PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
Venting System Inspection
At least once a year a visual inspection should be made of the venting system. You should look for:
1.Obstructions which could cause improper venting. The combustion and ventilation air flow must not be obstructed.
2.Damage or deterioration which could cause improper venting or leakage of combustion products.
3.Rusted flakes around top of water heater.
Be sure the vent piping is properly connected to prevent escape of dangerous flue gasses which could cause deadly asphyxiation.
Obstructions and deteriorated vent systems may present serious health risk or asphyxiation.
Chemical vapor corrosion of the flue and vent system may occur if air for combustion contains certain chemical vapors. Spray can propellants, cleaning solvents, refrigerator and air conditioner refrigerants, swimming pool chemicals, calcium and sodium chloride, waxes, bleach and process chemicals are typical compounds which are potentially corrosive.
If after inspection of the vent system you found sooting or deterioration, something is wrong. Call the local gas utility to correct the problem and clean or replace the flue and venting before resuming operation of the water heater.
Burner Inspection
Flood damage to a water heater may not be readily visible or immediately detectable. However, over a period of time a flooded water heater will create dangerous conditions which can cause
DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. Contact a qualified installer or service agency to replace a flooded water heater. Do not attempt to repair the unit! It must be replaced!
At least once a year a visual inspection should be made of the main burner and pilot burner, see Figure 31.
You should check for sooting. Soot is not normal and will impair proper combustion.
Soot
FIGURE 31.
Burner Cleaning
In the event your burner needs cleaning, follow these instructions:
If inspection of the burner shows that cleaning is required, turn the gas control knob clockwise ( 
) to the “OFF” position, depressing slightly.
Note: The knob cannot be turned from “PILOT” to “OFF” unless knob is depressed slightly. DO NOT FORCE.
The burner needs to be removed for cleaning. Call a service agency to remove and clean the burner and correct the problem that required the burner to be cleaned.
Housekeeping
Vacuum around base of water heater for dust, dirt, and lint on a regular basis.
AT LEAST ONCE EVERY SIX MONTHS A VISUAL INSPECTION SHOULD BE MADE OF THE AIR INTAKE SCREEN. CLEAN IF LINT ACCUMULATIONS ARE NOTICED.
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