At least twice a year, the temperature and pressure relief valve should be checked to ensure that it is in operating condition. To check the relief valve, lift the lever at the end of the valve several times. The valve should seat properly and operate freely.
If water does not flow, remove and inspect for obstructions or corrosion. Replace with a new valve of the recommended size as necessary. A thorough inspection of the valve should be performed at least every three years by removing the temperature and relief valve from the tank. Do not attempt to repair the valve, as this could result in improper operation and a tank explosion. In areas with poor water conditions, it may be necessary to inspect the T&P valve more often than the recommended maintenance schedule
CAUTION
Before manually operating the valve, make sure that a drain line has been attached to the valve to direct the discharge to an open drain. Failure to take this precaution could mean contact with extremely hot water passing out the valve during this checking operation.
If the temperature and pressure relief valve on the water heater discharges periodically or continuously, it may be due to thermal expansion of water in a closed water supply system, or, it may be due to a faulty relief valve.
Thermal expansion is the normal response of water when it is heated. In a closed system, thermal expansion will cause the system pressure to build until the relief valve actuation pressure is equaled. Then, the relief valve will open, allowing some water to escape, slightly lowering the pressure.
Contact your water supplier or local plumbing inspector on how to control this situation.
WARNING
Above all, do not plug the temperature and pressure relief valve. This is not a solution and can create a hazardous situation.
VENT AND AIR INTAKE SYSTEM
Examine the vent and air intake system every 3 months. Points of inspection are as follows:
1.Check for obstructions and/or deterioration of vent piping and vent terminal. Replace immediately where needed.
2.Vent pipe and vent hood screen should be cleaned of any foreign material. The screen is located inside the vent hood outlet and is accessible from the outside of the hood. Do not reach inside the vent hood when the water heater is in operation.
3.Check all vent system connections for leakage and reseal as required.
COMBUSTION SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the operation of the combustion system monthly. Use the following procedure to inspect the combustion system.
1.Turn off the main power switch of the water heater.
2.Adjust the thermostat to the Min. setting.
3.Remove the top of the combustion surround by unlatching it.
4.While observing the ignition module, turn on the main power switch.
5.Adjust thermostat to the Max. setting.
6.Watch the LED’s light as the controller goes through the
7.Upon ignition, observe the main burner flame.
8.Readjust thermostat to previous setting.
9.Replace combustion surround top and latch it securely in place.