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High altitude deration
Operation of the water heater at high altitudes may require derating. If the water heater is not
properly derated, lack of sufficient oxygen for combustion may produce improper burner
operation. Pilot outage caused by burner lift-off or sooting from a yellow burner may occur,
indicating the possibility of carbon monoxide. You may also notice a lack of efficiency in
heating the water because of incomplete combustion of the burner at these higher altitudes.
Consult with the local propane company, your dealer or the water heater manufacturer for
proper derating of the water heater. Change out of the orifice (derating) should be done by
the dealer or a qualified service agency.
NOTE: It is important that once the RV has returned to lower eleva-
tion (below 4500 feet) any high altitude deration or other adjustments be
reversed for proper operation of the water heater.
Pressure & temperature 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.
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.
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 recreation vehicle.
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.
Close the faucet and turn on the cold water supply. As the tank fills, the air pocket will
develop. Repeat this procedure as often as needed to reduce the frequency of the weeping
P&T valve.
Draining and winterization
If the recreation vehicle is to be stored over the winter months, the water heater must be
drained to prevent damage from freezing. Damage to the water heater caused by freezing
is not warrantable. It is recommended the water heater be drained and bypassed during the
winterization process, particularly if introducing RV antifreeze into the plumbing sys-
tem. Never drain the water heater when it is HOT or UNDER PRESSURE.
Maintenance Record
Section 8: Plumbing System
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