20
LEAKAGE CHECKPOINTS
Read this manual first. Then before checking the water heater make
sure the gas supply has been turned “OFF”, and never turn the gas
“ON” before the tank is completely full of water.
Never use this water heater unless it is completely filled with water. To
prevent damage to the tank, the tank must be filled with water. Water
must flow from the hot water faucet before turning “ON” gas to the
water heater.
A. Water at the draft hood is water vapor which has condensed out of
the combustion products. This is caused by a problem in the vent.
Contact the gas utility.
B. *Condensation may be seen on pipes in humid weather or pipe
connections may be leaking.
C. *The anode rod fitting may be leaking.
D. Small amounts of water from temperature-pressure relief valve
may be due to thermal expansion or high water pressure in your
area.
E. *The temperature-pressure relief valve may be leaking at the tank
fitting.
F. Water from a drain valve may be due to the valve being slightly
opened.
G. *The drain valve may be leaking at the tank fitting.
H. Combustion products contain water vapor which can condense on
the cooler surfaces of the tank. Droplets form and drip onto the
burner or run on the floor. This is common at the time of start-up
after installation and when incoming water is cold.
I. Water in the water heater bottom or on the floor may be from
condensation, loose connections, or the relief valve. DO NOT replace
the water heater until a full inspection of all possible water sources
is made and necessary corrective steps taken.
Leakage from other appliances, water lines, or ground seepage should
also be checked.
* To check where threaded portion enters tank, insert cotton swab
between jacket opening and fitting. If cotton is wet, follow “Draining”
instructions in the “Periodic Maintenance” section and then remove
fitting. Put pipe dope or teflon tape on the threads and replace.
Then follow “Filling the Water Heater” instructions in the “Installing
the New Water Heater” section.
8. Follow the lighting instructions in the “Lighting” section to restart the
water heater.
FIGURE 18.
SERVICE
If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation of the
water heater contact a service agency.
Use this guide to check a “Leaking” water heater. Many suspected
“Leakers” are not leaking tanks. Often the source of the water can be
found and corrected.
If you are not thoroughly familiar with gas codes, your water heater,
and safety practices, contact your gas supplier or qualified installer to
check the water heater.
