User Manual GE SG40T12AVG Gas Water Heater

• User Manual - (English)

• Energy Guide - (English)

• Spec Sheet (web) - (English)

Table of contents

• Installation Instructions
• Operating Instructions
• Care and Cleaning
• Troubleshooting

Installation Instructions

Location

The auxiliary catch pan installation MUST conform to local codes.

Top View Alcove

Top View Closet

WARNING: Combustible construction refers to adjacent walls and ceilings and should not be confused with combustible or flammable products and materials. Combustible and/or flammable products and materials should never be stored in the vicinity of this or any gas appliance.

The water heater should not be located in an area where leakage from the tank or connections will result in damage to the area adjacent to the heater or to lower floors of the structure.

When such areas cannot be avoided it is recommended that a suitable catch pan, adequately drained, must be installed under the water heater.

The pan must not restrict air flow to the combustion air inlet openings (perforation openings) located around the lower perimeter of the water heater.

Catch pan kits are available from the store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor.

Make certain the floor underneath the water heater is strong enough to sufficiently support the weight of the water heater once it is filled with water.

A gas fired water heater or any other appliance should not be installed in a space where liquids which give off flammable vapors are to be used or stored. Such liquids include gasoline, LP gas (butane or propane), paint or adhesives and their thinners, solvents or removers.

When installed in a closet, DO NOT block or obstruct any of the combustion air inlet openings located around the perimeter of the water heater. A minimum of 1” is required between these combustion air inlet openings and any obstruction.

Because of natural air movement in a room or other enclosed space, flammable vapors can be carried some distance from where liquids which give off flammable vapors are to be used or stored. The open flame of the water heater’s pilot or main burner can ignite these vapors and create a shut down condition of the water heater which will not allow the water heater to ignite until examined by a Qualified Service Technician.

The water heater must be located so it is not subject to physical damage, for example, by moving vehicles, area flooding, etc.

If local codes require the use of a stand kit to raise the water heater 18” above the floor, please contact the store where the water heater was purchased, or any water heater distributor. These kits must comply with local codes.

• The water heater should be installed as close as practical to the gas vent or chimney.
• Long hot water lines should be insulated to conserve water and energy.
• The water heater and water lines should be protected from exposure to freezing temperatures.
• Do not install the water heater in bathrooms, bedrooms, any occupied rooms normally kept closed, or in unprotected outdoor areas.
• Minimum clearance from combustible construction:

If the clearances stated on the Instruction/Warning Label, located on the front of the heater differ, install the water heater according to the clearances stated on the label.

• If the water heater is installed in an alcove or closet, the entire floor must be covered by a wood or metal panel. A minimum of 24” clearance from the front and top should be available for adequate inspection and servicing.
• The water heater may be installed on combustible floors, but not directly on carpeting. If the water heater must be installed on carpeting, place a metal or wood panel beneath the water heater, extending beyond its full width and depth at least 3” in all directions.

Inspect Shipment

Inspect the water heater for possible damage. Check the markings on the rating plate of the water heater to be certain the type of gas supplied corresponds to the water heater requirements.

Combustion and Ventilation

Proper operation of the water heater requires air for combustion and ventilation. Provisions for combustion and ventilation air must comply with referenced codes and standards.

When installed in a closet, DO NOT block or obstruct any of the combustion air inlet openings located around the perimeter of the water heater. A minimum of 1” is required between these combustion air inlet openings and any obstruction.

NOTICE: If the water heater is installed in an unconfined space within a building of conventional frame, masonry or metal construction, infiltration air is normally adequate for proper combustion and ventilation. If the water heater is installed in a confined space, provisions for combustion and ventilation air must be made.

A confined space is one having a volume of less than 50 cubic feet per 1000 Btuh of the aggregate input of all appliances within that space.

The air must be supplied through two permanent openings of equal area. One is to be located within 12” above the floor and the other is to be located within 12” from the ceiling.

The minimum net free area of each opening must not be less than one square inch per 1000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure (but not less than 100 square inches), if each opening communicates with other unconfined areas inside the building.

Buildings of unusually tight construction shall have the combustion and ventilation air supplied from outdoors, or a freely ventilated attic or crawl space.

