Leakage Checkpoints

Use this guide to check a “Leaking” water heater. Many suspected “Leakers” are not leaking tanks. Often the source of the water can be found and corrected.

If you are not thoroughly familiar with gas codes, your water heater, and safety practices, contact Sears Service Center to check the water heater.

Read this manual first. Then before checking the water heater make sure the gas supply has been turned “OFF”, and never turn the gas “ON” before the tank is completely full of water.

Never use this water heater unless it is completely filled with 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.

A.Water at the blower assembly is water vapor which has condensed out of the combustion products. This is caused by a problem in the vent. Contact the gas utility.

B.*Condensation may be seen on pipes in humid weather or pipe connections may be leaking.

C.*The anode rod fitting may be leaking (anode is located under the Blower Assembly).

D.Small amounts of water from temperature-pressure relief valve may be due to thermal expansion or high water pressure in your area.

E.*The temperature-pressure relief valve may be leaking at the tank fitting.

F.Water from a drain valve may be due to the valve being slightly opened.

G.*The drain valve may be leaking at the tank fitting.

H.Combustion products contain water vapor which can condense on the cooler surfaces of the tank. Droplets form and drip onto the burner or run on the floor. This is common at the time of start-up after installation and when incoming water is cold.

I.Water in the water heater bottom or on the floor may be from condensation, loose connections, or the relief valve. DO NOT replace the water heater until a full inspection of all possible water sources is made and necessary corrective steps taken.

Leakage from other appliances, water lines, or ground seepage should also be checked.

*To check where threaded portion enters tank, insert cotton swab between jacket opening and fitting. If cotton is wet, follow “Draining” instructions in the “Periodic Maintenance” section and then remove fitting. Put pipe dope or teflon tape on the threads and replace. Then follow “Filling the Water Heater” instructions in the “Installation Instructions” section.