Operating the water heater.
CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this water heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE!! To dissipate such gas and to reduce risk of injury, it is recommended that the hot water faucet be opened for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will be an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Do not smoke or use an open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
Safety Precautions
Do turn off manual gas
to shut off.
Do Not turn on water heater unless it is completely filled with water.
Do Not turn on water heater if cold water supply
Do Not allow combustible materials such as newspaper, rags or mops to accumulate near water heater.
Do Not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids, such as adhesives or paint thinner, in vicinity of this or any other appliance.
If such flammables must be used, open doors and windows for ventilation, and all gas burning appliances in the vicinity should be shut off including their pilot burners, to avoid vapors lighting.
NOTICE: Flammable vapors can be drawn by air currents from surrounding areas to the water heater.
If there is any difficulty in understanding or following the Operating Instructions or the Care and Cleaning section, it is recommended that a qualified person or serviceman perform the work.
!DANGER: Hotter water increases the Potential
for Hot Water SCALDS. Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120°F or lower gas control (thermostat) setting to prevent contact with HOT water.
Water Temperature Setting
The temperature of the water in the water heater can be regulated by setting the temperature dial on the front of the gas control (thermostat).
Safety and energy conservation are factors to be considered when selecting the water temperature setting of the water heater’s gas control (thermostat(s)). The lower the temperature setting, the greater the savings in energy and operating costs.
To comply with safety regulations, the gas control (thermostat) was set at its lowest setting before the water heater was shipped from the factory. The recommended starting point temperature is 120°F.
Water temperatures above 125°F can cause severe burns or death from scalding. Be sure to read and follow the warnings outlined in this manual and on the label located on the water heater near the gas control thermostat.
Mixing valves are available for reducing point of use water temperature by mixing hot and cold water in branch water lines. Contact a licensed plumber or the local plumbing authority for further information. (See page 4 for more details.)
The chart below may be used as a guide in determining the proper water temperature for your home.
Time/Temperature Relationship in Scalds
Water Temperature | Time To Produce a Serious Burn |
120°F | More than 5 minutes |
125°F | 11/2 to 2 minutes |
130°F | About 30 seconds |
135°F | About 10 seconds |
140°F | Less than 5 seconds |
145°F | Less than 3 seconds |
150°F | About 11/2 seconds |
155°F | About 1 second |
Table courtesy of Shriners Burn Institute
17