Temperature Regulation
Due to the nature of the typical gas water heater, the water temperature in certain situations may vary up to 30F° (16.7 C°) higher or lower at the point of use such as, bathtubs, showers, sink, etc.
HOTTER WATER CAN SCALD: Water heaters are intended to produce hot water. Water heated to a temperature which will satisfy space heating, clothes washing, dish washing, and other sanitizing needs can scald and permanently injure you upon contact. Some people are more likely to be permanently injured by hot water than others. These include the elderly, children, the infi rm, or physically/mentally handicapped. If anyone using hot water in your home fi ts into one of these groups or if there is a local code or state law requiring a certain temperature water at the hot water tap, then you must take special precautions. In addition to using the lowest possible temperature setting that satisfi es your hot water needs, a means such as a mixing valve should be used at the hot water taps used by these people or at the water heater. Mixing valves are available at plumbing supply or hardware stores. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation of the valves. Before changing the factory setting on the thermostat, see Figures 21 and 22.
THERMOSTAT DIAL
FIGURE 21.
THE WATER HEATER SHOULD BE LOCATED IN AN AREA WHERE THE GENERAL PUBLIC DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS. IF A SUITABLE AREA IS NOT AVAILABLE, A COVER SHOULD BE INSTALLED OVER THE THERMOSTAT TO PREVENT TAMPERING. Suitable covers are available through the Sears Service Center.
Never allow small children to use a hot water tap, or to draw their own bath water. Never leave a child or handicapped person unattended in a bathtub or shower.
It is recommended that lower water temperatures be used to avoid the risk of scalding. It is further recommended, in all cases, that the water temperature be set for the lowest temperature which satisfi es your hot water needs. This will also provide the most energy effi cient operation of the water heater.
NOTE: A water temperature range of
The thermostat of this water heater has been factory set at its lowest position (OFF). It is adjustable and must be reset to the desired temperature setting. The faceplate of the thermostat is marked with approximate temperature settings. The preferred starting point is approximately 120°F (49°C). Align the knob with the desired water temperature as shown in Figure 21. There is a hot water scald potential if the thermostat is set too high. Some states have a requirement for a lower setting.
Turn the water temperature dial clockwise ( 
) to increase the temperature, or counterclockwise ( 
) to decrease the temperature.
Should overheating occur or the gas supply fail to shut off, turn off the manual gas control valve to the appliance.
Temperature | Time to Produce 2nd & 3rd |
Settings | Degree Burns on Adult Skin |
160°F (71°C) | About 1/2 second |
150°F (66°C) | About |
140°F (60°C) | Less than 5 seconds |
130°F (54°C) | About 30 seconds |
120°F (49°C) | More than 5 minutes |
VAC = approx. 80°F (27°C) | - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
FIGURE 22.
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