Leakage Checkpoints - A.O. Smith Power Direct ventedGasModels Instruction Manual

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 blower assembly 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 (anode is located under
the Blower Assembly).
D. S mall 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. C ombustion 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.
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