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
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
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.
3.Rusted flakes around top of water heater.
Be sure the vent piping is properly connected to prevent escape of dangerous flue gases 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 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 a qualified installer or service agency to replace a flooded water heater. Do not attempt to repair the unit! It must be replaced!
At least once a year a visual inspection should be made of the main burner and pilot burner, see Figure 33.
You should check for sooting. Soot is not normal and will impair proper combustion.
Soot
NATURAL
PROPANE
FIGURE 33.
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