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Suggested Maintenance Schedule
COMPONENT OPERATION INTERVAL REQUIRED
Tank Sediment Removal Monthly Flushing
Anode Rods Inspect At least every 2
years
Replace as
Required
Relief Valve Check Operation At least
annually Proper Operation
Ignition
System Inspect Annually
Check for proper
operation
Table 5.
FLUSHING WATER HEATER
1. Turn OFF the water heater electrical disconnect switch.
2. Open the drain valve and allow water to flow until it runs clean.
3. Close the drain valve when finished flushing.
4. Turn ON the water heater electrical disconnect switch.
DRAINING WATER HEATER
The water heater must be drained if it is to be shut down and exposed to freezing temperatures. Maintenance and
service procedures may also require draining the water heater.
1. Turn off the water heater electrical disconnect switch.
2. Connect a hose to the drain valve.
3. Locate hose’s discharge in an area where hot water will not cause any damage or injury.
4. Close the cold water inlet valve to water heater.
5. Open a nearby hot water faucet to vent the system.
6. Open the heater drain valve.
7. If the water heater is being drained for an extended shutdown, it is suggested the drain valve be left open during
this period.
FILLING WATER HEATER
1. Close the water heater drain valve by turning the knob or valve stem clockwise. If alternative water connections
are provided but not used, make certain they are plugged (i.e. rear connections).
2. Open the cold water supply shut-off valve.
3. Open several hot water faucets to allow air to escape from the system.
4. When a steady stream of water flows from the faucets, the water heater is filled. Close the faucets and check
for water leaks at the water heater drain valve, combination temperature and pressure relief valve and the hot
and cold water connections.
SEDIMENT AND LIME SCALE REMOVAL
Waterborne impurities consist of the particles of soil and sand, which settle out and form a layer of sediment on the
bottom of the tank.
The amount of calcium carbonate (lime) released from water is in direct proportion to water temperature and usage.
The higher the water temperature or water usage, the more lime deposits are dropped out of the water. This is the lime
scale, which forms in pipes, water heaters and on cooking utensils.
Lime accumulation not only reduces the life of the equipment but also reduces efficiency of the water heater and
increases fuel consumption.
The usage of water softening equipment greatly reduces the hardness of the water. However, this equipment does not
always remove all of the hardness (lime). For this reason it is recommended that a regular schedule of deliming be
maintained.