Diagnostic Guide

Marine Water Heater Not Heating

Marine water heaters fail in predictable ways. The fix is almost always one of three things — and you don't always need to replace the heater.

Marine water heaters fail in predictable ways. The fix is almost always one of three things — and you don't always need to replace the heater.

What to Check

1

Element failure

120V AC element burns out from running dry. Test resistance at the terminals — open = burned out.

2

Thermostat

Failed thermostat won't trigger the element. Cheap and easy to swap.

3

Engine heat exchange loop

Underway hot water comes from the engine cooling loop. A clogged loop or bad check valve breaks this.

4

Internal corrosion / leaks

If the tank is weeping, replace — internal corrosion can't be repaired.

When to Call Us

We carry Isotemp, Raritan, and Whale parts and can rebuild or replace your water heater in a half-day.

Services That Fix This

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