If air is supplied from outdoors, directly or through vertical ducts, there must be two openings located as specified above and each must have a minimum net free area of not less than one square inch per 4000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure.

If horizontal ducts are used to communicate with the outdoors, each opening must have a minimum net free area of not less than one square inch per 2000 Btuh of the total input rating of all the appliances in the enclosure. If ducts are used, the minimum dimensions of rectangular air ducts shall not be less than 3”.

NOTICE: If the duct openings which supply combustion and ventilation air are to be covered with a protective screen or grill, the net free area (openings in the material) of the covering material must be used in determining the size of the openings. Protective screening for the openings MUST NOT be smaller then 1/4” mesh to prevent clogging by lint or other debris.

Corrosive Atmospheres

NOTICE: The water heater should not be installed near an air supply containing halogenated hydrocarbons.

The air in beauty shops, dry cleaning establishments, photo processing labs, and storage areas for liquid and powdered bleaches or swimming pool chemicals often contain such halogenated hydrocarbons.

An air supply containing halogenated hydrocarbons may be safe to breathe, but when it passes through a gas flame corrosive elements are released that will shorten the life of any gas burning appliance.

Propellants from common spray cans or gas leaks from A/C and refrigeration equipment are highly corrosive after passing through a flame.

The water heater warranty is voided when failure of the heater is due to operation in a corrosive atmosphere.

Thermal Expansion

Determine if a check valve exists in the inlet water line. Check with your local water utility. It may have been installed in the cold water line as a separate back flow preventer, or it may be part of a pressure reducing valve, water meter or water softener. A check valve located in the cold water inlet line can cause what is referred to as a “closed water system”. A cold water inlet line with no check valve or back flow prevention device is referred to as an “open” water system.

As water is heated, it expands in volume and creates an increase in the pressure within the water system. This action is referred to as “thermal expansion”. In an “open” water system, expanding water which exceeds the capacity of the water heater flows back into the city main where the pressure is easily dissipated.

A “closed water system”, however, prevents the expanding water from flowing back into the main supply line, and the result of “thermal expansion” can create a rapid and dangerous pressure increase in the water heater and system piping. This rapid pressure increase can quickly reach the safety setting of the relief valve, causing it to operate during each heating cycle. Thermal expansion, and the resulting rapid, and repeated expansion and contraction of components in the water heater and piping system can cause premature failure of the relief valve, and possibly the heater itself. Replacing the relief valve will not correct the problem!

The suggested method of controlling thermal expansion is to install an expansion tank in the cold water line between the water heater and the check valve. The expansion tank is designed with an air cushion built in that compresses as the system pressure increases, thereby relieving the over pressure condition and eliminating the repeated operation of the relief valve. Other methods of controlling thermal expansion are also available. Contact your installing contractor, water supplier or plumbing inspector for additional information regarding this subject.

Water Supply Connections

Refer to the illustration below for suggested typical installation. The installation of unions or flexible copper connectors is recommended on the hot and cold water connections so that the water heater may be easily disconnected for servicing if necessary. The HOT and COLD water connections are clearly marked and are 3/4” NPT on all models. Install a shut-off valve in the cold water line near the water heater.

Typical Installation

IMPORTANT: Do not apply heat to the HOT or COLD water connections. If sweat connections are used, sweat tubing to adapter before fitting adapter to the cold water connections on heater. Any heat applied to the cold water supply fittings will permanently damage the dip tube.

NOTICE: The National Fuel Gas Code (NFGC) mandates a manual gas shut-off valve: See (NFGC) for complete instructions. Local codes or plumbing authority requirements may vary from the instructions or diagrams provided and take precedent over these instructions.

Relief Valve

A new combination temperature and pressure relief valve, complying with the Standard for Relief Valves and Automatic Gas Shut-Off Devices for Hot Water Supply Systems, ANSI Z21.22, is supplied and must remain in the opening provided and marked for the purpose on the water heater. No valve of any type should be installed between the relief valve and the tank. Local codes shall govern the installation of relief valves.

The pressure rating of the relief valve must not exceed 150 PSI, the maximum working pressure of the water heater as marked on the rating plate.

The Btuh rating of the relief valve must equal or exceed the Btuh input of the water heater as marked on its rating plate.

