A.O. Smith W/HOT instruction manual Leakage Checkpoints, Service

SERVICE

If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation of the water heater contact a service agency.

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 your gas supplier or qualified installer 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.

LEAKAGE CHECKPOINTS

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

BTo 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.

D	A	*Condensation may be seen on pipes in humid weather or pipe
		connections may be leaking.
C	B. *The anode rod fitting may be leaking.
	C. Small amounts of water from temperature-pressure relief valve
		may be due to thermal expansion or high water pressure in your
		area.
	D. *The temperature-pressure relief valve may be leaking at the
		tank fitting.
	E . Water from a drain valve may be due to the valve being slightly
		opened.
	F. *The drain valve may be leaking at the tank fitting.
F
	G. Combustion products contain water vapor which can condense
	G	on the cooler surfaces of the tank. Droplets form and drip onto
E		the burner or run on the floor. This is common at the time of
		start-up after installation and when incoming water is cold.
	H . 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 “Installing the New Water Heater” section.

31