Water heater LP only works with cover door open

[Malibu39]

Okay water heater experts. When I run my water heater on LP, it lights up, goes for a few minutes and starts spitting and sputtering, then goes out. If I pull the cover door open to have a look it it works great, but as soon as I shut the door the flames starts sputtering.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Back2PA]

Okay water heater experts. When I run my water heater on LP, it lights up, goes for a few minutes and starts spitting and sputtering, then goes out. If I pull the cover door open to have a look it it works great, but as soon as I shut the door the flames starts sputtering.

Off hand I'd say it's the air mixture adjustment. Would seem to indicate insufficient air based on opening the door making everything OK. You might try loosening the set screw and sliding the adjustment more open perhaps 1/8-1/4" and see what happens.

 

[Great Horned Owl]

Before adjusting it, try cleaning it out. An air gun is easiest, but a small "test tube" brush might work.

Joel

 

[grashley]

Also make sure the vents in the door are not blocked.

 

[Malibu39]

Thank you everyone, I am camping at a fairly high elevation and didn?t realize there was an adjustment, feel kinda silly. But this forum is such a great resource I don?t mind being embarrassed now and then. Off to take a hot shower.

 

[Back2PA]

Thank you everyone, I am camping at a fairly high elevation

Ahhhhhhhhh. I all makes sense now

 

[grashley]

Congrats and thanks for letting us know the solution!