water heater failing to light

[outofhere]

Hi I have had trouble with my water heater it is a auto ignition style the problem is that it will fire up for about 5 seconds then it will cut of this is not happening all the time my question is does this type of water heater have a propane sensor on it I now that we had enough full in the tanks as I had filled them up before leaving. Also I was running the furnace at night and the fridge both of them ran just fine. I have a 29bunk house jay flight (2006) Thanks

[John LLRV]

Assuming that you have gas to the water heater...

Sounds like the probe is not sending the signal back to the brain board that the pilot is lit. The 5 second cut off is a safety feature to keep propane from flowing if its not lit.

Adjust the sensor so the turned end is in the flame by at least 1/2 inch. Also, look for any type of corrosion on the board/quick disconnect pins.

If this does not fix the issue, take your make/model of the water heater to an RV dealer and get the probe/sensor. Should not be more then $25. Easy do-it-yourself replacement.

[clutch]

You may have a bad sensor or thermocouple. When the water heater lights it should generate enough heat to cause the sensor to allow gas to flow. If the sensor doesn't send the message the gas shuts off.