GSW Gas Fired Water Heater User Manual download pdf (Page 10)

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Discolored Water

• Water rich in iron or other minerals can produce red or brown

staining. Heating water generally worsens this situation.

• Black water can be an indication of organic contaminates in the

water supply. This can be problematic in areas where the water

is obtained from surface or contaminated sources. Organic

particles can develop bacterial growth, causing potential health

hazards. Contact your water supplier for proper filtration or water

conditioning equipment. For bacterial problems contact your

local health authority. See also “Hot Water Odour”

• A sudden appearance of rusty water can indicate the anode rod

has been depleted. The remaining steel core wire may be

corroding, releasing iron particles into the water. Inspect and

replace as necessary.

Water Heater Makes Noise

• During start up or under heavy use, condensation can drip on

the burner causing a sizzling noise as the water is evaporated.

This is normal and will stop once temperatures rise.

• Sediment, sand or scale can accumulate resulting in “rumbling”

noises. Water heaters need to be flushed regularly to minimize

buildup. Severe accumulations can cause premature failure of

the water heater and will void the warranty.

Condensation

At certain times of the year, when the incoming water is

particularly cold there will be condensation formed from the flue

gases while the burner is on. This condensation will drop down

onto the burner and make a hissing or sizzling sound. This is

normal and should not be a reason for concern. Normally, this

condensation will evaporate and be carried up the flue and

chimney to the outdoors.

Generally, the higher the efficiency of the heater and the cooler

the incoming water, the more condensation will occur. The bottom

pan of the heater has been designed to contain a certain amount

of water, but on occasion the water may be too much and

overflow. Do not confuse this with a leaking heater.

If condensation is a problem, raise the water temperature slightly

to operate the tank at a higher temperature and thus minimize

condensation.

Extended Non Use Service

Hydrogen gas can be produced by water heaters in service but on

standby for long periods of time (generally two weeks or more).

See safety warnings near the front of the manual. Hydrogen gas

is extremely flammable. Use caution in opening faucets.

Energy Conservation

The following are some simple tips that will help reduce energy

costs and provide maximum service from your water heater.

Temperature: Set temperature as low as possible to provide an

adequate supply of hot water. This will reduce heat loss and

extend the life of the glass-lining.

Water usage: Try to use less hot water by doing laundry and

dishwashing at the lowest temperature. Showers are more

economical than baths. Small amounts of dishes should be

washed by hand. Eliminate dripping faucets.

Water heater location: Locate heater close to a major point

of hot water use, e.g. laundry washer. This minimizes heat losses

from piping and gets water to appliance at maximum temperature.

Do not locate heater in cold or drafty locations.

Piping: Insulate all hot water pipes. This reduces heat loss from

pipes. Keep pipe runs as short as possible to deliver water to the

point of use quickly.

Going away?: If you are leaving for a period of time, turn the

temperature dial to the lowest setting. There is no point in heating

what is not needed.

Cathodic Protection: Anode

Maintenance

Your water heater has been supplied with one or two anode rods

that protects the tank from corrosion. As the rod works, it slowly

dissolves over time and must be replaced. If the anode is less

than 3/8”(10mm) in diameter, or any exposed bare core, replace.

Depending on water conditions, an anode can last from one to ten

years. Many localities treat their water which can have significant

effect on the life of your heater. Water conditioning such as over

softening can accelerate the rate at which the anode rod is

consumed. Rapid depletion can leave a heater unprotected

causing a premature failure. As with any water heater, it is good

practice to check the anode annually to see if it needs replacing

(See Figure 11, Item No. 3).

To inspect or change an anode:

• Turn off the water heater.

• Close the cold inlet supply valve.

• Open a hot water tap supplied by the heater.

• Drain the water heater enough to empty the piping system.

• Using a 1 1/16” socket, remove anode and inspect or replace as

required.

• Apply a good grade of pipe dope to the threads of the anode

adapter and screw securely into the tank.

• Refill system with water, check for leaks and restore water

heater to operation.

WARNING

Operating a water heater without an actively

working anode rod will void the warranty.

Tank Flushing

Periodically (monthly) drain approximately 2 gallons (8 liters) or

until water runs clear from the tank through the drain valve. This

will minimize sediment buildup on the tank bottom.

Caution: WATER WILL BE HOT.

If scale removal is being considered, contact your dealer for

proper procedures. DO NOT USE HYDROCHLORIC ACID (HCL)

based cleaners. Thoroughly flush after any chemical cleaning.

Relief Valve Check

Inspect the relief valve annually to ensure proper operation. This

involves opening the valve to check that it is flowing freely and that

there are no blockages. Warning: WATER WILL BE HOT

and water flow can be forceful. If the valve does not function

properly, it must be replaced. Provide a bucket or drainage for the

expelled water. Lift the lever and let it snap shut. The water should

stop immediately.

In systems where the relief valve discharges periodically, this may

be due to thermal expansion or to a thermostat that is operating at

too high a temperature. In a closed water system, an expansion

tank may be required. Contact your local plumbing inspector. For

a malfunctioning thermostat, contact your gas supplier.

Vent Maintenance

Every 6 months, when inspecting the burner flame, an inspection

of the venting system should be made.

Check these points:

1. Are the draft hood relief openings free of obstruction?

2. Is the flue pipe securely attached?

3. Is the flue pipe cemented into the chimney or are cracks and

loose cement visible?

4. Are the flue gases venting properly?

CORRECT ANY DEFECTS IMMEDIATELY!

Burner Maintenance

Annually inspect the burner and combustion chamber area to

ensure that no debris have fallen on the burner and that no foreign

material has found its way into the combustion chamber. Observe

the flame for proper operation. Sheet metal burners have no

adjustment, so contact your gas supplier if there is a problem.

ALWAYS KEEP THE AREA AROUND THE WATER HEATER

CLEAR OF COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS. NEVER RESTRICT

THE FLOW OF AIR TO THE WATER HEATER.

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GSW Gas Fired Water Heater User Manual Page 10

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