A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 manual Aluminum Hydroxide, If tank is new with no lime build-up to any degree

Page 52

RESIDENTIAL GAS AND ELECTRIC WATER HEATER

SERVICE HANDBOOK

TECHNICAL BULLETIN

BULLETIN 14

ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE

SYMPTOMS

“Crackling”, “gurgling”, or “popping” noises from new water heaters (installed less than six months).

CAUSE

In a few isolated parts of the United States where the water supply has a relatively high pH (8+), water conditions will react with the aluminum anode to form excessive amounts of aluminum hydroxide on the anode and in the bottom of the tank. Aluminum hydroxide looks like “jelly beads” or a green, blue or gray gel like substance in the heater drain or at faucet aerators.

 

THE FIX

This procedure should only be performed by someone with abilities equal to a licensed

 

 

tradesman. Aluminum hydroxide can be removed by using one of the methods outlined.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If tank is new with no lime build-up to any degree:

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

Turn off the heater.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

Remove the anode.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

 

Flush the tank thoroughly with water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

 

Replace the aluminum anode (identifiable by smooth surface on plug) with magnesium

 

 

 

 

anode (identifiable by weld bead on plug).

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the tank is new with lime build-up to any degree:

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

 

Turn off the heater.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

 

Drain the heater.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

 

Remove the anode.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

 

Add UN-LIME to the tank.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20-40 gallon models (use 3 gallons of UN-LIME)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41-65 gallon models (use 5 gallons of UN-LIME)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66-100 gallon models (use 7 gallons of UN-LIME)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(On electric models, be certain the lower element is immersed in solution.)

 

 

5

 

Heat the UN-LIME to a temperature between 140°F to 160°F.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• GAS - Heat for 7 to 10 minutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• ELECTRIC - Power off and remove the yellow wire from terminal 2 on the upper thermostat.

 

 

 

 

Move the red wire from terminal 4 of the upper thermostat to terminal 2 of the upper

 

 

 

 

thermostat. This allows operation of the lower element only. Restore power to the heater.

 

 

 

 

Be certain that only the lower element is operating. Heat for 7 to 10 minutes.

 

 

6

 

Shut off the water heater.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

 

Allow the heated UN-LIME to stand for up to 12 minutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

 

Drain and flush the tank. Caution: UN-LIME will still be hot.

 

 

 

 

 

 

9

 

Replace the original aluminum anode with a magnesium anode.

 

 

 

 

 

10

 

Fill the system with water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11

 

On electric models, return the wiring to its original configuration.

 

 

 

 

 

12

 

Turn heater fuel “ON”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE

Since aluminum hydroxide is a product of a chemical reaction dependent on the water condition,

 

 

 

any treatment is not considered warranty related.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A.O. Smith Water Products Company

51

 

Training Department

©2002

 

 

 

Ashland City, Tennessee

 

 

 

 

