Installation / Operation Instruction Manual

50
Maintenance Schedule continued-
Filling Water Heater
1. Close the water heater drain valve. This water heater utilizes a ball valve; when closing the valve, the stem will
spin indefinitely. Confirm it is closed by ensuring the slot on the stem is perpendicular to the valve body. If
alternative water connections are provided but not used, make certain they are plugged (i.e. space heating &
alternate top connections).
2. Open the cold water supply shut-off valve.
3. Open several hot water faucets to allow air to escape from the system.
4. When a steady stream of water flows from the faucets, the water heater is filled. Close the faucets and check for
water leaks at the water heater drain valve, combination temperature and pressure relief valve and the hot and
cold water connections.
Sediment and Lime Scale Removal
Waterborne impurities consist of the particles of soil and sand, which settle out and form a layer of sediment on the
bottom of the tank. The amount of calcium carbonate (lime) released from water is in direct proportion to water
temperature and usage. The higher the water temperature or water usage, the more lime deposits are dropped out of the
water. This is the lime scale, which forms in pipes, water heaters and on cooking utensils. Lime accumulation not only
reduces the life of the equipment but also reduces efficiency of the water heater and increases fuel consumption.
The usage of water softening equipment greatly reduces the hardness of the water. However, this equipment does not
always remove all of the hardness (lime). For this reason, it is recommended that a regular schedule of deliming be
maintained. The depth of the buildup should be measured periodically. Water heaters will have about 3 in of lime buildup
when the level of lime has reached the bottom of the cleanout opening or about 1 inch of lime buildup if it has reached the
drain valve opening. A schedule for deliming should be set up, based on the amount of time it would take for a 1/2 in
buildup of lime. For example, if an initial inspection shows a 1/2 in of lime accumulation, the water heater can be delimed
once a year.
To Remove Sediment and Lime Scale
1. Drain the heater. Refer to Draining The Water instructions in this section.
2. Remove outer cover plate from lower side of water heater jacket.
3. Remove cover and gasket from cleanout opening.
4. Remove lime, scale or sediment using care not to damage the glass-lining.
5. Inspect cleanout plate gasket: Replace gasket if necessary (contact local distributor for correct part number).
6. Install gasket and cleanout plate. Be sure to draw plate up tight by tightening screws securely.
7. Close the drain valve. Open a hot water fixture to allow air to escape. Open the cold water supply to water heater
and allow the tank to fill. Follow the lighting instructions.
8. Check for water leakage.
9. Install outer jacket cover plate.