Jayco 2016 ALANTE User Manual page 82

SECTION 8 – PLUMBING SYSTEMS
The tank in the water heater is protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to
prolong the life of the tank by absorbing the corrosive action of hot water. Under
normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate and because of this, the water heater
OEM recommends the anode rod be replaced yearly. Water with high levels of
iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration; therefore, more frequent
replacements may be required.
If an anode rod is mostly eaten away, replace it with a new one. The water heater
manufacturer recommends replacement of the anode rod when consumption or
weight loss is greater than 75 percent.
Operating the water heater without the proper anode rod protection will decrease
tank life and will void the tank manufacturer's warranty on the tank. To extend the
anode life, drain the water from the water heater tank whenever the motor home is
not being used. Avoid any extended time of non-use with water in the tank.
To prevent a water leak when replacing the anode rod, a pipe thread sealant
approved for potable water (such as Teflon Tape) must be applied to the threads
of the anode rod. Proper application of a thread sealant will not interfere with the
anode's
Pressure & temperature relief valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is designed to open if the temperature
of the water within the heater reaches 120° F, or if the water pressure in the heater
reaches 150 pounds. When this pressure is reached, the pressure relief valve will
open and water will drip from the valve.
This "weeping" or dripping will continue until the pressure is reduced to below 150
pounds, and the valve closes. This condition is normal and does not indicate a
defective relief valve.
Do not place a valve between the pressure and temperature (P&T) valve and
the tank. Do not remove or plug the relief valve under any circumstances.
One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintain an air pocket at
the top of the water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design;
however, it will be reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater. To
replenish this air pocket:
1. Turn off the water heater.
2. Turn off the cold water supply line.
3. Open a faucet in the motor home.
4. Pull out the handle of the pressure relief (P&T) valve and allow water to flow
from the valve until it stops.
5. Release the handle on the P&T valve - it should snap closed.
8-6
JAYCO CLASS A MOTOR HOMES
Fig. 8.3 Anode rod
replacement chart
WARNING