Temperature Regulation
Due to the nature of the typical gas water heater, the water temperature in certain situations may vary up to 30F° (16.7 C°) higher or lower at the point of use such as, bathtubs, showers, sink, etc.
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are intended to produce hot water. Water heated to a temperature which will satisfy space heating, clothes washing, dish washing, and other sanitizing needs can scald and permanently injure you upon contact. Some people are more likely to be permanently injured by hot water than others. These include the elderly, children, the infirm, or physically/mentally handicapped. If anyone using hot water in your home fits into one of these groups or if there is a local code or state law requiring a certain temperature water at the hot water tap, then you must take special precautions. In addition to using the lowest possible temperature setting that satisfies your hot water needs, a means such as a mixing valve, should be used at the hot water taps used by these people or at the water heater. Mixing valves are available at plumbing supply or hardware stores. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation of the valves. Before changing the thermostat setting, see Figures 22 and 23. Using the lowest hot water temperature that meets your needs will also provide the most energy efficient operation of the water heater.
THEWATERHEATERSHOULDBELOCATEDINANAREAWHERE THEGENERALPUBLICDOESNOTHAVEACCESS.IFASUITABLE AREA IS NOT AVAILABLE, A COVER SHOULD BE INSTALLED OVER THE THERMOSTAT TO PREVENT TAMPERING. Suitable covers are available through the Sears Service Center.
Never allow small children to use a hot water tap, or to draw their own bath water. Never leave a child or handicapped person unattended in a bathtub or shower.
NOTE: A water temperature range of
The thermostat of this water heater has been factory set at its lowest position (PILOT LIGHTING). It is adjustable and must be reset to the desired temperature setting to reduce the risk of scald injury. The mark (
) indicative of approximately 120°F (49°C) is preferred starting point. Some states have a requirement for a lower setting.
Turn the water temperature dial clockwise ( 
) to decrease
the temperature, or counterclockwise ( 
) to increase the temperature.
Should overheating occur or the gas supply fail to shut off, turn off the manual gas control valve to the appliance.
FIGURE 22.
Temperature | Time to Produce 2nd & 3rd |
Settings | Degree Burns on Adult Skin |
VERY HOT= approx. 160°F (71°C) | About 1/2 second |
C = approx. 150°F (66°C) | About |
B = approx. 140°F (60°C) | Less than 5 seconds |
A = approx. 130°F (54°C) | About 30 seconds |
= approx. 120°F (49°C) | More than 5 minutes |
LOW = approx. 80°F (27°C) | - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
|
|
FIGURE 23.
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