At least once a year a visual inspection should be made of the main burner and the hot surface igniter assembly for proper flame characteristics and ignition sequences. This can be done by removing the Outer Door and viewing the main burner operation through the Viewport on the Inner Door, see Figure 1. The main burner should provide complete combustion of gas, ignite rapidly, give reasonably quiet operation, and cause no excessive flame lifting from the burner ports. If the proper flame characteristics are not evident (see Figure 28), make sure that the flow of combustion and ventilation air is not blocked on the Air Intake Screen at the base of the water heater (see Figure 29), the Lint screen on the blower assembly (see Figure 1), and in the venting system.
You should also check for sooting. Soot is not normal and will impair proper combustion. A visual inspection of the main burner and HSI igniter assembly should also be done at least once a year, see Figure 28.
Soot
FIGURE28.
BURNER CLEANING
In the event your burner or burner air openings require cleaning, turn the blower switch to the “OFF” position and allow the burner to cool. Call Sears Service Center to remove and clean the burner and correct the problem that required the burner to be cleaned.
HOUSEKEEPING
Vacuum around base of water heater for dust, dirt, and lint on a regular basis.
This water heater unit is supplied with a plastic Air Intake Screen that will filter and prevent lint
FIGURE29.
AT LEAST ONCE EVERY SIX MONTHS A VISUAL INSPECTION SHOULD BE MADE OF THEAIR INTAKE SCREENS ON THE BASE OF THE WATER HEATER AND THE BLOWER ASSEMBLY. 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 flammable liquids, etc. must not be placed against or adjacent to the water heater which can cause a fire.
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 sacrifices itself 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 a qualified technician, and at a minimum should be checked annually after the warranty period.
TEMPERATURE-PRESSURE
RELIEF VALVE OPERATION
The
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