STRANGE SOUNDS
Possible noises due to expansion and contraction of some metal parts during periods of
Condensation causes sizzling and popping within the burner area during heating and cooling periods and should be considered normal. See “Condensate” in this section.
OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS
SMELLY WATER
In each water heater there is installed at least one anode rod (see parts section) for corrosion protection of the tank. Certain water conditions will cause a reaction between this rod and the water. The most common complaint associated with the anode rod is one of a “rotten egg smell” in the hot water. The smell is a result of four factors which must all be present for the odor to develop:
a.A concentration of sulfate in the supply water.
b.Little or no dissolved oxygen in the water.
c.A sulfate reducing bacteria which has accumulated within the water heater (this harmless bacteria is nontoxic to humans).
d.An excess of active hydrogen in the tank. This is caused by the corrosion protective action of the anode.
Smelly water may be eliminated or reduced in some water heater models by replacing the anode(s) with one of less active material, and then chlorinating the water heater tank and all water lines. Contact Sears Service Center for further information concerning Anode Replacement Kit #9001453 and this chlorination treatment. Anode replacement and chlorination of the tank are not covered by the water heater’s limited warranty.
If the smelly water persists after the anode replacement and chlorination treatment, we can only suggest that chlorination or aeration of the water supply be considered to eliminate the water problem.
Do not remove the anode leaving the tank unprotected. By doing so, all warranty on the water heater tank is voided.
“AIR” IN HOT WATER FAUCETS
HYDROGEN GAS: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two weeks or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable and explosive. To prevent the possibility of injury under these conditions, we recommend the hot water faucet, located farthest away, be opened for several minutes before any electrical appliances which are connected to the hot water system are used (such as a dishwasher or washing machine). If hydrogen gas is present, there will probably be an unusual sound similar to air escaping through the pipe as the hot water faucet is opened. There must be no smoking or open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
HIGH WATER TEMPERATURE SHUT OFF SYSTEM
This water heater is equipped with an automatic gas
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT
VENTING SYSTEM INSPECTION
At least once a year a visual inspection should be made of the venting system. You should look for:
1.Obstructions which could cause improper venting. The combustion and ventilation air flow must not be obstructed.
2.Damage or deterioration which could cause improper venting or leakage of combustion products.
Be sure the vent piping is properly connected to prevent escape of dangerous flue gasses which could cause deadly asphyxiation.
Obstructions and deteriorated vent systems may present serious health risk or asphyxiation.
Chemical vapor corrosion of the flue and vent system may occur if air for combustion contains certain chemical vapors. Spray can propellants, cleaning solvents, refrigerator and air conditioner refrigerants, swimming pool chemicals, calcium and sodium chloride, waxes, bleach and process chemicals are typical compounds which are potentially corrosive.
If after inspection of the vent system you found sooting or deterioration, something is wrong. Call the local gas utility to correct the problem and clean or replace the flue and venting before resuming operation of the water heater.
BURNER OPERATION AND INSPECTION
Flood damage to a water heater may not be readily visible or immediately detectable. However, over a period of time a flooded water heater will create dangerous conditions which can cause DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. Contact Sears Service
Center to replace a flooded water heater. Do not attempt to repair the
unit! It must be replaced!
26
