Let’s Talk About Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in
RV life, with its promise of freedom and adventure, also brings the realities of maintaining mobile systems. One of the most crucial? Hot water. A cold shower after a long day hiking is no one’s idea of a good time, and a malfunctioning water heater can quickly turn a dream trip into a logistical nightmare. That’s where the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in comes in.
My journey to this particular part began with a frustrating sputter – the telltale sign of a failing pilot light on my trusted RV water heater. Diagnosing the issue pointed directly to the pilot assembly, a common culprit in propane-fueled systems. Faced with the prospect of inconsistent hot water, I began researching replacement options.
Upon receiving the Suburban Mfg 161156, I immediately noticed its compact, yet solid construction. The assembly felt well-made, with a reassuring sturdiness that inspired confidence. This was a stark contrast to the flimsy universal replacements I’d encountered in the past.
I primarily focused my research on direct replacements from Suburban, and a few generic pilot assemblies from other manufacturers. Ultimately, I chose the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in for its guaranteed compatibility with my specific Suburban water heater model (SW6PR). Peace of mind was paramount.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. A pilot assembly isn’t exactly a glamorous piece of gear. However, the promise of reliable hot water, and the reputation of Suburban for quality, gave me a sense of hopeful anticipation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in occurred during a weekend camping trip to the Deschutes National Forest in Oregon. The days were warm, but the evenings dipped into the low 40s, making a hot shower a necessity. After installing the new assembly, firing up the water heater was a breeze. The pilot light ignited quickly and burned steadily, even in a slight breeze.
The assembly’s consistent flame was especially appreciated during my initial test. The old pilot assembly would often sputter and extinguish in even the slightest wind. Installing the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in solved that problem immediately.
Ease of use was excellent. The installation process was straightforward (more on that later), and the pilot light was simple to ignite and maintain. After years of struggling with the old assembly, this was a welcome change.
The only surprise after the first use was how quiet the new pilot assembly was. The old assembly made a noticeable hissing sound, while the new one was virtually silent. This made for a more peaceful camping experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including several extended camping trips and weekend getaways, the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in continues to perform flawlessly. It fires up quickly every time, providing a reliable and consistent hot water supply.
There are no signs of wear and tear on the assembly. The materials appear to be high-quality and durable, withstanding the rigors of travel and frequent use. I inspected all connections and the pilot tube itself and found no corrosion or damage.
Maintenance is minimal. I periodically inspect the pilot assembly for debris or obstructions, but so far, I haven’t needed to clean it. A simple visual check is all that’s required.
This replacement has significantly outperformed my previous experience with the original pilot assembly and generic replacements. The Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in provides consistent and reliable performance, giving me peace of mind on the road.
Breaking Down the Features of Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in
Specifications
- Compatibility: Designed for use with Suburban RV water heaters, specifically SW3P, SW6P, SW6PE, SW6PR, SW6PER, SW10P, SW10PE, SW10PR, and SW10PER models. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance, eliminating guesswork.
- Assembly Length: 12 inches. This is the critical length for proper installation and flame positioning.
- Construction: Made of durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of RV use. Durability and corrosion resistance are essential for long-term reliability.
- Warranty: 90-day limited warranty. While short, it provides some assurance against manufacturing defects.
- Fuel Type: Propane (LP). This is standard for most RV water heaters.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper function and safety. The correct length and compatibility are essential for a secure fit and reliable ignition. The durable construction ensures the assembly can withstand the constant vibration and environmental exposure common in RV travel.
Performance & Functionality
The Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in excels at its primary function: providing a reliable pilot light for the water heater. It ignites quickly, burns consistently, and maintains a steady flame even in windy conditions.
The assembly’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. The straightforward design minimizes potential failure points, and the quality materials ensure consistent performance. The main weakness is the relatively short warranty period.
The Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a dependable pilot light and restores the water heater’s functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive. The materials feel solid and well-constructed, and the assembly is designed for easy installation. The compact design ensures it fits seamlessly within the water heater compartment.
The assembly is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. The straightforward design makes it easy to understand and maintain.
Durability & Maintenance
The Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in is built to last. The durable materials and simple design suggest it will provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional visual inspections for debris or obstructions. Cleaning can be done with a soft brush and compressed air, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in. It is a direct replacement part.
There are no customization options for this assembly. It is designed to be a direct replacement for the original pilot assembly.
Pros and Cons of Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in
Pros
- Reliable pilot light ignition and consistent flame. Ensures hot water availability when needed.
- Direct replacement for Suburban water heaters. Guarantees compatibility and easy installation.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance. Minimizes the need for frequent replacements.
- Simple design for easy maintenance. Reduces the risk of complicated repairs.
- Restores water heater functionality at a reasonable cost. Avoids the expense of replacing the entire water heater.
Cons
- 90-day limited warranty. A longer warranty would provide greater peace of mind.
- No included accessories. Having some basic cleaning tools would be a nice addition.
Who Should Buy Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in?
Perfect for: RV owners experiencing pilot light issues with their Suburban water heaters, DIY enthusiasts comfortable with basic appliance repairs, and anyone seeking a reliable and affordable solution to restore their hot water supply.
Who should skip this product? Those uncomfortable working with propane systems or those whose water heater issues stem from problems other than the pilot assembly. In such cases, professional service is recommended.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good set of pliers and screwdrivers for installation, and a small brush for cleaning the pilot assembly.
Conclusion on Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in
The Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in is a reliable and affordable solution for restoring hot water to your RV. Its direct replacement design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any RV owner experiencing pilot light issues.
The price of $18.75 is justified by the assembly’s performance and durability. It’s a small price to pay for the convenience of consistent hot water on the road.
I would personally recommend the Suburban Mfg 161156 Water Heater Propane Pilot Assembly 12in to any RV owner facing a faulty pilot light. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to keep the hot water flowing, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable RV experience. Don’t let a cold shower ruin your next adventure. Upgrade your pilot assembly today!