Burner Inspection; Extended Shut-Down - Rheem Residential 40 Gallon Use & Care Manual

Proper burner and pilot burner
pattern.
NOTICE: Refer to the
Hydrogen Gas Caution in the
Operating Instructions.
NOTICE: Do not remove
the anode rod from the water
heater's tank, except for
inspection and/or replacement,
as operation with the anode
rod removed will greatly
shorten the life of the glass
lined tank and will exclude
warranty coverage.
Venting System Inspection
It is recommended that the water heater's
internal flue, vent, and air pipes be
inspected annually to be certain it is clean.
Inspect the gas venting system and the
termination cap.
Make certain the vent system, vent, and
air pipes is properly sealed and securely
attached.

Burner Inspection

Visually inspect the pilot and main
burners annually.
Through the sight glass, inspect the pilot
burner flame with the main burner off and
inspect the main burner while firing.
If any unusual burner operation is noted,
the water heater should be shut off
until qualified service assistance can be
obtained.
Vacation and Extended Shut-Down
If the water heater is to remain idle for an
extended period of time, the power and
water to the appliance should be turned off
to conserve energy and prevent a build-up
of dangerous hydrogen gas.
The water heater and piping should be
drained if they might be subjected to
freezing temperatures.
Anode Rod
This water heater is equipped with an
anode rod designed to prolong the life
of the glass lined tank. The anode rod is
slowly consumed, thereby eliminating or
minimizing corrosion of the glass lined
tank.
If after inspection of the vent system
you found soot or deterioration;
call the local gas utility to correct the
problem and clean the flue, and venting
system or replace the flue baffle, before
resuming operation of the water heater.
!
CAUTION: For your safety, cleaning of
the burner must be performed only by
qualified service personnel. The burner
chamber is a sealed area. If the burner
access door is removed, the burner access
door gasket must be replaced.
For cleaning, remove the burner from the
water heater. A vacuum cleaner can be
used on the burner and floor shield inside
the water heater. The burner can also be
cleaned by scrubbing with mild detergent.
After a long shut-down period, the water
heater's operation and controls should be
checked by qualified service personnel.
Make certain the water heater is
completely filled again before placing it
in operation.
Water sometimes contains a high sulfate
and/or mineral content and together with
cathodic protection process can produce
a hydrogen sulfide, or rotten egg odor in
the heated water. Chlorination of the water
supply should minimize the problem.
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