Owner's Manual

18
Never use this water heater unless it is completely full of water.
To prevent damage to the tank and heating element, the tank
must be fi lled with water. Water must fl ow from the hot water
faucet before turning “ON” power.
14. Check element for water leaks. If leakage occurs, tighten
element or repeat steps 2 and 3, remove element and
reposition gasket. Then repeat steps 10 through 14.
15. Reconnect the two wires to the element and then check to
make sure the thermostat remains fi rmly against the surface
of the tank.
FIGURE 38.
16. Replace terminal cover on thermostat making sure that the
locking tabs on the terminal cover are in place.
FIGURE 39.
17. Replace the insulation so that it completely covers the
thermostat and element.
FIGURE 40.
18. Replace access panel.
19. Turn “ON” electric power to water heater.
FIGURE 41.
Drain Valve Washer Replacement
NOTE: For replacement, use a 17/32” x 13/64” x 1/8” thick
washer available at your nearest hardware store. For
ordering a replacement washer, refer to the Repair Parts
List section.
• Before beginning turn “OFF” the electrical power supply to
the water heater.
• Follow Draining instructions. See Draining section.
• Turning counter clockwise, remove the hex cap below the
screw handle.
• Remove the washer and put the new one in place.
• Screw the handle and cap assembly back into the drain valve
and retighten using a wrench. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.
• Follow Filling the Water Heater instructions in the Installation
Instructions section.
• Check for leaks.
• Turn “ON” electric power to the water heater.
FIGURE 42.
Service
Before calling for repair service, read the Start Up Conditions
and Operational Conditions found in the Troubleshooting section
of this manual.
If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation
of the water heater, let a qualifi ed person check it out.
Contact Sears Repair Services at 1-800-4-MY-HOME
®
(1-800-469-4663).