A.O. Smith AOSRG45200 Venting System, Condensation, Valve, Draining, Anode ROD Maintenance

WARNING

SOOT BUILD-UP INDICATES A PROBLEM THAT REQUIRES CORRECTION BEFORE FURTHER USE. CONSULT WITH A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.

Should the main burner or burner air openings require cleaning, turn the gas control knob to “OFF” position and allow the burner to cool. Remove the burner and clean with a soft brush. Clean main burner orifice with a suitable soft material.

•The drain valve must be left open during the shutdown period.

•To restart heater, refer to the FILLING instructions under

OPERATION.

Periodically open the drain valve and allow the water to run until it flows clean. This will help prevent sediment build-up in the tank.It is normal for lime and scale deposits to form within the tank. Such deposits will not be removed by periodic draining. It is necessary to chemically delime the affected parts in water areas where such deposits are encountered. Contact your dealer or plumber for deliming information.

HIGH TEMPERATURE LIMIT SWITCH (Single-Use Type Energy Cut Off)

The thermostat has a built-in limit switch which will extinguish the pilot light in case of excessive water temperatures. The pilot cannot be relit until the entire thermostat (labeled as single-use type) is replaced. It is important that a serviceman be called to determine the reason for limit operation and thus avoid repeated thermostat replacement. Lower the temperature adjustment dial setting on new control.

VENTING SYSTEM

HAVE VENTING SYSTEM CHECKED EVERY TWELVE MONTHS FOR OBSTRUCTIONS AND/OR DETERIORATION IN VENT PIP- ING.

CONDENSATION

Water vapor can condense on the cooler surfaces of the tank form- ing droplets, these drip into the fire or run out on the floor. This is common at the time of startup after installation, during periods of time when incoming water is very cold, or the heater may be under- sized for the requirements.

If water drops fall from the draft hood, it is water vapor condensed from combustion products due to a problem in the vent. It may also be the result of leaking rain water.

Droplets from the bottom of the flue may be due to corrosive com- bustion products or improper vent. Check with your dealer for more information.

T & P VALVE CATHODIC PROTECTION-ANODE

At least once a year, the temperature and pressure relief valve must be checked to ensure that it is in operating condition. Lift the lever at the top of the valve several times until the valve seats properly and operates freely.

WARNING

THE WATER PASSING OUT OF THE VALVE DURING THIS CHECKING OPERATION MAY BE EXTREMELY HOT. AVOID CONTACT AND DISCHARGE SAFELY TO PREVENT WATER DAMAGE.

DRAINING

If the heater is to be shut off and exposed to freezing temperatures, it must be drained. Water, if left in the tank and allowed to freeze, will damage the heater.

•Turn off the gas and cold water inlet valve to the heater.

•Open a nearby hot water faucet and the heater drain valve

BE CAREFUL TO GRASP THE DRAIN VALVE HANDLE SO THAT THE HAND IS NOT EXPOSED TO HOT WATER. IF DESIRED, A HOSE MAY BE CONNECTED TO THE DRAIN VALVE TO CARRY THE WATER AWAY.

DANGER: The water CAN BE HOT.

The anode rod with the tank is designed to be slowly consumed cathodically, minimizing corrosion in the glass lined tank. A hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg odor) may result if water contains high sulfate and/or minerals. Chlorinating the water supply should minimize the problem. (See EXTENDED NON-USE PERIODS).

NOTE: Anode must remain installed (except for inspection) to avoid shortening tank life. See LIMITED WARRANTY. Replace as necessary.

ANODE ROD MAINTENANCE

The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The submerged rod sacrifices itself to protect the tank. Instead of corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode rod. This does not affect the water's taste or color. The rod must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition. Failure to inspect and/or replace the anode rod will result in voiding the warranty.

Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not necessarily water condition. It may be necessary to have the anode rod in- spected a few times during the first year to see what effect the water has had. A corroded or pitted anode rod, in the first year, indicates high water conductivity and should be checked and or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be fairly clean. Inspection should be conducted by a qualified technician.

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