Position the outlet of the relief valve above a suitable open drain to eliminate potential water damage. Piping used should be of a type approved for hot water distribution.

The discharge line must be no smaller than the outlet of the valve and must pitch downward from the valve to allow complete drainage (by gravity) of the relief valve and discharge line.

The end of the discharge line should not be threaded or concealed and should be protected from freezing. No valve of any type, restriction or reducer coupling should be installed in the discharge line.

To Fill the Water Heater

Make certain that drain valve is closed, then open the shut-off valve in the cold water supply line.

Open each hot water faucet slowly to allow the air to vent from the water heater and piping.

A steady flow of water from the hot water faucet(s) indicates a full water heater.

WARNING: The tank must be full of water before heater is turned on. The water heater warranty does not cover damage or failure resulting from operation with an empty or partially empty tank.

Condensation

Condensation can form on the tank when it is first filled with water. Condensation might also occur with a heavy water draw and very cold inlet water temperatures.

Drops of water falling on the burner can produce a sizzling or pinging sound.

This condition is not unusual, and will disappear after the water becomes heated. If, however, the condensation continues, examine the piping and fittings for possible leaks.

Gas Supply

The branch gas supply line to the water heater should be clean 1/2” black steel pipe or other approved gas piping material.

A ground joint union or ANSI design certified semi-rigid or flexible gas appliance connector should be installed in the gas line close to the water heater. The National Fuel Gas Code (NFGC) mandates a manual gas shut-off valve: See (NFGC) for complete instructions.

If flexible connectors are used, the maximum length shall not exceed 36”.

If lever type gas shut-offs are used, they shall be T-Handle type.

Compound used on the threaded joints of the gas piping must be of the type resistant to the action of LP gas. Use compound sparingly on male threads only.

A sediment trap should be installed at the bottom of the gas line.

Do not use excessive force (over 31.5 ft lbs.) in tightening the pipe joint at the gas control (thermostat) inlet, particularly if teflon pipe compound is used, as the valve body may be damaged.

The inlet gas pressure to the water heater must not exceed 10.5” w.c. for natural gas, or 14” w.c. for LP gas. For purposes of input adjustment, the minimum inlet gas pressure (with main burner on) is shown on the water heater rating plate. If high or low gas pressures are present, contact your gas supplier for correction.

WARNING: Do not attempt to convert this water heater for use with a different type of gas other than the type shown on the rating plate. Such conversion could result in hazardous operating conditions.

Leak Testing

The water heater and its gas connections must be leak tested at normal operating pressures before it is placed in operation.

1. Turn on the manual gas shut-off valve near the water heater.
2. Use a soapy water solution to test for leaks at all connections and fittings. Bubbles indicate a gas leak that must be corrected.

The factory connections to the thermostat should also be leak tested after the water heater is placed in operation.

WARNING: Never use an open flame to test for gas leaks, as property damage, personal injury or death could result.

Pressure Testing the Gas Supply System

The water heater and its manual gas shut-off valve must be disconnected from the gas supply piping system during any high pressure testing of that system at pressures in excess of 3/8 psi (10.5” w.c.) for natural gas, or 1/2 psi (14” w.c.) for LP gas.

The water heater must be isolated from the gas piping system by closing the manual gas shut-off valve during any pressure testing of the gas supply piping at pressures equal to or less than 3/8 psi (10.5” w.c.) for natural gas, or 1/2 psi (14” w.c.) for LP gas.

High Altitude

Ratings of gas appliances are based on sea level operation and need not be changed for installations at elevations up to 5,999 feet.

For installations above 5,999 feet, please contact your local distributor or place of purchase for a high altitude model.

WARNING: Failure to install a water heater suitable for the altitude at the location it is intended to serve, can result in improper operation of the appliance resulting in property damage and/or, producing carbon monoxide gas which could result in personal injury, or death.

Venting

Vent connectors must be attached to the draft hood outlet to connect the water heater to the gas vent or chimney. The vent connectors must be the same size (diameter) as the draft hood or larger, never smaller.

For proper venting in certain installations a larger vent connector size may be needed. Consult the Vent Tables in Appendix G of the latest version of the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI booklet Z223.1 or NFPA booklet 54.)

