Due to the high-efficiency rating of this gas-fired
water heater, it may produce more condensation than
older models. Condensation forming on the flue tube
will drop on the burner making a “sizzling” sound. In
extreme cases, the condensation may even extinguish
the pilot flame. This condition is not uncommon and
must never be misinterpreted as a leaking tank. It will
disappear once the water becomes heated.
Because of the large amounts of water that can
condense, it is very important that a drain pan be
installed under the water heater (refer to Figure 10).
Under no circumstances is the manufacturer to be
held liable for any water damage, in connection
with this water heater. If the problem does not go
away and water continues to drip after the water heater
has heated up, check all of the plumbing connections to
make sure they are not leaking.
Burner Ignitor Assembly
Every three (3) months, check the burner and flame ignitor
assembly. Remove the outer access door and look
through the sight glass to examine the flames. A soft blue
flame indicates proper gas combustion. A yellow tipped
flame indicates poor combustion. With a vacuum cleaner,
remove any dust, lint, and dirt accumulation on or around
the combustion chamber and in the combustion air
intake holes.
Water Heater Tank
Drain a pail of water through the drain valve at least
once a year. This will remove excess sediment from the
bottom of the tank. This sediment, if allowed to accumu-
late, will reduce the efficiency and the life of the tank.
Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve
Manually operate the temperature and pressure-relief
valve at least once a year, standing clear of the outlet to
avoid being burned. Lift and release the operating lever
on the valve to make it operate freely. If, after manually
operating the valve, it fails to completely reset itself and
continues to discharge water, replace it with a new one.
Venting System Inspection
The venting system must be thoroughly inspected
once a year. Check the area where the water heater
is located to make sure that there is enough clean
combustion and ventilation air. Remove any possible
obstructions that would prevent proper air circulation
and venting. Check the venting system to make sure
that all of the connections are securely fastened, and
that all of the joints are properly sealed. If any part of
the venting system is damaged, it must be replaced by
a qualified service technician.
Anode rods
This water heater is equipped with two (2) anode rods that
are designed to prolong the life of the glass-lined tank.
The anode rods are slowly consumed, protecting the
glass-lined tank from corrosion. The anode rods
should be checked every two (2) years. If more than
half of any anode rod has been consumed, it should
be replaced. Instructions on how to change an anode
rod can be obtained from the manufacturer.
The life expectancy of the water heater is reduced
where a water softener is introduced to fight hard
water, because the sodium salts added by a soft-
ener make this water extremely conductive. In these
conditions, the anode rods are consumed more rapidly
and should be verified every year.
In certain water conditions, the magnesium of the stan-
dard anode rods will react with the water, producing dis-
coloured or smelly water. The most common complaint
is hot water that smells like rotten eggs. This phenom-
enon is the result of the reaction between the magne-
sium and hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in the water,
which occurs frequently in well systems. This problem
can usually be eliminated or reduced by changing the
anode rods to a type more suitable for these conditions
(aluminum anode rods) and by chlorinating the water
heater and plumbing system. If the problem persists,
special filtration equipment may be required. Under no
circumstances are the anode rods to be removed from
the water heater on a permanent basis. Removal of the
anode rods will lead to premature failure of the water
heater and void the warranty.
Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water sys-
tem that has not been used for a long period of time
(generally two [2] weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS
IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. It is highly recom-
mended to open the hot water faucet in the kitchen for
several minutes before you use any electrical appli-
ances connected to the hot water system, such as a
dishwasher or washing machine. If hydrogen gas is
present, there will be an unusual sound, such as air
escaping through the pipe, as the hot water faucet is
opened.
DO NOT
smoke or introduce an open flame
near the faucet when it is opened.
Draining the Water Heater
To completely drain the water heater:
1) Unplug the power cord from the wall socket.
2) Close the gas supply manual shut-off valve.
3) Close the cold water supply manual shut-off valve.
18
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
