Housekeeping, Anode Rod Inspection, Draining

Housekeeping

Vacuum around base of water heater for dust, dirt, and lint on a regular basis.

AT LEAST ONCE EVERY SIX MONTHS A VISUAL INSPECTION SHOULD BE MADE OF THE AIR INTAKE SCREEN. CLEAN IF LINT ACCUMULATIONS ARE NOTICED.

INSTALLED IN SUITABLE AREA: To insure sufﬁcient ventilation and combustion air supply, proper clearances from the water heater must be maintained. See Facts to Consider About the Location section. Combustible materials such as clothing, cleaning materials, or ﬂ ammable liquids, etc. must not be placed against or adjacent to the water heater because they could catch on ﬁ re.

Anode Rod Inspection

The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The submerged rod deteriorates to protect the tank. Instead of corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode rod. This does not affect the water’s taste or color. The rod must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition.

Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod indicates high water conductivity and should be checked and/ or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be intact. Replacement of a depleted anode rod can extend the life of your water heater. Inspection should be conducted by calling the Sears Service Center for an authorized contractor. At a minimum, the anode(s) should be checked annually after the warranty period.

Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve Operation

The temperature-pressure relief valve must be manually operated at least once a year.

When checking the temperature-pressure relief valve operation, make sure that (1) no one is in front of or around the outlet of the temperature-pressure relief valve discharge line, and (2) that the water discharge will not cause any property damage, as the water may be extremely hot. See Figure 24.

FIGURE 24.

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.

If the temperature-pressure relief valve on the appliance weeps or discharges periodically, this may be due to thermal expansion. You may have a check valve installed in the water line or a water meter with a check valve. Consult the Sears Service Center for further information. Do not plug the temperature- pressure relief valve.

Draining

The water heater should be drained if being shut down during freezing temperatures. Also periodic draining and cleaning of sediment from the tank may be necessary.

1. Turn the gas control knob to the “OFF” position.