Suburban Water Heater: “Electric ECO tripped”
warning RV water heater fault codes
What it means
On gas/electric (DE) models, the 120V electric heating circuit has its own high-limit/ECO. If the electric thermostat fails to cut power at temperature, the ECO opens and stays open, cutting 120V to the heating element until manually reset. On the SW front face this is the left-hand reset button.
Most likely causes
- Electric thermostat failed to open at temperature, so the ECO tripped as backup most likely
- Repeated over-temperature events indicating a degraded thermostat/ECO assembly common
- Air pocket / low water exposing the element area to high temperature less common
Safe checks you can do yourself
- Confirm the tank is full of water before resetting (running the element dry destroys it).
- Press the left-hand (electric/120V) reset button under the rubber cover on the front face.
- If operation returns after reset, the thermostat likely failed to cut power; watch for repeat trips.
How to reset / clear Electric ECO tripped
- Ensure the tank is full and water has cooled.
- Press the left-hand (120V electric) reset button on the front face.
- If both reset buttons are involved, the manual notes the left button is the electric reset and the right is the LP reset.
When to call a technician
The electric ECO trips repeatedly (the thermostat assembly needs replacement), or you are not comfortable working safely around 120V AC.
Applies to
SW6DE · SW10DE · SW12DE · SW16DE · SW6DEL · SW10DEL · SW12DEL · SW16DEL · SW6PE · SW10PE
FAQ
What does Suburban Water Heater code "Electric ECO tripped" mean?
On gas/electric (DE) models, the 120V electric heating circuit has its own high-limit/ECO. If the electric thermostat fails to cut power at temperature, the ECO opens and stays open, cutting 120V to the heating element until manually reset. On the SW front face this is the left-hand reset button.
How do I reset Suburban Water Heater Electric ECO tripped?
Ensure the tank is full and water has cooled. Press the left-hand (120V electric) reset button on the front face. If both reset buttons are involved, the manual notes the left button is the electric reset and the right is the LP reset.
What is the most common cause of Electric ECO tripped on a Suburban Water Heater?
The most likely cause is electric thermostat failed to open at temperature, so the eco tripped as backup.
Related · Suburban water heater
Suburban gas (DSI) water heaters do not show a numeric fault… Electric element no heat
On gas/electric models, the 120V element produces no heat or… Gas ECO tripped
The gas-side ECO (Energy/Electric Cut Off, a high-limit ther… Gas valve won't open
The board is sequencing and spark is present, but the gas va… No reset light
On a DSI SW-series unit, the reset light failing to come on … No spark / no ignition
The control board is powered and attempting to light (reset …
Sources
- Water Heater Troubleshooting & Repair (Suburban) — Repeated Over Temperature Shutdowns / Hi-Limit-ECO reset (left = electric, right = LP) — Troubleshooting Electric Mode, Testing the 110V Circuit / Repeated Over Temperature Shutdowns, pp. 6-7 (Heartland Owners Forum)
- Suburban Water Heater Service & Training Manual — Thermostat & ECO Assembly — Thermostat & ECO Assembly p. 21; Electric Heating Troubleshooting p. 18 (Suburban (Airxcel/RV Comfort), via PDX RV Wholesale)
Note: Applies only to combination gas/electric (DE, DEL, PE) models. Left/right button assignment per the Heartland guide (left = electric/110V, right = LP/12V); verify against the specific unit's labeling.
● Last verified 2026-06-29 · compiled from manufacturer documentation. Codes can vary by model year — always cross-check your unit’s manual.