Horizontal vent connectors must be pitched upward to the chimney at least 1/4” per foot of length. Single wall vent connectors must be at least 6 from adjacent unprotected combustible surface. Vent joints must be securely fastened by sheet metal screws or other approved method.

Test for spillage at the draft hood relief opening after 5 minutes of main burner operation. Use a flame of a match or candle or smoke. The flame or smoke should be pulled into the draft hood’s relief opening(s).

DANGER: Failure to install the draft hood and properly vent the water heater to the outdoors as outlined in the Venting section of this manual will result in unsafe operation of the water heater causing bodily injury, explosion, fire or death. To avoid the risk of fire, explosion, or asphyxiation from carbon monoxide, NEVER operate the water heater unless it is properly vented and has adequate air supply for proper operation as outlined in the Venting section of this manual.

Insulation Blankets

Insulation blankets, available to the general public, for external use on gas water heaters are not necessary. The purpose of an insulation blanket is to reduce the standby heat loss encountered with storage tank heaters. This water heater meets or exceeds the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act standards with respect to insulation and standby loss requirements making an insulation blanket unnecessary.

The manufacturer’s warranty does not cover any damage or defect caused by installation, attachment or use of any type of energy saving or other unapproved devices (other than those authorized by the manufacturer) into, onto or in conjunction with the water heater. The use of unauthorized energy saving devices may shorten the life of the water heater and may endanger life and property.

The manufacturer disclaims any responsibility for such loss or injury resulting from the use of such unauthorized devices.

CAUTION: If local codes require the application of an external insulation blanket to this water heater, pay careful attention to the following so as not to restrict the proper function and operation of the water heater:

• Do not cover the operating or warning labels attached to the water heater or attempt to relocate them on the exterior of insulation blanket.
• Do not apply insulation to the top of the water heater. This will interfere with the safe operation of the draft hood.
• Do not cover the burner access door, jacket door, gas control (thermostat)/gas valve or pressure and temperature relief valve.
• Do not apply insulation to the bottom of the water heater or the area where the combustion air inlet openings are located. This area must be unobstructed so as not to restrict combustion air flow to the burner.
• Inspect the insulation blanket frequently making certain it has not sagged and is restricting the air flow to the combustion air inlet openings (perforation holes) located around the lower perimeter of the water heater. This could result in an unsafe operating condition.

WARNING: If local codes require external application of insulation blanket kits the manufacturer’s instructions included with the kit must be carefully followed.

Hot and Cold Pipe Insulation Installation

Typical vertical piping arrangement

For increased energy efficiency, some water heaters have been supplied with two 24” sections of pipe insulation.

Typical horizontal piping arrangement

Please install the insulation, according to the illustrations above, that best meets your requirements.

Heat Traps

For increased energy efficiency, some water heaters have been supplied with factory installed 3/4” NPT heat traps in the hot outlet line and cold water inlet line.

These heat traps may require a minimum of one (1) 90° 3/4” NPT elbow and may require an additional 90° 3/4” NPT elbow or a 3/4” coupling depending on your installation needs.

During Installation of this water heater…

DO

• DO check inlet gas pressure to ensure that it is within the range specified on the rating plate.
• DO provide adequate air for combustion and ventilation as discussed in the Use and Care Manual and the National Fuel Gas Code.
• DO maintain proper clearances to combustibles as specified on the rating plate.
• DO ensure that the venting system complies with the guidelines found in the Use and Care Manual and National Fuel Gas Code.
• DO contact a Qualified service technician if the pilot or main burner will not stay lit. The burner chamber is designed to be sealed utilizing a gasket and tamper resistant screws.

DON’T

• DON’T block or restrict Combustion Air Inlet Openings located around the lower portion of the water heater jacket.
• DON’T remove the Burner Access Door unless absolutely necessary. This should only be done by a qualified service technician. A new burner access door gasket must be installed on any burner access door that has been removed.
• DON’T install this water heater where standing water may occur. The base of the water heater is meant to be mounted on a dry surface.
• DON’T operate the water heater if the sight glass or burner access door grommet is damaged or broken.

