22
CHECKING FOR LEAKS
Use this illustration as a guide when checking for sources of water leakage. You or your dealer may be able to correct what appears to
be a problem.
Note:
Cover and insulation are show removed to reveal tank top.
All water which appears at the water heater bottom or on the surrounding floor may be caused by condensation, loose connections or
relief valve operation and leakage. Do not replace the water heater until full inspection of all potential leak points is made and corrective
steps taken to stop the leak.
Leakage from other appliances, water lines or ground should also be suspected until proven otherwise. See
Water Leakage Is Suspected
(page 21).
6
10
1
4
2
5
7
6
7
8
8
9
3
L1
L3
L4
T2
T4
L2
T1
THERM O DISC
89T
RESET
RESE
T
181°F
120°F
140°F
L1
L3
L4
T2
T4
L2
T1
THERM O DISC
89T
RESET
RESE
T
181°F
120°F
140°F
Figure 7. Leakage Checkpoints
Read and understand this instruction
manual and the safety messages
herein before installing, operating or
servicing this water heater.
Failure to follow these instructions and
safety messages could result in death
or serious injury.
This manual must remain with the
water heater.
Never use this water heater unless it is completely filled with water.
To prevent damage to the tank, the tank must be filled with water.
Water must flow from the hot water faucet before turning the water
heater.
1.
Where possible remove or lift top cover to examine threads of
fittings installed into tank for evidence of leakage. Correct fitting
leaks as necessary.
2.
*Condensation may be seen on pipes in humid weather or pipe
connections may be leaking.
3.
*The anode rod fitting may be leaking.
4.
*The temperature-pressure relief valve may be leaking at the
tank fitting.
5.
Small amounts of water from temperature-pressure relief valve
may be due to thermal expansion or high water pressure in your
area.
6.
Water on the side of the tank may be condensation due to the
panel or insulation not being in place.
7.
Defective element which leaks at terminals or thru flange. Replace
element*
8.
Loose element/gasket leak
a.
Screw-in type: tighten with 1-1/2” socket wrench. If leak
continues, remove element*, discard gasket and clean thread
areas. Apply non-hardening Permatex Number 2 to thread
areas, install new gasket and screw element into fitting until
it seats. Tighten 1/2 to 3/4 turn with wrench.
b. Flange type: tighten screw with wrench. If leak continues
remove element* and discard gasket. Clean gasket seating
areas and re-install element with new gasket. A new element
may be required where threads have become rusted or
damaged, preventing tightening.
9.
Water from a drain valve may be due to the valve being slightly
opened.
10.
*The drain valve may be leaking at the tank fitting.
Leakage from other water heaters, water lines, or ground seepage
should also be checked.
* To check where threaded portion enters tank, insert cotton swab
between jacket opening and fitting. If cotton is wet, follow “Draining”
instructions in the “Periodic Maintenance” section and then remove
fitting. Put pipe dope or teflon tape on the threads and replace. Then
follow “Filling the Water Heater” instructions in the “Installing the New
Water Heater” section.
*Contact your dealer as it is necessary to shut off electricity and
drain tank to perform procedure.
Printed on 7/25/2022 7:17 AM CT
