Suburban 525001 Electric Element Switch with Gasket – SW-Series Water Heaters

The Suburban 525001 Electric Element Switch with Gasket is the OEM replacement ON/OFF switch used to control the 120-volt electric heating element on compatible Suburban SW-Series RV water heaters.

This switch is mounted at the exterior service area of the water heater and allows the electric heating element to be manually turned on or off. It is especially important when winterizing or servicing the water heater, since the electric element should never be energized while the tank is empty.

The 525001 service kit includes the replacement element switch and sealing gasket.

Fits Suburban SW-Series Water Heaters

The Suburban 525001 is used on electric-equipped SW-Series tank water heaters, including many models in the:

• SW4 Series

• SW6 Series

• SW10 Series

• SW12 Series

• SW16 Series

• SW-V / VE Series

Fitment applies to models equipped with the exterior 120V electric element switch.

Common examples include:

• SW6DE

• SW6DEL

• SW6DEM

• SW10DE

• SW10DEL

• SW10DEM

• SW12DE

• SW12DEL

• SW12DEM

• SW16DE

• SW16DEL

• SW16DEM

• SW10VE

• SW16VE

Replaces Earlier Suburban Element Switch Numbers

The Suburban 525001 is the current service-kit number associated with earlier element switch part numbers including:

• 232362

• 232259

• 233357

• 233358

If your existing Suburban water heater uses one of these earlier element switch numbers, 525001 is the current service replacement used in applicable SW-Series parts breakdowns.

What the Element Switch Does

The element switch controls the incoming 120V AC power to the electric heating circuit.

Turning the switch OFF prevents the heating element from operating. This is particularly important when:

• Draining the water heater

• Winterizing the RV

• Servicing the electric element

• Storing the RV with an empty water heater tank

Running an electric heating element without water surrounding it can cause the element to fail very quickly.

Common Signs the Switch May Need Replacement

Consider replacing the 525001 if:

• The switch will not stay in the ON or OFF position

• The electric heating element does not operate despite proper power being available

• The rocker is cracked or physically damaged

• Electrical terminals show heat damage or corrosion

• The switch has become loose

• The original gasket is damaged or deteriorated

Electrical troubleshooting should be performed before replacing the switch, since a failed thermostat, high-limit switch, heating element, wiring connection, or loss of 120V power can cause similar symptoms.

Installation

Estimated Installation Time: 10–20 minutes

Tools Typically Needed

• Screwdriver

• Pliers as required

• Multimeter for electrical verification

Before installation:

1. Disconnect the RV from shore power and disable all 120V AC power to the water heater.

2. Verify that voltage is not present before touching the switch terminals.

3. Note the position of the existing wires before disconnecting them.

4. Remove the old switch and gasket.

5. Install the new 525001 switch and gasket.

6. Reconnect the wiring in the original configuration.

7. Reapply power and verify proper operation.

Because this switch is part of the 120-volt AC heating circuit, electrical power must be completely disconnected before servicing.

Product Details

Manufacturer: Suburban / Airxcel
Part Number: 525001
Part Type: Electric Heating Element ON/OFF Switch Service Kit
Voltage: 120V AC circuit
Application: Suburban SW-Series Tank Water Heaters
Color: Black
Includes: Element Switch and Gasket
OEM Replacement: Yes

Important Fitment Note

The Suburban 525001 is the exterior ON/OFF switch for the 120V electric heating element circuit. It should not be confused with the interior RV wall switch used to control gas or electric water-heater operation on later models.

For applicable Suburban SW-Series water heaters using the original exterior element switch, 525001 is the OEM service kit for replacing the switch and its gasket.