Installation checklist

Water Heater Location

• Close to area of vent.
• Indoors and protected from freezing temperatures.
• Proper clearance from combustible surfaces observed and water heater not installed on carpeted floor.
• Sufficient fresh air supply for proper operation of water heater.
• Air supply free of corrosive elements and flammable vapors.
• Provisions made to protect area from water damage.
• Sufficient room to service heater.
• Combustible materials, such as clothing, cleaning materials, rags, etc. clear of the base of the heater.
• Clearances from combustion air inlet openings observed

Water Supply

• Water heater completely filled with water.
• Air purged from water heater and piping.
• Water connections tight and free of leaks.

Gas Supply

• Gas line equipped with shut-off valve, union and sediment trap.
• Approved pipe joint compound used.
• Soap and water solution used to check all connections and fittings for possible gas leak.
• Gas Company inspected installation (if required).

Relief Valve

• Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve properly installed and discharge line run to open drain.
• Discharge line protected from freezing.

Venting

• Flue baffle properly hung in top of heater’s flue.
• Draft hood properly installed.
• Vent connector(s) pitched upward to chimney (1/4” per foot of length minimum).
• Vent connector(s) securely fastened together with screws.
• Single wall vent connector(s) at least 6” from combustible material.

Supplemental instructions for gas water heaters installed in potable/space heating application

Combination Potable and Space Heating Application

Tee fitting for vertical hot water supply lines

Tee fitting for horizontal hot water supply lines

Tee fitting must be installed as shown. This ensures that any air in the water lines will be purged through the domestic water faucets and showers.

DANGER: When this system requires water for space heating at elevated temperatures (above 125°F [52°C]), a mixing or tempering valve must be installed in the hot water supply line to the house in order to reduce the scald hazard potential.

DANGER: Any piping or components used in the installation of this water heater in a combination potable and space heating application must be suitable for use with drinking water.

DANGER: If this water heater is installed in an application intended to supply domestic hot water needs and hot water for space heating purposes, do not connect the heater to an existing heating unit or components of a heating system that have previously been used with a non drinking water system. Toxic chemicals such as those used for boiler treatment may be present and will contaminate the drinking water supply causing possible health risks. Never introduce toxic chemicals, such as those used for boiler treatment, into this system.

Typical Piping Diagram for Combination Potable/Space Heating Installation

Lighting the water heater

Before lighting

WARNING: If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life.

A. This appliance has a pilot which must be lighted by hand. When lighting the pilot, follow these instructions exactly.

B. Before Lighting smell around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to smell next to the floor because some gas is heavier than air and will settle on the floor.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS

• Do not try to light any appliance
• Do not touch any electric switch; do not use any phone in your building
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor's phone. Follow the gas supplier's instructions
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.

C. Use only your hand to turn the gas control knob. Never use tools. If the knob will not turn by hand, don't try to repair it, call a qualified service technician. Force or attempted repair may result in a fie or explosion.

D. Do not use this appliance if any part has been under water. Immediately call a qualified service technician to inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the control system and any gas control which has been under water.

Lighting instructions

1. Read safety information above

2. Turn gas cock knob clockwise to “OFF” position

3. Turn temperature dial counterclockwise to lowest setting

4. Wait five (5) minutes to clear out any gas. If you smell gas, STOP! follow “B” in the safety information above. If you do not smell gas, go to next step.

5. Remove the outer door from the water heater. Do not attempt to remove inner door.

6. Located piezo ignitor striker, it is directly to the right of gas control.

7. Turn the gas cock knob counterclockwise to “pilot” position.

8. Push down on the “RED button” until it comes to rest on top of control. It must clear the notch provided in the “gas cock knob”. Hold “RED button” down and press piezo ignitor. Several times until pilot is lit. “The pilot flame can only be seen thru the sight glass located on the inner door). Continue to hold the ”RED button" in for about one (1) minute after the pilot is lit. If it goes out, repeat steps 2 through 8.

• If button does not pop up when released, stop and immediately call your service technician or gas supplier.
• If the pilot will not stay lit after several tries, turn the “Gas cock knob” to “OFF” and call your service technician or gas supplier.

9. Replace outer door.

10. Turn “gas cock knob” counterclockwise to “ON”.

11. Turn the temperature dial to the desired setting.

To turn off gas to appliance

1. Turn temperature dial counterclockwise to lowest setting.

2. Turn gas cock knob clockwise to “OFF” position,

Operating Instructions

CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.

