Outdoors RV Mountain Series Owner's Manual page 59

Plumbing Systems
Water Heater By-Pass
The water heater by-pass allows for winterization of the water system without filling the water heater
tank full of anti-freeze. The by-pass valves are located on the back of the water heater (see illustrations
below). Most water heater by-pass valves are accessible behind a removable cabinet panel or cabinet
drawer. The easiest way to find the by-pass valves is to locate the water heater on the exterior of the RV
then go into the RV and look at the cabinetry in that general location for a removable access panel or
bank of drawers that can be removed. Fifth wheel models are remotely located away from the water
heater in the exterior water center compartment on the driver side of your RV. Identified in RED
lettering its instructions are self-explanatory. Your RV dealer can assist you in finding and operating this
feature if necessary.
This view illustrates the by-pass valves
This view illustrates the by-pass valves
oriented in the 'by-pass mode' position
oriented in the 'normal flow' position (valves
(valves in-line with water piping). To switch
toward water heater). To 'by-pass', turn valves
90 degrees in the direction of the water piping. to 'normal', turn valves 90 degrees toward
water heater.
While the by-pass valves are oriented in the 'normal flow' position, water will travel into the valve
assembly and be redirected into the bottom of the water heater. With the water heater turned on, water
will then become heated inside its tank, then travel out the top of the water heater into the hot water lines
as demand requires.
With the valves oriented in the 'by-pass mode' position, water will flow through the by-pass assembly
and back into the hot water lines thus 'by-passing' the water heater tank. In this mode during the
winterization operation, anti-freeze is not allowed into the water heater tank.
Your valve handles may not be oriented as shown however still function as outlined. Refer to labeling
attached to by-pass assembly for additional information.
The water heater has a one-way check valve at the upper connection that prevents 'by-passed' water from
entering into the top of the water heater and therefore forces it into the hot water line.
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