Filling The Water Heater - Bradford White VR-150-(kW) Installation And Service Manual

Full power is present whenever the cabinet door is opened, even with the pilot switch(es) turned off.
THERMAL EXPANSION OF WATER:
A relief valve that discharges periodically may be due to thermal expansion in a closed system. Many water
systems are equipped with pressure reducing valves, check valves or back flow preventers which may cause
the water system to be closed. As water is heated it will expand in volume due to thermal expansion. The
system must make allowance for this expansion. If an expansion tank is not provided in the system, water
pressure may increase to the point where the water heater's temperature and pressure relief valve opens to
relieve the excess pressure. The temperature and pressure relief valve is not intended for the constant
relief of thermal expansion. This is an unacceptable condition and must be corrected. Do not plug or cap
the relief valve discharge! A properly sized expansion tank is typically installed in the potable water
system to relieve the pressure built up by thermal expansion of heated water. Consult your local plumbing
contractor and plumbing wholesaler for assistance in properly selecting an expansion tank for your
system.
As the water heater operates, there may be noises generated by the expansion and contraction of the metal
parts of the water heater and related piping. These noises may occur during periods of heat up or cool
down. They do not represent harmful or dangerous conditions.

1. FILLING THE WATER HEATER:

2. Insure that the electrical power to the water heater is in the "OFF" position. If the power
disconnect point is out of sight, lock it in the open ("OFF") position and tag to prevent
unexpected application of power.
3. Close the water heater drain valve(s).
4. Open a nearby hot water faucet to allow the air in the system to escape as the tank fills.
5. Fully open the cold water inlet valve to the water heater to begin filling the heater and piping.
6. Check the nearby hot water faucet to verify that air is exiting the tank as it fills with water. Allow
water to run until a constant flow is obtained at the faucet. This will insure that all air is purged
from the system.
NOTE: The cold water supply must be left in the open position when the water heater is in use.
DANGER:
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