Maintenance of Your Water Heater

FIGURE 15

Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve

Draining and Flushing

It is recommended that the tank be drained and flushed every 6 months to remove sediment which may build up during operation. The water heater should be drained if being shut down during freezing temperatures. To drain the tank, perform the following steps:

1.Turn off the gas to the water heater at the manual gas shut-off valve.

2.Turn off the electrical supply to the water heater.

3.Close the cold water inlet valve.

4.Open a nearby hot water faucet.

5.Connect a hose to the drain valve and terminate it to an adequate drain.

NOTE:: The drain hose should be rated for at least 200°F (93°C). If the drain hose does not have this rating, open the cold water inlet valve and a nearby hot faucet until the water is no longer hot.

6.Open the water heater drain valve and allow all the water to drain from the tank. Flush the tank with water as needed to remove sediment.

7.Close the drain valve, refill the tank, and restart the heater as directed under “Operating Your Water Heater”.

If the water heater is going to be shut down for an extended period, the drain valve should be left open.

IMPORTANT: Condensation may occur when refilling the tank and should not be confused with a tank leak.

Routine Preventive

Maintenance

At least annually, a visual inspection should be made of the venting and air supply system, piping systems, main burner, and pilot burner. Check the water heater for the following:

•Obstructions, damage, or deterioration in the venting system. Make sure the ventilation and combustion air supplies are not obstructed.

•Build up of soot and carbon on the main burner and pilot burner. Check for a soft blue flame.

•Leaking or damaged water and gas piping.

•Presence of flammable or corrosive materials in the installation area.

•Presence of combustible materials near the water heater.

•Verify proper operation after servicing this water heater.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

WARNING

Explosion Hazard

If the temperature and pressure relief valve is dripping or leaking, have a qualified person replace it.

Examples of a qualified person include: licensed plumbers, authorized gas company personnel, and authorized service personnel.

Do not plug valve. Do not remove valve.

Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, or explosion.

Manually operate the temperature and pressure relief valve at least once a year to make sure it is working properly (see Figure 15.) To prevent water damage, the valve must be properly connected

to a discharge line which terminates at an

adequate drain. Standing

clear of the outlet (discharged water may

be hot), slowly lift and

release the lever handle on the temperature and pressure relief valve to allow the valve to operate

freely and return to its

closed position. If the valve fails to completely reset and continues to release water, immediately shut off the manual gas shut-off valve and the cold water inlet valve and call a qualiﬁed person.

IMPORTANT: If you lack the necessary skills required to properly perform this visual inspection, you should not proceed, but get help from a qualified person.

40-42K BTU, 50-60K BTU specifications

When it comes to reliable water heating solutions, American Water Heater Company stands at the forefront of the industry, offering a range of models, including those with 50-60K BTU and 40-42K BTU capacity. These water heaters are engineered to deliver consistent and efficient hot water supply for residential and commercial applications.

One of the standout features of American water heaters is their advanced insulation technology. These units come with high-density foam insulation that minimizes heat loss, ensuring that the water remains hot for extended periods. This feature not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces operating costs for users.

For the 50-60K BTU models, American Water Heater employs a powerful gas burner system that offers quick recovery rates, making it an ideal choice for larger households or businesses that require a high volume of hot water. This capability ensures that there is always an adequate supply of hot water for multiple simultaneous tasks, such as showering, washing dishes, and laundry.

On the other hand, the 40-42K BTU models provide an excellent balance between performance and energy conservation, making them suitable for medium-sized homes. These units are equipped with electronic ignition systems that enhance reliability and safety while providing a user-friendly experience. The electronic igniter eliminates the need for a pilot light, reducing gas consumption and increasing energy efficiency.

Durability is another hallmark of American Water Heater products. Constructed with robust materials, these units are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while also resisting corrosion. This ensures a longer lifespan and reduces maintenance costs over time.

Safety features are also a priority for American Water Heater. Many models incorporate advanced safety systems, including temperature and pressure relief valves, ensuring user safety and compliance with building codes.

In terms of technology, American Water Heaters often include features that promote user convenience, such as programmable thermostats and easy-to-read digital displays. These allow homeowners to customize their hot water settings to fit their lifestyle, optimizing both comfort and energy efficiency.

Overall, American Water Heater’s 50-60K BTU and 40-42K BTU models epitomize quality, efficiency, and innovation in water heating technology, making them a preferred choice for consumers seeking effective and dependable hot water solutions.