Preventive Maintenance - Rheem RTG-3 Series Use And Care Manual

CARING FOR YOUR WATER HEATER

Preventive Maintenance

WARNING:
!
Failure to perform routine preventive maintenance
can prevent the water heater from operating
properly. Improper operation can cause carbon
monoxide dangers, excessive water temperatures,
and other potentially hazardous conditions resulting
in death, personal injury, and/or product damage.
Properly maintaining your water heater will ensure
dependable, trouble-free service�
User Preventive Maintenance
Establish and follow a routine preventive maintenance
program� The following suggested items should be
included in your program�
Monthly check and clean the water filter� See "Water Filter
Cleaning" on this Use and Care Manual�
WARNING:
!
Hot water is released during manual operation of
the relief valve. Make sure all people and animals
are clear from the area before performing this
check to prevent death, personal injury, and/or
property damage from hot drain water.
Relief Valve
Annually check the operation of the pressure-relief valve�
Lifting the lever handle on the pressure-relief valve opens
the valve to flush hot water through the discharge line to
the drain� After several gallons have drained, release the
lever handle to close the valve and stop draining�
70
NOTICE:
If the pressure relief valve on the hot water heater
discharges periodically, this may indicate a problem
in the water system. Contact the water supplier or a
plumbing contractor to correct the problem. DO NOT
plug the relief valve outlet.
• Inspect and keep the area around the water
heater clear and free of flammable materials,
such as gasoline and other flammable vapors
and liquids.
• Visually inspect the water heater for damage
and/or denting. If present, contact a service
personnel to verify proper operation.
• Check for abnormal sound during normal
operation (e.g., hissing or banging noises).
Contact a qualified service technician or
plumbing contractor.
• Check all gas and water pipes for leaks. See
"Leak Testing" on this Use and Care Manual.
NOTICE:
– DO NOT operate the water heater if you feel
something is wrong with the unit.
– DO NOT allow children to operate or handle the unit.
• After inspections, maintenance, and/or cleaning, ensure
proper operation by turning on a hot water faucet�
Professional Preventive Maintenance
It is recommended that a periodic inspection of the water
heater burner, relief valve, air intake filter, water filter, and
venting system be made by a qualified service technician�
WARNING:
!
Certain water conditions can damage the water
heater and may cause defects, malfunctions or
failures of the water heater that are not covered by
the limited warranty. See "Water Quality" on this
Use and Care Manual.