Troubleshooting Checklist

Before calling for service, check the following points to see if the cause of trouble can be identified and corrected. Reviewing this checklist may eliminate the need of a service call and quickly restore hot water service.

The illustration in the Features and Components section of this manual identifies the location of most of the heater components, see Pages 6 and 7.

BE SURE TO TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY (ELECTRICAL DISCONNECT SWITCH) WHEN CHECKING EQUIPMENT.

Not enough or no hot water

1.Be certain the electrical disconnect switch serving the water heater is in the ON position. The pilot toggle switch on the cabinet should be ON.

In some areas water heater electrical service may be limited by the power company. If the heater operates on a controlled circuit, heater recovery may be affected.

The optional manual override switches on the cabinet front may be turned off, de-energizing the elements.

2. Check the fuses.

The electrical disconnect switch usually contains fuses.

The water heater has fuses located behind the cabinet front door, see the Features and Components section of this manual on pages 6 and 7.

3.If the water was excessively hot, and is now cold, the temperature hi-limit cutoff may have tripped open.

To reset, turn off the electricity, open the control cabinet door, and push the reset button.

Repeated operation of the temperature hi-limit cutoff should be investigated by a qualified installer or service agency.

4.The storage capacity and/or recovery rate of the water heater may have been exceeded by a large demand for hot water. See pages 5 and 11.

Large demands require a recovery period to restore water temperature.

5.Cold incoming water temperature will lengthen the time required to heat water to the desired temperature.

If the heater was installed when incoming water temperature was warm, colder water creates the effect of less hot water.

7.Sediment or lime scale may be affecting water heater operation. Refer to the MAINTENANCE section of this manual for details.

Water is too hot

Refer to the TEMPERATURE REGULATION section of this manual.

Water Heater makes strange sounds

1.Sediment or lime scale accumulations on the elements causes sizzling and hissing noises when the heater is operating.

The sounds are normal, however, the tank bottom and elements should be cleaned. Refer to MAINTENANCE section of this manual for details.

2.Some of the electrical components of the water heater make sounds which are normal ie. contactors will “Click” or snap as the heater starts and stops.

Leakage checkpoints

1.Check to see if the drain valve is tightly closed.

2.The apparent leakage may be condensation which forms on cool surfaces of the heater and piping.

3.If the outlet of the relief valve is leaking it may represent:

Excessive water pressure.

Excessive water temperature.

Faulty relief valve.

Excessive water pressure is the most common cause of relief valve leakage. Water supply systems may, because of code requirements or such conditions as high line pressure, among others, have installed devices such as pressure reducing valves, check valves, and back flow preventers. Devices such as these cause the water system to be a closed system.

As water is heated, it expands (thermal expansion). In a closed system the volume of water will grow when it is heated. As the volume of water grows there will be a corresponding increase in water pressure due to thermal expansion. Thermal expansion can cause intermittent temperature-pressure relief valve operation: water discharged from the valve due to excessive pressure build up. This condition is not covered under the limited warranty. The temperature-pressure relief valve is not intended for the constant relief of thermal expansion.

A properly sized thermal expansion tank should be installed on all closed systems to control the harmful effects of thermal expansion. Contact a local qualified service agency to have a thermal expansion tank installed.

4. Examine the flange area of the elements for gasket leakage.

Tighten the bolts or, if necessary, follow the WATER AND LIME SCALE REMOVAL procedure in the MAINTENANCE section of this manual to replace the gaskets.

IF YOU CANNOT IDENTIFY OR CORRECT THE SOURCE OF MALFUNCTION:

1.Place the water heater electrical disconnect switch in the OFF position.

2.Close the cold water inlet valve to the heater.

3.Contact the A.O. Smith Water Products Company Customer Care Center at 800-527-1953.

DVE-150, DHE-200 specifications

A.O. Smith has established itself as a leading brand in the water heating industry, and its DVE-150 and DHE-200 models showcase the company's commitment to efficiency and innovation. Both units are designed to cater to residential and commercial water heating needs, offering a range of features that enhance performance and reliability.

The DVE-150 is a high-efficiency electric water heater that boasts a 150-gallon capacity. It is ideal for larger households or small commercial applications where hot water demand is significant. One of the standout features of the DVE-150 is its advanced heating element technology. This model uses high-density insulation that reduces heat loss, ensuring more effective energy use. The unit operates at a high recovery rate, allowing it to provide consistent hot water quickly, even during peak usage times.

On the other hand, the DHE-200 is a gas water heater, equipped with a 200-gallon capacity. This model is ideal for high-demand environments where large volumes of hot water are required. The DHE-200 incorporates an innovative direct vent system that enhances efficiency and safety by removing combustion gases from the living space. The modulating gas burner further ensures that the unit operates at optimal efficiency, adjusting the heat output based on the demand for hot water.

Both models feature an intuitive digital display that allows users to monitor and adjust their settings easily. Additionally, they come with advanced diagnostic tools that provide real-time feedback on the system's performance, making maintenance easier and more efficient.

Safety is a top concern for A.O. Smith, and both the DVE-150 and DHE-200 are designed with multiple safety features. These include high-temperature limit switches, pressure relief valves, and flame rollout switches, all of which work to protect the unit from potential hazards.

In terms of installation, both models offer flexible options. They are designed to fit in various spaces, accommodating different installation environments. This versatility is essential for both new constructions and retrofitting older systems.

The DVE-150 and DHE-200 are also backed by A.O. Smith's industry-leading warranty, providing customers with peace of mind regarding their investment. Overall, these models embody A.O. Smith's dedication to quality, efficiency, and safety, making them excellent choices for those in need of reliable water heating solutions.