Compare the actual input rate to that given on the heater’s rating plate. In the example, the
VENT SYSTEM
Examine the venting system every 6 months for obstructions and/ or deterioration of vent piping.
RELIEF VALVE
At least once a year the temperature and pressure relief valve should be checked to ensure that it is in operating condition. (During manual operation of this valve, avoid any contact with hot water and take preventive steps for water damage). 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.
If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the heater discharges periodically or continuously, a problem exists. This may be due to unusually high water temperatures or pressures in the system, or to a faulty relief valve. Contact your dealer or a qualified service technician to find the cause of the problem and to correct it. This may also be due to thermal expansion in a closed water supply system. Contact the water supplier or local plumbing inspector on how to correct this situation. DO NOT PLUG THE TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE.
WARNING
SHOULD OVERHEATING OCCUR OR THE GAS SUPPLY FAIL TO SHUT OFF, TURN OFF THE MANUAL GAS CONTROL VALVE TO THE APPLIANCE.
HOT WATER ODOR
On occasion, hot water may develop a strong odor. If this occurs drain the heater completely, flush thoroughly, and refill. If the problem persists, chlorination of the heater and replacement of the factory installed magnesium anode with an aluminum anode may correct the condition.
Occasionally water softener companies recommend removal of heater anodes for odor reasons.
CAUTION
Unauthorized removal of heater anode will void the warranty. Replace the anode as necessary to maintain corrosion protection. For further information contact your dealer.
ANODE ROD INSPECTION
The heater tank is equipped with an anode rod to provide corrosion control. At least once a year the anode rod should be checked to determine if replacement is necessary. Initially the anode rod is approximately 7/8" (22mm) in diameter with a 1/8" (3mm) diameter steel core wire running down the center of the anode material. THE ANODE SHOULD BE REPLACED when the 1/8" (3mm)
diameter core wire is visible as this means that the anode material has been expended in the control of corrosion.
NOTE: Anode rod inspection may need to be made more frequently in areas subject to acid rain that obtains their water supply from surface water as the low pH will accelerate anode activity.
CAUTION: Close cold water inlet valve serving heater and open nearby hot water faucet to relieve the pressure in the heater before attempting to remove anode(s) for inspection.
WINTER PROTECTION
In regions where freezing weather is encountered, all water must be drained from unit and piping when out of service (water shut off). Drain valve must be left open until unit is returned to service.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Replacement parts may be ordered through A. O. Smith dealers, authorized servicers or distributors. Refer to the Yellow Pages for where to call or contact the A. O. Smith Water Products Company, 5621 West 115th Street, Alsip, Illinois 60803,
CHECKLIST
Before contacting your dealer, check the water heater to see if the apparent malfunction is caused by some external fault. Consulting this checklist may eliminate the need for a repair call and restore hot water service.
NOT ENOUGH OR NO HOT WATER
1.Check to see if the pilot flame is lit.
•To relight the pilot, follow the instructions on the heater or in this manual.
•Check to see if the main gas
2.Look for leaking or open hot water faucets. Check for excessive usage.
3.Your gas company can check the gas input to the heater to see that it is correct. An underfired heater will not produce hot water at its normal recovery rate.
4.If the heater was installed when incoming water temperatures were warm, colder incoming temperatures will create the effect of less hot water.
5.The thermostat water temperature adjusting dial may be set too low.
6.If you cannot determine the cause of the problems, contact your dealer.
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