Troubleshooting Atwood G6A-7 Water Heater Backfiring

Published 03/08/2023

Question:

I have an older Atwood G6A-7. Heats water good, pilot is easy to light and will stay lit. However, when someone is taking a shower, the water heater will backfire and when it does this it makes a very load boom noise and shakes the camper. I go out side to check and the only thing I notice is the pilot is no longer lit. I will then re-light the pilot and the heater will start to work as normal again. This backfire only happens when the shower is being used. So during camping trips I have to constantly go relight the pilot during the evening while everyone is showering. What could be causing it to backfire?

asked by: Alyce O

Expert Reply:

Typically a backfire is often caused by either a obstruction inside the burner area or vent. Or a bad air/fuel mixture being burned. When you are not using your water heater you can shut off the gas and clean out the vents and gas line after the regulator to verify they are clean and flowing smoothly. A dryer vent wand is best as it will be able to curl around inside the water heater to ensure the vent is clear. For the air/fuel mixture you will need to have that inspected by a technician certified to work on water heaters. They will be able to properly ensure the correct amount of fuel is getting into your combustion chamber.

expert reply by: Bud M