Airstream NTERSTATE WARNING

APPLIANCES

I - 5

WATER HEATER

WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are

vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for

clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close

to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of

appliances and ignite from the burner ﬂame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A

FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.

Manufacturer:

Atwood Mobile Products 4750

Hiawatha Drive P.O. Box 1205

Rockford, Illinois 61105

Phone: 815-877-7461

Note: Review the water heater literature supplied in your Owner’s Packet before pro-

ceeding,

CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system served by this

heater that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or

more). Hydrogen gas is extremely ﬂammable. To reduce the risk of injury under

these conditions, it is recommended that the hot water faucet he opened for sev-

eral minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance connected

to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there will probably be an unusual

sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to ﬂow. There

should be no smoking or open ﬂame near the faucet at the time it is open.

Water Heater Draining

All models have a drain plug or petcock on the water heater. Access is from the exte-

rior. The plug or valve is usually located in the lower left corner, viewed as you face the

exterior of the water heater.

SAFETY

If your water system is full and cold and the water heater is ignited, the system can

produce pressures as high as 120 psi before the relief valve starts to open. Since the

water system normally operates in the 40-psi range the water expansion does put

unusual stress on the system. This normally does not cause any problems, but the

stress is easily alleviated. As the water is heating just open any faucet and run as little

as a cup of water. Just removing this small amount of water reduces the pressure build

up signiﬁcantly.

For fun, watch the sequence of events your family goes through when you park the

motorhome and ignite the water heater. More than likely, someone will run water and

relieve the pressure without even realizing it.