RESIDENTIAL GAS AND ELECTRIC WATER HEATER

SERVICE HANDBOOK

TECHNICAL BULLETIN

BULLETIN 13

MINERAL BUILD-UP

 

SYMPTOMS

• Rumbling

• Crackling

• Popping

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAUSE

With the advent of high input and larger storage tanks in both commercial and

 

 

 

residential heaters, deliming has become a necessity of modern maintenance.

 

 

 

Lime (CaCO3), is the most notable factor when discussing water hardness.

 

 

 

Lime is present in every water system to some degree across the entire

 

 

 

United States. Since lime is inversely soluble [the more you heat, the more

 

 

 

lime comes out], higher usage, excessive hardness, and increased heating

 

 

 

surface can lead to a high incidence of “limed-up” heaters.

 

 

 

 

Symptoms often include a popping of water trapped under lime deposits or

 

 

 

the sizzling of water trapped next to elements, boiling it to steam.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FIX

Treatment of a “ limed-up“ heater is relatively simple. Since CaCO3 is a base,

 

 

 

the easiest way to dissolve it so it can be flushed from the heater is with an

 

 

 

acid. The most commonly used is phosphoric acid at a food-grade level.

 

 

 

Two common treatments marketed by A.O. Smith are Mag-Erad

and Un-

 

 

 

Lime

. Any well-stocked plumbing supply house should have a deliming

 

 

 

solution available.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The directions on the product should be followed explicitly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTES

For additional information and instructions in deliming water heaters and

 

 

 

boilers, please refer to the following pamphlets available from A.O. Smith:

 

 

 

• Why? When & How: To Remove Water Scale from Tank Type Water

 

 

 

 

Heaters

 

 

 

 

 

 

• The Mag-EradMethod of Cleaning Gas Fired Water Heaters

 

 

 

•

Up-N-DownTransfer Kit

 

 

 

 

 

• All About Deliming Coil Type Water Heaters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A.O. Smith Water Products Company

50

 

Training Department

 

©2002

 

 

Ashland City, Tennessee

 

 

 

 

Page 50 Page 52
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A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 manual Mineral BUILD-UP, Symptoms, Cause
Page 50 Page 52

TC-049-R2 specifications

The A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is a highly efficient and reliable water heater designed to meet the needs of both residential and light commercial applications. This gas-fired water heater offers a perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and durability, making it a popular choice among homeowners and business owners alike.

One of the standout features of the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is its tankless design. Unlike traditional water heaters with storage tanks, the TC-049-R2 heats water on demand, which means you only use energy when you need hot water. This not only results in lower energy bills but also provides an endless supply of hot water, ideal for households with multiple bathrooms or high hot water demands.

The TC-049-R2 is powered by natural gas, which enhances its efficiency and operating costs. With an impressive energy factor, this water heater is designed to conserve energy without compromising on performance. The unit also boasts a high recovery rate, which means it can quickly replenish hot water, ensuring you’re never left waiting.

Another notable technology in the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is its advanced electronic ignition system, which provides reliable start-up and reduces the chance of pilot light issues. Additionally, the unit features a scaled-down footprint, making it suitable for installation in tighter spaces, such as closets or utility rooms, without sacrificing performance.

Durability is a key characteristic of the TC-049-R2, as it is constructed with high-quality materials designed to resist corrosion and withstand typical wear and tear. The unit is equipped with a durable heat exchanger that enhances both efficiency and longevity, ensuring many years of reliable service.

Safety features are also prioritized in the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2. It comes equipped with advanced safety controls that prevent overheating and ensure safe operation. This offers peace of mind for users, knowing that the unit has multiple safeguards in place.

Overall, the A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 is an excellent choice for those seeking an efficient, reliable, and safe water heating solution. Its combination of advanced features, innovative technology, and robust construction makes it a leader in the water heater market, providing convenience and comfort to its users for years to come.
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