Contaminated Air; Flammable Items - State Water Heaters Utra-Force STC-077 Service Handbook

S U F S E R V I C E H A N D B O O K
I N S T A L L A T I O N

CONTAMINATED AIR

RUST
=
CHIPS
Along with adequate make-up air, the quality of the air is important. Contaminants in combustion air
can lead to premature heater failure. Vapors from bleaches, soaps, salts, etc. are drawn into the
combustion chamber with the make-up air and, once fired, mix with water vapor in the gasses to
form extremely corrosive hydrochloric or hydrofluoric acid and other corrosive by-products. Dust
drawn in may build up on the blower or clog the main burner ports. Also, be certain to examine the
exterior area around the air intake of a direct vent installation for the contaminants.

FLAMMABLE ITEMS

Flammable items or pressurized containers or any other potentially hazardous articles must never
be placed on or adjacent to the heater. Open containers of flammable material should not be stored
or used in the same room with the heater or in the area of the exterior air intake of a direct vent
installation. Direct venting does not eliminate the need to remove flammable or corrosives from the
area surrounding the heater.
Technical Training Department State Water Heaters
12
STC-077 Ashland City, Tennessee © 2004