RESIDENTIAL GAS AND ELECTRIC WATER HEATER

SERVICE HANDBOOK

TECHNICAL BULLETIN

BULLETIN 36

NOT ENOUGH HOT WATER - ELECTRIC

CAUSE

Not enough hot water complaints are becoming more frequent in the water heater industry. This increase was triggered when changes required by our regulatory agencies were implemented. For example, heaters are now factory preset at a lower temperature and inlet tubes have been shortened. While lower temperatures settings reduce the burn rate, and shorter dip tubes guard against stacking, both affect the amount of hot water a water heater can supply. The following test will help determine if a water heater is supplying the intended amount of hot water and will help pinpoint any problems that exist.

TEST

Please read all the steps of the test prior to beginning. If you feel uncomfortable

 

performing any of these steps, contact a service person to conduct this test for you.

 

 

STEP 1

At the faucet nearest to the water heater, time (in seconds) how long it takes to fill a

 

1 gallon bucket (flow rate).

 

 

Gallon per minute (gpm) = 60 seconds / seconds to fill a 1 gallon bucket

 

If the bucket fills in: 10 sec = 6 gpm

 

 

12 sec = 5 gpm

 

 

15 sec = 4 gpm

 

 

20 sec = 3 gpm

 

 

24 sec = 2.5 gpm

 

STEP 2

Turn both upper and lower thermostat dials on the water heater to 130° F.

STEP 3

Run about 15 gallons of hot water from the nearest faucet. Shut water off.

STEP 4

Water heater should complete heating 15 gallons in approximately 45 minutes

STEP 5

At a nearby faucet using a candy thermometer, measure the hot water temperature.

STEP 6

The temperature should fall between 120°F to 140°F.

STEP 7

Continue running the hot water until 60% of the tank capacity is depleted:

 

CAPACITY

DEPLETE

 

30 gallons

18 gallons

 

40 gallons

24 gallons

 

50 gallons

30 gallons

 

66 gallons

39 gallons

 

80 gallons

48 gallons

 

120 gallons

72 gallons

STEP 8

At the same faucet using a candy thermometer, measure the water temperature.

STEP 9

The temperature should be about 30°F below the temperature in step 6.

THE FIX

Step 6 - if the temperature was not within range, check the thermostats.

Step 9 - if more than 30 °F was lost, check the lower element for continuity and the dip tube.

A.O. Smith Water Products Company

56

Training Department

©2002

Ashland City, Tennessee

 

Page 56 Page 58
Page 57
Image 57
A.O. Smith TC-049-R2 manual Not Enough HOT Water Electric
Page 56 Page 58

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.
Top Page Image Contents