Anode Rod Inspection; Drain Valve Washer Replacement; Service - Reliance 1212 Instruction Manual

13. To insure complete filling of the tank, allow air to exit by
opening the nearest hot water faucet. Allow water to run
until a constant flow is obtained. This will let air out of the
water heater and the piping.
Never use this water heater unless it is completely full of water.
To prevent damage to the tank and heating element, the tank
must be filled with water. Water must flow from the hot water
faucet before turning "ON" power.
14. Check element for water leaks. If leakage occurs, tighten
element or repeat steps 2 and 3, remove element and
reposition gasket. Then repeat steps 10 through 14.
15. Reconnect the two wires to the element and then check to
make sure the thermostat remains firmly against the
surface of the tank.
16. Replace terminal cover on thermostat making sure the
locking tabs on the terminal cover are in place.
17. Replace the insulation block and pad so that it covers the
thermostat and element.
18. Replace access panel.
19. Turn "ON" electric power to water heater.

Anode Rod Inspection

NOTE: Not applicable to Compact models of 20 gallons and
less.
CAUTION
The anode rod is used to protect the tank from corrosion. Most
hot water tanks are equipped with an anode rod. The
submerged rod sacrifices itself to protect the tank. Instead of
corroding the tank, water ions attack and eat away the anode
rod. This does not affect the water's taste or color. The rod
must be maintained to keep the tank in operating condition.
Anode deterioration depends on water conductivity, not
necessarily water condition. A corroded or pitted anode rod
indicates high water conductivity and should be checked and/
or replaced more often than an anode rod that appears to be
intact. Replacement of a depleted anode rod can extend the
life of your water heater. Inspection should be conducted by a
qualified technician, and at a minimum should be checked
annually after the warranty period.

Drain Valve Washer Replacement

NOTE: For replacement, use a 17/32" x 13/64" x 1/8" thick
washer available at your nearest hardware store.
1. Before beginning turn "OFF" the electrical power supply to
the water heater.
HAZARD OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK! Before removing any
access panels or servicing the water heater, make sure the
electrical supply to the water heater is turned "OFF". Failure to
do this could result in DEATH, SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.
2. Follow "Draining" instructions in the "Periodic Maintenance"
section.
3. Turning counter clockwise, remove the hex cap below the
screw handle.
4. Remove the washer and put the new one in place.
5. Screw the handle and cap assembly back into the drain
valve and retighten using a wrench. DO NOT OVER
TIGHTEN.
6. Follow "Filling the Water Heater" instructions in the
"Installation Instructions" section.
7. Check for leaks.
8. Turn "ON" electric power to the water heater.

Service

If a condition persists or you are uncertain about the operation
of the water heater, let a qualified person check it out. Call a
local plumbing contractor or qualified serviceman, the local
electric utility, or the local water utility.
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WARNING