atwood water heater?

It will cost around $200 to $350 to replace the gas valve professionally on Atwood Water Heater. The part (gas control valve) will require $150, and the labor cost will be $50 to $250. However, if you do it yourself, you should only spend the amount to get a gas valve.  

End-Note

Replacing the gas valve will require you to be involved with gas. If you are uncomfortable with any steps, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. However, follow the steps I mentioned and have the gas valve replaced like a pro if you are a DIY nerd like me.