FOR YOUR INFORMATION

EXTERNAL DAMAGE

Do not operate the water heater until it has been fully checked out by a qualified technician, if the water heater:

•Has been exposed to fire or damage.

•Displays evidence of sooting.

•Produces steam or unusually hot water.

If the water heater has been flooded it must be replaced.

START UP CONDITIONS

NEVER OPERATE THE HEATER WITHOUT FIRST BEING CERTAIN IT IS FILLED WITH WATER AND A TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE IS INSTALLED IN THE RE- LIEF VALVE OPENING OF THE HEATER. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE HEATER WITH COLD WATER INLET VALVE CLOSED.

CONDENSATE

Whenever the water heater is filled with cold water, some con- densate will form while the burner is on. A water heater may appear to be leaking when in fact the water is condensate. This usually happens when:

a.A new water heater is filled with cold water for the first time.

b.Burning gas produces water vapor in water heaters, par- ticularly high efficiency models where flue temperatures are lower.

c.Large amounts of hot water are used in a short time and the refill water in the tank is very cold.

Moisture from the products of combustion condense on the cooler tank surfaces and form drops of water which may fall onto the burner or other hot surfaces to produce a “sizzling” or “frying” noise.

Because of the suddenness and amount of water, condensate water may be diagnosed as a “tank leak”. After the water in the tank warms up (about 1-2 hours), the condition should disap- pear.

Do not assume the water heater is leaking until there has been enough time for the water in the tank to warm up.

An undersized water heater will cause more condensation. The water heater must be sized properly to meet the family’s de- mands for hot water including dishwashers, washing machines and shower heads.

Excessive condensate may be noticed during the winter and early spring months when incoming water temperatures are at their lowest.

Good venting is essential for a gas fired water heater to operate properly as well as to carry away products of combustion and water vapor.

SMOKE/ODOR

It is not uncommon to experience a small amount of smoke and odor during the initial start-up. This is due to burning off of oil from metal parts, and will disappear in a short while.

THERMAL EXPANSION

Water supply systems may, because of such events as high line pressure, frequent cut-offs, the effects of water hammer among others, have installed devices such as pressure reducing valves, check valves, back flow preventers, etc. to control these types of problems. When these devices are not equipped with an internal by-pass, and no other measures are taken, the devices cause the water system to be closed. As water is heated, it expands (thermal expansion) and closed systems do not allow for the expansion of heated water.

The water within the water tank expands as it is heated and in- creases the pressure of the water system. If the relieving point of the water heater’s temperature-pressure relief valve is reached, the valve will release the excess pressure. The temperature- pressure relief valve is not intended for the constant relief of thermal expansion. This is an unacceptable condition and must be corrected. It is recommended that any devices installed which could create a closed system have a by-pass and/or the system have an expansion tank or device to relieve the pressure built by thermal expansion in the water system. Expansion tanks are available for ordering through a local plumbing contractor. Contact the local water heater supplier or service agency for as- sistance in controlling these situations.

STRANGE SOUNDS

Possible noises due to expansion and contraction of some metal parts during periods of heat-up and cool-down do not necessarily represent harmful or dangerous conditions.

Condensation causes sizzling and popping within the burner area during heating and cooling periods and should be consid- ered normal. See “Condensate” in this section.

OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS

SMELLY WATER

In each water heater there is installed at least one anode rod (see parts section) for corrosion protection of the tank. Certain water conditions will cause a reaction between this rod and the water. The most common complaint associated with the anode rod is one of a “rotten egg smell” in the hot water. The smell is a result of four factors which must all be present for the odor to develop:

a.A concentration of sulfate in the supply water.

b.Little or no dissolved oxygen in the water.

c.A sulfate reducing bacteria which has accumulated within the water heater (this harmless bacteria is nontoxic to humans).

d.An excess of active hydrogen in the tank. This is caused by the corrosion protective action of the anode.

Smelly water may be eliminated or reduced in some water heater models by replacing the anode(s) with one of less active mate- rial, and then chlorinating the water heater tank and all water

20

Page 19 Page 21
Page 20
Image 20
A.O. Smith GDVT-50, GDV-50, GDV-75 For Your Information, External Damage, Start UP Conditions, Operational Conditions
Page 19 Page 21

186589-004, GDVT-50, GDV-75, GDV-40, GDV-50 specifications

A.O. Smith is a recognized name in the water heating industry, known for its reliable and efficient water heaters. Among its notable products are the GDV-50, GDV-40, GDV-75, GDVT-50, and 186589-004 models. These water heaters offer enhanced performance, energy efficiency, and modern technologies suited for residential and commercial applications.

The GDV series includes the GDV-50, GDV-40, and GDV-75 models, which feature a robust design typically made from high-quality materials to ensure longevity. These units come equipped with advanced insulation, which minimizes heat loss and increases efficiency, making them excellent choices for households with varying hot water needs.

The GDV-50 model boasts a tank capacity of 50 gallons, making it suitable for medium to large households. It features a powerful heating element that heats water quickly, providing ample hot water for daily use. Meanwhile, the GDV-40 is designed for smaller households with a 40-gallon capacity. This model strikes a balance between size and efficiency, catering to lighter hot water demands while maintaining excellent performance.

For larger households, the GDV-75 provides a 75-gallon capacity, ensuring that even the most demanding hot water applications can be met with ease. This model is particularly ideal for families that require hot water in large quantities or at peak times.

The GDVT-50 is a versatile model that features advanced technology, such as an integrated digital display that allows users to monitor and adjust settings easily. This offers greater control over temperature settings and energy usage, making it not only convenient but also more energy-efficient.

The A.O. Smith 186589-004 is an accessory designed for specific model enhancements that improve overall performance and safety. It may include additional safety features, such as high-temperature limit switches and automatic shut-off mechanisms that provide peace of mind for users.

All these models are equipped with A.O. Smith’s innovative technologies, including advanced thermostat controls and durable components designed to withstand frequent use. They typically come with generous warranties, underscoring the manufacturer's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

In summary, A.O. Smith water heaters, particularly the GDV-50, GDV-40, GDV-75, GDVT-50, and 186589-004, are built for efficiency, reliability, and performance. With various capacities and the latest technologies, they cater to the diverse needs of homeowners and businesses, ensuring that hot water is always available when needed.
Top Page Image Contents