Condensation
Whenever the water heater is filled with cold water, some condensate will form while the burner is on. A water heater may appear to be leaking when in fact the water is condensation. This usually happens when:
•A new water heater is filled with cold water for the first time.
•Burning gas produces water vapor In water heaters, particularly high efficiency models where flue temperatures are lower.
•Large amounts of hot water are used in a short time and the refill water in the tank is very cold.
Moisture from the products of combustion condense on the cooler tank surfaces and form drops of water which may fall onto the burner or other hot surfaces to produce a “sizzling” or “frying” noise.
Because of the suddenness and amount of water, condensation water may be diagnosed as a “tank leak”. After the water in the tank warms up (about
Do not assume the water heater is leaking until there has been enough time for the water in the tank to warm up.
An undersized water heater will cause more condensation. The water heater must be sized properly to meet the family’s demands for hot water including dishwashers, washing machines and shower heads.
Excessive condensation may be noticed during the winter and early spring months when incoming water temperatures are at their lowest.
Good venting is essential for a gas fired water heater to operate properly as well as to carry away products of combustion and water vapor.
Smoke Odor
It is not uncommon to experience a small amount of smoke and odor during the initial
Operational Conditions
“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.
Do not remove the anode, leaving the tank unprotected. By doing so, all warranty on the water heater tank is voided.
Safety Shut-off and Thermal Switch
This water heater is designed to automatically
1.The burner flame is extinguished for any reason.
2.The water temperature exceeds 195°F (91°C).
3.Excessive build up of dust on the louvers of the air intake chamber. See Maintenance of your Water Heater Section.
This unit is also equipped with a flammable vapor sensor (FV Sensor), designed to shut off the gas supply in the event the water heater has been exposed to flammable vapors (e.g., spilled gasoline). NOTE: If the
A high temperature limit switch or ECO (Energy Cut Off) in the tank is used to shut off the unit if the water temperature exceeds 195°F (91°C). The ECO is a
Service
Before calling for repair service, please read the Troubleshooting Guide in this manual. If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation of the water heater, let the Sears Service Center check it out. Contact Sears Service
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