Installation / Operation Instruction Manual
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SECTION X: MAINTENANCE
The following maintenance should be performed by a qualified service technician at the minimum periodic intervals suggested below. In
some installations, the maintenance interval may be more frequent depending on the amount of use and the operating conditions of the
water heater. Regular inspection and maintenance of the water heater will help to insure safe and reliable operation.
1. Annual checks of the ignition systems (millivolt and electronic), temperature controls and any other water heater controls are
necessary to ensure proper operation. Also, all safety shut-off valves must be checked to verify proper operation and tightness.
2. The flow of combustion and ventilation air MUST NOT be restricted. Clear the combustion air openings of any dirt, dust, or other
restrictions. WARNING! The combustion ventilation system may be HOT.
3. At all times keep the water heater area clear and free from combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and
liquids.
4. Bi-annually conduct a visual check of the pilot and burner flames to determine that they are burning properly. See “Burner Flame
Check” section for example of proper burner flame pattern.
5. Annually remove the main burner rack assembly to clean orifices and related parts of any dirt or other foreign material. Inspect
the burner ports for obstructions or debris and clean with a wire brush, vacuum, or use a mild detergent solution to clean as
needed. NOTE: It is imperative for proper operation of the water heater that the main burner rack be replaced in the original
location
.
6. At least once a year, check the combination temperature and pressure relief valve to insure that the valve has not become
encrusted with lime. Lift the lever at the top of the valve several times until the valve seats properly without leaking and operates
freely.
7. Monthly drain off a gallon of water to remove silt and sediment. WARNING! This water may be HOT.
8. All models are equipped with a cleanout opening to aid in removal of hard water deposits from the tank bottom. If this water
heater operates under hard water conditions, the following should be performed at least every 3 months: Drain the water heater.
Remove the cleanout jacket cover and tank cover. When cleaning the tank, care must be taken to avoid trying to break deposits
loose as this could damage the glass lining and shorten the life of the water heater. After cleaning, replace the cleanout tank
cover and jacket cover, and refill with water.
9. A sacrificial anode rod has been installed to extend tank life. The anode rod should be inspected annually (every year) and
replaced when necessary to prolong tank life. Water conditions in your area will influence the time interval for inspection and
replacement of the anode rod. Contact the plumbing professional who installed the water heater or the manufacturer listed on the
rating plate for anode replacement information. The use of a water softener may increase the speed of anode consumption. More
frequent inspection of the anode is needed when using softened (or phosphate treated) water.
10. The venting system must be inspected at least once a year to ensure against leakage of exhaust products.
WARNING
Do not run out of propane gas. Damage to the water heater may occur.
IMPORTANT- If the combination temperature and pressure relief valve on the appliance discharges periodically, this
may be due to thermal expansion in a closed water supply system. Contact the water supplier or local plumbing
inspector on how to correct this situation. Do not plug the combination temperature and pressure relief valve outlet.
NOTICE
FOR YOUR SAFETY, DO NOT ATTEMPT REPAIR OF COMBINATION GAS CONTROL, BURNERS OR GAS
PIPING. REFER REPAIRS TO A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.
CAUTION
When lifting lever of the combination temperature and pressure relief valve, hot water will be released under
pressure. Be careful that any released water does not result in bodily injury or property damage.
Keep clear of the combination temperature and pressure relief valve discharge line outlet. The discharge may
be hot enough to cause scald injury. The water is under pressure and may splash.
WARNING