Safety Precautions

1. Do turn off manual gas shut-off valve if water heater has been subjected to over heating, fire, flood, physical damage or if the gas supply fails to shut off.
2. Do Not turn on water heater unless it is completely filled with water.
3. Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply shut-off valve is closed.
4. Do Not allow combustible materials such as newspaper, rags or mops to accumulate near water heater.
5. Do Not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids, such as adhesives or paint thinner, in vicinity of this or any other appliance. If such flammables must be used, open doors and windows for ventilation, and all gas burning appliances in the vicinity should be shut off including their pilot burners, to avoid vapors lighting.
   NOTICE: Flammable vapors can be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater.
6. If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.

Water Temperature Setting

The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature dial on the front of the gas control (thermostat).

Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater’s gas control (thermostat(s)). The lower the temperature setting, the greater the savings in energy and operating costs.

To comply with safety regulations the gas control (thermostat) was set at its lowest setting before the water heater was shipped from the factory. The recommended starting point temperature is 120°F.

Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on the label located on the water heater near the gas control (thermostat).

Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information.

The chart below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home.

DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential for Hot Water SCALDS. Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower gas control (thermostat) setting to prevent contact with HOT water.

Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds

Water Temperature Setting…

Maximum water temperatures occur just after the burner has shut off. To determine the water temperature, turn on a hot water faucet and place a thermometer in the water stream.

The wide reference mark near WARM on the rim of the temperature dial, represents an approximate water temperature of 120°F.

The long wide reference mark, to the left, represents an approximate water temperature of 130°F.

Each reference mark above or below these points indicates an approximate change of 10°F.

To adjust the temperature, turn the temperature dial to an initial setting of 120°F.

A condition known as “stacking” or “layering” can occur when a series of short and frequent hot water draws are taken.

The hottest temperature water will be at the top of the tank, closest to the outlet pipe delivering hot water to the home.

Stacking can cause this top layer of water to be hotter than the water toward the bottom of the tank near the gas control (thermostat).

Therefore, always remember to test the water temperature with your hand before use and remember that hotter water increases the risk of scald injury.

Also, always supervise young children or others who are incapacitated.

The gas control (thermostat) is constructed with a built in safety shut-off device designed to shut off the gas supply to the burner if the pilot flame is extinguished for any reason.

The gas control (thermostat) is also equipped with a single use gas shut off device that will shut off the gas supply to the burner if the water heater exceeds normal operating temperatures. Refer to the BEFORE YOU CALL FOR SERVICE section of this manual, or contact your dealer.

WARNING: Should overheating occur or the gas supply fail to shut off, turn off the manual gas control valve to the appliance.

If the water heater has been subjected to fire, flood or physical damage, turn off the manual gas control (shut-off) valve, and do not operate the water heater again until it has been checked by qualified personnel.

NOTICE: Replace any part of the gas control system which has been under water.

Care and Cleaning

Draining the Water Heater

CAUTION: Shut off gas to the water heater at the gas control (thermostat) gas cock or manual shut-off valve before draining water.

DANGER: Before manually operating the temperature and pressure relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the hot water released by the valve. The water drained from the tank may be hot enough to present a scald hazard and should be directed to a suitable drain to prevent injury or damage.

In order to drain the water heater, turn off the cold water supply. Open a hot water faucet or lift the handle on the relief valve to admit air to the tank.

Attach a garden hose to the drain valve on the water heater and direct the stream of water to a drain. Open the valve.

Routine Preventative Maintenance

DANGER: Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the danger of the hot water released by the valve. The water may be hot enough to create a scald hazard. The water should be released into a suitable drain to prevent injury or property damage.

DANGER: Hotter water increases the potential for Hot Water Scalds.

DANGER: Failure to perform the recommended Routine Preventative Maintenance can harm the proper operation of this water heater, which can cause carbon monoxide dangers, excessive hot water temperatures and other potentially hazardous conditions

Properly maintained, your water heater will provide years of dependable trouble-free service.

It is recommended that a periodic inspection of the gas control (thermostat), burner, relief valve, internal flue-way and venting system should be made by service personnel qualified in gas appliance repair.

It is suggested that a routine preventative maintenance program be established and followed by the user.

At least once a year, lift and release the lever handle on the temperature pressure relief valve, located near the top of the water heater, to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain.

