Bradford White EF120T Installation & Operation Manual With Troubleshooting Manual page 49

Draining the Water Heater
The water heater must be drained if it is to be shut down and exposed to freezing temperatures. Maintenance
and service procedures may also require draining the water heater.
1. Turn OFF the water heater electrical disconnect switch.
2. Connect a hose to the drain valve.
3. Locate the hose discharge in an area where hot water will not cause any damage or injury.
4. Close the cold water inlet valve to the water heater.
5. Open a nearby hot water faucet to vent the system.
6. Open the heater drain valve.
7. If the water heater is being drained for an extended shutdown, it is suggested the drain valve be left
open during this period.
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 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 (7.6 cm) of lime
buildup when the level of lime has reached the bottom of the cleanout opening or about 1 in (2.5 cm) 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 (1.3 cm) buildup of lime.
Example: Initial inspection shows 1/2 in (1.3 cm) of lime accumulation. Therefore, the water heater should be
delimed once a year.
To Remove Sediment and Lime Scale
1. Drain the water heater. Refer to 'Draining the Water' instructions in this section.
2. Remove the outer cover plate from lower side of water heater jacket.
3. Remove the 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 the outer jacket cover plate.
Drain Valve and Tank Access Panel
The water heaters are equipped with a 3/4 in (2 cm) drain valve.
An access panel covers the cleanout opening in the tank, which is sealed by a gasket and cover.
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