Page 51 Page 53
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Page 51 Page 53
Contents Smith Service Handbook Table of Contents Residential GAS and Electric Water HeaterQualifications Tools Required Formulas General Section Service GuidelinesMiscellaneous Information Construction General SectionInstallation of Residential GAS Water Heater Lighting PilotResidental GAS Water Heater Service Construction See also General section of this manualNormal Operation Residential GasService Handbook Setting Approximate Temperature F Time To Cause Injury 000 FuelEnters Here BTUIf … … then ManifoldPilot Gas Gas PressureThermocouple output test Procedures/Conditions Electrical TestingSooting causes If … … then Procedures Residential Gas Electrical TestingIf… … then CondensationCondensation is a mild acid it will corrode steel Exhaust Venting Notes 125 Standard Residential Electric Water Heaters Construction Heating elementsVoltage Notes Residential ElectricSurface Mounted Thermostat s and High Limit s Newer TemperatureLocation Range F Service Handbook Normal Sequence of Operation Wiring DiagramSingle Element Single Thermostat Single High Limit Operation From cold tank of water CircuitElements Thermostats High Limit Wiring Diagram Operation From cold tank of waterElements Thermostats High Limits Wire Service Handbook Post Cold tank of water Single Electrical Service Single Phase Certification and Approvals Three Phase Unbalanced Circuit WattageElement Test Ohms Resistance Check Test Conditions Test probe on each terminal of an elementProcedure Residential Electric ServiceComplaint No Hot Water Conditions Test voltage between 4 and 2 or T2 and L4 If … … thenResidential Electric Service No Hot Water Test between the two element terminals If … … thenComplaint Water Too Hot Conditions Voltage Check Test between 4 and 2 or L4 and T2 If … … thenResidential Electric Service Water Too Hot Test around red wire then black wire to element If … … thenGrounded Element Check Amperage Method Circuit Servicing Testing with the Multimeter Complaint No hot water Test ConditionsVoltage Check Test between 1 and 3 or L1 and L3 If … … thenResidential Electric Service Voltage Check No Hot Water Complaint Lack of Hot Water ConditionsTest between high limit 4 and lower thermostat 1 or L4 Test between high limit 4 and lower thermostat 2 or L4Service Handbook Supply wiring may be a See Pages 25 Testing The A-7 Wiring CircuitPrior To Post Test probe on each terminal of an element If … … then Power on Voltage ChecksTest between upper high limit terminals 1 If … … then Test between upper high limit terminals 2Complaint Lack of Hot Water Test Conditions Test between lower high limit terminal 1 and 3 or L1 and L3Test Condition Test between the terminals of the lower element If … … thenPower on Thermostats are satisfied Watts divided by Volts = Amps Replacement elementsVolts times Amps = Watts Service Handbook Smith Technical Bulletins WHY Water Heater Tanks Leak What Prevention What WHY Prevention WHY Water Heater Tanks LeakWater Conditions Water Hammer GeneralEffects FIXMineral BUILD-UP SymptomsCause Aluminum Hydroxide If tank is new with no lime build-up to any degreeDiscolored Water TreatmentSmelly Water Chlorination Procedure ProcedureNot Enough HOT Water GAS TestNot Enough HOT Water Electric Thermal Expansion Follow these easy steps to diagnose thermal expansionService Handbook Leaking Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve For every technical problem There is a solution

TC-049-R2 specifications

The A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is a highly efficient and reliable water heater designed to meet the needs of both residential and light commercial applications. This gas-fired water heater offers a perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and durability, making it a popular choice among homeowners and business owners alike.

One of the standout features of the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is its tankless design. Unlike traditional water heaters with storage tanks, the TC-049-R2 heats water on demand, which means you only use energy when you need hot water. This not only results in lower energy bills but also provides an endless supply of hot water, ideal for households with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands.

The TC-049-R2 is powered by natural gas, which enhances its efficiency and operating costs. With an impressive energy factor, this water heater is designed to conserve energy without compromising on performance. The unit also boasts a high recovery rate, which means it can quickly replenish hot water, ensuring you’re never left waiting.

Another notable technology in the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is its advanced electronic ignition system, which provides reliable start-up and reduces the chance of pilot light issues. Additionally, the unit features a scaled-down footprint, making it suitable for installation in tighter spaces, such as closets or utility rooms, without sacrificing performance.

Durability is a key characteristic of the TC-049-R2, as it is constructed with high-quality materials designed to resist corrosion and withstand typical wear and tear. The unit is equipped with a durable heat exchanger that enhances both efficiency and longevity, ensuring many years of reliable service.

Safety features are also prioritized in the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2. It comes equipped with advanced safety controls that prevent overheating and ensure safe operation. This offers peace of mind for users, knowing that the unit has multiple safeguards in place.

Overall, the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, reliable, and safe water heating solution. Its combination of advanced features, innovative technology, and robust construction makes it a leader in the water heater market, providing convenience and comfort to its users for years to come.
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