'17 Cougar Lite 26rbi - Suburban Water Heater SW6DE: Propane was working fine (for 18 mo); BUT we were having a 'burning" odor (not rotten eggs) when using on electric. It smelled 'chemical' burn-like, so made sure no outward sign, no wires touching, etc....So we didn't use the electric option.
A few days ago, we experienced a problem with using propane; hence switched to electric option. Again, we get the 'burning' smell. To try and address the issue(s) - took apart entire exterior set up to make sure clean (no spider webs, no leaks, no blockages, etc.). We checked anode (replaced a few months ago) clean, we checked heated unit (only a little build up), looked at switch (is fine), tried reset button, and it does work on electric but
we have the smell. It does not work on propane, at all now.
We located the ignition control board and do see two areas (the size of a pencil eraser) which are burned/through the foam adhesive pad on bottom side of board. So before we go and order a new board, here are our questions:
1. Why do we get the burning odor, when in fact using ELECTRIC, as we are NOT engaging the control board? (our understanding is the board only engages for gas)
2. We've seen in various forums wherein there are defective control boards and we should be going to the company (Suburban) for coverage/replacement? Our manual/paperwork shows 2 years on water heater/3 years on tank - not sure they will help us; has anyone contacted them regarding a similar issue?
3. In various sites, owners have shared they have replaced the control board (multiple times) and have repeated received defective ones. Any suggestions? Hate to lay out $75-100, only to have it last a few days.
Very concerned (full timers) - prior to this, we were able to always use the propane. Now we can ONLY used on electric (have removed the 'supposed burnt/defective board' and seeking experienced insight. Appreciate it!
P.S. (Not sure if related) But since removing the control board, are light are no longer dimming; which has also been an issue that we thought was related to campsite hookups (hence, we now have a good surge protector). Could the control board on the water heater been a cause of the dimming?
MtnPa&Ma