Troubleshooting
Start Up Conditions
THERMAL EXPANSION
Water supply systems may, because of such events as high line pressure, frequent
The water within the water heater tank expands as it is heated and increases the pressure of the water system. If the relieving point of the water heater's temperature- pressure relief valve is reached, the valve will relieve the excess pressure. The
It is recommended that any devices installed which could create a closed system, have a
STRANGE SOUNDS
Possible noises due to expansion and contraction of some metal parts during periods of
Operational Conditions
SMELLY WATER
In each glasslined water heater there is installed at least one anode rod (see parts section) for corrosion protection of the tank. Certain water conditions will cause a reaction between this rod and the water. The most common complaint associated with the anode rod is one of a “rotten egg smell”. This odor is derived from hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in the water. The smell is the result of four factors which must all be present for the odor to develop:
a.a concentration of sulfate in the supply water.
b.little or no dissolved oxygen in the water.
c.a sulfate reducing bacteria within the water heater. (This harmless bacteria is
d.an excess of active hydrogen in the tank. This is caused by the corrosion protective action of the anode.
Smelly water may be eliminated or reduced in some water heater models by replacing the anode(s) with one of less active material, and then chlorinating the water heater tank and all hot water lines. Call Maytag Customer Service at
If the smelly water persists after the anode replacement and chlorination treatment, we can only suggest that continuous chlorination and filtering conditioning equipment be considered to eliminate the water problem.
Do not remove the anode leaving the tank unprotected. By doing so, all warranty on the water heater tank is voided.
“AIR” IN HOT WATER FAUCETS
WARNING
HYDROGEN GAS: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable and explosive. To prevent the possibility of injury under these conditions, we recommend the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before any electrical appliances which are connected to the hot water system are used (such as a dishwasher or washing machine). If hydrogen gas is present, there will probably be an unusual sound similar to air escaping through the pipe as the hot water faucet is opened. There must be no smoking or open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
RUMBLING NOISE
In some water areas, scale or mineral deposits will build up on your heating elements. This buildup will cause a rumbling noise. Follow “Element Cleaning/Replacement” instructions to clean and replace the elements.
HIGH TEMPERATURE SHUT OFF SYSTEM
The water heater has a high limit shut off system with a reset button located on the thermostat.
Follow the resetting instructions which refer to the high limit behind the access panel.
NOTE: If your water heater is connected to an “OFF PEAK” clock, and uses the “3 wire lead” wiring diagram in the “Wiring Diagram” section, then the water heater will have a
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