Housekeeping
Vacuum around base of water heater for dust, dirt, and lint on a regular basis.
Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve Operation
The
When checking the
AT LEAST ONCE EVERY SIX MONTHS A VISUAL INSPECTION SHOULD BE MADE OF THE AIR INTAKE SCREEN. CLEAN IF LINT ACCUMULATIONS ARE NOTICED.
INSTALLED IN SUITABLE AREA: To insure sufficient ventilation and combustion air supply, proper clearances from the water heater must be maintained. See Facts to Consider About the Location section. Combustible materials such as clothing, cleaning materials, or flammable liquids, etc. must not be placed against or adjacent to the water heater because they could catch on fire.
Anode Rod Inspection
The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The submerged rod deteriorates to protect the tank. Instead of corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode rod. This does not affect the water’s taste or color. The rod must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition.
Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod indicates high water conductivity and should be checked and/ or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be intact. Replacement of a depleted anode rod can extend the life of your water heater. Inspection should be conducted by calling the Sears Service Center for an authorized contractor. At a minimum, the anode(s) should be checked annually after the warranty period.
FIGURE 24.
If after manually operating the valve, it fails to completely reset and continues to release water, immediately close the cold water inlet to the water heater, follow the draining instructions, and replace the
If the
Draining
The water heater should be drained if being shut down during freezing temperatures. Also periodic draining and cleaning of sediment from the tank may be necessary.
1. Turn the gas control knob to the “OFF” position.
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