Operating Instructions
FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE OPERATING
If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life.
A.This appliance does not have a pilot. It is equipped with an ignition device which automatically lights the burner. Do not try to light the burner by hand.
B.BEFORE OPERATING smell all around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to smell next to the floor because some gas is heavier than air and will settle on the floor.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
•Do not try to light any appliance.
•Do not touch any electric switch; do not use any phone in your building.
•Immediately call your gas supplier from a neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s instructions.
•If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
C.Use only your hand to push in or turn the gas control knob. Never use tools. If the knob will not push in or turn by hand, do not try to repair it, call a qualified service technician. Force or attempted repair may result in a fire or explosion.
D.Do not use this appliance if any part has been under water. Immediately call a qualified service technician to inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the control system and any gas control which has been under water.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1.STOP! Read the safety information above.
2.Set the thermostat to lowest setting.
3.Turn off all electric power to the appliance using the ON/OFF button.
4.This appliance is equipped with an ignition device which automatically lights the burner. Do not try to light the burner by hand.
5.Locate the manual gas valve on the side of the heater. Turn the manual valve
clockwise to the full OFF position. 
Manual Valve
CLOSE OPEN
6.Wait five (5) minutes to clear out any gas. Then smell for gas, including near the floor. If you smell gas, STOP! Follow “B” in the safety information above. If you don’t smell gas, go to the next step.
7.Turn the manual gas valve counterclockwise to the
full ON position.
8.Turn on all electric power to the appliance using the ON/OFF button.
9.Set the thermostat to desired setting.
10.Open a hot water tap. If the appliance will not operate, follow the instructions “To Turn Off Gas To Appliance” and call your service technician or gas supplier. See manual for additional information.
TO TURN OFF GAS TO APPLIANCE
1.Turn off all electric power to the appliance using the ON/OFF button.
2.Set the thermostat to lowest setting.
3.Locate the manual gas valve on the side of the heater. Turn the manual valve clockwise to the full
OFF position.
38 | V53i & V53e Operation and Installation Manual |