NOTICE: If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the hot water heater discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion in a closed water system. Contact the water supplier or your plumbing contractor on how to correct this. DO NOT plug the relief valve outlet.

A water heater’s tank can act as a setling basin for solids suspended in the water. It is therefore not uncommon for hard water deposits to accumulate in the bottom of the tank. If allowed to accumulate, these solids can cover the gas control (thermostat) sensors, causing the sensors to operate erratically.

Because accumulated solids can prevent the gas control (thermostat) sensors from accurately reading the water temperature, the water at the fixture can be hotter than the gas control (thermostat) dial setting. It is suggested that a few quarts of water be drained from the water heater’s tank every month to clean the tank of these deposits.

Rapid closing of faucets or solenoid valves in automatic water using appliances can cause a banging noise heard in a water pipe. Strategically located risers in the water pipe system or water hammer arresting devices can be used to minimize the problem.

The anode rod should be removed from the water heater’s tank annually for inspection and replaced when more than 6” of core wire is exposed at either end of the rod.

Make sure the cold water supply is turned off before removing anode rod.

This water heater incorporates a combustion shut off device that shuts the operation of the water heater down if undesirable combustion conditions occur. Such as the presence of flammable vapors or blockage of the combustion air inlet openings. Please contact a Qualified Service Technician if this occurs

Housekeeping

DANGER: Combustible materials, such as clothing, cleaning materials, or flammable liquids, etc., must not be placed against or next to the water heater.

Visually inspect pilot burner and relight if necessary.

To ensure sufficient ventilation and combustion air supply, proper clearances must be maintained.

When installed in a closet, DO NOT block or obstruct any of the combustion air inlet openings located around the perimeter of the water heater. A minimum of 1” is required between these combustion air inlet openings and any obstruction.

Venting System Inspection

The water heater’s internal flue must be inspected annually to be certain it is clean by removing the draft hood and flue baffle.

When reinstalling the flue baffle make certain it is hung securely by its hanger at the top of the flue way.

Reinstall the draft hood.

Inspect the gas venting system and the chimney.

Make certain the vent connector from the draft hood to the chimney is properly positioned and securely attached.

If after inspection of the vent system you found sooting or deterioration call the local gas utility to correct the problem and clean the flue, or replace the flue, flue baffle, and venting system before resuming operation of the water heater.

Test for spillage at the draft hood relief opening after 5 minutes of burner operation. Use a flame of a match or candle or smoke.

Burner Inspection

Proper burner and pilot flame pattern

Visually inspect the pilot and main burners annually.

Through the sight glass, inspect the pilot burner flame with main burner off and inspect the main burner while firing.

If any unusual burner operation is noted, the water heater should be shut off until qualified service assistance can be obtained.

CAUTION: For your safety, cleaning of the main burner must be performed only by qualified service personnel. The burner chamber is a sealed area. If the burner access door is removed, the burner access door gasket must be replaced.

For cleaning, remove the burner from the water heater. A vacuum cleaner can be used on the burner and floor shield inside the water heater.

The burner can also be cleaned by scrubbing with mild detergent.

Vacation and Extended Shut-Down

NOTICE: Refer to the Hydrogen Gas Caution in the Operating Instructions.

If the water heater is to remain idle for an extended period of time, the power and water to the appliance should be turned off to conserve energy and prevent a buildup of dangerous hydrogen gas.

The water heater and piping should be drained if they might be subjected to freezing temperatures.

After a long shut-down period, the water heater’s operation and controls should be checked by qualified service personnel. Make certain the water heater is completely filled again before placing it in operation.

Anode Rod

NOTICE: Do not remove the anode rod from the water heater’s tank, except for inspection and/or replacement, as operation with the anode rod removed will greatly shorten the life of the glass lined tank and will exclude warranty coverage.

This water heater is equipped with an anode rod designed to prolong the life of the glass lined tank. The anode rod is slowly consumed, thereby eliminating or minimizing corrosion of the glass lined tank.

Water sometimes contains a high sulfate and/or mineral content and together with cathodic protection process can produce a hydrogen sulfide, or rotten egg odor in the heated water. Chlorination of the water supply should minimize the problem.

Troubleshooting