Filling the Water Heater

If replaced, the valve must meet the requirements of local codes, but not less than a combination temperature and pressure relief valve certified as indicated in the above paragraph.

The valve must be marked with a maximum set pressure not to exceed the marked hydrostatic working pressure of the water heater (150 psi = 1,035 kPa) and a discharge capacity not less than the water heater input rate as shown on the model rating plate.

For safe operation of the water heater, the relief valve must not be removed from its designated opening nor plugged.

The temperature-pressure relief valve must be installed directly into the fitting of the water heater designed for the relief valve. Position the valve downward and provide tubing so that any discharge will exit only within 6 inches (153 mm) above, or at any distance below the structural floor. Be certain that no contact is made with any live electrical part. The discharge opening must not be blocked or reduced in size under any circumstances. Excessive length, over 30 feet (9.14 m), or use of more than four elbows can cause restriction and reduce the discharge capacity of the valve, see Figure 17.

No valve or other obstruction is to be placed between the relief valve and the tank. Do not connect tubing directly to discharge drain unless a 6 inch air gap is provided. To prevent bodily injury, hazard to life, or property damage, the relief valve must be allowed to discharge water in quantities should circumstances demand. If the discharge pipe is not connected to a drain or other suitable means, the water flow may cause property damage.

FIGURE17.

The Discharge Pipe:

•Shall not be smaller in size than the outlet pipe size of the valve, or have any reducing couplings or other restrictions.

•Shall not be plugged or blocked.

•Shall be of material listed for hot water distribution.

•Shall be installed so as to allow complete drainage of both the temperature-pressure relief valve, and the discharge pipe.

•Shall terminate at an adequate drain.

•Shall not have any valve between the relief valve and tank.

The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually operated at least once a year. Caution should be taken to ensure that (1) no one is in front of or around the outlet of the temperature-pressure relief valve discharge line, and (2) the water manually discharged will not cause any bodily injury or property damage because the water may be extremely hot.

If after manually operating the valve, it fails to completely reset and continues to release water, immediately close the cold water inlet to the water heater, follow the draining instructions, and replace the temperature-pressure relief valve with a new one.

Never use this water heater unless it is completely full of water. To prevent damage to the tank, the tank must be filled with water. Water must flow from the hot water faucet before turning “ON” gas to the water heater.

To fill the water heater with water:

• Close the water heater drain valve by turning the handle to