Water heater won't fill

[EZinColo]

Howdy,
I have a 1998 GS 22’ Conquest. I just replaced the 6 gal Suburban water heater with the same model, also replaced the check valve. Connected water, gas and 12v wires. When I turned on the pump. I get water from the faucet but nothing flowing into the water heater.
We have two switches on our control panel, one for the pump and another labeled water heater. I know the system shouldn’t be lit without water in the tank, but I’m assuming it should still fill when empty. I did turn the "water heater" switch on for a moment and it lit the burner. I turned it off right then.
I disconnected the cold water pipe to the unit and it was dry.
I'm assuming it should start filling when the pump switch is activated?
Any ideas for next steps?

Thanks
Eric

[Bike Dr]

It sounds like it is in bypass. Look for valves that allow water to flow into the heater from being winterized. I have a manablock but you may have a removable panel to locate the bypass valve.


LIFE IS GOOD!!!! LIVING IT!!¡

2005 41'4 ATRIUM SE CAT
2017 20' diamond closed trailer
2014 Streetglide Special
2010 Mini Cooper

[EZinColo]

Bike Doc,
You called it - but the bypass wasn’t located near the water heater as most of the ones are that I’ve been viewing as I research this. It was “conveniently” located inside one of the exterior storage areas. You can see it in the attached picture accessed from under the rear bed.
Thanks for your help!
Eric

[Bike Dr]

You are very welcome. I should have mentioned in the first post to make sure the heater is full and aired out before using the electric side of the heater as it will burn out the element in a very short time if it's not full prior to using it. Good luck and happy camping. I removed the tank and went tankless and it has been fantastic never run out of hot water and it works great boondocking using the pump as well as a full hook up. Glad you found the valve keep digging around it's amazing what you will find and learn about your rv. And it's fun to do..

LIFE IS GOOD!!! LIVING IT!!!!

2005 41'4 ATRIUM SE CAT
2017 20' Diamond closed trailer
2014 Streetglide Special
2010 Mini Cooper