Required Maintenance - Rinnai REU-VA1320WF-US Operation And Installation Manual

Required Maintenance

Water Heater Tank
Drain a pail of water through the drain valve at least once a year. This will remove excess sediment from the bottom
of the tank. This sediment, if allowed to accumulate, will reduce the efficiency and the life of the tank.
Temperature and Pressure-Relief Valve
Manually operate the temperature and pressure-relief valve at least once a year, standing clear of the outlet to avoid
being burned. Lift and release the operating lever on the valve to make it operate freely. If, after manually operating
the valve, it fails to completely reset itself and continues to discharge water, replace it with a new one.
Venting System Inspection
The venting system must be thoroughly inspected once a year. Check the area where the water heater is located to
make sure that there is enough clean combustion and ventilation air. Remove any possible obstructions that would
prevent proper air circulation and venting. Check the venting system to make sure that all of the connections are se-
curely fastened, and that all of the joints are properly sealed. If any part of the venting system is damaged, it must be
replaced by a qualified service technician. Test the ventilation system to make sure that it is venting properly.
Anode
This water heater is equipped with an anode that is designed to prolong the life of the glass-lined tank. The anode is
slowly consumed, protecting the glass-lined tank from corrosion. The anode should be checked every two (2) years.
If more than half of the anode has been consumed it should be replaced. Instructions on how to change the anode
can be obtained from the manufacturer.
The life expectancy of the anode is reduced where a water softener is introduced to fight hard make this water ex-
tremely conductive. In these conditions, the anode is consumed more rapidly and should be verified every year.
In certain water conditions, the anode will react with the water, producing discolored or smelly water. The most
common complaint is hot water that smells like rotten eggs. This phenomenon is the result of the reaction between
the anode and hydrogen sulfide gas dissolved in the water which occurs frequently in well systems. This problem can
usually be eliminated or reduced by changing the anode to a type more suitable for these conditions (aluminum an-
ode) and by chlorinating the water heater and plumbing system (Maximum chloride level not to exceed 250 mg/L).
If the problem persists, special filtration equipment may be required. Under no circumstances is the anode to be re-
moved from the water heater on a permanent basis. Removal of the anode will lead to premature failure of the
water heater and void the warranty.
WARNING
Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot water system that has not been used for a long period of time (generally two
(2) weeks or more). HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. It is highly recommended to open the hot water
faucet in the kitchen for several minutes before you use any electrical appliances connected to the hot water sys-
tem, such as a dishwasher or washing machine. If hydrogen gas is present, there will be an unusual sound, such as
air escaping through the pipe, as the hot water faucet is opened. DO NOT smoke or introduce an open flame near
the faucet when it is opened.
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