Service manual

Using Electronic Sniffers For Gas Leak Detection

The standard for leak testing is the same independent of natural gas or L.P. fuel.

All Whirlpool cooking appliances are manufactured in accordance with the CSA

agency standards. The allowable leak rate per component is speciﬁed in ANSI Z21.18

and Z21.21 for gas valve and regulator. The allowable leak rate is 200 cc/hr. for the

regulator and 200 cc/hr for the valve. Because our component is a combination valve

and regulator it is acceptable to have a leak rate up to 400 cc/hr in that area. We do,

however process our components to a much lower level to make sure we do not ap-

proach the limit.

An electronic leak detector detects the presence of any gas or contamination to the

immediate area. It does not distinguish the amount of gas/contamination in the area

that is being sensed. Electronic leak detectors are capable of sensing a leak rate that

is signiﬁcantly less than what is acceptable. Because electronic leak detectors cannot

differentiate a leak of 100 ccs or 400 ccs of gas, false readings can lead to unneces

sary parts replacement and even red-tagging the range if a gas company is using it

improperly.

Bubble testing is more than adequate to effectively conﬁrm leaks to insure the safe

operation of gas appliances.

The plastic cover over the regulator cap should be left in place as it serves as a dust

cover to the regulator valve diaphragm vent. The small pin hole vent in the regulator

cap provides atmospheric pressure to the back side of the diaphragm for proper op-

eration.

Elimination Of Broiler Pan & Grid From

All Products (Freestanding And Built-Ins)

Except Whirlpool Gold Units

Starting the 3rd Quarter, 2005, the broiler pan and grid were eliminated from Cooking

products. Customers will receive an “accessory card” to order a Broiler Pan and Grid

Kit for $5.95 (shipping).

The Pan and Grid will be porcelain-coated, unlike production parts that were a porce-

lain pan and aluminum grids.